Tours & Sightseeing in Queenstown

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

From the Green to the Grave: An Audio Tour of Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

1 h 30 min – 2 h

Queenstown has a dramatic history of transformation. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll discover how a remote pastoral homestead on the shores of Lake Wakatipu became a chaotic gold rush camp, before evolving into a world-class resort. The tour starts at the Village Green, once the epicenter of the 1862 gold rush that transformed the landscape overnight. You’ll discover how the TSS Earnslaw steamship became the lifeline of remote lake communities and how A.J. Hackett’s first commercial bungy jump in 1988 sparked Queenstown’s reinvention as the “Adventure Capital of the World.” The tour ends at the historic Queenstown Cemetery on Brecon Street, offering panoramic views across the town Rees founded.

Free cancellation

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.

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.

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

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.

Private 5.5 hour Wine Tour Queenstown : 4 Winery Visits & Lunch (opens in a new tab)

46 5 h – 6 h

Taste award-winning wines at four of the region’s premium boutique vineyards. This exclusive tour ventures through three contrasting wine sub-regions; Gibbston, Cromwell and the Bannockburn basin. Sit back and relax in the comfort of a luxury touring vehicle whilst your specialist Wine Guide takes you off the beaten track to explore the dramatic scenery and pioneering history. Indulge at renowned Mt Difficulty Wines & Restaurant for lunch, savouring a delicious antipasti platter with the finest and freshest produce and choose an accompanying glass of premium wine. You will also have an opportunity to retrace history by wandering around the charming historical precinct of Old Cromwell. We can include other sightseeing such as AJ Hackett Bungy or Arrowtown where time permits.

Free cancellation

Full Day Mavora Lakes Adventure Lord of the Rings Film Locations (opens in a new tab)

45 7 h – 10 h

Embark on a Legendary Lord of the Rings Journey from Queenstown Operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays this exclusive LOTR tour takes you deep into the Southland region, home to some of the most breathtaking and sought-after filming locations in Middle Earth. Your journey heads to the stunning Mavora Lakes in Fiordland National Park, where cinematic magic meets unforgettable moments. Discover which fearless actor famously broke two toes near the edge of Fangorn Forest and relive the dramatic Breaking of the Fellowship as Frodo and Sam take their fateful steps toward Mordor. During the warmer months with longer daylight (1 November - 31 March) this tour also ventures to Manapouri & Te Anau, where you’ll uncover the haunting beauty of the Anduin River and the Dead Marshes. You’ll gear up for adventure with the largest collection of authentic, licensed LOTR props, including swords, axes, helmets, & even original scripts! Duration: 1 Apr - 31 Oct: 7hrs 1 Nov - 31 Mar: 10hrs

Private Arrowtown & Wānaka Full-Day Tour from Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

88 7 h 30 min

Discover the alpine scenery, lakeside beauty and historic villages of the Queenstown and Wānaka regions on a private full-day tour exclusively for your group. Travel from Queenstown across the Crown Range, stopping at elevated viewpoints over the Wakatipu Basin and surrounding mountains. Continue through the Cardrona Valley to the historic Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand’s most photographed country hotels. In Wānaka, visit the famous Wānaka Tree before enjoying free time to explore the lakefront, browse the shops and stop for lunch at your own expense. Continue to Arrowtown, a beautifully preserved gold-mining village known for its heritage buildings, boutique shops and riverside setting, before returning to Queenstown. With your own knowledgeable local driver-guide and private transport, the tour can move at a pace that suits your group, with flexibility for sightseeing, photo stops and time at each destination.

Private Queenstown Dinner & Wine Tour: 3 Iconic Venues (opens in a new tab)

36 3 h

Discover Queenstown's exceptional food and wine scene on an exclusive private dining experience for 2–10 guests. Enjoy three iconic venues in one unforgettable evening, with delicious cuisine, Central Otago wines and spectacular alpine scenery. Begin with bubbles at Fino Wine Bar overlooking Lake Wakatipu, before travelling to Ayrburn near historic Arrowtown for a delicious main course, shared side dish and glass of Central Otago wine at The Woolshed by Ayrburn. Finish at Eichardt's The Grille on Queenstown's lakefront with dessert and a glass of wine. Perfect for couples, friends and special celebrations, this private experience is hosted by a knowledgeable New Zealand local, with luxury Mercedes transport and every detail taken care of. No planning, no driving, no sharing with strangers. Just exceptional food, beautiful wines and quality time together. **Three iconic venues. One unforgettable private evening.**

Private tourFree cancellation

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

Afternoon Boutique Wine Tour (opens in a new tab)

75 4 h – 5 h

For those who prefer a leisurely afternoon, this private wine tour is the perfect way to explore the best of Central Otago’s boutique wineries without the rush of a full-day itinerary. You’ll be picked up directly from your accommodation between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, depending on your location and the day’s plan. From there, we’ll visit three handpicked boutique cellar doors, where you’ll enjoy an intimate, personalised wine-tasting experience. Along the way, learn about the region’s history, winemaking techniques, and the unique characteristics that make Central Otago wines so exceptional. At one winery, a shared cheese platter accompanies your tasting. Please contact us in advance to inform us of any dietary restrictions or special requests for your tour.

