Staggering beauty and heart-pumping thrills await in Queenstown. The alpine resort on Lake Wakatipu began its life as a gold-mining town in the 1860s, but now draws droves of outdoor enthusiasts for kayaking, bungee jumping, hiking and skiing. For a more mild-mannered adventure, take a quiet cruise through nearby Milford Sound, part of the Fjordland National Park World Heritage area, or sample South Island pinot noir from one of the region's 75 wineries. Whatever the season, you won't want to stay indoors.