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Special Exhibitions > Otago's Otago > QUEENSTOWN LAKES
 
QUEENSTOWN LAKES
 

The Queenstown Lakes District is one of the world’s most scenic places. Tall mountains, covered in snow in the winter, form the backdrop to the stunning lakes that fill massive trenches left by ice age glaciers. First settled in 1860 by William Gilbert Rees, the Queenstown Lakes area now has a population of 22,959 (2006 census) but swells to much higher than this when crib owners, holidaymakers and tourists are included! Queenstown, with a population of 8,538, is the area’s largest town.

Queenstown’s dazzling natural setting also drives the region’s main industry – tourism. The adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown offers opportunities for superb winter skiing, jet boating, an energetic nightlife and, of course, bungy jumping amongst other adrenalin-pumping attractions.

Neighbouring Lakes District locales Arrowtown, Wanaka and Hawea offer similarly commanding landscapes, and lifestyle options second-to-none.

‘This is a very special district that combines history, access to the wilderness, commercial opportunity and strong community values with the greatest asset of all. Outstanding natural landscapes. It is a place remembered by all who visit it.’

Mayor Clive Geddes

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