Sitting on the elegant shores of New Zealand’s South Island, Queenstown is one of the world’s most sought-after holiday destinations. With an array of picturesque scenery and an abundance of fun activities to do while you’re there, there’s no wonder why almost 150,000 international tourists visited Queenstown in 2022.
We’ll take you through a range of the best things to do in Queenstown, from staying in the best accommodation to going on some of the most adventurous activities New Zealand offers.
Where to Stay in Queenstown
Pick your Queenstown accommodation somewhere in the city’s heart to immerse yourself in the exquisite culture and community while having easy access to many fun activities and adventures throughout your trip.
For Partying
Central Queenstown is the ideal place to stay if you’re keen on a night full of action and partying. With various pubs and clubs close by, there’ll be no shortage of fun on a night out.
For Skiing
Planning a ski holiday? Staying near Arthurs Point or Frankton will position you close to some of the best ski resorts New Zealand has to offer.
For Scenery
Nothing beats some spectacular views when trying to relax. Staying in Fernhill or on the shore of Lake Wakatipu will provide beautiful mountainous and lakeside scenery that is undoubtedly tough to beat anywhere else.
If You’re Feeling Adventurous
Are you looking for fun things to do in Queenstown? You’re in luck. Queenstown is widely regarded as one of the world’s adventure capitals, and for a good reason. From some of the world’s most famous bungee jumps to white-water rapids, the unspoilt Queenstown terrain is ideal for an adventure holiday.
Queenstown Bungy
Arguably, the most famous activity in Queenstown is bungee jumping. The world’s first bungee jump, the Kawerau Bridge, is a must-do if you’re after some thrill-seeking. If you’re after something a bit more extreme, you should try out the Nevis Bungy Jump – the highest jump in the Southern Hemisphere, towering at 123 metres high. While not for the faint-hearted, it’s an experience you will never forget.
HydroAttack
One of the unique experiences Queenstown has to offer is the renowned HydroAttack, a high-speed semi-submersible shark that can travel at up to 80 kph on the water and 40 kph under it. Nothing else you’ve ever experienced will come near this high-speed joy ride through Lake Wakatipu, so make the most of it while you’re there.
Canyon Swing
Have you ever wanted to put your tree-swinging skills to the test? How about trying the world’s highest cliff jump, equipped with a 60-metre freefall and 182-metre total descent, to test your Tarzan skills? Well, the Shotover Canyon Swing is perfect for you!
Rafting
Whitewater rafting is a staple in adrenaline sports, immersing you in wild mountain rivers to spectate the alpine scenery uniquely and thrillingly. With varying grades of rapid difficulty from the Kawarau river to the Shotover river, there is plenty of opportunity for everyone to experience an exhilarating soaking.
Helicopter Tours
There’s no better way to view Queenstown’s spectacular views than an aerial view. There are plenty of helicopter tour options, so make sure you book in advance and get the best deal possible.
If You’re With the Kids
While Queenstown is perfect for a romantic retreat or an adventure, there are plenty of fun activities available with the kids. Regardless of your budget, you can be sure to make a holiday your kids will cherish forever.
Mini Golf
Playing miniature golf is the perfect way to bond with your kids while on holiday, providing a couple of hours of laughter and a little competition. There are plenty of mini-golf courses to choose from in Queenstown, so dress up for a nice night out and put your putting skills to the test.
Trampolining
One of the most active ways to keep your kids busy is to spend a few hours inside a trampoline warehouse. There are plenty of freestyle jumping mats and courses to challenge the kids, so there will be no shortage of fun.
Walter Peak Farm Show
This once-in-a-lifetime experience takes you on board one of New Zealand’s most historic steamboats, showcasing some of the unique features of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding environment. Once you’ve hopped off your boat, you can get up close and personal with some local farm animals and cattle with the help of a local farmer.
If You Want to Explore Nature
Queenstown is blessed with some of the most picturesque natural landscapes in the world, so it’s a no-brainer to include nature activities and sightseeing as a part of your trip. Whether you’re down to get active or prefer something more relaxed, many options are available for you nature lovers.
Queenstown Walks
If you’re an avid walker, you’re certainly in the right place, as there are tons of exciting walks all over Queenstown that are perfect for sightseeing and exploration. Whether you’re an influencer or just love photography, every walk you take is guaranteed to have a view you’ll want to snap up forever. Our pick is the Frankton Arm Walkway, as it’s a relatively short track alongside Lake Wakatipu that encompasses everything to love about Queenstown.
Kiwi Birdlife Park
One of the fascinating things to do in Queenstown is to visit the Kiwi Birdlife Park. Home to over 100 native birds and reptiles, this conservation park is one of the best introductions to New Zealand’s flora and fauna.
Queenstown Gondola
Are you interested in riding the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere? If so, the iconic Skyline Gondola is the perfect activity that will take you to Bob’s peak, an astonishing 480 metres above Queenstown. With one of the most breathtaking views in New Zealand, this trip is a must-do if you’re in Queenstown.
If It’s Raining
While Queenstown is known for its action-packed lifestyle, family-friendly activities and beautiful scenery, it’s also known for its heavy rainfall throughout the year. If there are a few rainy days on your trip, we’ve got you covered with fun indoor activities to keep you entertained.
Indoor Go-Karting
One of Queenstown’s most exciting indoor activities is go-karting, available at Game Over Queenstown. Race around a track safely while trying to beat your friends or family for a fun adrenaline rush that rain certainly won’t spoil.
Trampolining
Everyone who has grown up with a trampoline knows how fun they are. Go to Queenstown’s big trampoline warehouse for nostalgic childhood memories and good old-fashioned bouncing, so you can have a fun time regardless of what’s happening outside.
Bowling
Ten-pin bowling is a staple when it comes to fun activities to do with friends and family. With free transport from Queenstown, there’s no reason why you can’t make the most of this experience. It’s the perfect excuse to get revenge on your siblings for beating you the last time around!
Ice Bar
Whilst drinking alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages is an enjoyable sport for many in a bar, this is not why you’ll go to an ice bar. As in the name, Queenstown Ice Bars are made almost entirely of ice, so you’ll need to bring warm clothing and shoes. This experience is undoubtedly more of a winter activity, but they’re open all year round.
Make Your Trip As Comfortable as Possible
Your accommodation choices can make or break your trip of a lifetime, so you need to ensure it’s perfect. Staying at a Queenstown resort with state-of-the-art facilities, luxurious features, and a jaw-dropping view will certainly aid in this choice, providing an anchor of comfort to come home to after your adventures.
