Top Queenstown Day Trips - page 5

What sets this tour apart is its ability to turn a simple drive into a story-rich journey through the heart of New Zealand wine country. As you wind through Gibbston Valley, your phone becomes your guide — unlocking the voices of winemakers, tales of Māori heritage, and the deep connection between land, people, and wine. It’s more than just a tasting — it’s a chance to experience Central Otago’s soul, one glass and one story at a time. No buses, no crowds — just you, the open road, and the unforgettable beauty of Aotearoa.

Discover the newly launched Kawarau Gorge Trail, a spectacular self-guided eBiking experience that connects the magnificent wine regions of Gibbston to those in Bannockburn. The 32km route takes you alongside the stunning Kawarau River, showcasing beautiful rocky outcrops and historic gold mining settlements. With premium eBike rental and shuttle transfers included, you can explore this intermediate trail at your leisure, traversing across two suspension bridges and venturing through previously inaccessible terrain. - Self-guided eBiking adventure along the scenic Kawarau River - All-inclusive package with premium eBike and essential gear - Shuttle transfers provided to connect with the trail - Explore gold mining history at the Goldfields Mining Centre (entry not included)

Explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of Central Otago on this one-way small-group tour from Queenstown to Middlemarch. Begin with a convenient hotel pickup, then travel in a luxurious Mercedes-Benz through iconic locations such as the Gibbston wine region, Kawarau Gorge, and Lake Dunstan. Enjoy a morning tea stop in the historic town of Clyde, and capture photos at the picturesque Ophir Bridge. Stroll through the charming ghost town of St Bathans and experience the rustic beauty of Middlemarch, the gateway to the Otago Central Rail Trail. This tour includes a guided journey, water, snacks, and a maximum of 15 guests for a personalized experience. - Duration: Approximately 5 hours - Small group size with a maximum of 15 guests - Comfortable Mercedes-Benz transport included - Morning tea stop (food available for purchase) in Clyde

Explore the stunning Kawarau Gorge Trail on a self-guided eBike adventure that journeys through the heart of Central Otago's wine country. Starting from the Kiwi Journeys hub in Cromwell, enjoy a short transfer to the trail head at Gibbston. From there the trail follows the Kawarau River through to Bannockburn. From the renowned wine region of Gibbston, the trail winds 32km alongside the Kawarau River, showcasing breathtaking views of rocky outcrops, and historic gold mining settlements. Traverse clip-on bridges and ride beneath the Nevis Bluff, all while enjoying the freedom of riding a Premium eBike. Choose to top off the Great Ride at Carrick Winery & Cellar Door in Bannockburn with a wine tasting flight & pizza lunch (included if the Winery upgrade is selected). Everything needed for the day's adventure is included - the Premium eBike, additional biking equipment and associated shuttle transfers - just turn up and enjoy the ride!

Discover Aoraki Mount Cook on a scenic private journey for up to 3–4 people. Your day begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Queenstown, Christchurch, or Dunedin. For Queenstown Pickup: Pass by Kawarau Suspension Bridge, Roaring Meg & Cromwell. Stop at Lindis Pass, and High Country Salmon. For Christchurch Pickup: Pass through Geraldine and Fairlie, stop at Fairlie Bakehouse, and visit Lake Tekapo. For Dunedin Pickup: Travel via Waitaki River and Omarama, with stops at Oamaru and High Country Salmon. Enjoy panoramic stops at Lake Pukaki and a scenic drive to Mount Cook. Take in stunning views, walk the Hooker Valley Track with its swing bridges and Hooker Lake, spot alpine kea, or engage in Tasman Glacier View Walks. Visit the Mount Cook Visitor Centre to learn about the area’s history. Choose to finish at Queenstown, Christchurch, Dunedin or end journey at Mount Cook. Total road time will be approximately 8.5 hours.

