Top Queenstown Outdoor Activities - page 3

Queenstown ATV Quad Bike Adventure Tour

(848)

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $193

On a rainy day, an animated show is perfect way to learn about the fascinating history of Lake Wakatipu while keeping warm indoors. This state-of-the-art animated show takes you on a journey through time, from the moment the earth was formed to the present day. You'll learn about the dinosaurs that once roamed the earth, how the lake was carved out by a giant glacier. Then view the marine life that now calls it home from the comfort of Queenstown underwater observatory.

30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.6

(82)

Time Tripper Queenstown

from $12

Glacier flight with Heliworks Queenstown

Take to the skies above Queenstown and land on a remote glacier blanketed in snow for a true alpine adventure. Experience the stunning vistas of Skippers Canyon, with its rich gold rush history, before touching down on an ancient glacier. Step onto the pristine ice to witness the mesmerising blue crevasses up close, providing a rare opportunity for spectacular photographs. The journey back offers awe-inspiring views over valleys and ridgelines, making this a must-do adventure for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. - Unique glacier experience near Queenstown - Breathtaking aerial views of Skippers Canyon and Southern Alps - Opportunity for stunning photographs of ancient glacial ice - Guided by experienced local pilots familiar with the region

Queenstown Helicopter Tour: Glacier Landing and Scenic Views

(10)

50 minutesFree Cancellation

from $540

Take to the skies on a 50-minute Queenstown helicopter flight that includes a snow landing on Jura Glacier. Soar above Lake Wakatipu’s northern shores and discover unparalleled views of New Zealand’s Southern Alps from an aerial perspective. After your pilot lands atop the glacier, snap photos of surrounding alpine peaks, such as Mt Aspiring, before the return helicopter ride over glacier-fed lakes and the Rees and Dart River valleys.

Queenstown: Southern Glacier 50-Minute Helicopter Flight

(130)

50 minutesFree Cancellation

from $532

Special Offer

Enjoy your wine in the stunning sites of Central Otago

Pair the fine wines of Central Otago with a gourmet lunch platter on this small-group wine-tasting tour of Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Cromwell from Queenstown. Drive through valleys and vine-clad foothills rich in gold mining history, and stop at four boutique wineries for tastings along the way. Numbers are limited to ensure an intimate experience with other wine lovers and personalized attention from your guide.

Queenstown Boutique Wine Tour - All-Inclusive 4 Wineries & Lunch

(701)

5 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from

$152

$168

Be amazed by Fiordland’s dramatic landscapes on this full-day, small-group tour by coach, boat, and air. This combo tour makes it easy to see a lot in one day. After a Queenstown hotel pickup, admire the dramatic scenery without having to drive yourself. Hop aboard a cruise on Milford Sound, then return to Queenstown by air, flying over Fiordland National Park and seeing views you couldn’t experience any other way.

Premium Milford Sound Tour Including Cruise, Flight & Lunch

(237)

9 hoursFree Cancellation

from $542

While the Southern Alps are a sight to behold from the ground, they're even more spectacular from above. Take to the skies on this helicopter tour from Queenstown and enjoy dramatic mountain views from a unique vantage point. Journey above Skippers Canyon and the Wakatipu Basin for unparalleled photo ops, and take a break during an alpine landing (weather dependent). Listen to the pilot’s commentary through personal headsets.

30-Minute Alpine Scenic Flight from Queenstown

(66)

30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $259

Witness the majesty of the Southern Alps from both the ground and the air on this full-day, small-group combination bus, helicopter, and ski plane tour. Most travelers miss the opportunity to see the area from so many different vantage points. Heading out from Queenstown, see the azure waters of Lake Dunstan and Lake Pukaki before spotting Mount Cook’s (Aoraki’s) snow-capped peaks cresting the horizon. Then, hop aboard your aircraft for a flight through the mountains, including a landing at Tasman Glacier.

Mt Cook Tour & Ultimate Alpine Experience Combo from Queenstown

4.6

(53)

12 hoursFree Cancellation

from $491

Lord of the Rings 4WD Tour from Queenstown (half day)

(319)

4 hoursFree Cancellation

from $185

Queenstown Guided E-bike Wine Tour

(9)

4 hours to 4 hours 20 minutesFree Cancellation

from $158

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.

