Outdoor Activities in Queenstown

Routeburn Guided Hike Experience - Full Day (opens in a new tab)

37 10 h

Experience one of New Zealand's celebrated Great Walks on a full-day guided adventure along the Routeburn Track. Travel from Queenstown alongside Lake Whakatipu and through Glenorchy before entering Mount Aspiring National Park and the UNESCO World Heritage listed Te Wāhipounamu wilderness. Cross the Routeburn swing bridge into ancient native beech forest and follow the beautiful Routeburn River past waterfalls, gorges and mountain valleys as the track climbs towards Routeburn Flats before the steeper ascent up towards Routeburn Falls. Your experienced local guide shares knowledge of native plants, birds, geology and history along the way. With approx 6-7 hours of hiking within the 10-hour day, this is an incredible option for active travellers wanting to experience the Routeburn without an overnight stay.

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park Small-Group Tour from Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

352 12 h

Experience Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park in a small group with a knowledgeable local guide, combining spectacular alpine scenery with the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Travel beyond the main tourist route through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge and Lindis Pass, with scenic stops at Lake Pukaki and opportunities to discover local favourites along the way. Once at Mt Cook, enjoy free time to choose how you experience this remarkable landscape, from walking the famous Hooker Valley Track to simply taking in the views of New Zealand's highest peak. With personalised guiding, plenty of photo opportunities, and a relaxed pace, this tour offers more than just a transfer—it’s a memorable journey into the heart of the Southern Alps.

Queenstown: Skippers Canyon Goldrush Small Group Tour (opens in a new tab)

42 3 h – 4 h

The Goldrush Tour was created with one goal: to be Queenstown's most detailed historical experience Travelling through Skippers Canyon with up to 11 guests, professionally produced documentary-style stories bring the history to life through a premium onboard audio system. Available in 8 languages, these stories deliver a level of historical detail impossible to achieve through traditional live commentary with multiple audio channels available, including music and dedicated children's storytelling At the many photo stops, your local host shares fascinating historical photographs, answers questions, and provides additional insight into the landscape and its remarkable past. The tour concludes at a historic pub dating back more than 160 years, where you can enjoy a complimentary drink before returning to Queenstown Lasting up to 4 hours, The Goldrush Tour offers an immersive way to discover the stories, scenery, and heritage that shaped one of New Zealand's most remarkable landscapes

Cardrona Valley Mountain Quad Experience from Wanaka (opens in a new tab)

247 2 h

The Cardrona presents New Zealand's best guided quad bike tour. This two hour mountain experience takes you to the top of the mountains of the Cardrona Valley, Wanaka, navigating high country farm and alpine trails on very capable and easy to operate 450cc 4WD Yamaha quad bikes. River crossings, historical gold mining sites from the 1860s gold rush and breathtaking exclusive 360 degree panoramic views await, so be sure to bring a camera! All abilities welcome. See more details at www.thecardrona.co.nz/quads

Jet Sprint Boating, Ultimate Off-Roading & Clay Target Shooting (opens in a new tab)

25 1 h 30 min

Our custom-built 4-wheel-drive, 4-wheel-steer off-roaders are one-of-a-kind, all-terrain vehicles that will go anywhere. Our off-roader ride is one of Queenstown’s most unique adventure experiences and is definitely not for the fainthearted. Learn how it feels to fly on the water. Literally. Experience next-level Jet Boating in Queenstown with a ride on our Jet Sprint Boat. These custom-built 4-seater Jet Sprint Boats are a world first and guaranteed to make a screamer out of everyone they have the pleasure of meeting. Take aim and fire! At the Oxbow Gun Club, you can enjoy a spot of healthy competition shooting clays out of the sky against New Zealand’s most magnificent backdrops. Enjoy one-on-one guidance in Clay Target Shooting from an experienced instructor ensuring few clays get away alive.

Glenorchy Lord of the Rings 4WD Tour - Half Day (opens in a new tab)

258 4 h 15 min

Travel in 4WD from Queenstown along the shores of Lake Whakatipu on one of New Zealand's most spectacular scenic drives, surrounded by the Southern Alps, glacial valleys, braided rivers and native beech forest. Visit 12 Mile Delta then enjoy a 15 minute scenic walk. Journey through Glenorchy and Paradise to discover filming locations associated with Isengard, Fangorn Forest, Ithilien Camp and the Battle of Amon Hen. Travel towards Paradise with views of Mt Earnslaw, and venture into the Forest of Lothlórien. Dress up in replica cloaks, pose with movie props and let your local guide connect the landscapes to the movies with film imagery, behind-the-scenes stories and filming insights. The area has also appeared in The Hobbit, The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian and X-Men Origins: Wolverine, making this a fantastic experience for movie fans and scenery lovers alike.

