Sitting on the shore of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by majestic mountains is Queenstown - the Southern Hemisphere’s premier four-season lake and alpine resort. Recognized as New Zealand's top visitor destination full of attractions, activities and fabulous things to do! The stunning lake and mountain landscape make it suited to al... Show More
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Things To Do In Queenstown
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Andrea Thackwray
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Frequently Asked Questions about Queenstown
1. What are the top activities in Queenstown?
Some top activities include:
Adventure Sports: Zip Lining, hang gliding or parasailing, skydiving, jet boating, white-water rafting.
Scenic Cruises: Enjoy boat cruises, scenic tours, Helicopter and small plane scenic flights.
Hiking and Biking: Trails like Ben Lomond, Queenstown Hill, and the Routeburn Track are favorites.
Wine Tasting: Visit Central Otago for renowned Pinot Noir wines.
Skiing/Snowboarding (Jun - Aug): Popular ski fields include Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Cardrona.
2. What are the top day trips from Queenstown?
Recommended day trips include:
Milford Sound: A scenic wonder accessible by drive or flight.
Glenorchy: A picturesque town at Lake Wakatipu’s head with "Lord of the Rings" filming sites.
Arrowtown: A charming historic town with gold mining history.
Wanaka: A lakeside town known for its stunning views and outdoor activities.
3. Is Queenstown family-friendly?
Yes, Queenstown has many family-friendly attractions, including:
Cycle trails: Many suitable for all age groups
Family Adventures Rafting: Easy grade rafting the upper reaches of the famous Shotover River
Segway tour: Suitable for families with children over the age of 10
iFly Indoor Skydiving: Suitable for the whole family from ages 5 -105
Snow Touch: (Winter only snow permitting) Perfect for the whole family
4. When is the best time to visit Queenstown?
The best time depends on what you want to do:
Summer (Dec - Feb): Ideal for hiking, biking, and lake activities, with temperatures around 20-30°C (68-86°F).
Winter (Jun - Aug): Perfect for skiing and snowboarding, with temperatures from 0-10°C (32-50°F).
Spring and Autumn: Great for fewer crowds and colorful landscapes.
5. What’s the best way to explore Queenstown’s wine region?
Wine Tours offer convenient, guided access to Central Otago wineries known for Pinot Noir.
Self-driving or e-biking through the vineyards are also popular options.
6. Is it possible to visit Milford Sound from Queenstown in one day?
Yes, but it’s a long day.
Options include a scenic flight, or a bus and boat tour, with the flight being the quickest option to see Milford Sound in one day.
7. What are the best short hikes around Queenstown?
Queenstown Hill Time Walk and Ben Lomond Track are popular half-day hikes.
Queenstown Gardens offers an easy, scenic lakefront walk.
Bobs Cove Track is a beautiful short hike with lake views.
8. Can I explore Queenstown on a budget?
Yes! Queenstown offers free or low-cost activities, like hiking, exploring the Queenstown Gardens, and visiting Arrowtown. Many scenic views and lake walks are also free.
Tourist Information About Queenstown
Sitting on the shore of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by majestic mountains is Queenstown - the Southern Hemisphere’s premier four-season lake and alpine resort. Recognized as New Zealand's top visitor destination full of attractions, activities and fabulous things to do! The stunning lake and mountain landscape make it suited to all kinds of adventure with many attractions from Skiing to water activities with a huge raft of things to do in between. Queenstown has the reputation of being the ‘Adventure Capital of the world’. There’s skiing in the winter and adrenalin activities such as bungy jumping, sky diving, canyon swinging, jet boating, horse trekking, hiking and river rafting all year round. There are plenty of relaxing things to do as well, such as sightseeing or indulging yourself with spa treatments, boutique shopping and excellent food and wine.
Top attractions in Queenstown
Guided Walk Through Pristine New Zealand Native Bush
One of New Zealand’s Great Walks – the Routeburn Track, is waiting for you! Available as a half or full day trip, including photo stops on the scenic drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy.
Queenstown's Iconic, Must-See Sights via Helicopter
Cecil Peak, Moonlight Creek, Shotover River, Skippers Canyon… we’re serving up all the crowd favourites with this spectacular round trip.
It’s not called the Queenstown Essential for nothing! This round trip takes you over the most iconic, must-see sites in the Queenstown area.
Jet boat ride on the Shotover & Kawarau Rivers
Hold on tight and experience the thrill of a jet boat ride on the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers. With expert drivers navigating the rapids and shallow water, it's an exhilarating way to explore the stunning scenery of Queenstown.
