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SIT: Back in a cold plunge pool and reap the benefits.

As the temperature dial continues to drop, setting foot anywhere near an ice bath might sound like the very definition – but it might be just the thing your frosty soul needs. With more and more ‘cold therapy’ centres opening up in Melbourne, we decided to investigate why anyone would voluntarily plunge themselves in sub 10 degree water. Turns out, the benefits are pretty incredible, and include everything from reduced inflammation and enhanced muscle recovery to decreased anxiety and boosted immunity.

If you’re as intrigued as we were, we’ve put together list of wellness centres offering this transformative therapy (don’t worry, we’ve made sure they’ve got saunas too!).

Nimbus Co – Richmond, Bondi, Byron Bay and Manly
Nurture the mind, body and soul at one of Nimbus Co’s beautifully designed studios, where private cold plunge rooms meet state-of-the-art infrared saunas. Combine the two therapies for the ultimate health booster, with a diverse range of membership options available.
Book in here.

Saint Haven – Collingwood
A new members-only health club in the heart of Collingwood, Saint Haven offers just about anything that falls under the umbrella of ‘wellness’ – from cold plunge and breath-work to a meditation cave and grotto-style bathing. There’s even an organic cafe for a post-plunge bite.
Book in here.

Cold + Conscious – Various Locations
Thanks to the Wim Hof Method, ice bathing and breath-work often come hand-in-hand. Cold + Conscious are bringing this unique therapy combination to some of Victoria’s most popular beaches including South Melbourne, Altona and Geelong. Embrace the challenge and reap the benefits.
Book in here.

Sense of Self – Collingwood
A name synonymous with Melbourne’s wellness scene, Sense of Self is best known for its bathing, spa and massage services. However, the bathhouse also offers a range of plunge pools for the full scope of physiological and mental invigoration – be sure to book ahead!
Book in here.

Alba Thermal Springs – Fingal
Swapping between hot and cold temperatures promotes a myriad of health benefits such as reduced inflammation, improved circulation and enhanced energy. Peninsula’s new kid on the block, Alba offers a world-class contemporary bathing experience complete with a stunning cold plunge pool infused with a host of thermal minerals.
Book in here.

TRY: A weekend in Ballarat

If the name ‘Ballarat’ brings to mind the gold rush era, old buildings and the 2002 adaptation of Ned Kelly, you might be surprised by how much Victoria’s second largest city has evolved. Crowned a UNESCO Creative City in 2019, the thriving township is a goldmine (pardon the pun) of cultural and culinary delights – home to a vibrant and ever-evolving community of artists, makers, restaurateurs and young professionals. And yet, a sense of its rich history is still very much alive, coalescing in a unique heritage charm unlike anywhere else in Australia.

Just 90 minutes from the heart of Melbourne, we highly recommend making this eclectic hub your next winter getaway destination.

Stay:
Hotel Vera –Taking up residence in a heritage mansion on Sturt Street, Hotel Vera embodies the rich history of Ballarat while providing a one-of-a-kind contemporary accomodation experience. Encompassing a series of elegantly designed rooms named after the gold fields of the region along with a cafe, restaurant and bar, this destination hotel is at the top of our list.
Check it out here.

Jean Claude – If you’re seeking a nature escape that’s still a short drive from the city centre, Jean Claude has you covered. Nestled amongst towering gums beside a tranquil (and swimmable) dam, this 1970s caravan has been lovingly restored into a cosy yet luxurious cabin. Stoke the fire, read on the patio, or take the row boat for a paddle like you’re in a Victorian romance novel.
Check it out here.

Eat:
Johnny Alloo – Championing the region’s makers, foragers and growers, Johnny Alloo is a modern Australian restaurant and cafe housed within one of Ballarat’s oldest corner buildings. Named after the town’s first ever restaurateur, here, you can expect an enticing selection of produce-driven dishes curated by Chef Andy Gale, of Michelen Starred London restaurant Chez Bruce.
Check it out here.

The Forge – On night two, enjoy something a little more casual at The Forge Pizzeria. Formerly an antique store, the expansive space sits up to 200 patrons and is well-loved for its convivial atmosphere and warm hospitality. Purveying local drops, wood-fire pizza and house-made pasta to boot, this lively haunt is all about quality food and even better company. Check it out here.

