Top Things to do in Queenstown

Your Guide to a Leisurely Day in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and adventurous spirit. While it’s famous for adrenaline-pumping activities, it also offers a plethora of leisurely pursuits that cater to those looking for a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Here are our top 12 recommendations for a day of leisure in Queenstown.

If any of these activities catch your eye, reach out to our friendly team, and we’ll assist you with your booking and planning.

1. 4WD Adventure in Skippers Canyon

Embark on an unforgettable journey into Skippers Canyon in a fully equipped 4WD vehicles. Travel along the iconic Skippers Road, a hand-carved path that clings to the sheer cliffside and is renowned as one of the most adventurous roads in the world. As you traverse high above the Shotover River, be captivated by the breathtaking scenery of the deep gorge below.

The Shotover River, once famed as the richest river in the world during the gold rush era, continues to hold treasures to this day. Who knows? You might strike it lucky and find a pot of gold! This adventure offers a unique blend of thrilling exploration and stunning natural beauty, making it an experience you won’t want to miss.

2. Ride the Skyline Gondola

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Queenstown and its stunning surroundings with a ride on the Skyline Gondola. Ascend smoothly to Bob’s Peak, where you’ll be greeted with awe-inspiring vistas of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables mountain range, and the charming town of Queenstown.

At the top, take advantage of the opportunity to relax and savour a coffee or a delicious meal at the Stratosfare Restaurant. The restaurant’s large windows offer uninterrupted views, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of the landscape as you enjoy your meal. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a leisurely lunch, sip on a warm beverage, or simply take in the spectacular scenery, the Skyline Gondola offers a memorable and serene experience, perfect for visitors who want to enjoy Queenstown’s natural beauty without the physical exertion of hiking.

3. Walter Peak BBQ Lunch or Dinner Experience

Immerse yourself in Queenstown’s history with a cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a 1912 vintage steamship that travels across Lake Wakatipu. Disembark at Walter Peak High Country Farm, a preserved working farm, originally settled by Europeans in the 1860s now restored and open for guests.

Indulge in a delicious gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner which a chef will prepare in front of you at the Colonel’s Homestead. After your meal, enjoy an entertaining farming experience with activities like including a sheep shearing demonstration. Return to Queenstown by scenic cruise on the TSS Earnslaw, soaking in stunning lake views.

This experience combines history, hospitality, and natural beauty, perfect for exploring Queenstown’s heritage in a picturesque setting.

4. Queenstown Panorama Helicopter Flight Experience

Embark on a breathtaking aerial adventure on a Queenstown Panorama flight. Your journey begins with a scenic flight departing from Queenstown, taking you over the enchanting Wakatipu Basin. Marvel at the dramatic landscapes as you soar above the expansive Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Southern Alps. The flight provides spectacular views of Queenstown’s charming town nestled against the lake, as well as the lush, rolling hills and rugged mountains that define the region.

The highlight of the flight is a stunning alpine landing that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the majestic scenery. From this vantage point, you’ll be able to capture breathtaking photographs and take in panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the picturesque Glenorchy area.

5. Shotover Jet Experience

Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride on the Shotover River. Feel the thrill as you skim over thrashing rapids in mere inches of water, navigating through narrow twisting gorges with expert precision.

Experience the exhilaration as your skilled driver manoeuvres the boat past rocky outcrops, crags, and boulders, showcasing the agility and power of the jet boat. Hold on tight as the driver performs the iconic Shotover Jet 360-degree spin, adding an extra rush to your heart-pounding journey. This unforgettable ride promises excitement, speed, and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-do experience for thrill-seekers visiting Queenstown.

Photo credit: Queenstown.co.nz

6. Food and Wine Tours

Explore the culinary delights and world-class wines of Queenstown on a food and wine tour. Set against the backdrop of Central Otago’s stunning landscapes, these tours offer a journey through the region’s renowned wineries and gourmet eateries.

Taste exceptional wines in the Gibbston Valley, Cromwell, and Bannockburn areas, known for producing some of New Zealand’s finest wines. Explore vineyards, barrel halls, and wine-making facilities, providing insights into the art of winemaking.

Indulge in gourmet lunches featuring locally sourced produce, perfectly paired with estate wines. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a food enthusiast, these tours offer a perfect blend of flavours, history, and scenic beauty.

