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33 epic things to do in Queenstown in winter, suggested by a local

• April 22, 2023
• Oceania , New Zealand

In the heart of the majestic Southern Alps, Queenstown is the ultimate destination for anyone seeking fresh snow, breathtaking scenery, and a side of fine wine by a roaring fire. Queenstown in winter draws in snow sports enthusiasts from far and wide with its stunning lake and alpine views, crystal-clear blue skies, and access to New Zealand’s premier ski and snowboarding terrains.

Why visit Queenstown in winter?

Where to stay in queenstown in winter, 33 epic things to do in queenstown in winter, 1. hit the slopes at remarkables, 2. apres ski in town, 3. get your heart pumping, 4. cruise on the tss earnslaw, 5. warm up in a hot pool, 6. do a day-trip to milford sound, 7. scenic drive to glenorchy, 8. explore middle earth, 9. pool at harry’s pool bar, 10. buffet dinner with a view at bazaar, 11. see a kiwi bird, 12. night ski at coronet peak, 13. wine tasting, 14. heli skiing, 15. sky dive, 16. drive the crown range to wanaka, 17. cross country skiing at snow farm, 18. go snow kiting, 19. fear factory, 20. hit the slopes at cardrona, 21. watch an ice hockey game, 22. steak & beers at atlas, 23. dorothy browns cinema in arrowtown, 24. irish night in arrowtown, 25. play frisbee golf, 26. do a winter hike, 27. try snowshoeing, 28. sample the local craft beer, 29. take flight, 30. queenstown winter festival, 31. roast marshmallows in the fireplace, 32. skyline gondola + luging, 33. see the southern lights, winter holidays and events in queenstown, when is winter in queenstown, how cold does queenstown get in winter, does queenstown get snow, is queenstown better in summer or winter, what to pack for queenstown in winter, getting to queenstown, getting around in queenstown, where to eat in queenstown, best time to visit queenstown, how many days in queenstown in winter, planning a trip to queenstown, reliable travel insurance.

The four ski areas within a short drive from town and offer an array of terrain for every skill level, but Queenstown winter has something for you even if you don’t ski! From thrilling outdoor activities to world-class dining experiences, cozy bars, luxurious spas, and an array of scenic day trips, I’m sure you’ll fall in love just as I (and everyone else) did.

Queenstown winter essentials:

Kamana Lakehouse accommodation

TSS Earnslaw cruise

Milford Sound tour

15,000ft Skydive

Visit Queenstown in winter for the snow sports, the amazing apres ski, great dining options, the beautiful scenery and all the fun and adrenaline that Queenstown is famous for.

Queenstown is fabulous any time of the year but it’s particularly special in winter. The already breathtaking mountains surrounding Lake Wakatipu get covered in a layer of white snow and all the bars and restaurants welcome you with the fireplace turned on. On top of that, Queenstown is the Southern hemispheres mecca for winter-sports and absolutely worth visiting in winter.

In Queenstown you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation but keep in mind that this town gets very busy in winter so you need to book well in advance. I also recommend you get a place with a hot pool or a sauna, it just makes the whole winter holiday so much better!

Scenic Suites Queenstown  

GREAT VALUE & DELICIOUS BREAKFAST

Located at the edge of town this complex boosts breathtaking views and comfortable facilities at a great price. The food here is delicious too!

CHECK PRICES

Kamana Lakehouse

MODERN, BEAUTIFUL & FANTASTIC VIEWS

With breathtaking views, floor to ceiling windows and its contemporary decor, this modern lake house might just be our favourite place to stay in Queenstown, not to mention the delicious buffet breakfast!

Shotover Penthouse & Spa

CENTRAL, OPULENT AND PERFECT

This Penthouse is something else. Located smack in the middle of town and boosting some incredible views and a massive terrace with a hot tub, this apartment can sleep 6 and is perfect for groups.

Read next: Best accommodation in Queenstown

While skiing and snowboarding are by far the main reasons people visit Queenstown in winter, there are many other winter activities you should add to your Queenstown itinerary, that make QT winter amazing, even if you don’t ski.

After spending three winters in Queenstown, this is my recommended list of things to do in Queenstown during the winter time:

Skiing and snowboarding is what makes Queenstown so popular in winter. There are two ski fields within easy reach from Queenstown, Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, my ski field of choice in New Zealand.

