Most of the things to do in Queenstown involve your heart rate going way up but there are some more sedate things to do for those aren’t into seeking thrills. Regardless though, it’s a beautiful part of New Zealand and whatever you do there’s awesome views not far away.
Head up the Gondola to the Skyline Queenstown. Here you can do the luge, which is definitely worth a go and one of the best things to do in Queenstown for kids and adults. There’s hiking trails, spectacular views, mountain biking trails, stargazing, and for those who have ever watch the All Blacks play rugby, a Haka welcome. Even if you don’t fancy yourself shooting down a hill (you can’t go that fast), you’ll enjoy the view. I’ve seen better but it’s tough to beat even not being a huge fan of Queenstown.
Bungy Jumping – Where bungy jumping as most of us know it all started. Trust a couple of Kiwi guys to think about jumping off a bridge on a big rubber band! The Kawarau Bungy is the most popular and closest to Queenstown and will set you back NZD$205 for an adult. Kids are $155 and they need to be over 10. I’ve bungy jumped but not here. Apparently I screamed like a girl all the way down, and up, and down. It’s not for the faint of heart, loads of people think they can do it only to pike out when they’re out on the platform and realise how it could all end up. Very few accidents have occurred over the years at any of the AJ Hackett operations and I’d say you’ve got more chance of dying in a plane crash, although don’t quote me on that if the bungy breaks and you end up in the river.
The Nevis Bungy is 134m, 8.5 second free-fall and is the highest bungy jump in New Zealand. You can’t drive here and it requires a 4WD drive in so not as busy. Bring an extra pair of trousers because you’ll need them for this one. There’s also the Queenstown Ledge Bungy. This is at Skyline which is reachable by hike (not recommended in winter for most) or Gondola. Epic views have made this one popular.
Shotover Jet – I didn’t think this was the adrenaline pumping activity most people seem to say it is. You basically go up the shotover with a shitload of other people and drive close to the shores, do a few 360’s and get soaked (depending on where you’re sitting). If you’ve never been on a Jetboat before it’s probably going to be much more exciting. Dress up warm in the winter as it’s basically like riding in a convertible for an hour in very cold temperatures. Probably one of the most popular things to do in Queenstown but I didn’t think it was that great.
Skiiing – When I lived in Dunedin, we used to ski at Coronet Peak all the time. If you have young kids then this is the best option. The remarkables is smaller and for more advanced skiers and Cardona is something in between. If you head over to Wanaka, probably an hour and half in the winter, you can do Treble Cone, which is the best out of all of them. If you’re new or just beginning, head to Coronet Peak and you won’t be disappointed. Skifields in New Zealand aren’t really renowned for fluffy light powder but you can go heliskiing which will cost a lot more but give you fresh powder and no crowds. And if you have no idea about skiing, it’s one of the things to do in Queenstown in the winter only.
For things to do in Queenstown that are less active, take a drive out to the Gibbston Valley, home to a variety of vine yards, restaurants and cafes. Once you’re out there hire a bike and ride around exploring the valley. Speaking of biking riding, hire a bike and cycle over the Queenstown Trail, which can take you through Gibbston Valley, to Arrowtown and to the Kawarau Bungy. Most of the way is easy riding but not for people who think unlocking their phone is a bit tiring. One of the most scenic biking tracks you’re likely to come across anywhere in the world.
Send us any questions or comments you have about things to do in Queenstown via email or ask us on twitter.