Milford Sound’s breathtaking landscapes await in this exclusive Heli‑Cruise‑Heli Ultimate experience. Begin your journey with a scenic flight from Queenstown, soaring over Fiordland National Park’s dramatic peaks and lush valleys. After a boutique cruise showcasing Milford Sound’s towering cliffs and pristine waters, enjoy a gourmet two‑course lunch on board. The adventure continues with alpine landings at spectacular locations, including the awe‑inspiring Earnslaw Burn, where cascading waterfalls and panoramic mountain views create a truly unforgettable atmosphere. This luxurious journey offers an intimate exploration of New Zealand’s natural wonders, combining air, sea, and alpine experiences into one seamless adventure—ideal for luxury travelers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Come aboard New Zealand’s first and only winery cruise tour. Whether you’re celebrating with a memorable birthday outing or simply treating yourself, this is a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else. Your day includes: - Visits to three standout Central Otago wineries: Matt Connell Wines, Carrick, and Cloudy Bay's "The Shed" - A guided experience with relaxed, informative commentary throughout the day - Three scenic cruises, one between each winery - Complimentary pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation within the Cromwell area — anywhere from Bannockburn to Pisa Moorings - Complimentary tastings at Matt Connell Wines

Kiwi Horizons Travel offers a unique Milford Sound day trip with personalized small-group tours, flexible itineraries, and expert local guidance, ensuring a more intimate and hassle-free experience of Fiordland’s iconic scenery.

Spend an afternoon being chauffeured by your specialist wine guide exploring the pioneering Central Otago wine region of Gibbston, also aptly named, the “Valley of Vines”. Taste outstanding and elegant Pinot Noir, delicate refined Riesling, rich Pinot Gris and stylish Chardonnay at three of the best cellar doors in the area including a guided tour through New Zealand’s largest wine cave. Take time to enjoy a shared platter lunch accompanied by glass of wine at a vineyard restaurant. Enjoy the enthusiasm and passion from your guide; soak up all the information including the evolving history of Gibbston from just a couple of vines into a full valley producing world-renowned Pinot Noir.

Departing from Queenstown experience the complete Fiordland package with premium coach travel, an authentic farm visit, and a Milford Sound cruise all in one seamless day. Travel stress-free in our modern glass-roof coach while enjoying spectacular scenery. Meet real Kiwi farmers who'll show you working dogs, sheep shearing, and share stories over morning tea. Then cruise Milford Sound on our spacious vessel, getting close to waterfalls and wildlife with commentary from your skipper. With WiFi and USB charging on the coach, scenic photo stops, and comfortable viewing areas on our cruise boat, this tour offers the most relaxing way to experience Fiordland's highlights. Perfect for visitors wanting to discover more than just Milford Sound without the hassle of driving.

Step into Middle-earth on a private full-day tour from Queenstown, exploring landscapes from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Travel along Lake Wakatipu to Glenorchy, a stunning village framed by the Southern Alps, known for filming Isengard and Lothlórien. Continue to Paradise Valley with its forests, braided rivers, and snow-capped peaks, spotting locations from LOTR, The Hobbit, and Narnia. Visit Twelve Mile Delta, where Frodo and Sam watched the Oliphaunts, and Arrowtown, a historic gold-rush village that doubled as Rohan. Conclude at Lake Hayes Lookout, with tranquil waters reflecting dramatic mountains. Fully customizable, this private tour blends cinematic magic and breathtaking scenery for movie lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

An indulgent and diverse full-day wine touring adventure. Experience an indulgent and diverse full-day exclusive tour showcasing the very best of the local sights, enjoying fresh and unique cuisine and tasting a selection of fine wines from the region. Be greeted by your specialist Wine Guide and venture into the heart of Central Otago to visit three premium vineyards over three contrasting wine sub-regions; Gibbston, Cromwell and the Bannockburn basin. Take a guided tour through New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave. Stop at a unique lunch venue, experiencing a gourmet lunch consisting of five dishes cooked in retired oak barrels and matching with wines – just divine! You will also have an opportunity to retrace history with visits to the historical settlements of Arrowtown and Old Cromwell (when time permits). Learn about the early pioneering history and how the wine region was formed through an array of fun facts and interesting stories from your knowledgeable Wine Guide.

Explore New Zealand’s Southern Alps on a private full-day tour from Queenstown to Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo. Travel along scenic Lindis Pass, crossing ochre hills and mountain plains, then stop at Lake Pukaki, whose glacier-fed waters perfectly reflect Aoraki / Mount Cook. Continue to Mount Cook Village for alpine walks, the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, or photo opportunities. Visit Lake Tekapo, famous for its turquoise waters and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, with optional relaxation at Tekapo Springs. Return to Queenstown through picturesque high-country landscapes. Fully customizable, this private tour offers photographers, nature lovers, and travelers a serene, crowd-free experience of New Zealand’s most breathtaking alpine scenery.