The Remarkables are easily reachable by ski bus but if you’d like more flexibility you should consider renting a car . When you’re at the top of the Calypso chairlift make sure to hike up to the edge, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Queenstown and Wakatipu lake and some off piste bliss on your way down. On the other side of the ski field you can indulge in some jumps at the freestyle park, or take it easy and stop for a drink at the Ice Bar.

Book your ski bus ride

Winter in Queenstown is wild. Every night, after the slopes close, the town comes alive with snow bums rushing to the pubs for a serious apres ski session. Rhino’s Ski Shack takes the crown and here you’ll find all the hard core skiers and snowboarders. If you’re still in your ski gear head over to 1876 for a cheap jug on the terrace. World bar is a fabulous pub with great food, tea pot style cocktails and the perfect ratio of posh and chill. Then dance your night away at Loco, Searle Lane or the Bungalow.

Queenstown is considered to be the adventure capital of New Zealand. The crazy bungy jumps, canyon swings, zip lines, jet boats , race cars and God knows what else bring in more than three million visitors a year.

While getting splashed by cold water on a jet boat ride might not be as enjoyable on a frosty winter morning as it is on a hot summer afternoon, all these blood pumping activities run year round. Fear not, you won’t be missing out on any of these by visiting in winter, you’ll just be able to add a ton of winter activities on top of the usual stuff!

Book your adventure: Canyon Swing Zip Line Shotover jet boat Formula 1 race car

Hop on this legendary steam boat and cruise Lake Wakatipu in style. Admire the snow covered mountains, enjoy the brisk winter breeze and the mist above the lake. The views from the boat are amazing absolutely amazing and you get to experience the scenery froma completely new perspective. There are several different packages for you to choose from and you can extend this trip with a visit to Walter Peak farm, lunch or dinner. If you do the farm tour towards the end of winter you might even get to see baby veals and lambs.

Book your TSS Earnslaw cruise

This might just be my favorite winter activity in Queenstown, sitting in a hot tub and enjoying the view. You’ve probably seen photos of the Onsen pools all over Instagram. These private hot tubs offer gorgeous views over the Shotover Valley and are definitely a bucket list item in Queenstown so make sure to book them well in advance.

While absolutely fabulous and definitely a must try, the Onsen pools are quite pricey and often booked out, but worry not, Millbrook Resort might not be as popular on instagram, but the pools, set in a beautiful garden outside, are just as hot and wonderful. You don’t have to stay at the resort to visit the hot pools, although you will love it if you do, and can purchase a day ticket to the pools, sauna and fitness facilities.

Another one of those activities that are great year round, but made a little bit more special in winter. As you’ll drive through Fiordland National park you’ll be greeted with snow and Mitre Peak is even more stunning with a white crown. Not to mention that in winter you might just get this little piece of paradise all to yourself, at least for a moment. Wrap up and enjoy Milford Sound !

Since the road conditions can be tricky in winter it might be best to book an organized tour . Don’t worry, it won’t be as crowded as in summer!

Book your Milford Sound tour: Small group tour from Queenstown Coach, cruise & flight tour from Queenstown   Small boat cruise Cruise and kayak tour

Read next: How to pick the perfect Milford Sound tour

Ok, ok you’re right, you can drive to Glenorchy any time of the year. But this drive is even more beautiful in winter, when the mountains are covered in snow and theres a moody layer of mist above the lake. Trust me, you’ll find it hard to keep your eyes on the road!

Read Next: Your guide ot the scenic drive to Glenorcy

Lord of the Rings was filmed entirely in New Zealand and you can find a lot of the LOTR filming locations around Queenstown. Just outside town you’ll find Amon Hen, Ithilien Camp, Isengard, Lothlórien, the lands of Rohan and more iconic locations of the Middle Earths.

If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan we recommend you book guided a LOTR tour and a guide will take you to the best viewpoints and provide plenty of context and backstage stories for the ultimate experience.

Book your Middle Earth tour: Half-day LOTR tour Full day LOTR tour

Harry’s is a bit of a legend around Queenstown and a great place to spend the evenings on a winter night. The fire place will keep you warm, the pizzas fed and the beer might just help your aim! This place is popular among locals and tourists alike. Put your coins on the table to signal you’re booking the table and keep them there so others know how many more games you’re playing.

You’ve probably heard of the buffet dinner up the Skyline, and yes the views are amazing, the food is alright but the atmosphere… not very authentic. Plus it costs an eye and an arm. Now, if you do have the time and budgets, sure go ahead and splurge, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. But I very much prefer the Bazaar, and not just because the tour starts with desert. The menu here changes often to introduce new cuisines and dishes from around the world, the food is fresh and delicious and the views over the lake with the Remarkables in the back are breath taking. Check out First table, you might be able to get this gourmet indulgence for a fraction of the price.

The elusive kiwi bird is a flightless bird and a national symbol of New Zealand, but since these are nocturnal animals and they’re endangered they’re quite hard to spot in the wildlife. But lucky for you, at the Kiwi Birdlife Park in Queenstown you can observe the flightless kiwis in a nocturnal enclosure that mimics their natural environment. The park is a wildlife refuge and a conservation program that helps heal injured birds and manages breeding programs for endangered species. Here you’ll be able to spot over 20 types of native bird species, including the kiwi bird, as well as other animals such as geckos and tuataras.

Book your entrance ticket to the Kiwi Birdlife Park

There’s just something special about night skiing, something you don’t get to experience when hitting the slopes in broad daylight. On Wednesday, Friday and Saturday Coronet Peak lights up, the massive flood lights illuminating the slopes. Head up a little bit early to enjoy the sunset and make sure to stay late to grab a few drinks and enjoy the beats at the Elevate party.

Queenstown is located in Otago, a region known for the best Pinot Noir and all around town you’ll find fabulous wine estates producing some of the best wines in New Zealand. Each winery unique and every wine delicious. In summer I’d suggest you op on a bike and hit the wine trail, but in winter you’re better off joining a wine tasting tour, the kind that comes with a sober driver and a heated van.

Book your wine tasting tour

Don’t feel like sharing the slopes and waiting in line for the chair lift? Then heli skiing is for you! Hop on a helicopter, land on a mountain peak and carve your own lines down the powdery slopes for the ultimate New Zealand winter experience! This fun adventure is no joke though, you’ll need to be a pretty good skier or snowboarder and be in decent shape.

Sky diving in Queenstown is breathtaking any time of the year, but it’s hard to beat the views you get from the sky in winter. It truly is one of the better New Zealand skydives!

You’ll get snow covered mountains all around and the glimmering blue lake below them as you jump out of a plane and freefall from the sky. Wrap up well and scream out loud, enjoy!

Book your skydive jump: 12,000ft Skydive 15,000ft Skydive

Grab your rental vehicle , add some snow snow chains to the mix and hit the road. This steep and windy road will take you over the beautiful Crown Range, past Cardrona and Snow Farm, all the way to Wanaka. There will be no shortage of beautiful vistas and photo spots. The road is well maintained and plowed regularly but ccheck the forecast and road conditions before heading off. If the conditions change while you’re in Wanaka you can always return via Cromwell.

Snow farm is located in the Pisa Conservation Area just off of the Crown Range road. Here you’ll find kilometres upon kilometres of Cross country tracks, a small network of backcountry huts and the Snow Fun zone for sledding and tubing. Exploring this winter wonderland in the Pisa Range

What do you do when you have countless kilometres of snowy clearings and an abundance of wind? You go snow kiting, obviously! There are countless locations around Queenstown where you can take your kite up, but if you’re a beginner or just wanting to learn we recommend Snow Farm.

Just opposite Earnslaw park, Fear Factory takes haunted house to the next level. Wait till it’s dark outside then grab your buddies and put your big boy (or girl) pants on and get ready to scream. The awesome actors at the Fear Factory will disguise as mummies, zombies, creepy clowns and all sorts of zombies and tug at you, appear and disappear and have you walking on your toes as you make your way though the dark and creepy corridors.

Book your Fear Factory tickets

Cardrona is located about half way between Queenstown and Wanaka and offers modern facilities, wide ski fields and it might just be the best ski resort in the area. The drive is a little bit longer than getting to the Remarkables or Coronet Peak but totally worth it. And the best part?The legendary apres ski at the Cardrona hotel! Make sure to stop for a drink and a bite on your way back.

