-	All photographs of Southern Lakes

The Southern Lakes District is located in the Otago Region of the South Island of New Zealand. Situated in the centre of the lower South Island, The Southern Lakes District is dissected by latitude 45° south, which is exactly halfway between the equator and the south pole.

The Southern Lakes District combines natures most powerful elements into a splendour of breathtaking views that leaves the visitor speechless. The district has New Zealand’s only true Continental climate, so extremes of temperatures and landscapes are common here. Summers can be hot and dry, autumn a blaze of colour, enough to inspire artists, winters can be cold and crystal clear and in spring the alpine air isn't just clean, you can actually taste the difference . Whatever the season, the light is crisp and clear, night skies are often star studded and towering mountains almost seem within arms reach.

Queenstown is often referred to as "The adventure capital of the world". The town is built around an inlet on Lake Wakatipu, sloping up the hills from the lakeside, and offering spectacular views of nearby Remarkables Mountain Range. Queenstown can boast a fabulous range of facilities, adventure activities, cafes, restaurants, accommodation and don’t forget it's great nightlife, It is also the home of the Bungy Jump.

The lakes of Wanaka, Wakatipu and Hawea are all great fishing spots, the lakes and rivers are home to Brown and Rainbow Trout. Hikers love the close access to Mt Aspiring national park, where there are short and long walks available. Hunting is also very popular in this area, there are Red Deer, Wild Pigs (Captain Cookers), Wild Rabbits, Ducks and more then enough Opossums on the hit list.

There are many ways that visitors can appreciate the Southern Lakes Region, Scenic flights by helicopter or fixed wing aircraft operate from most main tourist resorts. A network of tramping tracks and huts provide access to many remote areas. Cruise boats ply the waters of Lakes Dunstan, Hawea, Wanaka and Wakatipu. Guided tours on horse-back, on foot or in 4WD vehicles are also very popular. The District has some of the finest water sport and winter sport facilities in the country.

There is also a great range of accommodation, enough to suit everyone lucky enough to be exploring this wonderful region.