The Biggest Loser Contestants Find Themselves In Queenstown

After weeks of hard work, temptation and physical challenges, the Biggest Loser’s final six contestants were in for something completely different… a mystery trip to New Zealand.

Pati, Munnalita and Kimberlie after completing their triathlon challenge.
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Both the trainers and contestants were very taken with New Zealand’s clean, fresh air, mountain scenery and, in the words of Chris, "the crazy range of adventure sports on offer".

Contestant Damien left his biggest fears at the bottom of a 90 foot cliff face. "I definitely surprised myself and learnt a lot about myself," he said.

While in Queenstown, the contestants overcame their fears on a range of adrenaline-fuelled activities, including bungy jumping at the Kawarau Bridge, Shotover Canyon Swing, Fly By Wire, Routeburn Canyoning, Haka Elite and rock climbing with The Rungway.

Slideshow     9 shots PEAK PERFORMANCE The Queenstown region is spectacular. Dominated by towering peaks, deep valleys and expansive waterways - this place is perfect for adventure! Check out some of the sights here. View Slideshow

While Damien enjoyed learning about Maori culture during his haka training course, Courtney nominated the Canyon Swing as his all-time favourite activity. "It was something I wouldn’t normally do, and it was absolutely exhilarating!" he said.

Even the two trainers had their moments of trepidation. Shannan Ponton admitted, "The Nevis [bungy] is still haunting me!" While Michelle Bridges, who visits New Zealand regularly as a master trainer for Les Mills, said she was pretty scared during her canyoning trip. "I had to suck it up a few times," she admitted.

Host Ajay Rochester ready to send someone home.
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"I have a few Maori mates in Australia and I have learnt a lot about their traditions and legends," he explained. "The top part of my tattoo is traditional Maori in design and symbolises family. The Maori culture and the importance of family is something that I find special."

While both contestants and trainers were pushed to their limits in New Zealand, all agreed their time in the country was too short.

"It’s an absolutely beautiful country with amazing activities and very friendly people. And being under three hours from Sydney, it’s a perfect place for a long weekend," said contestant Kimberlie who, along with a few of the others, plans to return one day soon.

Stunning Queenstown

Queenstown’s wildly exciting environment is irresistible to adventure seekers. In the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’ you’ll find adrenaline-stirring, sanity-reducing exploits of the most extreme kind. And that’s just what the producers of the Biggest Loser were looking for to challenge their contestants.

The first people to discover Queenstown's rare beauty were Maori pounamu (jade) hunters. Then came the gold miners, in search of another kind of treasure. Today Queenstown is treasured for its magnificent scenery, adventure opportunities and luxury lifestyle.

Long summer days blonde the tussocks, throwing the hills open to mountain bikers and hikers. The brilliant reds and golds of autumn colour the trees, inspiring photographers and golfers alike.

In winter, snow transforms the region into a remarkable alpine playground for skiers and snowboarders. Spring brings the spark of fresh green to the landscape - a time to celebrate life with a cruise on the lake or an invigorating bungy jump.

In any season, you can count on stylish accommodation, designer shopping and marvellous cuisine experiences. Queenstown's compact downtown area is a cosmopolitan hub that's relaxed during the day and huge fun at night.

Featured Activities
	ACTIVITIES IN QUEENSTOWN Find out more about the activities the Biggest Loser Contestants did while they were in Queenstown and how you too can do them. Photo credit: AJ Hackett
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