Luxury Adventures are conducting a series of interviews with some of our suppliers looking at the different aspects of their lives and how these influence the experiences they offer. As the name suggests Watersports Queenstown offer a variety of water based activities; we’ve chosen to focus on SUP here.

What made you offer stand up paddle boarding as an activity? We love Lake Wakatipu and we love the water, we have grown up here and just want people to enjoy it in a different way.

How long have Watersports Queenstown been operating for? Our team has grown up here on the water, me personally I drove jet boats for 7 years for 6 different companies and loved it, After that I starting running Queenstown paraflights and watersports queenstown and have being an owner/operator for 4 years now. Before that i was a ski host and just love being outdoors and showing people around. More information about Watersports Queenstown can be found here.

Is it difficult to learn SUP, how long roughly would it take a person with average skills to be proficient? Learning the basics can take minutes and your up up and away, when you get into more technical stuff it can take many hours to master (alot like riding a bike… very easy to ride on a flat area and get going to have some fun… takes some time to master the down and uphill courses. The important thing is you can be out on the water in minutes and have lots of fun while enjoying the great scenery.

What are the options if someone want to take a tour or learn SUP with you? SUP Tours Depart Main town beach central Queenstown daily at 11am, 1pm and 4pm (other times may be available so please enquire). Allow 1.5 hours for the total experience. Firstly your guide will give some basic shore based tuition which covers paddling techniques, balance and safety, then along with your experienced safety guide you and your group will paddle out into Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu at a relaxing pace and explore the amazing hidden spots it has to offer whilst surrounded by some of the world’s most picturesque mountains. It is excellent for surfers and non-surfers alike, as it provides an isometric workout that strengthens your core muscle groups, while giving you a fun and exciting way to view the natural surroundings. So get on board! Easier to learn than surfing, cooler than Elvis and the world’s fastest growing watersport. Stand up Paddleboard lessons are ideal for non-surfers and suitable for all ages and abilities. Half Day privately guided SUP tours are also available Includes refreshments. Allow 3-4 hours for this awesome adventure. Ages from 10-70 all welcome.

Is SUP physically demanding? It can be as demanding as you like… the basics are easy but you want to take on paddling faster or some slightly challenging water conditions its great for the core and the soul.

Tony Townley is a luxury lifestyle specialist and owner of Luxury Adventures. Talk to us about planning your next visit to New Zealand, Australia or the South Pacific Islands.