Outdoor Activities in Queenstown

Mustang V8 U-Drive - Highlands Motorsport and Tourism Park (opens in a new tab)

20 30 min

A world-class tourism destination just 45 minutes from Queenstown Airport, Highlands Motorsport and Tourism Park is home to a range of exceptional experiences which are exciting for the whole family. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be looked after by their friendly team – treating you to some authentic kiwi hospitality! Voted the #1 Thing to Do in Cromwell by TripAdvisor, Highlands – Experience the Exceptional is conveniently located along SH 6 in Cromwell in beautiful Central Otago. It’s a must do when you’re exploring the region – ideal for day trips because Highlands really does offer something fun and extraordinary for everyone. So whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, in a group, or with family, Highlands is an NZ must-do for the ride of your lives.

Free cancellation

Private Half Day Photography Tour of Queenstown | Skippers | Glenorchy (opens in a new tab)

4 4 h – 5 h

• This private photography tour provides a flexible itinerary & starting times. • You can choose an astrophotography tour option between February & November. • Your guide/photographer carries public liability insurance, holds a first aid certificate and has a Passenger Service license. All of this provides confidence and peace of mind to the clients that this local business offers only the high quality, safe and enjoyable experiences.

Free cancellation

Macetown 4WD Adventure Tour - Full Day from Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

68 9 h

Follow in the footsteps of 1860s gold miners on an epic full-day 4WD journey from Queenstown to Arrowtown. Visit the Lakes District Museum then travel to the remote settlement of Macetown. Follow the historic miners' wagon trail alongside the Arrow River, crossing the river approx 25 times in each direction as your guide takes you deep into Queenstown's rugged backcountry. Explore the remains of this once-bustling goldfield settlement before setting out on a guided 90-minute return walk to the Homeward Bound Battery, an impressive four-storey relic of Macetown's mining past. The rugged walk includes creek crossings and sections of unformed track, adding to the sense of adventure. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by mountain scenery and try your hand at gold panning in the Arrow River. This is a true backcountry expedition combining 4WD adventure, history, hiking and spectacular scenery.

Queenstown Memories Helicopter Flight (opens in a new tab)

36 30 min

Includes: 1 Alpine Lift from our hangar at Queenstown Airport, fly up to the Remarkables Mountain range, where the helicopter will land and shutdown, so you can experience the complete serenity of the area.  Experience the view and snap the ultimate photograph, one mile high. Views over the mountain vista, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding Wakatipu basin.

Southern South Island Highlights 5-Day Small-Group Tour (opens in a new tab)

1 5 days

Explore the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife of New Zealand's Deep South on a 5 day journey from Queenstown. This tour features a scenic ride on the historic Taieri Gorge Train, wildlife encounters on Stewart Island, and a cruise through the breathtaking Milford Sound, complete with lunch. Enjoy the dramatic cliffs and waterfalls of the Catlins Coast, stay in premium accommodations, and travel in comfort with small group luxury transport. Experience the best of New Zealand without the planning hassles, guided by passionate locals. - 5day loop tour from Queenstown, visiting Dunedin, Invercargill, and Milford Sound - Includes scenic Taieri Gorge Train ride and guided Ulva Island, Village & the Bay tours - All transportation and entrance fees covered, with hotel pick-up and drop-off - Relax in luxury accommodations and small-group settings for personalized experiences

Lord of the Rings and Glacier Helicopter Tour (opens in a new tab)

47 1 h 10 min

See the land where The Lord of the Rings trilogy were filmed. After a complimentary hotel pickup, you will arrive and meet your helicopter pilot. You will fly along the Shotover River, over the mountain range from the opening scene of The Two Towers on the way to landing on a glacier alongside the Misty Mountains and get a sense of what it might be like to cross The Redhorn Pass. You will head across to Glenorchy via the Dart Valley and Mt Earnslaw to see the natural features you may better recognize as Isengard, Amon Hen and Lothlorien. This 70 min excursion will conclude with a drive back to your hotel in Queenstown.

