Top Queenstown Private Sightseeing Tours

Spend an afternoon tasting South Island wines and taking in the scenery of Central Otago on a 4-hour tour from Queenstown. Admire mountain and river views en route, including people bungee jumping from the Kawarau Bridge if you’re lucky. Your guide takes you to three wineries for tastings and a wine cave tour. The tour includes wine tastings and a cheeseboard.

Go off-roading near Queenstown on a thrilling choose-your-own-adventure 4WD tour. Choose from four tour options to fit your interests: Whakatipu highlights for scenery and optional ‘The Lord of the Rings’ stops; Skippers Canyon to explore long-forgotten trails past former gold rush settlements; a Māori mythology and legends tour; or a scenic Glenorchy and Lake Whakatipu tour.

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.

Enjoy an off-road adventure in the wild of New Zealand while visiting filming locations from the Lord of the Rings trilogy on this half-day excursion from Queenstown. Take in beautiful scenery while you see visit key spots used as the Misty Mountains, Minas Tirith, and the Pillars of the Kings, and stop to pan for gold on the Arrow River.

Break away from the tourist crowds in Queenstown and savor the beauty of the central Otago high country on this private tour to the quiet settlement of Glenorchy. Instead of traveling to a rigid itinerary, customize this half-day trip to suit your interests, whether you’re a photographer, history nut or a Lord of the Rings aficionado. Depending on your interests, enjoy striking views of Lake Wakatipu, learn all about the region’s gold rush history or visit shooting locations for various Lord of the Rings settings.

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.

With waterfalls cascading down mighty cliffs and some of New Zealand’s most impressive natural scenery, Milford Sound is one the South Island’s must-see destinations—but its remote location makes it hard to reach alone. On this tour, spin through the New Zealand countryside in comfort from central Queenstown with your guide. Admire panoramic views from your glass-roof, low-emissions coach, and cruise the calm waters.

Join a Doubtful Sound cruise from Queenstown and discover this isolated gem deep within the UNESCO-listed Fiordland National Park. Travel by coach to Manapouri, take a ferry across Lake Manapouri and cross over Wilmot Pass, then down to Doubtful Sound to board your catamaran. Look out for dolphins, fur seals, and penguins amid a dramatic landscape of soaring forest-covered peaks and crystal-clear waters.

Combining two of Queenstown's most iconic activities, this trip is second to none! Starting on the Queenstown Jet Boat, you'll get to experience those famous 360 degree spins and speed. Discover the Kawarau River and its pristine wilderness as we race you down the river to your next mode of transport. Then jump straight into a raft to complete the last section of river, where the Jet Boats fear to go. Spend your morning or afternoon paddling through the historic Kawarau gorge, famous for its gold mining, wineries and it’s stint in The Lord of the Rings franchise. Paddle and swim your way through grade 2-3 whitewater rapids with a brand new cliff jumping section added for the adventure junkies (optional). Complete your journey by tackling the famous 400m Dog Leg rapid – the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand. Then head back to Rafting Base for a hot shower.

There are many great places to enjoy the mountain views in Queenstown, but the best are undoubtedly from the air. Catch views of the Remarkables you can’t get any other way on a scenic helicopter flight. The pilot selects the route on the day. Hover close to peaks and land high above Lake Wakatipu, with unparalleled views of the Southern Alps. The package includes hotel transfers for your convenience.

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.

Sample some of the finest food and drink in Queenstown while enjoying a sociable night out on a small-group progressive dinner experience. Dine on a starter, main, and dessert at three beautiful locations around the city. Each course will be expertly paired with a local Central Otago wine. Meet new friends and keep the party going in town after, if you like.

Sample Central Otago’s famous wine and food on a half-day tasting tour from Queenstown. Enjoy a lunch of traditional New Zealand food and delicious wine in a local restaurant. Travel through the scenic Kawarau Gorge to three boutique wineries and explore the biggest underground wine cellar in New Zealand at Gibbston Valley. Sample premium wines and gain insight into the different grape varietals that flourish in the region’s fertile soils.

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.

Mt Cook Private Day Trip from Queenstown Discover the very best of New Zealand with Ultimate New Zealand Tours on a fully personalized private journey. Visit the iconic turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, explore a scenic lavender farm, and experience the grandeur of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak and a place of deep Māori significance. See the mighty Tasman Glacier, unique alpine flora and fauna, and learn about the region’s rich mountaineering history. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers alike.

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.

Highlights - Experience two of the South Island’s most iconic regions in one unforgettable private day - Wanaka charm in the morning and Scenic Glenorchy lakes and valleys in the afternoon - Discover hidden gems, short walks, peaceful lakesides, and breathtaking lookouts - Balance adventure and relaxation with cafés, hikes, photo stops, or local attractions - Fully customisable itinerary with your own local guide and private vehicle

This self-guided bike tour is the perfect way to see Arrowtown and Gibbston while getting some exercise and sampling some local wine. Take a shuttle to either Arrowtown or Gibbston, where you can explore at your own pace before being picked up from your choice of vineyard or brewery. This tour is great for travelers who don’t want to worry about organising a car—or a designated driver—from Queenstown.

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.

Keen or budding photographers will love the chance to photograph the southern night sky with a photographer. The skies in the lower South Island are among the clearest in the world, and you’ll learn how to photograph them on this private tour from Queenstown. Listen to Maori astronomy stories, get great shots on your camera, and have your portrait taken against the sky; plus, you may even spot the aurora australis, which are often visible from the Southern Lakes.

Just as our stunning natural landscape changes day by day, we know our guests have unique needs and interests, ask us to tailor-make a bespoke trip for you. We’ll recommend stops that make the most of your time, your interests and the needs of the group you’re travelling with.

Begin your journey in Queenstown, heading toward Cromwell, where you’ll pass through the iconic orchards and vineyards. From there, drive up to Lindis Pass, surrounded by golden tussock hills and dramatic mountain ranges. Next, stop in Omarama, and then continue on to Twizel, known for its clear skies perfect for stargazing. Finally, take the route along Lake Pukaki, with its turquoise waters, all the way up to Mount Cook Village, where you’ll be immersed in the beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook. - Scenic drive alongside the picturesque Lake Wakatipu. - Designed for groups of four, ensuring an intimate experience. - Explore the stunning landscapes at your own pace. - Car included for easy transportation throughout the tour.

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.

You choose the trail to be biked and nzbiketrails picks you up, and your group (up to 11 riders), for a Private Tour which we aim to be a highlight of your holiday. We ride every day during the year (except xmas Day and Anzac Day). Whether it is Spring, Summer, Autumn or Winter/Ski Season your family will enjoy a brilliant experience. The nzbiketrails Guest Experience Manager will host your day, share a little history with you on the way, brief you on the trail/bikes, make sure that you are comfortable before you ride off with your seats at the right height. Your actual ride is 'Self-Guided'. You will have a direct mobile number to your Guest Experience Manager for any support required and on many trails you will see them along the way. If any of the group get tired we can arrange additional pickups and take them to meet you at the next location if possible. nzbiketrails is a Qualmark Gold accredited tourism operator and we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional experiences