Our Small Batch Wine Experience - dive into the heart of Gibbston, known as the 'Valley of the Vines'. This Experience is designed to offer you a private and immersive experience in one of the closest subregions to Queenstown. Visit iconic boutique vineyards in the region, taste unique, cool climate wines, travel the back roads of Gibbston, and go where the locals go. You will visit three boutique Vineyards and have a fully immersive experience. Meet the wine makers and owners, walk amongst the vines and barrel halls. This intimate and memorable adventure through one of New Zealand's most picturesque and award-winning wine regions, is a fantastic way to introduce you to our closest subregion to Queenstown.

Travel with confidence and comfort by choosing our professional transportation service. We offer reliable, on-time pickups, modern and well-maintained vehicles, and experienced local drivers who know the best routes and scenic stops. Enjoy flexible itineraries, comfortable seating, and friendly service tailored to your needs—whether it’s a day trip, airport transfer, or private tour. Sit back, relax, and let us take care of the journey while you enjoy the destination.

Experience Queenstown and Wanaka like a local with our personalized, small-group tours led by passionate local guides. We go beyond the typical tourist spots, offering exclusive insights, scenic routes, and hidden gems that only locals know. Whether you’re chasing stunning photo opportunities, cultural stories, or nature-filled adventures, our flexible and friendly approach ensures an unforgettable experience tailored just for you

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound on a private full-day tour from Queenstown. Travel along Lake Wakatipu into Fiordland National Park, stopping at Te Anau for coffee or snacks. Pause at Mirror Lakes to capture alpine reflections, then traverse Eglinton Valley and Knobs Flat with their glacier-carved plains and forested cliffs. Drive through Homer Tunnel and visit The Chasm, where powerful waters sculpt surreal rock formations. Arrive at Milford Sound for an optional scenic cruise beneath Mitre Peak, spotting dolphins, seals, and towering waterfalls. Fully customizable, this private tour includes photo stops and flexible pacing, offering an unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s wildest and most majestic landscapes.

Take to the skies for a spectacular scenic flight over the dramatic Southern Alps and Gibbston wine region, gaining a unique perspective of New Zealand’s southernmost vineyards. Enjoy an alpine landing on The Remarkables with time for photos and breathtaking views. On landing, meet your expert guide and begin a luxury wine tour through Central Otago. Indulge in premium tastings at carefully selected vineyards and savour a delicious à la carte lunch featuring regional cuisine in Bannockburn or Cromwell. With hotel pick-up and drop-off included, plus flexible timing and the option to customise your itinerary, this experience blends adventure, luxury, and world-class wine for an unforgettable day.

Discover one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking natural wonders on this full-day adventure from Queenstown to Milford Sound and back. Relax in comfort as we journey through the stunning Fiordland landscapes, stopping for fresh coffee in Te Anau before entering the spectacular wilderness. Capture incredible photos at Eglinton Valley, where golden tussock plains meet towering mountains, and watch as the scenery transforms with every turn of the road. Enjoy a stop at the Mirror Lakes for that perfect reflection shot, and experience the thrill of driving through the historic Homer Tunnel into the heart of Fiordland. Once at Milford Sound, you will join a scenic cruise (additional cost) to get up close to towering waterfalls, Mitre Peak, and playful seals, making memories that will last a lifetime. This tour is perfect for travellers who want to experience the iconic Milford Sound in one comfortable, well-paced day, with opportunities to relax & explore.

Mount Cook Village (Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park): Mount Cook, or Aoraki in Māori, is New Zealand’s tallest mountain (3,724 m), nestled within the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park in the Southern Alps. It is a land of rugged peaks, star-filled skies, glacial lakes, and pure alpine air, making it a dream destination for nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and adventure seekers. The area is part of the Te Wāhipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving its pristine beauty and cultural significance. Walk the Hooker Valley Track (most popular 3 hours return) Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre Take glacier lake boat tour. (2.5 hours Return) Tasman glacier view track & blue lakes. (40 minute return) Kea Point Track. (1 hour return) Scenic flights & Heli-Hiking. (20-50 minutes) All above activities has to be decided or arranged by Customer- we will drive you to required spot. Simply relax and soak in the grandeur of the Southern Alps.