Explore the Local Vineyards with a Wine Tour
Experience Queenstown's finest wineries, breweries, and wonders in luxury with Queenstown's original Hop on Hop of wine tour company. This is one of many wine tours on offer in Queenstown. Use the search and filter for Wine tours to find all the others to choose from!
Valley of the Vines Bike Tour
Arrowtown to Gibbston Return Shuttle from Queenstown. Ride time 2 Hours. Easy, fun, hassle-free wine-drinking experience over the breathtaking Twin Rivers Trail.
Top fun activities in Queenstown
8 Line Wilderness Zipline Adventure
This 8-line zipline course takes you on a very diverse journey by wire and walking track through the pristine native forest of the Oxburn valley over the crystal clear alpine stream.
Go Canyoning! In Mt Aspiring National Park.
Explore the rugged wilderness of Queenstown on a full-day canyon adventure in the Mt Aspiring National Park. With expert guides, you will navigate through canyons, swim in crystal-clear pools and jump into waterfalls. It's a thrilling and unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty of New Zealand.
Skydive Through the Stunning Scenery of Queenstown
Queenstown is the birthplace of tandem skydiving in New Zealand, also known as the 'Adventure Capital of the World'. Queenstown in NZ's South Island is the premium place to jump out of a perfectly good airplane. The drop zone is located at the base of the famous Remarkables mountain range surrounded by a working sheep farm.
Tandem Paragliding - Coronet Peak, Queenstown
Enjoy breathtaking views taking off from the highest tandem paragliding launch in New Zealand. Whether you want an adrenaline fueled rush or a relaxing ride, we will tailor your experience to your requirements. No experience needed. Winter Paragliding also available over the stunning snow capped mountains.
Alpine Snow Landing and Flight
Take an exhilarating flight over the Southern Alps of New Zealand and land on the snow-covered peaks. With a professional pilot, you'll experience the thrill of landing on a mountain and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It's an unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty of Queenstown.
Best things to do with kids and children's activities in Queenstown
Hydro Attack Semi-submersible Shark Ride
Get ready for a thrilling adventure in the shark machine! Launching from central Queenstown, experience an adrenaline-packed high-speed thrill ride on Lake Whakatipu. One-on-one with your pilot so great for all ages. You choose how mild or wild you want to go.
The High Country Trail Horse Trek
Take an amazing horse trek through the beautiful high country of Queenstown. With experienced guides and well-trained horses, your kids will explore the rugged wilderness of the region while learning about the local flora and fauna. It's a great way to experience the natural beauty of New Zealand while bonding with your kids.
Bay Ride - Segway Around Queenstown
Take your whole family on a thrilling ride through the beautiful Queenstown. With a variety of rides and times to choose from, your kids can experience the thrill of speeding through town while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It's a fun and exciting way to spend a summer day in Queenstown.
Family Adventures Rafting
Family Adventures specialise in soft adventure trips, rafting the upper reaches of the famous Shotover River near Queenstown. Our trip by bus and raft is a unique way to experience the wonderful backcountry we have close by in Queenstown, and is suitable for everyone from 3 years upwards. Water confidence is not necessary.
Best things to do in Queenstown on a rainy day
Massage and Day Spa Treatments
Indulge in some self-care and relaxation on a rainy day in Queenstown with a soothing massage. Treat yourself to a variety of massage options such as Swedish, deep tissue, or hot stone massage and let the expert therapists work out all your tensions and knots.
Central Otago Wine Tour
Get ready for an unforgettable day in Central Otago, one of the world’s most stunning wine regions! Nestled in the enchanting Gibbston Valley and the picturesque Bannockburn sub-region, you’ll connect with fellow wine enthusiasts while exploring the unique flavors that make this area a true gem at the 45° south latitude.
iFLY Indoor Skydiving Queenstown
Get an adrenaline rush with indoor skydiving. Experience the sensation of freefalling without the risks of jumping out of a plane. Indoor skydiving is a great way to experience the thrill of skydiving while staying dry.
Gourmet Food and Wine Tour
Spend a rainy day indulging in Queenstown's famous gourmet food and wine. Take a tour of the region's best wineries and sample some of the best local wines, paired with delicious gourmet food. It's a perfect way to experience the best of Queenstown's culinary scene on a rainy day.