Drink:
Eastern Peake – A trip to regional Victoria isn’t complete without a boutique winery visit – and if you’ve only got time for one, make it Eastern Peake. Led by the visionary Owen Latta – crowned Gourmet Traveller Young Winemaker of the Year in 2018 – the breathtaking vineyard specialises in minimal intervention wines, and offers a charming cellar door if you’d like to stay a while.
Check it out here.

Renard – The perfect place for a night cap, Renard is a social club and cocktail bar bringing a dose of joie de vivre to Ballarat Central. From disco beats and aperitif to gourmet bar snacks and desserts, this suave new venue is guaranteed to deliver on good times. Here, the decor is as playful as the vibes – sporting terrazzo tiles, green velvet and glints of gold.
Check it out here.

Shop & Discover:
Bridge Mall Farmer’s Market -Peruse the region’s finest produce at Ballarat’s beloved farmer’s market. Held on the first Saturday of every month from 9am-1pm, the market is a hive of activity chock-full with baked goods, gourmet cheeses, fresh fruit and veg, and so much more. With an array of food trucks and regular live music, it’s easy to lose hours here.
Check it out here.

Art Gallery of Ballarat – The oldest and largest regional art gallery in Victoria, the Art Gallery of Ballarat is a beacon for the city’s unique creative flair. Spend the day meandering its grand halls, admiring works from some of the world’s most prolific artists – both classic and contemporary. Playing host to a roster of avant-garde and renowned exhibitions, there’s something for everyone in this historically rich establishment.
Check it out here. 

SIT: Back in our favourite Melbourne vinyl bars.

It’s common knowledge that a solid playlist has the ability to transform a good night out into a great one. Taking cues from Tokyo’s famous ‘listening bars’ (spaces more about sonic discovery than socialisation), an increasing number of Melbourne venues are putting music at the forefront of their offering – bringing in hi-fi sound systems, rare vinyl collections, and DJ sets to boot. In a city as infatuated with music as it is with food and wine, we think it’s a match made in heaven.

From recording studios behind secret doors to Euro-style wine bars with vinyl on rotation, here’s a list of our four favourite music rooms for your next night out on the town.

Waxflower
A pioneer of the Melbourne music room movement, Waxflower marries the spirit of a European wine bar with a typical Japanese jazz kissa. Slurp oysters, sip wine and enjoy a cool curation of tunes spun on vintage turntables imported from London. If drinks roll into dinner, the menu is well-equipped with a selection of mouth-watering Latin American share plates.
Book in here.

Music Room
When Her Bar opened its doors last February, it very quickly made a name for itself as Melbourne’s go-to after work drinks spot – the result of Instagrammable interiors, an impressive drinks list and a particularly vibey rooftop. The venue’s hidden gem, however, is the music room hidden on the second level. Designed to look like a giant speaker, the intimate space features a library of over 3000 records, doubles as a recording studio, and hosts weekly DJ sets from undiscovered artists and big names alike.
Book in here.

Hope St Radio
No list of music venues would be complete without a mention of Hope St Radio. Having existed as an online broadcasting platform for many years, the community radio station made Collingwood Yards its permanent home in 2021 in the form of a vibrant neighbourhood wine bar. Live streaming emerging Australian DJs while serving up a melange of tasty morsels by culinary darling Ellie Bouhadana, this unique venue is any foodie or audiophile’s dream.
Book in here.

Alley Tunes
Part-record store, part-coffee shop, Alley Tunes has proved the music room trend isn’t exclusive to the evenings – or the inner-north for that matter. Tucked away in Hawthorn’s historic Glenferrie Arcade, the relaxed haunt plays host to one of Melbourne’s best record collections with a particular focus on underground dance music. Have a browse before unwinding with a long black in the laneway alfresco area.
Book in here. 

REMEMBER: Vintage BMW; the classiest car on the road.

Last year, New York lifestyle brand Kith partnered up with BMW for the second time to redesign two electric vehicle models – one vintage, one modern – along with a range of bespoke accessories and apparel, and it had the internet in a frenzy. Marking the 50th anniversary of BMW’s first EV as well as the launching of BMW M, the sleek models sported a custom green shade never used before by the brand along with elegant caramel interiors and signature Kith detailing. You don’t have to be a car-person to appreciate the level of craftsmanship that went into designing these state-of-the-art whips.

Kith founder Ronnie Fieg is a self-proclaimed BMW super-fan, possessing 10 of their vehicles himself. His second collaboration with the brand following a redesign of the M4 Coupe, the formidable designer was inspired by BMW’s history as well as the relationships that exist between aesthetics and technology; fashion and function. The BMW i4 M50 (the more modern of the pair), sold in a Sotheby’s auction for $370,650 last year, with only seven in total available to the public. We have our fingers and toes crossed there’ll be a third collab between this dynamic duo before the year’s out.