Riversurfing (opens in a new tab)

64 4 h 30 min

We're the pioneers of Riversurfing operating since 1989. Also known as riverboarding or hydrospeed, similar to rafting but next level! We take you in the water, through Grade 3 rapids, on bodyboards. Why sit on a boat when you can get in amongst it and have some serious fun?

Milford Sound VIP Nature Cruise Small Group ex Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

12 h 30 min

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound with an exclusive small-group experience that includes transport and a nature cruise. Departing from Queenstown or Te Anau, travel in a customized glass-roof Mercedes Sprinter designed for just 12 guests, ensuring comfort and panoramic views. Upon arrival, enjoy priority boarding for your Nature Cruise, featuring the Captain's VIP Lounge where you can savor stunning views of Stirling Falls and the surrounding cliffs. With all-inclusive food and beverages served onboard, you can relax and enjoy the company of NZ fur seals, and other wildlife throughout your journey. - Small-group tour with a maximum of 12 guests for personalized experiences - Travel in a luxury glass-roof Mercedes Sprinter with onboard amenities - Priority boarding and access to the Captain's VIP Lounge during the cruise - All-inclusive food and drinks served onboard, including beer and wine

Golden Hills Horse Trek in Central Otago (opens in a new tab)

56 2 h

Two hour Top Hill Trek This two-hour trek takes you through the breathtaking hills of Central Otago’s backcountry, where you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Lake Dunstan and the Mt Pisa range. This popular trek is perfect for all riding abilities and offers an unforgettable journey through picturesque fruit orchards and rolling hills.

Half Day Queenstown to Glenorchy Private Photography Tour (opens in a new tab)

2 5 h

Discover New Zealand’s South Island through your lens on a private half-day photography tour from Queenstown to Glenorchy. Led by a local landscape photographer, this intimate experience takes you to waterfalls, forests, and iconic lake vistas — with expert guidance tailored to your style and the season’s light. Perfect for photographers of all levels. This is your chance to photograph one of the most spectacular and majestic places on Earth; Queenstown and the Southern Lakes. This private half-day photo tour for you or your private group will take you to the iconic locations you see in brochures as well as special spots only a local would know, to explore and capture the beauty and splendour for yourself. This tour is designed for photography enthusiasts. Includes bonus take home guides on using your camera and how to compose great photos.

Free cancellation

Lake Dunstan E Bike Trail Adventure (opens in a new tab)

4 3 h – 6 h

For the Lake Dunstan Experience we will meet you at our Clyde Depot in it's historic heart. We will fully brief you on your world class trail e-bike. From here we will transport you to the Historic Precinct of Old Cromwell where you will start your adventure and ride the amazing Lake Dunstan Trail back to Clyde. Ride across one of New Zealand’s most spectacular trails - you'll see engineering marvels, cling to the edge of dramatic cliffs, and discover stories carved into the schist of Central Otago. What sets us apart is our local experience, premium e-bike fleet, and seamless service. You'll also have access to your personal itinerary on the CCT app. Enough talk, let's ride!

Free cancellation

Milford Sound Flight and Cruise ex Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

217 5 h

Air Milford hosts you on an intimate experience, combining two incredible scenic flights into Fiordland National Park with a Nature Cruise through the fiord itself. Enjoy reserved seating for Air Milford passengers aboard the cruise and commentary from the passionate skippers while exploring the nooks and crannies along the edge of the fiord, nudging into sheer rock faces to examine flora and fauna in detail. Enjoy return flights to Milford Sound so you can experience its beauty from all angles.

Queenstown: Private Off-Road 4WD Tour With Local Guide (opens in a new tab)

41 4 h

Go private – your vehicle, your guide, your route. Explore iconic viewpoints and rugged backcountry tracks in a private 4x4, with an expert guide sharing the stories behind the landscape. We tailor the day to your interests. Allow 4 hours. Pricing is per vehicle: one LandCruiser Troop Carrier (up to 6 guests) or Toyota Prado (up to 4 guests). Choose your tour option (we fine-tune on the day): • Whakatipu Highlights – best all-rounder with big scenery and top viewpoints; optional Lord of the Rings stops. • Skippers Canyon – legendary gold-rush backcountry with dramatic canyon views, including Skippers Bridge and Shotover River viewpoints. • Māori Mythology & Local Legends – story-led viewpoints with real local meaning – mythology, whakapapa, and Whakatipu history. • Glenorchy & Paradise – cinematic lake road and mountain backdrops (least off-road). Return transfers around Queenstown and complimentary photos included. Runs year-round. 100% Kiwi owned and operated since 1989.

