Top Queenstown How to Get Around in 2026

Begin your evening with a pickup from your hotel in Queenstown. Meet your private guide and hop into a vehicle. Set off on your adventure, taking in the stunning views as the sun sets behind The Remarkables. Stroll beside the glowing shores of Lake Wakatipu, capture breathtaking skyline views above the town lights, and escape the crowds at exclusive lookout points perfect for night photography and unforgettable memories. Unlike rushed group tours, this private experience is completely personalized. highlights : • Lake Wakatipu lakeside sunset • Queenstown panoramic night views • Kelvin Heights hidden lookout • Arrowtown evening village atmosphere • Secret local photo locations • Romantic lakeside moments away from crowds Perfect for couples, families, photographers, honeymooners, and travelers wanting a relaxed premium evening experience in Queenstown.

Enjoy a leisurely 90 minute scenic cruise on the 111 year old, coal fired vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw from Queenstown waterfront to Walter Peak High Country Farm (without going ashore) and return. After disembarking the TSS Earnslaw, you have a bit of spare time before making your way to meet us at our central pick-up location to join a fun-filled afternoon of stunning sights and magnificent wines. Spend the afternoon visiting three selected vineyards including a guided tour through New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave at Gibbston Valley winery. Sample an array of fine wines and varietals on offer and enjoy a shared cheeseboard which will accompany one of the wine tastings. ***Please note: The TSS Earnslaw will be out of operation for scheduled annual maintenance from May 18th to June 26th. This cruise and wine tour will not be available during this time. Our Classic Wine Tour will continue to operate as normal.***

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day journey through New Zealand's stunning South Island, exploring many of its major attractions and experiencing the serene beauty of each destination. Start your tour in the adventure capital Queenstown and conclude in the vibrant city Christchurch. Enjoy ride to Arthur's Pass, marveling at the unique rock formations of Castle Hill, before returning on the iconic TranzAlpine Scenic Train. Immerse yourself in the majestic scenery of Mount Cook and the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki. Enjoy stargazing at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best places in the world for night sky viewing. Discover the enchanting Te Anau Glowworm Caves and the sparkling waters of Milford or Doubtful Sound. Throughout the tour, enjoy the hospitality of a knowledgeable guide-driver, a comfortable vehicle, and scenic drives.

This immersive 5 day tour from Queenstown offers you a perfect mixture of travel each day, visiting the majority of the top attractions in New Zealand's South Island. Enjoy optional handpicked activities and places to stay without needing to worry about planning or driving long distances yourself. The itinerary showcases the beauty of the South Island in a relaxed way. Enjoy comfort of a private tour for your group, benefiting from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of handpicked 8-9 optional activities, like a scenic helicopter ride, Milford or Doubtful Sound cruise, a unique tour of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, a scenic gondola ride, thrill jet boating, stargazing in Dark Sky Reserves, the TranzAlpine scenic train ride, and Guided Kayaking or a Whale Cruise, or a Nature Cruise & visiting an Alpaca farm. Start at Queenstown and finish at Christchurch.

Get ready for one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable road trips! This self-guided drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound takes you through the heart of Fiordland a land of snow-capped peaks, mirror-like lakes, roaring waterfalls, and ancient rainforests. Along the way, explore local legends, hidden lookouts, and short scenic walks that capture the raw, untouched beauty of the South Island. Cruise past the Devil’s Staircase, stop at Te Anau, stroll the Mirror Lakes, and end your journey at the spectacular Milford Sound where cliffs rise straight from the sea. Every turn of the road promises a new adventure, a photo-worthy view, and that pure Kiwi magic you’ll never forget.

Explore Queenstown at your own pace on this self-guided walking tour through the heart of New Zealand’s adventure capital. Stroll the lively pedestrian mall with its boutiques, cafés, and street performers, then meet William Rees, the town’s founder, at his bronze statue. Relax by Lake Wakatipu at Queenstown Beach, framed by soaring mountains, or pause at the WWI Memorial Gate before admiring Queenstown’s oldest building, Williams Cottage. Along the way, discover the charm of St Peter’s Anglican Church, the history-rich Speight’s Ale House, and Queenstown’s legendary foodie icons like Fergburger. For thrills, spot paragliders, check out iFLY Indoor Skydiving, or ride the Skyline Gondola to panoramic views and luge tracks. Wind down with markets, lakefront parks, or even a cocktail in the Ice Bar. This walk blends history, scenery, and adventure into one unforgettable Queenstown experience.

Queenstown isn’t just New Zealand’s adventure capital. It’s a place where every bold experience, from bungy jumping to jet boating, grew from practical solutions to harsh terrain. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll discover how a gold-rush camp transformed into a global destination, while still preserving the calm spaces that make intensity sustainable. The tour starts at the Bathhouse, a 1932 building that reflects Queenstown’s early ambitions as a health and wellness destination. You’ll walk along Queenstown Bay, where Māori travel routes and European gold-rush logistics shaped the same shoreline. You’ll make your way up to the hillside streets where Queenstown’s earliest residents lived, and find out how William Gilbert Rees drove thousands of sheep over mountains to establish this settlement. The tour ends at the Bathhouse Playground, where you began, having traced a full circle through Queenstown’s past and present.