See more here. 

EDUCATE: Yourself on all things design, craft and culture at MPavilion.

PSA fellow design fanatics: you have two weeks left to check out the free talks and events at this year’s Mpavilion, Australia’s leading architecture and design commission. An ongoing initiative by the Naomi Milgrom Foundation, MPavilion is a ‘cultural laboratory’ designed to platform the world’s most exciting creative minds while encouraging sharing and education within the community. There’s also plenty of fun non-design stuff too like live music, craft classes, dance parties and beyond. If you haven’t already stumbled upon the bright orange canopy nestled among the trees in Queen Victoria Gardens, that in itself is definitely worth a visit.

Each year, a leading architect is commissioned to design a new pavilion to become a cultural beacon for the city. 2022’s vibrant structure was composed by visionary Thai firm all(zone), who used predominantly fishing-net and waffled fabric to create a light, breezy canopy reminiscent of a big tree. Between the layers is a cutting-edge STFE membrane which reduces glare and holds water, keeping the Pavilion waterproof. Still on this year’s program is a host of incredible talks and performances including Intro to DJing with DJ Sarah, Dancing in the Park with Cavallo Nero, a talk on how green spaces can counter loneliness and so much more.

Check out the full program here. 

TRY: Getting to these Melbourne gigs.

The novelty of being able to enjoy live music again is yet to wear off for us. There’s nothing more quintessentially ‘Melbourne’ than spending Friday nights at a gig or sunny afternoons at a music festival in the Yarra Valley. With some of the world’s biggest artists touring Australia in the next couple of months alongside a host of incredible local acts, we decided to put together a gig guide to keep your calendar booked right through ’til March.

Julia Jacklin – The Forum, Feb 28th & March 1st
The darling of the Australian indie pop scene, Julia Jacklin has wooed audiences since 2016 with her direct lyrics, dreamy vocals and captivating hooks. She’s currently touring her new Aria-nominated album ‘Pre Pleasure’, which explores themes of adolescent confusion, new love and family ties. Balancing playfulness and emotion in perfect harmony, we think it’s her best yet.
Book tickets here.

Aus Open Live Music – Kia Arena, Jan 27th – 29th
Catch the likes of BENEE, Thelma Plum, Flight Facilities and Montaigne at the Australian Open Finals Festival. Vanessa Amorosi will also be headlining the Friday night for the ultimate early 2000s throwback. Tickets can be purchased for an additional $5 with your ground pass or for $34 on their own – steal!
Book tickets here.

SummerSalt Yarra Valley – Rochford Wines, Feb 4th
Kick back in the afternoon sun – crisp Pinot Gris in hand – and enjoy the sweet sounds of Australia’s favourite indie artists, both local and international. Amongst lush vineyards and rolling vines, you’ll be treated to a stellar show by the likes of Angus & Julia Stone, Ben Harper, Middle Kids and more. Esky optional, picnic chair essential, little ones welcome.
Book tickets here.

NGV Friday Nights – NGV, Every Friday Until April 14
Check out the groundbreaking exhibition, Alexander McQueen: Mind, Mythos, Muse, before having a boogie to some of Melbourne’s best DJs and bands in the NGV’s Great Hall and Garden. Noteworthy acts include Banoffee, Electric Fields, Mabel, Afrodesiac and Kee’ahn. Setting the backdrop is the NGV’s 2022 Architecture Commission: Temple of Boom – an ode to classical architecture and Ancient Greece.
No need for tickets, it’s free!

Fred again.. – The Forum, Feb 1
Fusing samples from the unlikeliest of sources (from Youtube clips to his personal FaceTime conversations) with ethereal synths and percussive beats, the London producer known as ‘Fred again..’ has cultivated a unique sound cementing him among the world’s favourite DJs. Catch him at The Forum or headlining Laneway Festival on Feb 11 to experience the transportive qualities of his otherworldly sounds.
Book tickets here.

SIT: Back at the beach with these hot accessories.

For what feels like the first time in eons, Melbourne’s summer has actually been (touch wood) consistently pretty good this year. And with many a beach day hopefully still ahead of us, some solid accessories are essential to ensure you don’t end up a sandy, sunburnt mess come March. We’ve put our heads together and compiled a handy list of covetable beach-wares, made by some of our favourite Australian designers.