Franz Josef Glacier Helihike ex Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

38 7 h

True South Flights is the only fixed wing operator to offer the Franz Josef Heli Hike from Queenstown as a day trip. The Franz Josef Glacier is the fastest moving commercially guided glacier in the world, meaning the ice formations are constantly changing. The flight path you take to Franz Josef crosses over the Southern Alps, home to some of the most spectacular scenery, only visible by flight.

25 Minute Remarkables Helicopter Flight with Sunset Landing (opens in a new tab)

9 1 h

Experience the best view in town. Land on the Remarkables spur, overlooking Queenstown at sunset! This flight includes a complimentary drink of choice which you can enjoy during your landing whilst watching the sunset over Queenstown Drink options: bubbles, beer, whisky or there are non-alcoholic options available

Free cancellation

Luxury Milford Sound Coach and Scenic Cruise (opens in a new tab)

305 12 h

Travel with a proudly family-owned and operated company on this full-day Milford Sound experience from Queenstown. Enjoy maximum space and comfort aboard our luxury coach, designed for a relaxed and premium journey through Fiordland National Park. Sit back, stretch out, and take in the spectacular alpine scenery as your knowledgeable local driver shares stories and insights about the region. On arrival in Milford Sound, step aboard your nature cruise and experience towering peaks, cascading waterfalls and resident wildlife from the water. After your cruise, relax on the return journey to Queenstown — with unforgettable views every step of the way. The most comfortable and seamless way to experience Milford Sound in a single day.

Queenstown to Christchurch via West Coast 2-Day Small-Group Tour (opens in a new tab)

11 2 days

This two day small group adventure showcases the dramatic contrasts of the South Island, from the rugged rainforests and glaciers of the West Coast to the vast open spaces of the Canterbury Plains. Travelling from Queenstown to Christchurch with plenty of scenic stops, stories and memorable experiences, this journey captures the true spirit of Aotearoa. With friendly guides, comfortable transport and time to explore at your own pace, it is the perfect way to discover the heart of the South Island in one unforgettable trip.

Full Day Lord of the Rings 4WD Tour from Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

90 9 h

Travel by 4WD from Queenstown along Lake Whakatipu, surrounded by the Southern Alps, glacial valleys and native beech forest. Visit 12 Mile Delta for a short scenic walk, then explore Glenorchy and Paradise, discovering filming locations for Isengard, Fangorn Forest, Ithilien Camp and the Battle of Amon Hen. Enjoy Mt Earnslaw views, venture into Lothlórien Forest, stop for morning tea and pose with replica cloaks and movie props. After a lunch break in Queenstown, view the Misty Mountains (The Remarkables) and Deer Park Heights. Continue to Kawarau Gorge, location of the Pillars of the Kings, then Arrowtown and Gladden Fields. Head off-road beside the Arrow River, crossing towards the Ford of Bruinen. Enjoy afternoon tea and gold panning before travelling via Coronet Peak along Skippers Canyon Road towards Lighthouse Rock for panoramic views. Your guide shares filming insights and behind-the-scenes stories throughout. For devoted Middle-earth fans, this is The One.

Milford Sound Scenic Flight with Landing from Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

28 5 h

Don’t miss out on a spectacular scenic flight with Air Milford to Milford Sound and back. This tour is perfect for those who have already done a cruise in Milford Sound and want to experience the spectacular region from the air and land. This 4.5-hour trip includes a landing in Milford Sound with up to 2 hours on the ground to take a self-guided walk along the shore line, soak up the surroundings, take pictures or have delicious coffee and cake at the cafe (at own expense) before your return scenic flight to Queenstown.

Altitude Golf by Helicopter from Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

23 1 h 30 min

Meet your pilot who will fly you up to our Over The Top exclusive Golf course 4000ft above Queenstown, with 180-degree views overlooking the magnificent Wakatipu Basin Enjoy our Par 3 course, attempt the highest hole in one and when you are finished putting on the green, the helicopter will relocate to pick you up and fly you back to our heli base. Return transportation into Queenstown is included. Food and Beverage are available to pre purchase - ask our crew for options

Lake Dunstan Cycleway Bike Rental With Return Luxury Shuttle (opens in a new tab)

168 5 h

This trail travels alongside Lake Dunstan on the opposite side of the lake to the road that travels between Cromwell and Clyde. The engineering involved to create this trail is stunning with clip-ons attached to the rockface in places, the Hugo Suspension Bridge plus a very good trail surface throughout the ride. The views and scenery on this ride are fantastic and you can fully understand the history of the area - from the goldrush to the building of NZ's largest dam - by reading the information boards along the way.

