Top Queenstown Day Trips - page 3

Experience heart-racing fun on an exhilarating Queenstown jet-boat ride. The expert captain races across Lake Wakatipu, navigates tricky turns on the Kawarau River, and speeds through the shallow waters of the Shotover River. Grab hold of your seat as the jet boat makes 360-degree spins and fishtails on a rollercoaster ride over the water.

The deep waters, soaring cliffs, and thundering waterfalls of Milford Sound are spectacular from all angles, and this half-day tour by air and boat takes in all the highlights. Enjoy thrilling aerial views of the Fiordland National Park on a round-trip flight from Queenstown, and marvel at Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls, and Mount Pembroke on a scenic Milford Sound cruise. Hotel pickup and drop-off, and lunch are included for a truly seamless experience.

See the sheer cliffs of Milford Sound from the air and water on this half-day tour from Queenstown by sightseeing plane and catamaran. Fly over Fiordland National Park, part of a UNESCO-listed landscape, then touch down at Milford Sound for a nature cruise. This tour is perfect for photography and wildlife watching, and hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Queenstown hotels is included.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park on this unforgettable small-group adventure from Queenstown. Travel through spectacular South Island landscapes as your knowledgeable guide shares stories and insights along the way. Journey through dramatic alpine scenery including the rugged Kawarau Gorge and the sweeping views of Lindis Pass, with scenic stops at iconic locations such as the vibrant turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki. You may also visit local favourites like High Country Salmon and seasonal fruit stalls. At Mt Cook National Park, enjoy free time to explore this remarkable alpine environment. Walk to the Tasman Glacier lookout for panoramic views of New Zealand’s largest glacier, glacial lakes, and towering peaks. NOTE: The Hooker Valley Track is currently closed beyond Müller Lookout while the Department of Conservation replaces one of the bridges. This section still offers beautiful views, with the full track expected to reopen in Autumn 2026.

The Franz Josef Glacier near Queenstown is a frozen spectacle with deep icy crevasses, crashing waterfalls, and mountainous snowy scenery. Witness the Franz Josef from the sky with a helicopter ride above the glacier on this full-day small-group tour, before setting down for a hike to explore wondrous caves and chilling icefalls.

Travel the Milford Road in our luxurious & comfortable vehicles specially designed for small groups tours to Milford Sound from Queenstown. Modern comforts such as bucket leather seats, extended leg room, high performance air conditioning, small bag storage space & USB charging. Guided by our local expert commentary, we take you to all the main photo & experience stops but also add in a couple of extra special ones not listed here. Upon arriving in Milford Sound, your two-hour nature cruise awaits you aboard our cruise partners boat - the Milford Haven. Boasting a restaurant and bar, you can dine in comfortable seating enjoying a hot or cold add on lunch while the mountains, waterfalls and wildlife go by. We reserve seats & tables on the cruise so you have your own guaranteed space within the boat.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Let’s explore New Zealand's Tallest Peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook’s Māori Significance, Tasman Glacier – New Zealand's Largest Glacier, Unique Flora and Fauna, Mountaineering History, Icebergs and Ice Caves, Panoramic Helicopter Flights, Photographer’s Paradise, beautiful lakes (Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki) and Lavender farm. We invite you to consider Kiwi Adventures Tour & Travel as an integral part of your next adventure. Our private tour offers something for everyone.

This is the ideal tour for wine lovers. Spend a day going on a wine tasting journey to some of the best vineyards in Central Otago. You won’t have to worry about organizing transport as hotel transfers are included. Various tailor-made packages are available, including options with a helicopter flight or golf along with your winery tours. Enjoy the ultimate stress-free day with lunch and wine tastings included.

Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most impressive natural wonders, but the remote fjord lies around four hours by road from Queenstown. Save time and maximize your experience with this airplane tour to Milford Sound, which allows you to explore the region from both the air and land. Enjoy spectacular aerial views of Skippers Canyon, Sutherland Falls, and the Fiordland National Park; and touch down to experience the fjord up close with a self-guided walk along the shore.