1. Beach Towel – Baina
From luxury textile manufacturers BAINA, this 100% organic cotton towel in a delightful checkerboard print is a beachside staple. It’s soft, durable and perfectly sized for lazy days on the sand.
Shop it here.

2. Lounger Chair – Basil Bangs
Serious beachgoers know that laying on a towel is uncouth – lounge chairs are where it’s at. Try this gorgeous rattan one from outdoor accessory extraordinaries Basil Bangs, complete with a water-resistant seat.
Shop it here.

3. Umbrella – Sunday Supply
Take the hassle out of vigorously reapplying sunscreen by investing in a good beach umbrella. We’re obsessed with this golden beauty by Sunday Supply – ideal for the sand or your outdoor dining table.
Shop it here.

4. Beach Pillow – Hommey
The beach accessory you never knew you needed, Hommey’s inflatable, Terry towelling beach pillow makes beachside lounging just that little bit comfier. Be warned: sunbathing may all to easily turn into a siesta.
Shop it here.

5. Sunscreen – Ultraviolet
A day at the beach – or anywhere outdoors for that matter – isn’t complete without a high quality sunscreen. Extreme Screen by Ultra Violet is our personal favourite, an SPF 50+ body sunscreen with a divine coconut scent that is 4 hours waterproof and also moisturises your skin. Quadruple win.
Shop it here.

6. Beach Tent – Basil Bangs
Another one from our faves from Basil Bangs, this breezy beach tent has you sorted from morning ’til evening. Best of all its super easy to set-up and pack-down, and is light weight to carry.
Shop it here.

7. Sunglasses – Halcyon
A modern take on the classic 1950s cat eye frame, these glorious toffee-toned specs remind us of Sicilian sunsets and Riviera boat rides. They’re from Aussie brand Halcyon, who use Italian acetate in their vintage-inspired design. What’s more 10% of all profits go to Headspace.
Shop it here.

8. Beach Bag – Gunes Swim
Throw all your bits and pieces in this adorable tote by Gunes Swim, a Noosa-based beachwear label championing sustainable materials such as recycled Nylon and versatile, day-to-evening designs.
Shop it here.

APPRECIATE: Frida Kahlo – The Life of an Icon

If you’re a fan of multi-sensory art exhibitions (think Van Gogh at The Lume) and happen to be in Sydney over the summer, don’t miss this immersive biography experience coming to The Cutaway in Bangaroo. Delving into the life and art of one of the most influential artists to ever live – the fierce and formidable Frida Kahlo – the revolutionary exhibit features everything from 360 degree projections of her artwork to a virtual reality system, live music and flower crown-making classes. It’s the very embodiment of a sensory feast.

A symbol of feminine strength who continues to inspire generations of creatives, Kahlo transformed her ongoing physical pain into some of the most important artworks of all time – including her signature self-portraits which combined bold colours, iconography, natural imagery and elements of traditional Mexican painting.

Kahlo was feminist pioneer who has become famous as much for her activism and multifaceted life as her artwork itself. Rejecting gender stereotypes and conventional beauty standards, she brought in a new wave of artists who used art to explore deeply personal experiences, particularly in regards to women’s issues.

Co-created by the Frida Kahlo Corporation and renowned Spanish digital arts company Layers of Reality, this futuristic yet soulful exhibition uses state-of-the-art technology to connect audiences to the artist’s essence in previously unimaginable ways.

Book your tickets here.

EDUCATE: Yourself on Australia’s coolest converted motels.

The word ‘motel’ has long been synonymous with the daggier things in life – from downtrodden brown brick buildings to ‘80s polyester bead spreads. This last year, however, has seen a huge surge in the ‘motel makeover’ trend, with some of Australia’s most unlikely roadside motor inns being transformed into slick and sustainable boutique stays. We’re all for it. Infused with just the right amount of nostalgia, here’s a list our favourites on the east coast for your next mid summer escape.

1. Sun Seeker, Byron Bay
Last year, Jess and Dave Frid reimagined one of Byron’s oldest motels into contemporary boutique accomodation imbued with the spirit of holiday nostalgia. Complete with thoughtfully crafted rooms, California-style bungalows and a peaceful poolside lounge area, this beachside oasis is sustainably designed at every touchpoint – from recycled materials to solar power, composting and beyond. The perfect blend of retro charm and designer sophistication, Sun Seeker is Byron Bay accomodation at its most considered.
Book your stay here.