Ice Hockey is big in Queenstown and watching the Southern Stampede (the Queenston team) win at the local ice area is quite an experience. Put on something yellow and something blue and get ready to cheer.

This might just be the thing I miss most about living in Queenstown. Friday after work, meet Lexa and Kurt at Atlas, order a medium rare steak, extra gravy and truly enjoy that pint of Altitude’s Mischievous Kea, or some other amazing IPA on the guest tap. It was my end of the week ritual, but you can do it any (every?) day of the week. With 22 taps and a trippy toilet behind the fridge door, this tiny bar is bound to become your favorite too.

Here’s the thing about winter, the days are short, the temperatures are low and you just wanna spend more time inside than you would in Spring or summer. So why not escape to the movies? In Arrowtown you’ll find the cutest and quirkiest boutique cinema with miss-matched armchairs and pink chiffon curtains screening both contemporary and arthouse films and serving amazing cheese boards and wine at your seat.

Every Wednesday night from 6.30pm onwards, Fork & Tap Arrowtown puts on quite the event. Somewhere between a concert and a jam session, these Wednesday nights are a lot of fun. If you’re a musician you can join the local crew for a few songs, otherwise slowly work your way through the countless craft beers on tap, grab a bite and just have fun.

If you walked through the Queenstown gardens you might have noticed these funny looking cage like bins on a pole. That’s your target when playing frisbee golf (disc golf). The rules are similar to golf but instead of a ball and a club, you play it by throwing a frisbee. The course is fr ee to use and you can rent the frisbee at most hostels and sports stores around town and head off to the gardens for an afternoon on fun.

There is no shortage of hikes, walks and trails around Queenstown and most of them are fabulous also in winter. For a short walk and a snowball fight go up to Queenstown hill. This hike is short and easy and offers breathtaking views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. If you want something more, head up Ben Lomond for a full day hike. The views are even better, the snow much deeper and the hike is worth every drop of your sweat.

Looking for an unforgettable alpine adventure in Queenstown? Then you must try snowshoeing on the Remarkables! You’ll be led by a guide and hike through stunning areas like Jagged Edge Ridge, get off the beaten track and explore the beauty of the winter wonderland and take in some seriously incredible views.

Book your snowshoeing adventure

Calling all beer enthusiasts! Queenstown’s has a booming craft beer scene and this brewery tour will take you to some of the region’s top microbreweries and craft breweries, where you can taste a range of unique and delicious beers. Learn all about the brewing process and get insider tips, and enjoy a delectable lunch paired with handcrafted beer while soaking up the stunning views of Gibbston Valley. The tour includes convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off so you can have as many pints as you want.

Book your craft beer tour

Feeling bummed out because the weather’s putting a damper on your skydiving plans? Instead of jumping out of a plane, why not experience the thrill of indoor skydiving in their state-of-the-art wind tunnel at iFLY? It’s the perfect option for those who don’t want to brave the cold, windy, or snowy weather outside. Experience the thrill of free fall in a safe and controlled environment.

Book your indoor skydiving at iFLY

The Winter Festival in Queenstown has a long standing tradition and dates back to 1975. Today the Queenstown Winter Fest is a 10 day long event packed with competitions, championships, shows, concerts and all sorts of fun events. The festivities are deliberately fun and unusual, like the Dog Derby, Rope tug on skis and the winter plunge in the cold cold lake. Then, at night it turns into a party.

Now this one goes against all health and safety regulations in New Zealand, and we all know how seriously kiwis take H&S (or at least the massive fines associated with it). But if you want to be a bit of a rebel and you don’t mind getting kicked out of a bar (or 5) this is a fun game I used to play with my friends. What can I say, Queenstown winter tends to get long when you live there …

Hop on the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere to the top of Bob’s Peak, enjoy the views and then have some fun at the Skyline Luge. A race down the hill that’s sure great for kids and adults alike. In winter you can even opt for the night Luge when the course lights up in bright colours.

Imagine waves of pink and green lights dancing and flickering above the horizon. These, my friend are the Aurora Australis, a natural wonder caused by cosmic rays and solar winds interacting with the earth’s atmosphere only visible in the Southern Hemisphere. To catch the best view, head outside of Queenstown’s city lights to areas free from light pollution.