Best day trips from Queenstown
Earnslaw Burn Heli-Hike
The Earnslaw Burn with its hanging glacier and cascading waterfalls really is New Zealand’s best-kept secret, and our guided heli hike is the best way to experience it. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won't forget.
Gibbston Valley Canyoning Half Day Tour
Our Gibbston Valley tour is an awesome introduction to the sport of canyoning and suitable for all ages and abilities. If you enjoy being active in the outdoors you will love this experience!
Milford Sound Tour & Cruise with Picnic Lunch
Milford Sound Tour & Cruise, this small group, fully-guided day trip combines the amazing return journey to Milford Sound with a boutique Milford Sound Cruise aboard Cruise Milford, the number 1 Trip Advisor rated cruise company.
Premium Milford Sound Tour Including Cruise, Lunch & Return Flight
Our small group, fully-guided day trip combines the amazing journey to Milford Sound with a boutique Milford Sound Cruise aboard Cruise Milford, the number 1 Trip Advisor rated cruise company, completed by a stunning scenic flight back to Queenstown.
Unique Experiences in Queenstown
Iconic Queenstown 4WD & Shotover Jet Combo
World famous as the ultimate jet boat experience, take a unique breathtaking ride through dramatic and narrow canyons. Next, climb on board a Nomad Safaris 4WD for a custom offroad tour in to the New Zealand backcountry. With Nomad Safaris you will explore the abandoned gold mining area of the Arrow River and filming locations used in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Lord of The Rings Tours
Explore the magical side of New Zealand and understand why this beautiful country was chosen to portray Middle-earth. There is also a half day - 'Behind the Scenes Film Location Tour' and 'Trails of Middle Earth' as further options.
Alpine Guided Hike
Take a hike around these magnificent iconic mountains, offering scenic views over Queenstown and the Southern Lakes area. This is arguably the most rewarding short walk in the Queenstown area, offering incredible panoramic views for only a moderate amount of uphill effort!
Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Tour
Take a scenic coach and cruise tour of Milford Sound, one of the most beautiful and iconic tourist destinations in New Zealand with experienced guides. It's a perfect way to experience one of the most beautiful and iconic tourist destinations in New Zealand.
What are the best things to do in Queenstown?
Here are the best Attractions and Activities to do in Queenstown
1. 8 Line Zipline Wilderness Adventure
Take a unique Wilderness Zipline Adventure through the breathtaking Oxburn Valley. This 8-line zipline course guides you across diverse landscapes, blending ziplining with scenic walking tracks through pristine native forest above a crystal-clear alpine stream. Each line presents new perspectives: soar high with panoramic views of Mt Aspiring National Park and the iconic Paradise area, glide through lush forest canopies, and skim just meters above the water as you zip through the gorge. The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy, rated among the world’s most beautiful, adds even more to this unforgettable experience..
2. World’s most incredible Scenic Flights
Discover the beauty of Queenstown from above! There are helicopter flights just around Queenstown area and also flights that take you flying across the Southern Alps, Mt. Aspiring National Park and Fiordland National Park to Milford Sound and other stunning majestic mountain lakes and waterfalls.
3. Bike tours and trails
There are excellent guided biking tours including fabulous wine tours, Mountain Bike parks and plenty of stunning scenic cycling trails to explore. Hire a bike or take a tour and explore The Queenstown Trail which offers over 130kms of trails beside Lake Wakatipu and stunning rivers, climbing to Arrowtown and winding through vineyards. Discover historic sites, suspension bridges and hidden gems, ride a small section or discover the whole trail at your leisure.
4. Jet boat ride!
Queenstown is the original place for amazing jet boat tours running through spectacular rivers and lakes. These activities vary from white-knuckle, white water rides, private wilderness tours, to combos that offer jet boating followed by boutique wine tasting. Experience the thrill of a high-speed jet boat ride in Queenstown. Skim across the water, whizz round corners and shoot through narrow rocky gorges!
5. Hydro Attack Semi-submersible Shark Ride
Get ready for an adrenaline-packed ride in a shark machine Departing from central Queenstown, this thrilling journey across Lake Whakatipu combines speed and stunts as you dive, roll, and even fly above the water. Sit back as our skilled pilot maneuvers the 6-meter-long semi-submersible shark, reaching up to 80 kph on water and 40 kph underwater, delivering an unforgettable, high-speed adventure.
6. Take a Winery tour
There are many excellent wine tours to choose from. With 75 wineries only a 20-minute drive from Queenstown, and over a hundred more within 40 minutes, you’re in the heart of the world’s southernmost wine region. The best wineries near Queenstown offer wine tasting, delicious dining, and the chance to meet the winemaker with winery tours and events.