Milford Sound Flight and Cruise ex Queenstown (incl Lunch)

(693)

5 hoursFree Cancellation

from $550

Take your South Island adventure to new heights during a 50-minute helicopter flight with a glacier landing. Soar above the spectacular scenery of Mt. Aspiring National Park, gliding above turquoise ice formations, hidden alpine lakes, and towering mountains, before landing atop an alpine glacier for photos. Scenic highlights include the Earnslaw Burn valley, which is usually only accessible on foot.

50-Minute Glacier Explorer & Earnslaw Burn Flight, Queenstown

(151)

50 minutesFree Cancellation

from $466

Soar to new heights on a 20-minute helicopter tour and alpine landing in the Remarkables, a mountain range that dominates the eastern skyline of Queenstown. Hover up close to the eponymous peaks and land 5,046 feet (1,538 meters) above Lake Wakatipu with unparalleled views stretching all the way to the Southern Alps. Your six-passenger helicopter flight includes hotel pickup and drop-off.

Queenstown: Pilot's Choice Helicopter Flight with alpine landing

(171)

25 minutesFree Cancellation

from $238

4.6

(358)

Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Queenstown

5 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

from $63

Milford Sound Scenic Flight flyback from Milford Sound to Queenstown

Milford Sound is an unmissable destination in the South Island, but self-driving can be risky and the return road trip from Queenstown is long. Simplify your visit on this small-group tour from Queenstown. Travel there in a luxury bus with panoramic scenic windows, allowing unobstructed views. Take a relaxing cruise on Milford Sound, beautiful in all weather, then return to Queenstown by air, saving time and maximizing the views.

Milford Sound Small Group Tour from Queenstown with Scenic Flight

(355)

10 hoursFree Cancellation

from $543

Experience the beauty of the New Zealand high country on a scenic boat ride across Lake Whakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Watch a sheepdog show, feed the animals, and enjoy a morning or afternoon tea in the charming old woolshed. Begin your combo tour with a relaxing scenic boat ride across Lake Whakatipu aboard a modern catamaran, the Spirit of Queenstown. Disembark the vessel and be greeted by your rural host. From the amphitheater, watch the remarkable skill with which the farm dogs round up sheep from the paddocks. Enjoy a walking tour of the farmyard, visiting the holding pens, where you can help feed the sheep and deer and even get up close to the Scottish Highland Cattle. Then, stroll to the charming old woolshed for morning or afternoon tea. You may have time to wander through the lakeside gardens before you re-board the Spirit of Queenstown for your cruise back to Queenstown.

Queenstown: Walter Peak Farm Tour and Lake Cruise

(7)

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $81

Soar above the clouds and majestic mountain peaks of Mt. Aspiring and Fiordland national parks for a truly bird’s-eye perspective of New Zealand’s celebrated alpine scenery. On this compact scenic flight from Queenstown, enjoy views of at least five major glaciers, each lesser-known than the heavily visited Fox and Franz Josef glaciers further north. This flight also showcases the deep, densely forested fiords of Milford Sound.

Milford Sound and Big Five Glaciers Scenic Flight

(53)

1 hourFree Cancellation

from $380

Experience the thrill of a helicopter ride and snowmobile tour on the only snowmobile wilderness tour available in New Zealand. Enjoy exclusive access to backcountry trails that can only be accessed via helicopter, ensuring that you won’t see another tourist for miles around! Your highly skilled guide will adapt the snowmobile ride to varying levels of ability, to ensure everyone’s comfort and safety.

Queenstown Heli-Snowmobiling Adventure

(21)

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $775

Instead of rushing to keep up with a group, this self-guided e-bike adventure is a peaceful way to explore the cycle paths between Arrowtown and Queenstown at your own pace. Begin with a pickup at a time that suits your schedule—with e-bike rental included—then, get taken to the start point in Arrowtown. After that, independently explore the local area’s bridges, mountains, and stunning trails with breaks whenever you like.

