5 Unique Ways to Wind Down in Queenstown

After zipping through the snowy slopes, bungee jumping off high grounds, and jet-boating against wild waters, every adrenaline junkie deserves a good wind-down. There is certainly more to Queenstown than its extreme sports where low-key activities can easily become high-point moments of your travel journey.

Amidst the adventure capital of New Zealand lies a number of special and quirky activities you can add to your collection of travel memories. If you’d like a day off from high-action sports or just lay back for a while, here are five unique things to do when in Queenstown that won’t zap you of all your energy.

5 Unique Things to Do in Queenstown

Journey into Middle Earth

Explore the locations of the epic Lord of the Rings trilogy and The Hobbit series with Pure Glenorchy Scenic Lord of the Rings Tours. The guided tours kick off from its Queenstown starting point and straight into Tolkien’s world. Enter into the elven realm by traversing the Lothlorien Forest, or look out far over the Misty Mountains, and follow on the path where they were taking the hobbits to Isengard — spend a relaxing day out strolling in the fresh air amidst the stunning scenery. Just try to stay clear of any encroaching orcs.

Disc Golfing

Yes, it’s a thing. Disc golf, also known as frisbee golf, is a beloved game of Queenslanders who frequent local dedicated disc golf courses. The lovely Queenstown Gardens, which is only a 10-minute drive from the airport, hosts a complete 18-basket course where you can try your hand at some frugal fun. It is a simple game to grasp with uncomplicated rules – with a basic one being that you don’t throw the frisbee at someone’s face.

Ride a segway like a boss

If the main reason people fly to Queenstown is to savour the wondrous landscapes and breathtaking sights, what better mode of transport to do that with than the legendary segway? It’s all about sweet zippy mobile autonomy and sweet views, folks. Featuring a 2-hour guided tour around Queenstown, Segway on Q provides a quick training session with safety gear provided. Book out a segway and let that crisp kiwi breeze sweep through your hair as you cruise along the beautiful city and the gorgeous landscape it has to offer.

Drink among literal ice, ice, baby

Step into the world where Elsa from Frozen really let it go. That was no hyperbole — at Below Zero Ice Bar, even the cups they serve drinks in are made of ice. With a controlled sub-zero temperature, enjoy the spectacular hand-carved ice sculptures and cocktails (or mocktails) with your friends and family. Fret not, warm thermal wear is provided at the door, so you won’t have to worry about turning into a human popsicle.

Cheer on rubber duckies

Queenstowners have been congregating for the inaugural duck race since its notable popularity at the 2014 launch. An initiative of the Next Rotary Generation Queenstown, The Great Duck Race partners with local charities to raise funds in support of community needs and care. This quirky Queenstown winter event is absolutely free of charge to spectate. If you’d like to have a quack at duck racing, you can sponsor your own ducky and also give it life by dressing it up to stand in running for the best-dressed prize.