[lettie]

There's loads to do in this district and while staying in Queenstown it would be rude not to visit the Kawarau Bridge which is the home of the first ever commercial bungy jump. The bungy was pioneered by Mr AJ Hackett, inspired by the natives of Vanuatu who had used vines to perform a type of 'land diving' since the 1500's. AJ Hackett and Chris Skigglekow performed the world's first bungy in New Zealand in 1986 after inventing the first latex bungy cord. In 1987 AJ shot to fame with a daring bungy from the Eiffel Tower and he opened the first commercial bungy centre at Kawarau in 1988. There are loads of bungy sites in NZ, the Kiwis are a lovely race of people but they will jump off just about anything. Around Queenstown thrillseekers from all over the world have no shortage of bungy sites to choose from. There's Kawarau Bridge 43m
The ledge bungy from Bob's Peak 47m
Skippers Outback Pipeline bungy 102m
Nevis Highwire Bungy 134m

You can even bungy jump over Lake Wakatipu from the paragliders......Yikes!!!!!

A visit to Arrowtown is also worthwhile. About 20km from Queenstown, Arrowtown is a picturesque little village which is the most well preserved gold mining town in the area. Not overrun by modern development Arrowtown has lots of old colonial style buildings and tiny little cottages. There's an old Chinese settlement which has been restored, as Chinese miners played a big part in filling the gaps when European miners had left for the West Coast goldrush. The whole town is just gorgeous and there is a very good little bakery, which made our trip even more enjoyable, great pies.

Another Queenstown highlight has to be the Shotover Jet. This is labelled 'Thrill Therapy' and is an unforgettable adrenaline rush and even terrified chickens like myself enjoy the whole package. The Shotover Jet takes you on a mad rush through the Shotover Canyon. With the canyon walls towering over you and rocky outcrops protruding into the river, the driver will skillfully steer the boat at breakneck speed, performing 360 degree turns and churning up loads of cold water spray in the process. Covered with waterproof ponchos, lifejackets and sunglasses, Sparky and I embarked on our thrilling package. With heated handrails and comfy seats it's one hell of a ride. I loved it and could have stayed on there all day.

Queenstown really does have something for everyone and I loved the place. I sometimes feel reluctant to tell people about Queenstown as I am afraid that everyone will flock there and make it too touristy, but I can't help myself, it's the best place I've ever been to.

Here are some pics. The Kawarau Bridge with one poor ****** flinging himself off it! A view of Arrowtown and Me and Sparky on the Shotover Jet (third row right side of the photo)