7. Paragliding!
Experience the thrill of paragliding from Coronet Peak, New Zealand’s highest tandem paragliding launch, available in both winter and summer. Take in breathtaking views over Queenstown as you glide, whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-packed flight or a smooth, scenic ride tailored just for you. No experience is needed, and flights are also available year-round from Treble Cone near Wanaka
8. River sledging or surfing
The ultimate in water adventures in Queenstown try river sledging or surfing. Conquer grade 3 rapids, standing waves and whirlpools! Enjoy rapids, waves and the beautiful Kawarau River on a sturdy, easy to hold on to, very buoyant maneuverable sledge. The sledge keeps you more on the surface of the water than the bodyboards which are used for river surfing. Get action packed fun right in amongst the rapids, as well as a relaxing float. 9km of pristine beautiful water, It’s a trip not to be missed.
9. Day trip to Milford
Take an unforgettable day trip from Queenstown to the iconic Milford Sound with one of our many tour options. Choose from scenic bus tours, breathtaking helicopter rides, or convenient flights to Milford, where you’ll enjoy a cruise through the majestic fjords. If you prefer more flexibility, self-drive to Milford Sound and book a cruise directly from the terminal. Each option offers incredible views of lush rainforests, towering cliffs, and waterfalls, making this day trip an absolute must on any Queenstown itinerary.
10. Fly to Stewart Island for the day!
Add Stewart Island to your Queenstown Itinerary. Sit back and relax and fly to one of New Zealand's bucket list destinations. This 1hr flight makes getting to Stewart Island incredibly easy with up to 6hrs on the ground to make the most of your time there before flying you back to Queenstown in time for dinner!
What are the best Free things to do in Queenstown?
Here are the best Free Attractions and Things to do in Queenstown
1. Hike Queenstown Hill
Queenstown Hill is easily one of the best hikes in Queenstown with the most rewarding views. The trail starts from pretty much right in the town centre. The hike to the viewpoint is all uphill but only takes around an hour and the views from the top are absolutely breath-taking!
2. Queenstown Gardens
Queenstown Gardens lies at the heart of town, is completely free and is the perfect getaway for those needing a breather from all the action. Queenstown Gardens are one of New Zealand’s finest parks with epic mountain and Lake Wakatipu views. Graceful trees, lush lawns and well-tended flowerbeds, stone bridge and water fetures make it an idyllic spot to relax and enjoy the view.
3. Visit the Saturday Markets
On Saturdays, the Queenstown Markets set up at the marina in town right in front of Earnslaw Park. They run from 9 am to 4:30 pm all year round. You’ll find everything from handmade jewellery and local artwork to soap to food
4. Visit Arrowtown
Arrowtown is a former mining settlement which is totally stunning in autumn and loved for its seasonal hues and its interesting historical relics. Arrowtown is a charming and quirky gold rush village nestled below the beautiful peaks that surround the sparkling Arrow River.
5. Hike Ben Lomond
Ben Lomond is a somewhat difficult hike that will take you all day or about 6-8 hours depending on your fitness level to reach the summit and the shorter the Ben Lomond Saddle loop still takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete. The Summit is an incredible mountain to climb though with 360-degree panoramic views. If you are up for the challenge, the climb will reward you with magnificent views of Mounts Earnslaw and Aspiring.
6. Drive to Glenorchy
Take one of the most scenic drives in all of New Zealand – the drive to Glenorchy. The drive is gorgeous at every turn and only takes around 1 hour each way. The small town of Glenorchy is as picturesque as the drive itself.
7. Mount Chrichton Loop Track
This is one of the easiest short hikes around Queenstown. There are views along the trail and you can pay a visit to Sam Summers Hut! This is actually an old house from the 30’s with a lot of history behind the family who lived here that you can read about it when you visit. There is also a beautiful waterfall next to the hut as well as an old gold mining tunnel to explore too!
8. The Queenstown Trail
If you love cycling, a ride along the Queenstown Trail is an absolute must. This vast track covers 120 kilometres (74.5 miles), traversing Arrowtown, Queenstown and Gibbston to unveil the region’s most incredible natural features. There are rides for all levels: beginner routes cross leisurely points like Lake Wakatipu and the Arrow River, while more challenging journeys comprise everything from river crossings to rustic countryside terrains.
