The Southern Lakes of the South Island is a region of diverse and magnificent landcapes, surrounded by several beautiful towns, Lake Wanaka and Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown. With a back bone of the Southern Alps, Mt Aspiring National Park and bordering Central Otago's incredible scenery, magnificent golf courses, world class Pinot Noir vineyards, breathtaking helicopter excursions, fly fishing, 4WD adventures and a myriad of experiences for everyone. The distinctive four seasons range from hot dry summer days to a spectacle of autumn colours. Winter sees the region transformed into a ski and winter holiday destination offering downhill skiing, cross country and heli skiing and a fabulous winter festival.
Wanaka
Lake Wanaka’s spectacular location at the foot of the Southern Alps with the wilderness of the Mt Aspiring National Park nearby makes it a magnet for outdoor lovers the world over, be this boating, hiking, climbing, skiing or mountain biking, just to name just a few. Lake Wanaka has a vibrant arts community of painters, sculptors, photographers, carvers, writers and more. Take an arts trail and visit them in their studios or see their work in the town's galleries. Minaret Station Alpine Lodge, a short helicopter only transfer from Wanaka or Queenstown Airports and the ultimate base to explore the most spectacular sights of Fiordland, the Mt Aspiring National Park and the attractions of Wanaka and Queenstown. Families welcome.
Queenstown
One hundred and forty years after the establishment as a gold mining camp, central Queenstown has transformed into a sophisticated cosmopolitan town, tucked into a picturesque bay on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, beneath majestic mountains. Adventurers, filmmakers, wine enthusiasts, world class golfers, Hollywood stars and US Presidents have all been drawn to this magical region and its intense alpine energy.