Queenstown has a dramatic history of transformation. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll discover how a remote pastoral homestead on the shores of Lake Wakatipu became a chaotic gold rush camp, before evolving into a world-class resort. The tour starts at the Village Green, once the epicenter of the 1862 gold rush that transformed the landscape overnight. You’ll discover how the TSS Earnslaw steamship became the lifeline of remote lake communities and how A.J. Hackett’s first commercial bungy jump in 1988 sparked Queenstown’s reinvention as the “Adventure Capital of the World.” The tour ends at the historic Queenstown Cemetery on Brecon Street, offering panoramic views across the town Rees founded.

Drive Gibbston Valley yourself, with a GPS audio guide that plays automatically as you go. Your booking unlocks the whole region in the free Wine Trails app: pick your date and starting point — most travellers set off from Queenstown, Arrowtown or Cromwell — choose the cellar doors you want, and the app builds your personal route with turn-by-turn narration. 59 stories cover 17 cellar doors strung along the Kawarau Gorge: as you pass Gibbston Valley Wines you'll hear how the first vines went in during 1981, when viticulturists said Pinot Noir could not ripen this far south — and how every vine in the Central Otago basin beyond the gorge traces back to that decision. No group, no schedule, no guide — pause for a long lunch, replay anything, and the audio keeps working when the signal drops in the gorge. You'll need a car and a designated driver; tastings are booked and paid directly with the wineries.

Discover Central Otago on this scenic self-guided audio tour drive from Queenstown Airport to Wānaka, tracing routes once travelled by Māori and gold miners. Pass through the Kawarau Gorge, birthplace of bungy jumping, past Gibbston Valley’s vineyards, and the towering Nevis Bluff. End beside the iconic “That Wānaka Tree.” During this two-hour drive, you’ll: • Hear about Bannockburn’s wild gold rush past • Admire Cromwell’s orchards, giant fruit sculpture, and Lake Dunstan’s new landscape • Learn why pinot noir flourishes here, what makes lavender fields glow, and why real fruit ice cream is a summer tradition • Glide past the Pisa Range and through Luggate and Queensberry Blending history, nature, and quirky local stories, this tour turns a simple transfer into an unforgettable journey

Drive Marlborough yourself, with a GPS audio guide that plays automatically as you go. Your booking unlocks the whole region in the free Wine Trails app: pick your date and starting point — most people begin in Blenheim or straight off the Picton ferry, though you can start anywhere and the GPS will pick you up — choose the cellar doors you want, and the app builds your personal route with turn-by-turn narration. 85 narrated stories cover 48 cellar doors and the valleys between them: as you cross the Wairau plain you'll hear how this was sheep country until 1973, when Montana Wines pushed seventy-five thousand vine cuttings into stony ground every expert had written off as too cold, too windy and too far south for serious wine. No group, no schedule, no guide — pause for a long lunch, replay anything, and the audio keeps working when the signal drops. You'll need a car and a designated driver; tastings are booked and paid directly with the wineries.

Queenstown becomes the crime scene in this self-guided detective game, where the clues are hidden in plain sight in the streets around you. The case is the murder of Balthasar, and the evidence is scattered across the old centre - past St Peter's Anglican Church, the War Memorial, Williams Cottage and the TSS Earnslaw. You decode messages, photograph what does not add up and press digital witnesses whose stories never quite line up. Every puzzle you crack removes a name from the list of suspects. Play as a couple, bring the children along, or send two or three teams out at the same time and turn the investigation into a race - which is what makes this murder mystery game work as well for a team outing as for a day out. The last answer is waiting somewhere in the centre of Queenstown.

Explore the iconic Otago Central Rail Trail by bike in just one day! Charge your smart phone because there are plenty of incredible photo opportunities on this ride! Cycle through stunning landscapes from the Poolburn Gorge to Clyde. This self-guided, 52km journey takes you past hand-carved tunnels and towering bridges, offering breathtaking views of the central high country. Enjoy breaks in charming, historic towns like Omakau and Ophir, where you can savor local hospitality and refreshments. With shuttle transport and specialized bikes included, this adventure is perfect for anyone looking to experience New Zealand’s cycling heritage without the hassle.

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 39km 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 ride with a refreshment stop at the Bannockburn Hotel - the views over the wine region are sublime! The tour ends at the Kiwi Journeys depot in Cromwell. Everything needed for the day's adventure is included - the eBike, additional biking equipment and associated shuttle transfers - just turn up and enjoy the ride!