2. Mysa Motel, Palm Beach
Bringing a dose of Palm Springs to the heart of the Gold Coast, this destination motel transports its guests back to another era through pastel tones, breeze block walls, neon signs and towering palms. Each of the seven rooms has its own theme (we love ‘The Merillo’) and features beautifully restored vintage furniture and all the necessary luxuries. After a lazy day at the beach, enjoy martinis by the magnesium mineral pool in true Slim Aarons style.
Book your stay here.

3. KYAH, The Blue Mountains
Nestled amongst the world heritage-listed Blue Mountains, Kyah Boutique Hotel is an 80s motel-turned-elegant retreat designed to connect guests to the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Split across the three wings, the stylish rooms feature plush beds, minimalist finishes and minibars stocked with sustainable goodies. Idyllic grounds reveal tennis courts, a produce garden and a Japanese cherry Blossom tree, while the in-house restaurant, Blaq, offers locally sourced dishes create by award-winning chef Mate Herceg.
Book your stay here.

4. Astor, Albury
For many of us, Albury brings to mind dreary overnight pitstops on the drive up to Sydney. But who says layover can’t be a little bit luxe? Formerly a stock standard 1960s motor inn, Astor Albury has been lovingly restored into a Palm Springs-inspired destination offering everything you could ever need on your travels. As much a hospitality hot spot as it is a motel, The Astor has its own vibrant, 28-beer-tap bar with a menu of gourmet pub meals, chic interiors and zesty cocktails.
Book your stay here.

5. Motel Molly
Set in the charming surf town of Mollymook on NSW’s breathtaking Shoalhaven region, Motel Molly is another recently converted beauty. Stylish and serene with a decidedly playful spirit, this generously restored accomodation balances a relaxed coastal feel with a hint of high design. Underpinned by a genuine sense of craftsmanship, here, the beauty is in the finer details – whether it’s the handmade imported ceramics found in every room or the gorgeous Mediterranean tiling detailing the ensuite vanities. Offering sweeping views of the coastline and a sun-soaked pool area, Motel Molly is the stuff of Australian road trip dreams.
Book your stay here.

6. Berry View Hotel, Berry
A mid-century marvel in one of NSW’s most beloved country towns, Berry View Hotel is something of a must-visit – especially if you’re road tripping up the coast. Offering mesmerising views of the hinterland and lush garden outlooks, each of the rooms are individually styled with charming little details – providing a personal and quirky accomodation experience. A palette of warm ochre tones ties together the interiors, decor and external design while leaning into the retro vibes.
Book your stay here.

TRY: A trip to Queenstown.

The home of bungee jumping and breweries, restaurants and ravines – beautiful Queenstown is the stuff of dreams. And while it’s most famous for being ‘The Adventure Capital of the World’, this breathtaking waterfront town is so much more than just that. On the one hand, it’s a vibrant cultural hub bursting with culinary delights and heritage sites. On the other, it’s a haven of vast mountains, blue lakes and truly breathtaking natural scenery. Given it’s less than 4 hours from Melbourne by plane, we thought we’d put together a helpful little guide for those venturing over in the spring (the most beautiful time of year to visit, in our humble opinions).

Stay –

Sherwood:
554 Frankton Road, Queenstown

Ranked as one of the top ten most sustainable hotels in the world, Sherwood is beloved for its cosy rooms, community ethos and organic Two-Hatted restaurant. The entire establishment is made from refurbished materials and powered by the sun.

Hotel St Moritz:
10/18 Brunswick Street, Queenstown

Where elegant rooms open out to spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu, Hotel St Moritz provides the ultimate retreat after a day of exploration. Perfectly situated in the heart of town, it’s a gateway to all the precinct has to offer.

Eichardt’s Private Hotel:
2 Marine Parade, Queenstown

A Queenstown icon, Eichardt’s Private Hotel blends historic charm with modern sophistication. The grand Victorian building stands proud on the lakefront, housing a number of luxurious suites along with a plush bar and restaurant.

Wine –

Gibbston Valley Winery:
1820 State Highway 6, Queenstown

From tastings in a wine cave to fine dining among rolling hills – Gibbston Valley Winery has something for everyone up its sleeve. Be sure to try their famous pinot noir, paired perfectly with a plate of decadent charcuterie.

Amisfield:
10 Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Road, Frankton, Queenstown

Crowned ‘Restaurant of the Year’ by American Express and ‘Winery of the Year’ by Reidel, Amisfield is a no brainer. Enjoy organic wine tastings in the rustic cellar door before indulging in a gourmet degustation at their three-hatted restaurant.

