Queenstown Bay

“Shallow Bay”, named after the Maori word for Queenstown, T?huna, is right before you, stretching out as wide as the lake itself. The bay is known for its gentle waters and breathtaking views of the towering mountains. Its history dates back centuries to the Maori, who used it as a summer hunting ground for moa, the now-extinct giant flightless bird. The Maori also collected pounamu, greenstone, which they carefully crafted into beautiful objects and tools. It was William Rees, a man who dreamed of a farming community, who brought a European settlement to the shores of Queenstown Bay in 1860. He named it the “Camp”, signifying the beginning of a new era. The town later changed its name to Queenstown, reflecting its connection to Queen Victoria. The gold rush was just around the corner. The discovery of gold in the nearby Arrow River in 1862 triggered a boom in Queenstown. Rees saw the opportunity and converted his wool shed into the Queen’s Arms Hotel. But the gold rush was short-lived. Once the fortune-seekers left, Queenstown experienced a decline. The town was left with a ghost town, Arrowtown, a relic of the gold rush era. Today, Queenstown is a bustling haven for adventure tourism. You are standing on its shores, where generations have come to enjoy its beauty and thrills. Queenstown Bay offers a glimpse into the past and a platform to witness the breathtaking scenery of the Southern Lakes, a scene that has captivated many from all over the world. Enjoy the moment and let its stories unfold for you.