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Top things to do in Queenstown

With so many Queenstown activities and attractions on offer, it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve hand-picked the top things to do in Queenstown for you.

Extreme adventures

Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the world – and for good reason. If it’s a white knuckle, spine tingling, adrenaline thrill you’re looking for, why not try:

  • bungy jumping
  • white water rafting
  • heli-skiing
  • hang gliding
  • jetboating
  • paragliding

Outdoor activities

You can still enjoy the great outdoors in Queenstown without the need to risk life and limb. There’s an outdoor activity to suit everyone in Queenstown, including:

  • golf (4 championship courses within 15 minutes drive)
  • skiing/snowboarding (4 international skifields close by)
  • fishing + hunting
  • sightseeing flights
  • horse trekking
  • wine trails
  • lake cruises
  • hiking or scenic walks
  • panning for gold
  • garden tours

Shopping

For a relatively small alpine resort town, Queenstown is bustling with designer stores and quirky boutiques. There’s something to keep every shopper happy in Queenstown’s compact centre, with a huge range of specialist stores and galleries to browse through, including:

  • O’Connell’s Shopping Centre
  • Michael Hill Jeweller, Rees Street
  • Louis Vuitton – next to Eichardts on the waterfront
  • Untouched World – The Mall
  • Rockies for children’s clothes, 49 Beach Street
  • Outside Sports, Shotover Street
  • Lululemon athletica, The Mall
  • H & J’s Outdoor World – Remarkables Park, Frankton

Cultural experiences

New Zealand culture may be relatively young, but it is still rich and intriguing. Discover the culture and heritage of the Queenstown area with these fantastic experiences:

  • high-country sheep station tours – via lake
  • helicopter experiences
  • local artisan market
  • take the old steamship TSS Earnslaw on the lake

Tours & transport

Visit the historic gold mining settlement of Arrowtown, experience the beautiful hamlet of Glenorchy, or explore Wanaka and Fiordland by hiring a car or booking a tour. The Haddens has double garaging and additional off-street parking.

  • car hire
  • tours

For children

Attractions for children include year-round ice skating at the Queenstown Fun Centre in the gardens; Skyline gondola; and the TSS Earnslaw Steamship / Walter Peak High Country Farm.

Alpine Aqualand is Queenstown’s new aquatic centre for all the family. A large, indoor heated swimming facility. It includes a 30 metre training/racing pool, a large fun pool for adults and children, with a lazy river and hydroslides. Located adjacent to the Events Centre, Franklin. Phone 03 4509005.

  • Alpine Aqualand
  • Ice Skating
  • Skyline Gondola
  • Steamship / Farm

Festivals & events

Queenstown hosts the fabulous Winter Festival, along with the Summer Wine and Food Festival, and many other events throughout the year. Check out what’s happening at:

  • Destination Queenstown

When to visit Queenstown

Queenstown really is an area for all seasons, with plenty to do throughout the year.

Summer (Dec to Feb)

Temperatures are at their highest, averaging in the mid 20sºC (80sºF), and outdoor activities are in full swing. It stays light until around 10pm, so take advantage of the long summer evenings with a stroll along the lakeside after dinner, or a walk in the Botanic Gardens.

Autumn (March to May)

A beautiful time of year with the turn of the trees – perfect for long walks in the surrounding hills, or enjoying a round of golf. The weather is settled and the temperatures remain warm during the day 17-20ºC (66-70ºF).

Winter (June to Aug)

The ski season kicks off with clear, crisp days, and temperatures range between 5-10ºC (40-50ºF). Enjoy the fresh snow on the mountain, or grab a warming hot chocolate at one of Queenstown’s many excellent cafes.

Spring (Sep to Nov)

Skiing is still on the cards, but the countryside abounds with new growth. Spring melt waters swell the rivers, making white water rafting and jet boating an exciting choice at this time of year. Temperatures range from 10-15ºC (50-60ºF).

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