There are many events and celebrations all throughout winter in Queenstown and they can provide a truly unique experience. But these events can also impact the opening hours of shops, attractions, bars, and restaurants. Availability of accommodation and tours, as well as prices, might also be affected.

Below is a list of the most prominent dates you should be paying attention to when planning your winter trip to Queenstown.

King’s Birthday – 5 June

Matariki Day (Maori New Year) – June or July, date varies

School Holidays – Usually 2 weeks in early July, greatly impacts the crowds especially on ski fields.

LUMA Southern Light Project is a stunning light festival held in the iconic Queenstown Gardens at the start of June. The festival is free of charge and the gardens filled with art installations and transform into an illuminated wonderland. There are also delicious food trucks and pop-up bars scattered throughout the gardens.

Queenstown Winter Festival is the largest and most famous winter celebration in the region, this festival is packed with exciting gigs, events, competitions, mulled wine, and firework displays. The dates shift slightly each year but it generally falls in mid-June.

Winter Pride sees Queenstown celebrating the LGBTTQI+ community and offers a diverse range of free entertainment with great music and rainbow flags flying high. It usually falls towards the end of August to celebrate love, diversity, and equality.

The Peak to Peak is New Zealand’s longest-running winter multi-sport race between The Remarkables and Coronet Peak that is usually held in early September. It includes skiing or snowboarding down the mountain, bike down to Frankton Beach, kayak to Queenstown, run through central Queenstown, and finally bike from Arthur’s Point to Coronet Peak.

Snow Machine is an epic music festival that brings together an amazing lineup of musicians, spread across three stages at Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Queenstown town centre. This multi-day extravaganza of music, adventure, and fun is generally held in September.

Queenstown winter temperature and weather

Winter in New Zealand starts at the end of June and lasts till the end of September, making July, August and September the official winter months in Queenstown.

The winter temperatures in Queenstown are generally between 0 and 8 degrees Celsius. At night it can go just slightly below freezing level and on a sunny and wind-still day it can be very pleasant.

Queenstown rarely gets snow in town and when it does, the sow doesn’t last long.

Queenstown is great year round. In summer you get to enjoy the lake and beautiful weather while in winter you can do winter sports. Most of the summer activities are possible year round, also in winter.

Make sure to pack some good quality waterproof boots, warm socks, a (preferably long) winter coat, a compact umbrella, gloves, scarf and hat, warm layers, but also your beach towel and swimwear to enjoy the hot pools. If you’d like to hit the slopes you’ll obviously also need your snow gear.

There is an international airport in Queenstown and most people will fly in here. Landing in Queenstown is a treat of its own so make sure to secure a window seat as the views over Dart Valley, Wakatipu Lake and Aspiring National Park will make your jaw drop.

To get into town, book this airport shuttle to your accommodation. Or better yet, hire a rental car so you’ll have more flexibility and you’ll be able to do some of the day trips and scenic drives in the area.

Queenstown city center is fairly small and mostly closed to traffic so walking is your best bet. Most tours and activities will pick you up in town or at your accommodation so you can get by without a car if you’re staying central.

If you want to explore Wanaka, Glenorchy, Arrowtown or the wider surroundings then renting a car is your best bet. You’ll also need wheels if you’re staying in Fernhill, Frankton or further out of town.

Often I struggle to suggest enough good restaurant options but with Queenstown I’m struggling to narrow it down to just a few. The culinary options in Queenstown are plentiful, diverse and so incredibly good! These are some of my favorites (but there are so many more great restaurants!)

Botswana Butchery – For all you meat lovers, Botswana Butchery is a must! Choose from a selection of fine cuts with the perfect marble score and enjoy the impeccable service.

Bazaar – a marketplace foodie experience with no menu. The journey through the food market starts with desert and ends with the best views over Wakatipu lake and the Remarkables. An experience not to be missed.

Tanoshi Cow Lane – One of the best Japanese restaurants I’ve ever been to. The sashimi here is something else.

Atlas Cafe – My go-to place for Friday after work beer and steak. I’ve lost count of the hours spent in this little hole in the wall. And if you can’t find the loo, try the fridge door.

The World Bar & Restaurant – Taking pub food to a whole new level and home to teapot cocktails. The World Bar is also a fun place for a few drinks at night.