Helicopter Tour with Alpine Snow Landing from Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

48 1 h

On this unique experience, fly high through alpine scenery to a carpet of snow! Lift off from base and fly to your pilot’s favourite, of the many breathtaking mountains in the southern lakes region, land among the snow and take in the scenery, build a snow man,sledge down the mountain, have a snowball fight or take your picture on top of the world. Re-board your helicopter after enjoying your winter-wonderland, fly over the stunning alpine scenery and back to the base.

Fiordland Finest Helicopter Flight from Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

2 2 h 30 min

Beat the crowds with our signature flight that includes Milford Sound, Lake Quill, Mt Tutoko, Skippers Canyon and our exclusive landing location, the Earnslaw Burn.

Free cancellation

Lake Tekapo Private Day Trip from Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

15 11 h

Escape the crowds with a fully private, customizable 12-hour day trip from Queenstown to the turquoise wonder of Lake Tekapo. Travel through spectacular alpine landscapes, charming towns, and shimmering lakes — with the freedom to stop anywhere along the way. - 12-hour private tour shaped around your interests and pace - Travel via Wanaka or Cromwell (Your Journey, Your Way!) - Visit Lindis Pass, Omarama, Twizel, Lake Pukaki, and the famous Church of the Good Shepherd - Enjoy fresh salmon at Lake Pukaki and seasonal lupin blooms (late spring/early summer) - Optional stop at the unique Clay Cliffs near Omarama - Flexible itinerary — add photo stops, short walks, or local food breaks anytime - Comfortable, modern vehicles with your own friendly local driver-guide - Perfect for couples, families, small groups, or solo adventurers Breathtaking scenery, iconic landmarks, and total flexibility — this is the ultimate way to experience Lake Tekapo and the Mackenzie region in a single day.

Free cancellation

Mt Aspiring Full Day Canyon ex Queenstown or Wanaka (opens in a new tab)

15 9 h

- Rated ★★★★★ by 1000+ thrill-seekers - Small groups sizes of up to 5 persons maximum - No experience required - Enjoy an array of thrilling activities - Climb, jump, abseil, swim, slide and explore - All equipment included - Picnic style lunch included - Queenstown and Wanaka transfers included

Scenic Helicopter Flight, Mountain Landing & Wine Tour Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

3 7 h

Fly to the vines with Altitude Tours on a Helicopter Wine Tour. Begin your day being picked up from your Queenstown accommodation before taking a scenic helicopter flight over Queenstown, soaring above stunning vineyards and mountain ranges before landing on a peak to enjoy a refreshment to kick start your bucket list wine tour. Touch down at your first cellar door where your guide will host you across four tasting experiences, including New Zealand’s largest wine cave. Along the way you’ll taste award winning wines, hear fascinating stories of the region and have the option to enjoy a winery lunch (additional cost). This experience takes wine touring to new heights, pairing fine wine with unforgettable views and people. Taste some of New Zealand’s best wines, on the World's Best Wine Tour (voted 2021). Venues typically include Gibbston Valley, Ayrburn, Kinross and Mt Rosa, though they may vary if a venue is unavailable.

Everything Queenstown 4 Hour Private Tour (opens in a new tab)

43 4 h

Our knowledgeable guides are passionate locals who are dedicated to bringing the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this stunning region to life. Join us on our immersive tour and discover the hidden gems and captivating stories that make Queenstown, Arrowtown, and the surrounding area truly remarkable. 3 Regions : Queenstown, Arrowtown & the Gibbston Visit historic Arrowtown & the Chinese village, make a photo stop at Lake Hayes (the Mirror Lake), the Kawarua bridge bungy jump, see the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers, visit a working honey farm and taste honeys including Manuka plus, enjoy a photo stop over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. You’re welcome to add wine tasting to your private tour itinerary—just note this will be at your own expense.