After your buddy drops the knee and locks his partner in for life, the reasons to celebrate seem endless – until you are charged with organising the bucks party. That’s when things suddenly become a little more stressful. The thought of those logistics, the decisions, the ideas… How do you tee-up an epic send off that screams PARTY but doesn’t cause months of headaches in preparation? You’ve come to the right place.
If you want to blow the roof off with one-last boys night out, Wicked Bucks has the answer for you. Introducing: your Bucks Party in Queenstown. This Kiwi destination is the place where your buck is free to go wild, let loose and tick off his final days of freedom in style. The best part is that you won’t even have to lift a finger. Wicked Bucks has all the insider knowledge and we’re willing to put in the hard yards so that you can replace your logistics hat with an ice-cold beer. Wanna little sneak peak of what you could be getting up to?
AJ Hackett Bungy Kawarau
A trip to New Zealand is practically synonymous with adrenaline-fuelled adventures, and Queenstown is no exception. In fact, this city is arguably the adventure capital of the world. Home to the world’s first commercial bungy jump, AJ Hackett Bungy is arguably the most popular pick of the bunch. The venue allows you to pick from a classic single man jump, water touching and even tandem jumps for those wanting to share the adrenaline rush (or to cover their high pitch squeals with someone else’s).
Even if your Buck isn’t the most daring of characters, this could just be an opportunity to gather some black mail, bulk out the content of your Best Man speech or just take the piss out of his terrified facials. After trying your hand at the birthplace of the world’s bungy crazy, there are a string of other opportunities to get your thrill fix in Queenstown. You can get involved with everything from whitewater rafting and river surfing to canyon swinging and thrills on a jet boat.
Contact: +64 9 360 7748
Address: 105 Curran Street, Westhaven Reserve, Herne Bay
Cardrona
You know those pictures you’ve seen of the New Zealand slopes, the ones where the snow is iridescently white, the powder is thick and the skies are blue? After plenty of time scaling the chairlifts, sipping on happy hour hot chocolate and getting our KA-POW fix, we can confirm this is not fake news.
Nestled in between Queenstown and Wanaka, Cardona is one of the most popular places to hit the slopes. The ridiculously long ski season welcomes snow bunnies from across the globe between June and October, offering varied and treeless terrain. It’s the type of place where newbies can get up on their feet, and more-experienced snow-goers can test out the advanced trails.
Contact: +64 3 443 8880
Gibbston Valley
Queenstown is the gateway city to the Central Otago region, where there are more than 200 vineyards within a 40 minute drive of each other. The area is internationally known as the “Valley of Vines”, recognised for producing world class Pinot Noir.
However, the unique climate, temperatures and terroir means you’ll be able to sip on just about any variety of wine. Our favourite cellar door is Gibbston Valley, which is known for its exquisite wine tasting experience and unique underground cellar tours. The winery was first established in the mid-1980s, and also offers a sumptuous menu of gourmet food.
Contact: +64 3 442 6910
Address: Gibbston Valley Winery, 1820 State Highway 6 Queenstown New Zealand 9371
The Pig And Whistle
Attracting tourists from across the globe all year round, it’s no surprise that Queenstown boasts a killer nightlife scene. As one of the country’s most cosmopolitan towns, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to after hours fun. Pre dinner drinks, opulent restaurants, live music or boujee bars – Queenstown has it all.
The Pig and Whistle is a popular choice among locals and travellers alike. The huge range of beers on tap from NZ and around the world are a major draw card, and the year-round outdoor dining on the sun deck is another great attraction. You can expect big-screen sport, live music, TAB and kick-ass food. It’s an absolute no brainer.
Contact: +64 3 442 9055
Address: 41 Ballarat Street, Queenstown 9300
Jack’s Point Golf Course
What’s a Bucks Party without a little bit of ball action? The golfing kind, obviously! There are numerous courses within a short drive of the CBD, which offer something for every level of golfer. The lush and trimmed greens of Jack’s Point are nearly impossible to beat though.
If the incredible views across the iconic Remarkables mountain range don’t take your breath away, the vista of Lake Wakatipu will. The course is just 20 minutes from the CBD and is a world-class venue for even the budding Tiger Woods of the group.
Contact: +64 3 450 2050
Address: McAdam Drive, Jack’s Point Queenstown
The Shotover River
The Shotover River is another popular option among thrill-seekers and nature-nerds. The rushing water drains into the Kawarau River, below the iconic Kawarau Bridge, and is internationally recognised for being an aquatic playground.
This landscape is the perfect backdrop for jet boating and white water rafting, as well as nature walks along the banks of the river. Whether you’re screaming like a hooligan or taking some zen time, The Shotover River is a must-visit attraction for everyone.
Address: Shotover River, Otago New Zealand
Skyline Gondola
As a city that is world-renowned for its postcard perfect views, you’re going to want to embrace the landscape at every given opportunity. Bob’s Peak is the absolute best seat in the house if you want a panoramic outlook over the town. Travelling up to this highpoint in the Skyline Gondola will ensure you can soak in the truly breathtaking scenery, without having to break a sweat and walk to the top.
Contact: +64 3 441 0101
Address: Brecon Street, Queenstown 9300 New Zealand
Queenstown Gardens
The Queenstown Gardens should be on the bucket-list of every traveller frequenting the city. The botanical gardens are situated on the banks of Lake Wakatipu, and are almost too beautiful to be real. As you stroll along the winding paths, you’ll be treated to a showcase of flowery blooms, lush greenery, ancient trees and a remarkable serenity. The gardens are also a popular location for local events and live gigs.
Skippers Canyon
Perched above the Shotover River, Skippers Canyon can only be described as awe-inspiring. The rugged mountain ranges, mesmerising cliff faces and sheer size of the landscape is like something out of a National Geographic documentary.
The most popular to scale the region is in a 4WD or on an organised tour. These safaris will take you along Skippers Canyon Road, across the Skippers Suspension Bridge, past the restored Skippers Township and you’ll even get to gold pan in the Shotover River.
Contact: +64 3 442 6699
Marine Parade
Marine Parade is Queenstown’s eclectic collection of new and old. Found on the shores of Queenstown Beach, the strip is made up of the iconic Bathhouse Cafe, the Fallen Soldiers Memorial and a seemingly endless stretch of pathway.
During the warmer months of the year, you can generally catch a live gig or local performance here. This is also the location for the annual Winter Festival’s opening night fireworks. Meander along the waterfront pathway and you’ll find yourself in the Queenstown Gardens.