Queenstown Family Activities – (recommended)

So you’re heading to Queenstown and you need some family activities to do in Queenstown to keep you and your clan entertained. Thankfully, Queenstown has an impressive array of delights in store for visitors of any age, all with the stunning backdrop of the Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu.

The top Queenstown Family Activities are:

• Skyline Gondola and Luge
• Walter Peak High Country Farm
• Kiwi Birdlife Park
• Exploring Historic Arrowtown
• Shotover Jet

Read on to learn more about these top Queenstown Family Activities.

The Top 5 Queenstown Family Activities

1. Skyline Gondola and Luge

The Skyline Gondola is an unmissable Queenstown experience. Families with children of all ages should plan enough time to ride the Skyline Luge, a network of exciting gravity-powered cart tracks.

While you’re up at the Skyline Complex, why not enjoy lunch or dinner overlooking Queenstown? In addition, families with older children can choose a unique way to get down the mountain: ziplining or paragliding.

How do you get to the Skyline Gondola from Queenstown?

You can park at the top of Brecon Street to ride the Skyline Gondola. However, the car park is often full. It’s only a 5-minute walk from downtown Queenstown to the base of the Skyline Gondola.

2. Walter Peak High Country Farm

Kids love watching the farm show and interacting with friendly farm animals at Walter Peak High Country Farm. The experience begins with a ride across Lake Wakatipu on the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship, which makes for a great day out. In addition, you can enjoy a gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm.

Children will love getting up close with the friendly animals while parents are welcome to sit back, relax and enjoy a slower pace of life for a few hours.

3. Kiwi Birdlife Park

Located at the base of the Skyline Gondola, the Kiwi Birdlife Park is a must-see for all nature-loving families. This conservation reserve is the best place to see New Zealand’s unique native birds.

See kiwis and tuataras, watch the conservation show, and walk through native bush in this 5-hectare park.

4. Exploring Historic Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a quaint, charming historic mining village just 20 minutes outside of Queenstown. Families will have fun strolling through the town center and looking in local shops. In addition, you’ll find a historic Chinese settlement, several golf courses, and peaceful walking trails along the Arrow River.

History fans should try their hand at panning for gold. From the visitor centre you can rent a pan and head to the Arrow River to start fishing for your fortune. The museum here is ideal for learning about the history of gold in Queenstown.

Is Arrowtown worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely! Arrowtown is New Zealand’s most picturesque historic settlement. Moreover, it’s a great way to escape the hectic bustle of downtown Queenstown. With many great cafes, restaurants, and wineries in the town and surrounding hills, Arrowtown is a great option for a memorable meal.

What is Arrowtown famous for?

• Gold mining history
• Spectacular fall colors
• Lord of the Rings filming

5. The Shotover Jet

Adventurous children love the fast-paced thrills on the Shotover Jet. Spinning and speeding its way through the picturesque Shotover Canyon, the Shotover Jet is an iconic Queenstown experience. The jet boat ride only takes 30 minutes, so it’s easy to fit in any Queenstown itinerary.

Planning Your Queenstown Family Activities Frequently Asked Questions

What can toddlers do in Queenstown?

• TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak High Country Farm Tour
• Kiwi Birdlife Park
• Skyline Gondola and Luge (young children ride the luge with an adult)
• Shotover Jet (children must be at least 1 meter tall to ride)
• Learn to ski
• Explore Queenstown Gardens and visit the lakefront playground

What Queenstown Family Activities are open in winter?

Most Queenstown activities are still open in winter. However, the TSS Earnslaw Steamship undergoes maintenance in June. Therefore, the tours use a different boat and run on a reduced schedule.

Which Queenstown ski field is best for families?

Cardrona Alpine Resort is the best Queenstown ski field for families and first-time skiers. You’ll find excellent lesson offerings, extensive beginner and intermediate terrain, and childcare for all ages.

Read more about the family offerings at Cardrona Alpine Resort here.

Whatever you and your family enjoy, Queenstown can undoubtedly provide it. Great food, excellent service, and breathtaking views are not the only reason to head into this gorgeous town. So if you’re looking for adventure, entertainment, education or just plain fun, head to Queenstown!