Top Activities on the Ground in Queenstown

If you’re looking for the best Off-Roader experience in New Zealand, this is it. Take a ride in Oxbow’s Ultimate Off-Roader, our one-of-a-kind, custom-built, all-terrain vehicle that goes everywhere. The Ultimate Off-Roader is a 4-Seater, 4WD, 4-wheel steer vehicle with an extremely low centre of gravity, allowing them to practically go anywhere! After custom-designed compact sporting field set against one of New Zealand’s most magnificent backdrops. Equipped with eight automatic clay target throwers to suit all abilities; it also includes the run-away rabbit across the ground (don’t worry, it’s not the real thing!)

Fans of the Lord of the Rings movies won’t want to miss this fun half-day tour to various filming locations in the Southern Alps. You’ll enjoy exclusive access to private Arcadia Station and will also visit the beautiful Mt. Aspiring National Park. Be amazed by the natural beauty while reliving your favorite movie scenes. Don an LOTR costume and sword too, if you like.

While in Central Otago, head to the Oxbow Gun Club in the Gibbston Valley for a bit of fun. Enjoy one-on-one guidance in clay bird shooting from an experienced instructor. Take your friends for some healthy competition and experience the natural beauty of New Zealand’s magnificent mountainous backdrop at the same time. This activity facilitates six shooters per session, so is an excellent group activity suitable for ages 13 and up.

As well as its stunning countryside, Central Otago in New Zealand is known for its world-class wine and adventure tourism. This ‘hop on, hop off’ bus tour lets you experience some of the best wineries and attractions at your own pace without the hassle of driving. Come away knowing a bit more about this slice of paradise, with commentary along the way to educate and entertain you.

Take a shuttle from Queenstown to Arrowtown for a self-guided bike tour on the Queenstown Trail. The bike rental staff provides tips for your ride and directions for the basic route, which covers about 22 miles (36 kilometers) of varied terrain and hills. Mountain bike (or e-bike), helmet, and detailed trail map are provided, along with options for additional stops. Suitable for active people who enjoy a challenging bike ride.

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.

Get ready for an adventure or a relaxing day in the mountains! Explore Mt Cook on a fully guided, small-group tour from Queenstown, with free time to hike, fly, or simply unwind. Highlights: • Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park • Lake Pukaki • Kawarau Gorge, Lindis Pass, the Southern Alps • High Country Salmon (time dependent) • Free time for activities & walks Enjoy approximately three hours of free time at Mt Cook to make your day as adventurous or relaxed as you choose: hike alpine trails, soar above glaciers on a scenic flight, or unwind at the Hermitage Hotel with a hot chocolate, soaking in the views. Make memories that last a lifetime. ***PLEASE NOTE: The Hooker Valley Track is currently closed beyond Müller Lookout (located between the first and second swing bridges) while the Department of Conservation replaces one of the bridges. This scenic section still offers stunning views and a rewarding hiking experience. The full track is expected to reopen in Spring 2026.***

Learn how it feels to fly on water and take a ride in Oxbow’s unique, custom-built 4-seater Jet Sprint Boats! Accelerating at an incredible 0 to 100kph in only 2.5 seconds, it’s the perfect activity in Queenstown for the adrenaline seeker. After your ride in our 620 horse-power boat, head over to our Oxbow Gun Club, our custom-designed compact sporting field set against one of New Zealand’s most magnificent backdrops. Equipped with eight automatic clay target throwers to suit all abilities; it also includes the run-away rabbit across the ground (don’t worry, it’s not the real thing!)

Take your time on a self-guided wineries cycling tour starting at The Church Cellar Door in Gibbston Valley. Follow the Arrow and Kawarau River gorges to the famous bungee-jump bridge over the Kawarau. Continue to the Gibbston Valley wine region, cycling 11 miles (17 kilometers) of easy trails suitable for varying abilities. Stop when and where you want along the way, including many top wineries.

Queenstown is famous for its adrenaline-inducing adventure sports, but if you want a more relaxed adventure, combine a Lake Wakatipu cruise with a horseback-riding adventure. Cruise from Queenstown to Walter Peak High Country Farm, then fuel up with morning or afternoon tea at the Colonel’s Homestead. Numbers are limited for a small-group experience on the horse trek for a personalized experience. Admire great views of the Remarkables mountains.

