Queenstown.

Title

Queenstown.

Totalview of Queenstown in New Zealand.

ca. 1880

Artist

Sargent

Historical Description

Queenstown, located on New Zealand’s South Island on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, was founded in the mid-19th century. The region was originally inhabited by the Māori, who used the area as a seasonal site for hunting and fishing. European settlement began in the 1860s, when gold was discovered in the area—particularly in the Arrow River. This sparked a gold rush, and Queenstown quickly grew into a booming settlement. The town likely got its name because it was considered “fit for a queen”—hence, "Queenstown". After the gold rush ended, the town gradually developed into a tourist center—initially attracting nature lovers and hikers, and later becoming known for adventure and extreme sports such as bungee jumping, skiing, and jet boating. Today, Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most famous travel destinations, renowned for its spectacular landscapes, outdoor activities, and its use as a film location (e.g., The Lord of the Rings).