In which location was adventure tourism first established?

Adventure tourism in New Zealand is most prominently associated with Queenstown, which has been recognized as the adventure capital of the world. This is largely due to its stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and rivers that provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of adventure activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and skiing.

Queenstown's development into an adventure tourism hub began in the 1980s when commercial bungee jumping was first introduced. Since then, the region has continued to innovate and expand its offerings, attracting thrill-seekers from around the globe and significantly shaping New Zealand's tourism industry. The unique combination of breathtaking scenery and an array of adrenaline-pumping activities has cemented Queenstown’s status as a pioneering location for adventure tourism.

In contrast, while other cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch have their tourist attractions and activities, they do not share the same historical significance or development in the adventure tourism sector as Queenstown.