Photo credit: Queenstown.co.nz

7. Visit the Kiwi Park

Discover New Zealand’s natural heritage at the Kiwi Birdlife Park in Queenstown. This must-visit destination offers an enriching experience centred around the country’s iconic kiwi birds. Explore the park’s carefully designed enclosures, where you can see these elusive nocturnal creatures up close and learn about their unique behaviours and conservation efforts from knowledgeable staff.

In addition to kiwi birds, the park showcases a variety of other native wildlife, including tuatara, native bats, and an array of colourful bird species. Each exhibit is thoughtfully crafted to replicate the animals’ natural habitats, providing an authentic and immersive experience. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a curious visitor, the Kiwi Birdlife Park promises a fascinating and educational experience amidst New Zealand’s rich biodiversity.

Photo credit: Ngāi Tahu Tourism

8. Wilderness Jet Experience

Embark on an exhilarating jet boat ride through the pristine wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park, where crystal-clear waters wind through towering peaks, glaciers, and ancient forests. Covering up to 90 kilometres of river, this jet boat tour offers unparalleled access to the park, making it the longest jet boat ride in the region.

Relax and soak in the natural beauty at a leisurely pace, ideal for those who want to fully immerse themselves in this phenomenal landscape. Your knowledgeable guides provide an authentic touch, sharing stories of the area’s rich history, the Greenstone trail, and renowned Māori legends. This adventure promises both thrills and insights into the captivating natural and cultural heritage of the region.

9. Enjoy a Spa Day

Treat yourself to a day of relaxation and indulgence at one of Queenstown’s premier spas. The town is home to several world-class wellness centres where you can unwind with luxurious massages, revitalizing facials, and a variety of other rejuvenating treatments.

Each spa offers a serene and tranquil environment, designed to provide the ultimate escape from everyday stress. Enjoy the soothing ambiance and professional services that cater to your every need, from therapeutic massages to skin treatments and hydrotherapy. Whether you’re seeking a full day of pampering or a few hours of tranquillity, Queenstown’s spas offer a perfect retreat to refresh and rejuvenate.

10. Half Day Lord of the Rings tour in Wakatipu Basin

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Middle-earth on a half-day tour of the Wakatipu Basin, featuring the stunning backdrops where much of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ was filmed. This tour takes you to several sites, showcasing real locations of outstanding natural beauty, free from artificial film sets.

Explore the Wakatipu Basin and visit the remarkable sites of ‘The Ford of Bruinen,’ ‘The Road to Mordor,’ and ‘The Pillars of the Kings.’ Along the way, your knowledgeable driver/guide will provide insightful commentary, bringing these legendary scenes to life. This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking landscapes that helped shape the epic saga.

11. Explore the Queenstown Gardens

Discover the tranquil beauty of the Queenstown Gardens, situated along the picturesque shores of Lake Wakatipu. This serene retreat invites you to leisurely stroll through meticulously landscaped gardens, where you can admire a diverse array of native and exotic flora.

As you wander through the gardens, you might choose to relax with a game of lawn bowls or frisbee golf, both of which are set up within the garden’s scenic grounds. The gardens offer a peaceful escape, perfect for enjoying a quiet afternoon amidst nature, taking in the stunning lake views, and appreciating the thoughtfully designed green spaces.

12. Stroll Along the Queenstown Trail

Explore the beauty of Queenstown with a leisurely walk along the Queenstown Trail. This extensive network of scenic paths caters to all fitness levels, offering a range of options from relaxed lakefront strolls to more immersive countryside trails.

Enjoy picturesque views of Lake Wakatipu, lush vineyards, and rolling hills as you traverse the well-maintained paths. The trail meanders through charming landscapes and offers a perfect opportunity to soak in the natural beauty of Queenstown at a leisurely pace. Whether you’re looking for a gentle walk or a more adventurous exploration, the Queenstown Trail provides a delightful way to experience the region’s stunning scenery.

Planning your Queenstown Adventure

Queenstown offers a diverse array of activities that cater to both thrill-seekers and those looking for a more relaxed experience. From stunning scenic flights and serene garden strolls to indulgent spa escapes and delightful food and wine tours, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

If you’re ready to make the most of your time in this spectacular destination, get in touch with our friendly team to help you plan and book your ideal day of leisure in Queenstown.