Taco Medic – Best option for a quick bite on the go. But there is nothing quick about the way the meat was cooked! Braised for 6-12 hours, these tacos will melt in your mouth!

Vudu Cafe – My favorite brunch spot. Try the eggs benny or pancakes and drink all the coffee you can.

The best time to visit Queenstown is in late spring or summer when the days are longer, the weather is warm and the outdoors can become your playground.

Queenstown is also great in winter, especially if you’d like to ski or snowboard in New Zealand.

But in all honesty, any time is a good time to visit Queenstown! This town is lively and filled with amazing things to do no matter the season. Just keep in mind that the peak of summer and peak of winter can get quite busy and pricey.

As many as you can! I came to Queenstown for a couple of days but ended up staying for several years. And I’m not the only one who did so.

Three days is the minimum you’ll need to experience Queenstown and its immediate surroundings. Queenstown is also a great hub to explore the lower part of the South Island and five days or more will allow you to do some day trips and explore the wider area.

If you’re visiting QT for the winter sports then a week is pretty standard, but if you love the slopes you might want to stay longer.

Queenstown is a treat to visit and here is so much to do and see here! I’m sure you’ll love this little corner of New Zealand, just as you will love the rest of the country.

To help you plan your NZ trip I’ve prepared a series of  New Zealand travel guides  and you can find out more about the Coromandel Peninsula in the articles below.

Queenstown & Glenorchy : Queenstown itinerary – 3, 5 & 7 days Where to stay in Queenstown – best accommodation Queenstown to Glenorchy scenic drive Best things to do in Glenorchy

NZ in winter: Traveling New Zealand in winter Rotorua in winter Best ski fields in NZ

Milford sound: Best Milford Sound tours Best things to do in Milford Sound Te Anau to Milford Sound scenic drive

NZ South Island: 2 & 3 week South Island itineraries Christchurch to Queenstown road trip

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and I’ve learned that the hard way!

Now I always get insured before leaving and  Travel Insurance  Masters is my go-to platform to find the best insurance options for a specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria. This way you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations  here.

Zi @Craving Adventure

Zi is the Founder and Editor in Chief behind Craving Adventure.

Fabulous list. You remind me just how much I miss the South Island, and it actually hasn’t been that long since I was there. Some new ideas too, like a steak at Atlas, that will go on our list for next time.

Great post! Sadly, New Zealand is such a long trip from Europe, I wonder if I will ever make it there, getting only 2 weeks of leave in one go. Love the photographs and the activities

Wow it looks like there are a lot of fantastic things to do here during the wintertime! I don’t know much about the area so this was really interesting to read!

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Queenstown Tours & Trips

34 queenstown tour packages with 224 reviews.

Explorer Family Christmas & New Year +1

3 Day Doubtful Sound Adventure Ex Queenstown

"Amazing!! 1st time in NZ...loved it. Marissa, tour operator! She was excellent in her communications w/ me!" Chris, traveled in August 2023

Active Explorer Sightseeing Christmas & New Year +2

Southern Voyager

"Amazing experience with everyone in the group. The tour was super fun!" Vera, traveled in August 2023

Bicycle Active Explorer Christmas & New Year +1

Cycle New Zealand: Otago Rail Trail

Active Explorer Sightseeing In-depth Cultural +2

South Island Lick Tour

"Definitely take it. You will find nothing better if you look for her!" KathleenHennessy, traveled in January 2020

• €75 deposit on some dates

Hiking & Trekking Christmas & New Year +1

Walk New Zealand's Fiordland National Park

Hiking & Trekking Explorer Christmas & New Year +1

Great Walks of New Zealand

Active Family Self Drive Explorer Christmas & New Year +2

Queenstown & Wanaka Short Break - 4 Day Self Drive Tour

3 Day Aoraki Mt. Cook Explorer

"Excellent trip overall. The next night our buffet dinner was included but there was a mix up and the hotel tried to charge us." Penny, traveled in December 2022

West Coast Explorer (with TranzAlpine) - 3 Day Self Drive Tour

"Excellent tour and especially enjoyed the guided tour." Audrey, traveled in February 2024

Explorer Camping

Rhythm & Alps Festival (4 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates

Explorer Bicycle Kayak & Canoe Hiking & Trekking +2

Milford and Fiordland Hike Bike and Kayak

"amazing week of physical challenges and magnificent natural beauty"

Explorer Family Historical

New Zealand Panorama (7 Days)

South Island Essence Coach Tour

• Book With Flexibility View tour Download Brochure

Explorer Ski, Snowboard & Snow +1

Ski New Zealand (7 Days)

Lake Dunstan and Otago Central Rail Trail

"Fantastic cycling holiday - blessed with great cycling weather." Naomi, traveled in December 2019

What people love about Queenstown Tours

The overnight cruise was great. However, we were disappointed that one of the other tours was canceled. While we were refunded for the cancellation that was only from RealNZ. It still seemed like there was money paid from the overall package through Tour Radar that was not refunded.

One of the best experiences of my life, made possible by the incredibly talented and charismatic Daisy! This was well organized with all of the logistics taken care of for you while having the freedom to pick what activities interest you most. The group setting was fun and a nice bonding expensive of people from around the world. Some of the hostel stays were great, some were just ok, but all were clean and had the essentials.

This tour is excellent for anyone wanting a quick trip to see all the major spots in the South Island. Heaps of amazing activities that you can do. Highly recommend going for walks at each spot to find all the hidden gems. :)

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Queenstown, New Zealand Unique Experiences & Destinations

Get off the beaten track with our small group tours.

Travel in luxury and style on our incredible half-day expeditions through the unique culture and landscapes that have shaped New Zealand’s identity. We have a range of interesting and immersive local trips. 

Queenstown Expeditions is a ‘kiwi’ owned and operated company. Discover Glenorchy, Arrowtown and Queenstown’s hidden gems with us. 

Queenstown Expeditions offers day and half-day tours with a range of higah quality options. Our fleet of luxury vehicles range from Mercedes Sprinters with on board WIFI, to large luxurious custom built 4×4 go anywhere coaches . Our tours offer a unique storytelling system operated through GPS allowing you to travel back in time to imagine the fascinatng history. We also provide custom bespoke tours. This is complemented by our VIP Drop & Hop Wine Tour through Queenstown’s Gibbston Wine area or perhaps visit some of the wineries with our local guides. 

Welcome to Queenstown Expeditions where the journey is as important as the destination . . .

Our Unique Luxury Tours

Travel off the beaten track with Queenstown Expeditions luxury tours. Our amazing tours include local knowledgeable guides who will give you a unique insight into the beautiful region of New Zealand and look after you all the way. 

We are story-finders and storytellers. 

Old Gold Trail & Gold Panning Half Day Tour

8:00am – 12:00pm

Paradise Valley & Glenorchy Half Day Tour

Glenorchy kiwi special tour, queenstown vip wine drop & hop, check out our full video below.

Small group sightseeing tours, Queenstown & Arrowtown

DON'T LEAVE TOWN UNTIL YOU SEE THE HIGHLIGHTS

Enjoy a leisurely, informative and fun tour of the best landmarks & activities in Queenstown. See brave bungy jumpers leaping into the void, taste fine wines a hop skip and a jump away from a famous Lord Of The Rings film location and explore the shops and cafes in charming Arrowtown.

Queenstown Highlights

MORNING TOUR

Arrowtown, Bungy Bridge, winery, Lord of the Rings...

FULL DAY TOUR

One of the best value sightseeing tours in town

Arrowtown, Bungy Jump, winery, Lord of the Rings, Shotover Jet...

TOUR EN ESPAÑOL

Arrowtown, Puente bungy, Viñedo, Señor de los Anillos...

Tour Itinerary Morning Tour:

• Queenstown Hill View point: Get the camera ready for stunning views of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables and Bob’s Peak.
• AJ Hackett Bungy Bridge: Experience the thrill of bungy either as a watcher or maybe even a jumper. (To jump see Combo Option ).
• Gibbston Valley Winery: Taste a selection of locally produced fine wines, including the celebrated Pinot Noir at this award winning winery.
• Lord of the Rings Film Location: Keep that camera handy. The famous Pillars of the Kings scene was shot here and the views are spectacular.
• Arrowtown: There’s gold in them hills! Rich in colonial architecture but with modern boutiques and quirky shopping Arrowtown is a real treat. Enjoy the Lakes District Museum or Chinese Miners’ Settlement.