Embark on a Legendary Lord of the Rings Journey from Queenstown Operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays this exclusive LOTR tour takes you deep into the Southland region, home to some of the most breathtaking and sought-after filming locations in Middle Earth. Your journey heads to the stunning Mavora Lakes in Fiordland National Park, where cinematic magic meets unforgettable moments. Discover which fearless actor famously broke two toes near the edge of Fangorn Forest and relive the dramatic Breaking of the Fellowship as Frodo and Sam take their fateful steps toward Mordor. During the warmer months with longer daylight (1 November - 31 March) this tour also ventures to Manapouri & Te Anau, where you’ll uncover the haunting beauty of the Anduin River and the Dead Marshes. You’ll gear up for adventure with the largest collection of authentic, licensed LOTR props, including swords, axes, helmets, & even original scripts! Duration: 1 Apr - 31 Oct: 7hrs 1 Nov - 31 Mar: 10hrs

Explore the landscapes that featured in “The Lord of the Rings” movies on this small-group full-day tour. Traveling in a 4-wheel drive enables access to remote locations in the Queenstown area. Get out into the wilderness in the morning, with the chance to dress up in movie costumes and pose with props. Return to town for lunch, then spend the afternoon checking out more sites around Queenstown.

Our Ale Trail stands out by offering a unique, self-guided biking experience with the freedom to explore at your own pace. Ride along the scenic 16 km Wharehuanui Trail, taking in the stunning alpine views of the Whakatipu Basin. Start with a shuttle from Queenstown and enjoy brewery stops at Slowcuts, Gantley’s Tavern, The Cargo Collective, Canyon Brewery and Searchlight Brewery. You’ll ride on probably the best bikes in NZ, with access to premium equipment, helmets, maps, and full support via text. Enjoy flexible pickup options, either from the Pig and Whistle or your accommodation, and relax on the scenic shuttle rides. This tour combines biking, craft beer, and Central Otago’s beauty for a truly unique adventure.

Sample Central Otago wines without the stress of choosing a sober driver. Enjoy included hotel pickup from Queenstown on a leisurely drive around celebrated wineries in the Gibbston Valley. Have lunch at a winery restaurant (own cost). Go behind the scenes at the country’s oldest wine cave and sample a range of varietals, from pinot noirs to various whites. Canine lovers will also enjoy being accompanied by Bella the dog.

Master the art of taking dramatic landscape photographs on this half-day photography tour. Starting your tour in Queenstown, head to the charming settlement of Glenorchy, famous for its beautiful views. Here you will be able to photograph a range of natural scenery, including snow-capped mountains, ancient forests and pristine lakes and rivers.

Take a break from the hectic Queenstown streets with this trip into the mighty Southern Alps. Spend the day at Mount Cook Village, nestled in the shadow of Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain. Enjoy free reign to set your own schedule, whether it’s hiking around the Alps or learning more about the mountains at Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Center. Enjoy stunning sights on the way up the mountains, including super-blue Lake Pukaki No-fuss hotel transfers are available from select Queenstown hotels *PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS TOUR IS UNDERGOING AN ITINERARY CHANGE FROM THE 1ST OF NOVEMBER 2026 AND WILL INSTEAD TRAVEL VIA WĀNAKA, OMITTING THE KAWARAU GORGE STOP. STOPS AT JACKONS ORCHARD WILL ALSO BE REPLACED ON THE ALTERNATE ITINERARY.

Escape the ordinary with a fully private, customizable 6-hour day trip from Queenstown to Glenorchy. Experience some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes — from tranquil lakes and hidden bays to iconic viewpoints and peaceful alpine trails. Whether you want to capture perfect photos, enjoy short walks, relax at cozy cafés, or simply soak in nature, this trip is tailored entirely to you. - A 6 hour private tour tailored to your interests and schedule - Explore local gems like Moke Lake, Bennetts Bluff & Glenorchy’s red shed - Optional walks at Bob’s Cove or Glenorchy Lagoon - Comfortable travel in modern, clean vehicles - Hosted by friendly local guides who know the area inside out - Flexibility to add or skip stops — your trip, your way - Perfect for couples, friends, families, and photographers Unforgettable views, total freedom, and personal touches — this is how Glenorchy is meant to be explored.

