Being based in Queenstown on the South Island means we get out to explore the surrounding hills and mountains as much as possible.

There is quite simply a wealth of hiking and biking opportunities in the greater Queenstown region - we recently listed some of our favorite Queenstown day walks here. Whether you want an easy walk that leaves from Queenstown itself, or something a bit bigger that requires a day trip, there is something to suit everyone keen to explore the Wakatipu. With summer in full swing, we set off this past weekend to explore an area of Queenstown new to us - the Wye Creek Track.

This day tramp is only a quick 20 minute drive outside of Queenstown on the Queenstown to Kingston Road. It's about four hours return, and while if you rushed you could knock it off in less, we recommend taking your time and enjoying the sweeping views of Lake Wakatipu. Here is a selection of some of our favorite photos from the Wye Creek Track.  The walk beings by climbing steadily from the car park along the SH6. The first 20 or 30 minutes are along a 4WD track before you set off onto a formed walking track.

As you begin climbing, the view of Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown in the distance grows larger and larger. With partly cloudy skies, the lake was varying colors of intense blue.

Across the lake you'll get a fantastic view of the iconic Cecil Peak -- from this perspective it looks drastically different than it does in Queenstown.

After about 45 minutes of walking, you'll reach a hydro dam and a series of pipes supplying water to nearby residents. Fill up your water bottles for some fresh, cold, New Zealand water.

When you reach the Hydro Dam, veer left. From here you'll climb on a marked track through the Beech Forest for another hour or so until you reach the bush line.

Wye Creek at the Bush Line. From here, if you were keen you could carry on another six - eight hours all the way to Lake Alta and the Remarkables Ski Field. This would require a bit more planning as you'd need to have dropped a car at the ski field, or alternatively have a mate in town that would come collect you. If you're just after a quick day walk, you can turn around and return to your car.

All while taking in some remarkable views on the way down.

Looking back to Queenstown where a cold pint awaits you.

Follow this link for more walks in the Queenstown Region. Looking for other things to do in Queenstown, read our Planit NZ review of the area here. Headed elsewhere on the South Island? Follow this link for travel tips, ideas and more.