7. Queenstown

For many, Queenstown is the jewel in New Zealand’s crown. The Remarkables, a mountain range that borders one edge of the town, frames pine-strewn hills and a glorious blue lake with enough activities to keep the adrenaline-hungry busy for a very long time.

Jump, jet, zip, swing: Kawarau River

Commercial bungee jumping was born here over the Kawarau River, which is also a popular destination for jet-boating, zip-lining, rafting, canyon-swinging and river-surfing. It’s also the only place in the world where you can try Hydro Attack, a semi-submersible vehicle that shoots you through the water at 80 kilometres per hour and leaps into the air.

Skydive: over the Remarkables

Many an adrenaline junkie can also tick skydiving off their bucket lists in Queenstown, where you’ll get incredible views of the Remarkables. Try Nzone, which has a landing location right at the foothills.

Heli-ski: snow fields

It’s the ultimate adventure sport: to jump out of a helicopter onto snow-covered mountain terrain on skis. Heli-ski companies, such as Southern Lakes Heliski and Alpine Heliski, use numerous runs surrounding Queenstown.

Taste: the best of wine country

The countryside surrounding the town is heaving with wineries producing the famous Central Otago pinot noir. Try a cycle tour or a guided trip with Queenstown Wine Trail.