Queenstown

Arthurs Point, nestled just outside of Queenstown centre, boasts a captivating blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and rich cultural experiences.  

The picturesque suburb, known for its stunning mountain vistas, tranquil river sounds, serves as a gateway to both adventure and relaxation, attracting visitors year-round.  The waters of the Shotover River are especially popular for thrilling activities that cater to both novices and seasoned adventurers alike.

To help you get the most of your visit, we've created our list of the 'Top 10 Things To Do in Arthurs Point' 

1.  Shotover Jet
Operating since 1965, Shotover Jet has earned its reputation as a 'bucket-list' activity in Queenstown.  Their world famous jet boats can navigate shallow waters at extremely high speeds - up to 85kph with as little as 10cm of water below.  Carved out of stone by tonnes of water over the course of thousands of years, the steep walls of the canyon add to the sense of adventure as 'Big Red' speeds through the canyon

2.  Canyon Swing
Take the plunge with the Shotover Canyon Swing and swing from a platform 109 metres above a deep canyon below.  Jump yourself or, be released from the platform by staff who can offer guidance on over 70 different jump styles to experience the ultimate thrill.

3.  Onsen Hot Pools
Enjoying uninterrupted views across the Shotover Canyon, the Cedar Hot Tubs at Onsen Hot Pools are heated to 37.8C on warmer days and up to 39.8C during the winter, accommodating up to four adults.  The natural setting is matched by the pure water captured on its endless journey between the sky and earth to continually fill and refresh the pools.

4.  Canyon Brewing
Serving fresh, flavourful food and lively beer crafted onsite alongside the iconic Shotover River, visit Canyon Food and Brew for an après brew, a casual bite or dinner with the family.  The onsite Brewery boasts a lighter après menu featuring bite size, snack and share options to complement their hand crafted beer.  You can even watch the beer being brewed live!

5.  Oxenbridge Tunnel Track
From the Shotover public car park, take the scenic 30 minute return walk to the secluded Morningstar beach.  Along the way, information panels provide you with an insight into the gold mining history.

6. Edith Cavell Bridge
Situated at Arthur's Point, Edith Cavell Bridge is an iconic structure crossing the Shotover River.  The much photographed bridge was designed by the Public Works Department, with the bridge being constructed between 1917 and 1919, costing over $8000.  The bridge significantly improved the route for gold miners seeking their fortune. 

7. Moonlight Track
Try this 9.7-km out-and-back trail from Arthur's Point that connects to the Moke Lake campground.  Generally considered a moderately challenging route, The Moonlight Track takes an average of 3 - 4 hours to complete.  It's a scenic walk with ups and downs and great views of the valley and the surrounding mountains the whole way. The track is steep and narrow in places, but well-defined.  It's a return walk on the same trail as it's not a loop - so you can adjust the length of your hike depending on your fitness level. 

8. Gin Garden
The Gin Garden is Queenstown’s first boutique gin tasting room.  The tasting room takes pride in offering award winning, locally distilled, and individually hand-crafted Broken Heart Spirits along with a locally brewed Oktoberfest lager.  Dishes are available to eat in or takeaway.

9. Strike Bowl
At Strike Bowl you'll find 7 lanes of full-length bowling, with illuminated lanes adding that extra buzz.  Also keeping the kids (and big kids!) amused, is a large games room, with air hockey, Timezone arcade games, table soccer, and pool tables.

10. White Water Rafting
You’ll start by peacefully paddling down the river, a great experience in itself, before you reach the rapids. There are six different sections of fast and furious rapids along the journey, so you’ll definitely get your money’s worth!  You'll be guided through canyons, navigate the rapids and the famous 170m Oxenbridge tunnel to finish.  Check out the trip options in our rafting article.

Accommodation:
For those wishing to stay in the area, there are a number of luxury, mid-priced and budget accommodation options available, many offering stunning views.  Luxury Lodges and Hotels, Mid-range Hotels, Guest Houses and a Campground are all available to offer you an ideal retreat after a day of adventure.