Arrowtown to Queenstown Bike Tour with Shuttle

(113)

3 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

from $69

The cliffs, fjords, and waterfalls of Milford Sound are among the most impressive natural wonders of New Zealand’s South Island. This tour is ideal for those short on time, including round-trip flights from Queenstown and up to two hours of free time at Milford Sound. Enjoy spectacular aerial views over the Fiordland National Park, Mount Aspiring National Park, and Lake Wakatipu; then touchdown to hike around the Sound with views of Mitre Peak and Lady Bowen Falls.

Milford Sound Fly | Explore | Fly passengers walking along the foreshore

Milford Sound Scenic Fly & Explore Day Trip from Queenstown

(160)

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $392

Special Offer

Taste a fantastic lunch cooked in retired Pinot Barrels matched with local wines

Discover some of New Zealand's finest wines on a full-day tour of the Central Otago wine region from Queenstown. Visit multiple wineries, sip wine in Australasia's largest wine cave, enjoy a gourmet lunch with wine pairings, and sample local cheeses. Visit the Cromwell Heritage Precinct and learn about the Otago Gold Rush, too. Numbers are limited on this small-group tour that includes wine tastings, lunch, transportation, and hotel transfers.

Gourmet Food and Wine Tour Queenstown All-Inclusive Tour

(360)

6 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from

$179

$199

Travel to the Tasman Sea on a Milford Sound cruise from Queenstown or Te Anau. Travel in a comfortable luxury coach with a glass roof for premium views of the towering mountains. At Milford Sound, cruise past by the world-renowned Mitre Peak and drift alongside rushing waterfalls as you search for wildlife, including New Zealand fur seals, dolphins, and Fiordland crested penguins. An onboard nature specialist provides expert commentary.

Milford Sound Day Trip from Queenstown

4.7

(240)

10 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

from $176

See Arrowtown and Wanaka through the eyes of a local rather than a first-time visitor on a half-day tour from Queenstown that explores local history and landscapes. You’ll have time to stroll Arrowtown’s charming main street, built during Otago’s 19th-century gold rush, then enjoy an hour of free time to see Wanaka at your own pace for a balanced sightseeing experience. Return to Queenstown through the Crown Range, winding through towering peaks and high passes.

Arrowtown and Wanaka Highlights Tour from Queenstown

(274)

6 hours

from $126

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.

Lord of Rings Tour around Queenstown Lakes by 4WD (full day)

(86)

9 hoursFree Cancellation

from $381

1 2 3 4

...

Top Attractions in Queenstown

1 / 2

Attractions

What are people saying about Queenstown

Lord of the Rings Scenic Half Day Tour from Queenstown

Noemi_S, Apr 2026

Lord of the Tours!

Even though I’ve never seen the LotR movies, I thoroughly enjoyed this tour and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Queenstown! The scenery is amazing, the ride is comfortable and our guide Max went above & beyond to make this a highlight of our NZ adventure!

Milford Sound Premium Small Group Tour & Cruise from Queenstown

Michael_W, Apr 2026

Milford Sound in a small group is the way to go.

This is a fantastic way to explore Milford Sound. It is a long way to Milford Sound, but having a well informed guide like we did makes the time fly. On the drive down you make multiple stops to see the sights. Being in a smaller group makes it so much easier to get on/off at these stops as compared to the larger coach bus groups. The waterfalls and the views are absolutely spectacular.

Kiwi Park Queenstown Admission

Lynn_S, Mar 2026

Birdwatcher’s Delight

It was a lovely experience like walking through a garden. If you like birds and nature, it the trip for you. I have bird watching my entire trip to New Zealand, and through my visit to Kiwi Park I was able to see the elusive birds that I didn’t want to miss.

NZONE Skydive Queenstown

Kyle_B, Mar 2026

This was honestly the...

This was honestly the best thing I’ve ever done in my life. I went with my girlfriend, they kept us together in the same jumping group, were super helpful, and made us feel so safe! It was such an amazing experience and everything from the beginning to the end was truly 100/10. Super easy process, straightforward, and they ease your nerves if you have any. We felt super safe and comfortable the whole time! Highly recommend!!

Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm and Cruise from Queenstown

Greg_S, Mar 2026

TSS Earnslaw Evening Cruise

The evening tour starts on the wharf at Queenstown at exactly 5pm so arrive by about 4:30 so as not to be at the end of the line. Its a line-up of passengers to board the steamer. Make sure to have your ticket with you (printed or phone). You can ride on the upper or lower deck ... the stairs are very awkward so I recommend the upper deck unless already full. We rode on the lower deck on the out-journey and the upper deck back .. iif you ride the upper deck beware the fumes from the coal fired engine are a bit overwhelming.. The steamer runs to exact times. On board there are drinks and snacks available to purchase, and free water for everyone. Its a lovely environment on-board and the views of the lake are wonderful. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the Walter Peak venue which is a working sheep station & a huge modern public restaurant where a delicious bbq dinner is available from about 7 to 8pm. Drinks are extra cost. Following the dinner there is a short , educational and interesting display given by a sheep sheerer and his border collie .. well worth the half hour it takes. Following the display the steamer returns to Queenstown with an onboard piano entertainer where everyone can join in. The steamer arrives back at the wharf at about 9pm.

Small-Group Zipline Adventure in Queenstown

Shelby_C, Mar 2026

Afraid of heights

We did the 2 zip lines with the jump off a deck at the end. Sydney & Shazz were our guides. Our own personal “Team Canada!”🇨🇦 They were professional, knowledgeable, and experienced. They were also friendly and funny! They made the experience so much fun. This was my first time zip lining and I am afraid of heights. I wanted to push myself. Without Sydney there is no way I would have made the 60ft drop after the two zip lines. I was scared to death and she encouraged me and walked me through it. I was successful. Overcoming my fears and positive support made it happen. Thanks, Sydney!

Queenstown Shotover River White Water Rafting

Emma_M, Feb 2026

Excitement plus!

This was a very well organised company. From meeting at the dock, to getting safety gear sorted, to the skilled driver taking us into the canyon. Clear and concise instructions throughout the rafting. SIA was our guide, she was amazing, made everyone in the boat feel comfortable. Her knowledge as we paddled down the river was excellent, telling us all about the water and the canyon. I took my 21 year old son, first time for both of us, we both absolutely loved this! Encourage anyone who can swim to give it a go!

Glenorchy & Paradise Half-Day Scenic Tour from Queenstown

Lucia_H, Feb 2026

Majestic!

We had a wonderful experience on this excursion. Thomas greeted us with a cheerful welcome. He created a welcoming environment for all the travelers to get to know each other with a fun individual introduction exercise. He shared cultural stories. He shared geographical knowledge of the region. He shared plant and animal details. He hosted a charming tea with yummy grilled cheese sandwiches with fresh slices of kiwi fruit. We experienced the rock, the water, the trees, the sky, the wind. It was majestic and he helped create this experience seemlessly. He was an excellent driver and made us feel safe on a windy and sometimes gravelly road. Everything was special. No complaints. Thank you!

Queenstown: Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise (90 Minutes)

Molly_K, Jan 2026

Wine tour - a well spent half day!

I was hesitant to sign up as I’m not a “wine” connoisseur. But, it was one of the best half day tours I’ve gone on. Our guide, Ben was knowledgeable and entertaining. The wineries were each unique. The third winery, with the cheese board snack, was great! I went by myself and by the end of the day we were all friends!

Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Adventure

Susanna_C, Jan 2026

Way better than expected.

This tour was so much better than we expected. Steam ship is beautiful and you can really explore all of it. The animals at the farm are gorgeous and friendly. The food provided for afternoon tea was amazing and there was free time to walk around the gardens and the beach. Fab tour.

Queenstown Hill Quad Bike Tour

Justin_G, Jan 2026

A must do for the family

We were blessed with stunning weather so the views were spectacular. The whole experience was great fun and a really exciting activity to do with the family. My four girls and wife loved it. Tom and Nicko were very thorough in the training session before we took off which helped identify that my youngest was not really up to it which meant she rode safely with Nicho but still got the enjoy the experience.

TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Steamship Cruise from Queenstown

Michelle_R, Nov 2025

A piece of history with beautiful views

We had a beautiful day for our cruise and it was truly a great outing. The ship itself is amazing and provided entertainment watching how it works. We found the people that worked on the ship to be very friendly. It was nice that we only did the cruise because the majority of the people got off at the farm and we only had probably about 30 people on the whole boat on our return trip. Made it great to get pictures.