Number 1
Spot native Kiwi at the Kiwi Birdlife Park. The Kiwi Birdlife Park provides a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with over 20 native species of birds and reptiles including the elusive Kiwi! The park is over 5 acres in size and every animal in the care of the park is part of a managed conservation program. So you do not only have a possibly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view these incredible creatures, but you’re also contributing to their ongoing protection. Priced at just $130, when booked online, for the whole family, this is an extraordinary adventure that you can’t afford to miss.
Number 2
Check out the region’s gold mining history in Arrowtown. Arrowtown is a delightful little town just a short drive from Queenstown and is famous for its rich gold mining history. Take some time to explore the 150 year old Chinese settlement before hiring a gold pan and trying your luck in the Arrow River. Once you’ve struck it rich or just had enough, take a stroll down the quaint high street lined with quirky shops and restaurants. If you have time, take in a movie at Dorothy Browns – an independent movie theatre that still believes in the tradition of an interval halfway through the film to restock on treats!
Number 3
Take a Walk. Queenstown is home to some of the most beautiful hikes in the country. If you’re not up for an overnighter then check out one of the day tracks such as Bob’s Peak, Queenstown Hill or Moke Lake. Each one promises incredible scenery and there really is something for everyone. If you’re looking for something, a little flatter then you can’t go past the Queenstown trail, snaking from Sunshine Bay to Kelvin Heights and beyond. Walk as much or as little as you like along the side of the great Lake Wakatipu.
Number 4
Laser Tag at Game Over. A family trip to Queenstown wouldn’t be complete without a couple of games of laser tag at Game Over. The vast, dinosaur-themed arena makes for a challenging and enjoyable game for both adults and kids. With five game modes to choose from, it’s easy to see why some families come back time and time again for a laser tag battle like no other.
Number 5
In winter and summer take a drive up Coronet Peak. The access road is just beyond Arthurs Point, a ten-minute ride out of Queenstown and, from there, you can make your ascent. From the top, you’ll have a birdseye view of the whole Queenstown basin and beyond towards Kingston. It is spectacular. Grab yourself a drink and soak up the atmosphere. Be aware that winter can present some challenging road conditions – be sure to check out any signage as you approach the access road.
As you can see, there are some incredible experiences in Queenstown that will appeal to the whole family.
Read about our ultimate itenerary for a day in Queenstown with your family!