Rippon:
246 Wanaka Mount Aspiring Road, Wānaka

Where clear blue lake meets rolling vines, Rippon is hands done one of the most scenic wineries we’ve ever seen. Located in Wanaka, it’s a little bit of a drive from Queenstown, but absolutely worth it for the wine and views.

Dine –

Rata:
Te Nuku, 43 Ballarat Street, Queenstown

At the vanguard of modern dining in New Zealand, Rata is an ambient, light-filled restaurant specialising in sustainable ingredients, innovative dishes and slick interior design. Their seafood is some of the best in town.

Fergburger:
42 Shotover Street, Queenstown

A visit to Queenstown would not be complete without a visit to Fergburger. An institution serving up some of the best burgers in New Zealand (if not the world), this lively haunt almost always has a line trailing out the door – a telltale sign of something special.

Blue Kanu:
16 Church Street, Queenstown

Fusing Asian and Polynesian flavours, Blue Kanu offers an unforgettable dining experience anchored by fresh ingredients, ancient spices and the warmest of hospitality. We recommend opting for ‘Trust the Wok’, where the choosing is taken care of.

Coffee –

Vudu:
16 Rees Street, Queenstown

This award-winning cafe is home to what is arguably by the best coffee in town, as well a creative brunch menu and cabinet brimming with baked treats. As always, ingredients are seasonal and locally sourced.

Bespoke:
9 Isle Street, Queenstown

Come for the gourmet fare and artisanal coffee, stay for sweeping views of the mountaintops. A trendy little establishment just a 5 minute stroll from the town centre, Bespoke is a must-try for brunch aficionados.

Fergbaker:
40 Shotover Street, Queenstown

From the team behind Ferburger, Fergbaker is heralded as one of the best bakeries in all of Aotearoa. Grab yourself a coffee and croissant to go (or a pie if that’s more your thing) and devour it on the lush lawns of Queenstown Gardens.

Relax –

Onsen Pools:
162 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown

Filled with pure water from the surrounding mountains, the private cedar tubs at Onsen Pools provide a relaxation experience unlike any other. Admire magnificent views of the mountains and river as you sip on a complimentary cocktail.

Millbrook Spa:
1124 Malaghans Road, Arrowtown

Like many things in Queenstown, Millbrook Spa has won a plethora of awards. Treat yourself to one of their indulgent, nature-based treatments such as the super-food pro radiance facial or mineral boost massage.

Body Sanctum:
Level 1/10 Athol Street, Queenstown

Located in the heart of town, Body Sanctum is place to pause and reset among elegantly designed treatment rooms and experienced therapists. They’ve even got ski season massages to relieve and revive sore muscles after a day on the slopes.

Walk –

Queenstown Gardens:
Park Street, Queenstown

A tranquil escape sprawling with century-old trees and vibrant blooms, Queenstown Gardens is an absolute must-visit. Encompassed by Lake Wakatipu, here, you’ll also find an ice skating rink, disc-golf course and tennis club.

Queenstown Hill Time Walk:
Belfast Terrace, Queenstown

One of the best short hikes in Queenstown, the Queenstown Hill Time Walk traverses through lush pine forest before arriving at a breathtaking 360 degree lookout point. Along the path are plaques describing different time periods in Queenstown’s history.

Ben Lomond Track:
130 Lake Esplanade, Queenstown

If you’re after something a little more challenging, the Ben Lomond Track is a 6-8 hour return hike revealing some of Queenstown’s most awe-inspiring sights. The effort is absolutely worth the reward: 360 degree views of the landscape from a 1,748m summit.

Adventure –

Milford Sound:
Southland, New Zealand

If you’ve got the time, we highly recommend making a day trip to Milford Sound. The biggest tourist attract in New Zealand for a reason (and made famous by Lord of the Rings), the majestic fjord is replete with towering peaks, cascading waterfalls and turquoise waters, flowing all the way out to the Tasman Sea.

Bungee Jumping:
Cnr of Camp and Shotover Street, Central Queenstown

Not for the faint of heart, bungee jumping is a quintessential Queenstown activity. We recommend going with Nevis Bungy, which offers the highest drop in all of New Zealand (134m) among rugged mountainous terrain.

Shotover Jet:
3 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown

Whizz around the Shotover Canyons in a speed boat travelling at up to 90km an hour. You’ll get glimpses of pristine natural sights as well as an adrenaline rush to remember – personally, this is much more our style than the bungee.