By Kris Madden
There are few more inspirational spots in the world to host a conference, meeting, incentive, or special event than stunning Queenstown.
With such a regal name, it’s fitting that Queenstown has so much to offer in the way of luxury, whether it be heli-skiing, a round at one of the world’s top golf courses, being pampered at a luxury spa, or enjoying award-winning local food and wine.
Sitting on the shore of crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu against a backdrop of dramatic alpine ranges; it’s rumoured that gold prospectors – captivated by the majestic beauty of the surrounding landscape – gave this now cosmopolitan town its name.
A true four-season destination, different seasons bring crisp, clear blue-sky days and snow-capped mountains in winter; while spring retains the snow but longer warmer days and bright blooms transform the landscape. Summer offers hot dry days and long twilights, and autumn’s brilliant red and gold colours are internationally renowned.
The region is home to several world-class hotels and luxury lodges featuring magnificent architecture, plush fittings and outstanding service. Many of these have won international awards and accolades for their quality, consistent service and superb dining.
Vineyards and winery restaurants are some of the best in New Zealand and various ‘cellar door’ operations and wine tours provide plenty of chances to explore the Central Otago region and get an insight into its epicurean culture and award-winning wines.
The Wakatipu Collection members have joined forces to provide an exciting range of Queenstown wine tasting experiences. There’s golf-wine combos, bike-wine combos, helicopter-wine combos and even jet boat-wine combos.
With a smorgasbord of outdoor activities, Queenstown is the home of the ultimate adventure bucket list leading to its reputation as the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’. From skydiving, to bungy jumping, canyon swinging, rafting, jet boating, tandem hang-gliding and paragliding, mountain biking, hiking, horse trekking, supercar or four-wheel-driving – it’s no exaggeration to say you can experience more here in a day than most do in a lifetime.
For a more leisurely pace, Queenstown has some great ways to relax and recharge the batteries including lake cruises, scenic flights, hot air balloon rides, gondola rides, wine and art trails, museums, nature parks, and fishing. For the ultimate in relaxation, there are plenty of luxury spa resorts in the area. A variety of international and traditional treatments are on offer to revitalize mind, body and soul.
What makes Queenstown such a popular meetings destination is its commitment to ensuring every group has a truly memorable experience that your delegates will rave about for months.