Avoid the stress of self-driving through distractingly beautiful landscapes on a full-day tour from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Peer through the panoramic windows of a luxury coach as you travel through UNESCO World Heritage–listed Fiordland National Park with a guide, stopping at sites of interest en route. At Milford Sound, board a catamaran for a memorable sightseeing cruise past Mitre Peak and magnificent cliff-side waterfalls. Look out for wildlife, too.

Be introduced to one of New Zealand’s Great Walks without having to do the whole thing on a morning or afternoon guided hike on a portion of the Routeburn Track. After a pickup from central Queenstown, head into the mountains of Mt. Aspiring National Park. Follow your guide at a relaxed pace through lush forests and experience the tranquility of the Routeburn River and its waterfalls along the way.

Visit "The Lord of the Rings" filming locations in and around Glenorchy, traveling by 4WD from Queenstown with a guide. This half-day tour includes stunning landscapes chosen by director Peter Jackson. See where famous scenes were filmed, the landscapes representing the Fortress of Isengard, Lothlórien, Ithilien Camp, and Forest of Amon Hen.

Hike a section of the Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, on a guided day trip from Queenstown. This premier tramping trail is located in beautiful Mt. Aspiring National Park. Trek at a moderate pace, with some challenging uphill and downhill sections, toward the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, learning about the local flora and birds from your guide. The tour includes snacks, lunch, and hotel transfers.

Ride through the Gibbston Valley on a self-guided bike or e-bike tour from Queenstown that includes everything you need for a day of exploring. With a van to take you to the start and meet you at the finish, you can choose the distance you ride. Stop at the many wineries and other boutique food producers along the route, and admire the beautiful views as you pedal.

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.

Our latest model hardtail Mountain Bikes have been specifically chosen for exploring the 130 km of the beautiful Queenstown Trail network. As the Queenstown Trail's most experienced bike hire operator, our team have spent years exploring these trails. Our fleet of bikes are maintained to a high standard by our in-house mechanics, ensuring your ride will be "sweet as". We cater bike hire for the whole family. For the kids, we have 16", 20", and 24" bikes; for infants we have trailers and half-bikes/tag-alongs available. Get out there and see more of the Queenstown area with us!

Visiting a wildlife sanctuary is a great way for animal lovers to immerse themselves in nature, but other tourists can sometimes dampen the experience. Avoid the crowds and explore a secluded wildlife sanctuary not open to the general public on this private kayaking tour across Lake Wakatipu to Pigeon Island, a haven for flightless birds nestled in the Southern Alps.

Step into the world of Sherlock Holmes and solve a mysterious case during the Sherlock Holmes City Game – a self-guided adventure full of puzzles, plot twists, and hidden clues. Set in the heart of Queenstown, this City Game is all about story-driven gameplay and immersive mystery solving. It pulls you into a captivating story that you solve together, making it a unique way to connect, play, and create memories with your group. Perfect for friends, families, colleagues, or solo players who enjoy a challenge and love detective games. Whether you play solo or in teams, it’s a flexible and fun experience that transforms Queenstown into your crime-solving playground. After booking, check your email for clear instructions, download the Loquiz app, and dive straight into your detective mission.

For active relaxers, this self-guided bike tour is the perfect way to see Arrowtown and Gibbston while getting some exercise. 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 in the Gibbston area. This tour is great for those who want to see the best of both towns without having to worry about organising a car (and designated driver).

Experience some of the best Central Otago landscapes with this e-bike hire and transport service for the Lake Dunstan Trail. Start out in Clyde where you will receive a full briefing on your e-bike. Then get transported to the start of the trail, from where you can wind your way back to the starting point. Along the way, take in wonderful views of vineyards, gorges, historic buildings and much more.

Exploring the Central Otago countryside on horseback lets you go at a leisurely pace while covering more ground than you could hiking on your own two legs. Enjoy sweeping views of Lake Dunstan and the Mt. Pisa Range from the comfort of your horse. Go at the pace appropriate for your skill and experience level. Young kids can be led, if required.

Simplify your adventure on the Lake Dunstan Cycleway with e-bike rental and a return shuttle. Let someone else take care of the logistics so you can enjoy the ride. Meet at a convenient starting point, where you’ll pick up your e-bikes and safety gear, and leave your car. Ride the scenic 26-mile (42-kilometer) cliffside trail, admiring the views along the way. After, you’ll be transferred back to your vehicle.