Free cancellation

Fear Factory Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

252 30 min

Queenstown is now the home of New Zealand's scariest Haunted House! Fear Factory Queenstown offers you a real life horror experience. Challenge yourself and your friends to walk the dark hallways of Queenstown's newest adrenalin-pumping experience. You walk through our haunted hallways at your own speed, following a trail of red lights, but one thing you will learn very quickly as well as a maze we are a live action haunted house. The tour is best enjoyed with friends, although a few brave souls have ventured in alone and lived to tell the tale! Your fears are brought to life within the dark passageways - so if you choose to 'Chicken-Out' you will be added to Fear Factory Queenstown's growing Chicken List. Fear factory Queenstown is geared towards adults, but children will survive with a parent or guardian (under 15's must always be accompanied by an adult). The experience lasts approximately 30 minutes. Are you brave enough? Fun and scares await you!

Queenstown: The Grand Circle Scenic Helicopter Flight (opens in a new tab)

39 35 min

Explore the stunning diversity of Queenstown. From the majestic canyons of the Shotover River to the ski slopes of Coronet Peak, the delightful rural retreats, and the charming villages that Queenstown is known for. This aerial adventure promises an unforgettable experience. Take advantage of this thrilling opportunity to see Queenstown from a new perspective.

Free cancellation

Glenorchy Private Day Trip from Queenstown: TravelnGo (opens in a new tab)

27 6 h

Escape the ordinary with a fully private, customizable 6-hour day trip from Queenstown to Glenorchy. Experience some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes — from tranquil lakes and hidden bays to iconic viewpoints and peaceful alpine trails. Whether you want to capture perfect photos, enjoy short walks, relax at cozy cafés, or simply soak in nature, this trip is tailored entirely to you. - A 6 hour private tour tailored to your interests and schedule - Explore local gems like Moke Lake, Bennetts Bluff & Glenorchy’s red shed - Optional walks at Bob’s Cove or Glenorchy Lagoon - Comfortable travel in modern, clean vehicles - Hosted by friendly local guides who know the area inside out - Flexibility to add or skip stops — your trip, your way - Perfect for couples, friends, families, and photographers Unforgettable views, total freedom, and personal touches — this is how Glenorchy is meant to be explored.

Free cancellation

Milford Sound Scenic Fly & Explore Day Trip from Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

163 4 h 30 min

A chance to do Milford differently and capture a different perspective away from the crowds. You will have the opportunity to explore the shores for approximately 2 hours, with our three short walks, taking you to unmissable vantage points and through awesome wilderness.

Tandem Hang Gliding (opens in a new tab)

21 1 h 30 min

Soar through the skies and feel what it's like to fly like a bird with two wings on your back! Experience the exhilaration of flight as you take-off from our launch site amidst the stunning landscapes of Queenstown. Our professional and certified hang gliding pilots will guide you through every step, ensuring your safety and providing expert instruction. Once securely strapped into the lightweight and and aerodynamic hang glider, you will feel the thrill of gliding through the air, witnessing breathtaking panoramic views of Queenstown's majestic mountains, lush forests, and pristine lakes. This unforgettable adventure offers an intimate connection with nature and an unparalleled sense of freedom. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience or a nature lover wanting to witness the beauty of Queenstown from a unique perspective, our hang gliding trip is perfect for you.

Skippers Canyon 4WD Adventure Tour - Half Day from Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

220 4 h

Discover one of Queenstown's most spectacular backcountry landscapes on a guided 4WD adventure into Skippers Canyon, travelling the legendary road hand-cut into the cliffs during the Otago gold rush. Travel towards Coronet Peak with panoramic views across the Whakatipu Basin before entering the canyon. Your experienced guide navigates the narrow, cliff-hugging Skippers Road, stopping at historic gold-mining sites and spectacular viewpoints including Lighthouse Rock and Maori Point. Hear stories of the miners, settlers and engineering feats that shaped this remote landscape and take in views towards the historic Skippers Suspension Bridge. On the return journey, try your hand at traditional gold panning, a fitting experience in an area where the Shotover River was once renowned for its rich gold deposits.

Milford Sound and Big Five Glaciers Scenic Flight (opens in a new tab)

62 1 h

The only scenic flight company ex. Queenstown to showcase some of Mt Aspiring & Fiordland National Parks largest Glaciers. These include the Rob Roy, Bonar, Jura, Volta, Dart, Olivine, and Donne Glaciers among many others and of course, Milford Sound itself. Each tour with Air Milford is guaranteed to see at least five major glaciers.

Free cancellation