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• December 2024 Tours

Tours and Trip Packages to Queenstown in December 2024

Traveling to Queenstown in December 2024? We offer 30+ tours, trips and vacation packages to Queenstown in December 2024. Our Queenstown in December 2024 tour packages and trips have 40+ customer reviews. All the Queenstown December 2024 tour packages and trips are carried out by hand-picked, qualified local and international Queenstown tour operators.

Showing  33 Trips in Queenstown  with 43 Reviews

Self-guided Grand Tour (Customizable)

New Zealand Panorama

Amplified NZ Tour

Journeys: Discover New Zealand

• Brochure Price: USD 5,149
• Special Deal 20% OFF - USD 1,030
• Total Price from: USD 4,119

New Zealand West Coast Adventure

Active New Zealand: Wanaka

Queenstown Southern Loop

14 Day Lord of the Rings - we can customise just for you

Ultimate New Zealand

• Brochure Price: USD 3,875
• Special Deal 10% OFF - USD 387
• Total Price from: USD 3,488

Premium New Zealand South Island

Cycle New Zealand: Otago Rail Trail

Premium New Zealand Encompassed

Highlights of Australia and New Zealand

• Brochure Price: USD 14,105
• Special Deal 12% OFF - USD 1,669
• Total Price from: USD 12,436

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Queenstown December 2024 Tour Reviews

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Experience Queenstown, the Home of Adventure. Make booking your holiday a breeze with these great travel packages from our local businesses.

Whether you're into skiing, biking, hiking, golf, food, wine, relaxation or seeking adrenaline thrills, Queenstown offers world-class experiences for all tastes and tempos, no matter your type of adventure.

Explore this selection of amazing package deals from our local businesses that will truly bring your Queenstown experience to life.

Book your Queenstown adventure today.

Queenstown Tours & Holidays

Say 'Kia Ora' to the world's adventure capital

Nestled on New Zealand’s South Island , Queenstown is not only a breathtaking city (no, literally, it might take your breath away) but also a heart-stopping place full of adventure. Characterised by its mountain ranges, sweeping lakes and adrenaline-pumping activities, this resort town will provide you with a ton of jaw-dropping photos and even more unforgettable moments. From shooting along the Shotover River at 85kph and visiting the charming region of Arrowtown, to relaxing with a glass of champagne in an onsen pool, our tours and holidays in Queenstown (or 'Tahuna' in Maori) are nothing short of remarkable. Whether you've just finished a premium South Island Tour of New Zealand or you're waiting to begin a cycle New Zealand tour , make sure you check this town off your bucket list.

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Queenstown travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

How to get to Queenstown

If you're going to Queenstown from a different part of New Zealand, the quickest and easiest way to do it would be by taking a flight into Queenstown airport with daily flights from destinations such as Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

Driving to Queenstown is also an option, as all major highways are clearly marked with directions and offer easy transportation into the town with a scenic view along the way.

How do I get around Queenstown?

Getting around Queenstown is relatively easy, with many different transportation options.

If you travel to Queenstown by car or want to hire one on your arrival, then getting around Queenstown is quick and efficient, with generous parking available in the town centre.

Queenstown also has an excellent public transportation system. The local bus network has routes to all major suburbs within the town.

What's the weather like in Queenstown?

The weather in Queenstown is very different across the four seasons, from cold and snowy winters to long and hot summers.

Some days in Queenstown can also feel like a mixture of a few seasons in one!

Sitting against the Southern Alps, summers in Queenstown can see temperatures between 20°C and 30°C, with winters dropping to 5°C.

Queenstown sees visitors at any time of the year despite these temperatures, with lots to do across the four seasons.

What to pack for Queenstown

What to pack for Queenstown depends on what time of the year you're going in. Winters can be quite cold; rainproof jackets, insulated clothing, and thick jumpers and coats are recommended, as well as gloves, socks, and beanies.

Summer temperatures can be hot, so dresses, t-shirts, and shorts are acceptable. Remember to pack sunscreen and put it on before you go outside to protect yourself against the sun's UV rays.

It's also a good idea to bring sensible hiking boots or walking shoes as there are many trails in Queenstown you might want to explore.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.