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

This is more than just a bike ride, it’s a crafted journey through Central Otago’s vineyard country. Cruise lakeside trails, roll through the gold-rush charm of Cromwell, and wind your way into the Bannockburn Inlet — a region world-famous for Pinot Noir and dramatic landscapes. What sets this experience apart is the seamless service from the Central Cycle Trail Co. team, from personalised bike fittings, scenic shuttles and insider tips. Ride a premium e-bike, enjoy a gentle itinerary, and finish with a glass in hand at the beautiful Carrick Winery, with the option to upgrade to a private cabana and shared platter. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a group outing, or a solo wine-lovers’ ride, we make it easy to relax, explore, and taste the best of the region; effortlessly, safely, and in style.

With wind in your hair, roof down & breathtaking landscapes ahead, this picnic for 2 is your ultimate open - air trip in comfort & style. Guided by your experienced driver, this remarkable scenic ride with 4 stops & picnic included is the perfect way to escape the crowds & ride through the nature at its finest. Starting in Queenstown, you will be comfortably driven in a BMW convertible towards Lake Hayes where you can enjoy a variety of selected picnic foods, drinks, deserts, chocolates and fresh fruit. Prepared with love on a picturesque spot by the lake. Allow 30 minutes for the leisurely picnic until the next take off to Arrowtown where we can either stroll through by car or you can explore and sightseeing on your own. Time enough for some memorable pictures before we heading to Arthur’s Point to see some fantastic views from Edith Cavell Bridge where the Shotover Jets roaring past. Wakatipu Heights is our last stop - a photographer’s paradise and the perfect AOTEROA picture

Enjoy a peaceful start to your day with a summer breakfast cruise on Lake Wakatipu aboard the luxurious Pacific Jemm. As the sun rises over the Remarkables, savor freshly brewed coffee and a delicious seasonal breakfast featuring local Central Otago produce. Glide through the calm waters of Queenstown Bay and beyond, soaking in the stunning views of the mountains as they transition from grey to gold. This unique experience is perfect for those seeking tranquility and beauty in the heart of nature. - Enjoy a seasonal breakfast with pastries, fruit, and hearty options - Sip on coffee, teas, and fresh juices on the deck - Cruise through calm waters with stunning views of the Remarkables - Perfect for those looking for a serene morning outing in Queenstown

Explore Queenstown on a private 4-hour discovery tour combining iconic sights and hidden gems. Begin at Queenstown Gardens, a serene lakeside oasis, then head to Skyline Queenstown Lookout for dramatic panoramic views. Visit Arrowtown, a charming gold-mining village with cobblestone streets and local shops. Continue to Kawarau Bridge Lookout, the birthplace of bungee jumping, offering thrilling views of turquoise waters and rugged cliffs. End at Lake Hayes, where mirrored reflections of surrounding peaks create a picture-perfect finale. Fully customizable, this private tour blends alpine scenery, history, and local life, providing a relaxed and unforgettable half-day journey through Queenstown’s most scenic and memorable spots.

This curated 5 day tour from Queenstown offers you a perfect mixture of travel each day, visiting many of the top attractions in New Zealand's South. Enjoy optional handpicked activities and places to stay without needing to worry about planning or driving long distances yourself. The itinerary showcases the beauty of the South New Zealand in a relaxed way. Enjoy the comfort of a private tour for your group, benefiting from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 10 optional activities, like a scenic helicopter ride, Milford Sound or Doubtful cruise, a tour of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, a visit to transport museum, round-trip ferry & flight ticket between Stewart Island and Bluff, guided exploration in Stewart Island, alpine horse trekking, stargazing in Dark Sky Reserve, and a private hot soak experience. Start and finish at Queenstown.

This signature 6-day tour offers a perfect blend of travel per day covering the many of top attractions in New Zealand's North Island, optional activities and accommodations. Experience the best of the North Island without the hassle of planning which attractions to visit, where to stay, what to do, all without driving long distances on your own. Enjoy the luxury of a private tour for your group. Benefit from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 10–14 optional activities, including Auckland Museum or Waiheke Island hop-on hop-off exploration, scenic boating or guided kayaking, Hobbiton tour, Redwoods Treewalk, Agrodome & private soak or river rafting, geothermal valley & Māori cultural experience, jet boating, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, black water rafting or Aranui & Ruakuri Caves, and Hamilton Gardens. Start from Auckland or Queenstown and finish in Auckland.

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.

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Complete with a scenic cruise in Milford Sound, this 1 way trip from Queenstown to Te Anau is perfect for those looking to extend their time in Fiordland National Park. The beating heart of Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Parks, Piopiotahi Milford Sound is a destination that must be seen to be believed! Widely regarded as one of the world’s most scenic drives, join us as we traverse New Zealand’s Southern Alps and Te Anau Downs to the UNESCO heritage site. Enjoy spectacular views year-round of glacier-eroded valleys, lakes and inlets before arriving at the impressive Mitre Peak. Described by Rudyard Kipling as the 8th wonder of the world, this jaw-dropping tour is truly a must do! You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget!