A brand new 10-seat gondola will be coming to Queenstown as part of a $60 million redevelopment.
More than 785,000 people use the original four-seat gondola at Skyline Queenstown each year, with the current system reaching its capacity of 1100 guests per hour.
The new gondola is expected to take up to 3000 guests per hour.
The proposed development includes expanding its upper complex and a brand new lower terminal building to accommodate the expected growth in visitor numbers over the next 30 years.
"This development is about future-proofing Skyline Queenstown as a premium tourist attraction and ensuring it delivers to a world-class standard," Skyline Enterprises chairman Mark Quickfall says.
The view from the top of the gondola (Newshub.)
Skyline Queenstown will close for 8-12 weeks while it undergoes the redevelopment. It is hoped the project will get underway in March 2017.
The new facilities are being designed by award-winning architect Michael Wyatt, who says it must fit with the surrounding landscape.
Skyline Queenstown's gondola has been operating for nearly 50 years. Tourism New Zealand chief executive Kevin Bowler says the upgrade is needed to ensure the visitors get the best experience in New Zealand.
Newshub.