9. Visit Bob’s Cove
Go for a short walk to the lookout, sit by the lake, or take advantage of one of the public BBQs. Bob’s Cove is only accessible by car and about a 15-20 minute drive outside of Queenstown along the road to Glenorchy. This beautiful little bay is worth the drive and Bob’s Cove lookout hike is one of the most popular trails around Queenstown. It is short and easy taking most people only 20-30 minutes each way. From the top, you’ll have spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu!
10. Hiking at Moke Lake
Moke Lake is approximately a 30-minute drive from Queenstown and is simply breath-taking! There is a choice of many trails, or just enjoy the view of Moke Lake and the surrounding mountains. The most popular hiking trail in the area is the Moke Lake Loop Track. This trail takes you around the perimeter of the lake and takes about 2-3 hours to complete.
11. Visit Lake Hayes
Lake Hayes is about a 15-minute drive out of Queenstown and is another stunning lake to visit. There is a walking trail going right around the lake and is a great place for swimming in the summer months.
The Best Walking Tracks and Hiking Trails in Queenstown:
Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, is surrounded by stunning landscapes that offer a variety of hiking tracks catering to different skill levels. These hiking tracks in and around Queenstown showcase the diverse beauty of the region, from lakeside strolls to challenging alpine adventures, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here's a list of some of the best hiking tracks in and around Queenstown:
Ben Lomond Track
Distance: 11 km.
Duration: 6-8 hours.
Difficulty: Advanced.
A challenging yet rewarding hike, the Ben Lomond Track takes you to the summit of Ben Lomond, offering panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables, and the Southern Alps. The trail can be accessed via the Skyline Gondola for a shorter route or by starting from the town centre.
Queenstown Hill Time Walk
Distance: 4.2 km.
Duration: 3 hours.
Difficulty: Intermediate.
Providing breathtaking views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains, the Queenstown Hill Time Walk is a moderate hike suitable for most fitness levels. The iconic "Basket of Dreams" sculpture awaits at the summit, adding an artistic touch to the experience.
Bob's Cove Track
Distance: 3km.
Duration: 1.5 hours.
Difficulty: Easy.
A tranquil and family-friendly walk, Bob's Cove Track meanders along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Surrounded by native bush, the track offers glimpses of the lake and mountains, making it an ideal option for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
Moke Lake Loop Track
Distance: 6 km.
Duration: 2 hours.
Difficulty: Easy.
Nestled in a secluded valley, the Moke Lake Loop Track provides a peaceful escape from the bustling town. The loop around Moke Lake offers stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains and is suitable for walkers and mountain bikers.
Tiki Trail
Distance: 4.5 km.
Duration: 2.5 hours.
Difficulty: Advanced.
Connecting the town centre to the Skyline Gondola, the Tiki Trail is a popular uphill walk with rewarding views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. It serves as an alternative route for those looking to reach the Skyline complex without taking the gondola.
Sunshine Bay Track
Distance: 4 km.
Duration: 2-3 hours.
Difficulty: Easy.
Starting near the Queenstown Gardens, the Sunshine Bay Track follows the lakeshore to the charming Sunshine Bay. This easy walk provides picturesque views of Lake Wakatipu and is suitable for all ages.
Jack's Point Track
Distance: 14 km.
Duration: 4 hours.
Difficulty: Intermediate.
Offering stunning vistas of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range, Jack's Point Track is a moderate hike through grassy landscapes. The trail provides a peaceful retreat, away from the bustling town, and can be extended for a longer loop.
Moonlight Track from Arthurs Point
Distance: 9.7 km.
Duration: 4 hours.
Difficulty: Intermediate.
Accessible via the historic Skippers Canyon Road, the Moonlight Track is a diverse trail that winds through beech forest, open tussock lands, and along the Shotover River. This moderately challenging hike showcases the rugged beauty of the area.
Sam Summers Hut Track
Distance: 7 km.
Duration: 3 hours.
Difficulty: Intermediate.
A longer and more challenging hike, the Sam Summers Hut Track is part of the Routeburn Track network. This multi-day tramp leads you to the alpine environment, offering stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains.
Lake Alta Track
Distance: 3.4 km.
Duration: 1.5 hours.
Difficulty: Intermediate.
Situated near the Remarkables Ski Area, the Lake Alta Track is a shorter hike that leads to the alpine Lake Alta. Surrounded by mountainous terrain, this track provides a taste of the alpine environment without an extensive time commitment.