A Queenstown sightseeing tour stands out for its unparalleled access to some of New Zealand's most breathtaking landscapes, all in a single day. From the shimmering waters of Lake Wakatipu to the dramatic peaks of the Remarkables, the tour offers stunning panoramic views at every turn. The journey includes stops at iconic sites like Glenorchy, Arrowtown, where history comes alive in a charming gold rush village, and the Crown Terrace Lookout, offering unrivalled vistas over the Wakatipu Basin. With scenic beauty, cultural richness, and expertly guided exploration, this tour provides a uniquely immersive experience that captures the essence of Queenstown’s natural and historical wonders

Embark on a day of adventure and history on this small-group day trip to Macetown from Queenstown. Travel off-road to the former gold mining town of Macetown along roads only accessible by 4WD. Stop for a picnic lunch, hike into the alpine wilderness, and try your hand at gold panning in the Arrow River.

Get ready for a breathtaking journey to the foot of New Zealand’s tallest mountain! This small-group, full-day adventure takes you through some of the South Island’s most iconic and dramatic landscapes—from sparkling lakes and alpine passes to glacier-fed rivers and towering peaks

Explore the scenic Otago Central Rail Trail on a family-friendly bike adventure. Marvel at the stunning Poolburn Gorge, cross a dramatic 37m high viaduct, and navigate through two intriguing tunnels. Enjoy a picnic lunch in a serene gorge, perfect for families or first-time cyclists. With shuttle services included, this day trip ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for all ages. - Family-friendly cycling adventure on the Otago Central Rail Trail - All the highlights of the trail in one day - Includes bike hire, helmet, and shuttle transport - Perfect for families and beginners, with a minimum of 2 participants required

Tour three of Central Otago’s finest wineries without the risk of driving yourself when you join this handy 3-4 hour tour. Do what you like in the morning and then join this tour in the afternoon. Learn about local wines, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and indulge in some samples as well as a tasty cheese platter. Also receive some professional photos to remember your day.

Be amazed by the beautiful aerial views of Aoraki Mount Cook on a scenic flight from Queenstown. As well as taking in the beautiful sights of the mountains and glaciers, you’ll land at Mount Cook Village and have several hours to explore. Grab some food or even walk the Hooker Valley Track, one of New Zealand’s most beautiful short walks.

After complimentary accommodation pick-up, we will set off for the heart of Gibbston on a small private tour to visit four cellar doors and journey into the ‘valley of the vines’ to discover these vineyards nestled amongst the spectacular mountain ranges and dramatic river gorges. In one of the wineries, you will enjoy a gourmet lunch in a stunning setting, soaking up the views and the relaxed atmosphere. We will visit boutique wineries that are off the beaten path. There is no set routine, so every day is an adventure. The choice of the wineries visited will vary each day based on your individual group's dynamics. The overall focus is on high-quality wines as well as friendly and informative staff. Please contact us in advance to inform us of any dietary restrictions or special requests for your tour.

Ready for a full-day adventure? Begin with a scenic shuttle from Queenstown to Arrowtown, where you’ll be fitted with a premium electric bike, helmet, & given a map and full safety briefing. Enjoy a self-guided cycle along the stunning Arrow & Kawarau River Trails toward Gibbston, crossing the Edgar Swing Bridge & the famous Kawarau Suspension Bridge — the world’s first bungy site. Enjoy winding trails past historic gold-mining cottages with breathtaking scenic views. At Gibbston Valley Winery, you swap your bike for the Wine Hopper Shuttle then relax as our friendly Qualified Wine Guide takes you to boutique wineries, cellar doors, & even a charming church or tavern. Enjoy wine tastings, divine platters or lunch options, & soak in the spectacular vineyard scenery. After a day of adventure, you'll return to Queenstown CBD around 6PM, relaxed, happy, & full of great memories! Pickup: Queenstown, Frankton, or Arrowtown Dropoff: Arrowtown, Ayrburn, Frankton, or Queenstown