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

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.

Skippers Canyon - Half Day PRIVATE 4WD Tour, Queenstown NZ (opens in a new tab)

10 4 h 30 min

All tours are Private. Only your party and driver / guide. Join Del - New Zealand's most experienced commercial 4WD guide on a tour exploring Queenstown's Skippers Canyon . The tour is yours. Del will chat with you and tailor the tour to suit your style. He can make the tour as adventurous or relaxing as you like. Del has been guiding tourists locally for over 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge about the area. You will travel in a modern and luxurious Land Rover Discovery with comfortable leather seats, great leg room, large windows and all mod cons (no buses or vans). Skippers Canyon is a stunning deep river gorge, set amongst the glacial-carved peaks of Queenstown's mountain high country. The canyon was carved by the infamous Shotover River, made famous by the 1860's gold rush which saw many people make there fortunes in this dramatic setting. The winding tracks take in spectacular mountain scenery and make for an unforgettable 4x4 adventure.

Free cancellation

3 Day Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise and Glowworm Tour from Queenstown (opens in a new tab)

2 3 days

Please Note: Only available from 1 October - 30 April. This three-day journey from Queenstown to Te Anau and back allows plenty of time to explore the magical Te Anau Glow Worm caves and spend a night on memorable Doubtful Sound; a remote fiord on a grand scale the likes of which you won’t believe! Experience tranquillity and isolation as you spend the night on Doubtful Sound before returning to Queenstown by scenic coach. An unforgettable way to experience the rugged South Island. This is an Independent tour, where you travel on a combination of touring coaches and sightseeing services with commentary and/or point to point coaches which may not have commentary. You will be with different people on each part of the tour and different drivers. You have free time to explore on your own and are free to choose where and when to eat, meals are not included unless specified.

Queenstown: Half-Day Private Sightseeing & Photography Tour (opens in a new tab)

17 5 h

This is your chance to photograph one of the most spectacular and majestic places on Earth; Queenstown and the Southern Lakes. This Half-Day Private Photography Tour will take you to iconic locations you see in brochures as well as those special spots only a local would know, to explore and capture the beauty and splendour yourself. This tour is designed for photography enthusiasts and your guide is a passionate landscape photographer, with years of local knowledge.  Enjoy 4-5 hours visiting some of the most interesting and beautiful destinations around Queenstown. Your expert guide will help you with creative advice and show you how to get the most from your camera. The weather in this amazing region is constantly changing bringing many moods to the mountains, lakes, rivers and forests. Whatever the conditions we know where best to take you to capture unique scenes of outstanding natural beauty. Includes bonus take home guides on using your camera and how to compose great photos.

Free cancellation

Private Arrowtown and Gibbston Lord of the Rings Film Locations (opens in a new tab)

7 4 h 30 min

Epic Adventures to the Real Middle Earth and Back Again! Join our Lord of the Rings “Nerds” aka tour guides who have superior knowledge on all things “Rings”. We’ll take you to the original film locations and put YOU in the scene while narrating humorous and intriguing tales from the time of filming. Join us for your personalised journey through the real Middle Earth. Our scenic Half Day Tour includes visiting Skippers Canyon Lookout (weather permitting), Arrowtown, The Gibbston Valley and Lake Hayes. You will be able to enjoy Lord Of The Rings locations such as The Ford of Bruinen, The Gladden Fields, The Pillars of the Kings and More! Take photos with Authentic Props as we have the largest selection of Authentic Licensed replica props! We also have copies of the original movie scripts and production call sheets, adding so much more depth to your Middle Earth experience!

Free cancellation

Queenstown: Private Skippers Canyon Photography & Sightseeing (opens in a new tab)

17 5 h

Journey with us into wild and remote Skippers Canyon. We'll take you on a photographic adventure into some of New Zealand's most spectacular and majestic landscapes and a ride through a window into our colourful gold mining past. This tour is perfect for photography enthusiasts, from beginners to the more advanced. Your guide will bring alive the history and the stories of this rugged region.  Includes take home guide to camera settings and guide to composing great photos. Whatever your level of proficiency they help you find inspirational vantage points and subjects and then work with you, giving you compositional tips and tricks, showing you the camera settings you need to compose amazing images. capturing a vision you'll be proud to take home.

Free cancellation