Dubbed the world’s adventure capital, Queenstown, New Zealand, is the most popular tourist destination on the South Island. Sitting on the shores of the beautiful Lake Wakatipu set against the impressive snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, you’ll find countless things to do in Queenstown, NZ.
Before you dive into our list of fun activities in Queenstown — you’ll need a hire car! Pegasus Queenstown is just a 5-minute drive from Queenstown Airport. You can hire one of our affordable vehicles and explore Queenstown. Upon arrival, our complimentary shuttle service will take you to your car; you can just hop in and drive off and start your escapade. Also, don’t forget to hire snow chains if you plan to go skiing during the winter season!
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A natural playground for adrenaline junkies, you’ll find a whole host of things to do in Queenstown. In summer, you can go kayaking, downhill mountain biking, paragliding, jet boating on the Shotover River, and more. Wondering what to do in Queenstown during winter? You can’t beat skiing and snowboarding Coronet Peak or the Remarkables!
Visitors can experience most adventure activities to do in Queenstown year-round. But what if you’re not into adventure tours? In that case, browse the art galleries, enjoy a scenic helicopter flight, play frisbee golf at the Disc Golf course or take a scenic cruise on the TSS Earnslaw.
Queenstown is the perfect place to satisfy your adventurous spirit with plenty of places to tour and things to do. In addition, it’s an excellent base for exploring the region’s vineyards and historic mining towns. Read on and discover more Queenstown fun activities.
Bungy Jumping
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If heights, flight, and speed are your thing, the name AJ Hackett will invoke your inner adrenaline thrill-seeking demon! Visit Queenstown to explore New Zealand’s three world-famous bungy jumping locations — Nevis Bungy, Kawarau Bridge Bungy, and Ledge Bungy.
AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand is the world’s most trusted Bungy company with over 20 years of experience. So, prepare to experience an adrenaline-pumping sensation well beyond words!
Jet Boating, White Water Rafting and Kayaking
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Imagine the exhilaration of zipping through canyons down a river or lake at high speed. So, why not take Skippers Canyon Jet or Shotover River jet boat tours at Arthur’s Point to experience a thrilling combination of power and speed? Plus, white-water rafting is an action-packed experience like no other.
You’ll enjoy wall-to-wall excitement from start to finish. These Queenstown activities are guaranteed to get your blood pumping!
Fun fact, the jet boat was first developed in the 1950s by a Kiwi to navigate through the fast-flowing shallow rivers of Canterbury.
If you’re looking for a slightly slower pace and an enjoyable leisurely float, you can kayak through crystal-clear waters. Lose yourself in some of the most stunning scenery that Lake Wakatipu has to offer. Escape from the hustle and bustle of Queenstown’s busy crowds and absorb the natural beauty of the South Island.
Ziplining
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Be one with nature and experience Queenstown from above on an eco-adventure like no other. Just minutes from downtown Queenstown, come and zipline through the forest canopy high above the city.
It’s an excellent cardio workout combining walking trails and climbing stairs to zip your way from one tree to another, surrounded by the most spectacular views.
What’s more, visitors can experience this exhilarating outdoor adventure in all weather conditions as sheltered platforms minimise your exposure to the elements. So level up your sightseeing adventures with this spectacular and fun zipline must-do activity for anyone visiting Queenstown.
Nature Walks and Hikes
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Natural beauty fills Queenstown and the surrounding region. You can follow the Queenstown Hill Walking Track starting on Belfast Terrace or stroll through the scenic Queenstown Gardens from the town’s centre. Or head towards Glenorchy to enjoy the hiking trails near Moke Lake. You also have options for more comprehensive guided walking tours to learn about the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
One of the most incredible Queenstown places to visit for panoramic views is Lake Alta, behind the Remarkables Ski Resort. The drive there offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu, Shotover Canyon, and snow-capped mountains.
Multi-day hikes allow you to explore native forests, alpine areas, and glaciers. The famous Ben Lomond Track is a full day’s hike, and the Queenstown Trail is a 110-kilometre walking and mountain bike path that takes around four days to traverse the entire trail. It crosses dramatic countryside leading to the Arrow River in the historic gold mining settlement of Arrowtown and the vine-draped Gibbston Valley.
The internationally recognised Fiordland National Park is only a 2-hour drive from Pegasus Queenstown and is an excellent destination for a day trip. Fiordland National Park covers 1.2 million hectares of mountains, lakes, rivers, streams, waterfalls, glaciers, alpine ranges, and stunning fiords. Bring layers for clothing, appropriate footwear, and a good raincoat if you wish to explore.
Wildlife Attractions
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Fiordland is home to a wide variety of animals such as the Kakapo, the only flightless parrot in the world; there is a lot to discover in this spectacular region.
Alternatively, just 10 kilometres from Pegasus Queenstown, you will find Kiwi Birdlife Park — this 5-acre wildlife conservation sanctuary sits right in the heart of Queenstown, featuring over 100 species of native NZ wildlife.
The Park is the perfect place to tour with kids and is a relaxing break from the city centre. Get up close and personal with the kiwi bird and several other rare species of birds and reptiles like the Tuatara. Disguising education as entertainment, it’s a great place to connect with nature and experience conservation in action.
Great Places to Eat in Queenstown
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Being a popular tourist destination, Queenstown has hundreds of locations to find great food to refuel. A walk down Beach Street will reveal many restaurants, cafés and bars with dining options to satisfy the whole family.
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Fergburger in central Queenstown has made quite the name for itself and the city’s most famous restaurant. This burger joint isn’t found on the North Island and is a long-time local favourite. So don’t be surprised to find queues around the block waiting for the best burgers in town. Once you’ve had one of these delicious, tasty, juicy burgers, you will understand.
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If you are looking for fine dining and an unforgettable gastronomical experience, look no further. Amisfield is situated on Lake Hayes Road and is just a 10-minute drive from Pegasus Queenstown. Make sure you sample their award-winning pinot noir and aromatic white wines.
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Blue Kanu is another local favourite located in Queenstown centre. The chefs infuse Pacifica and Asian cuisine to create exquisite cross-cultural flavours. After your meal, take a seat at the colourful hula hut bar and enjoy vibrant and refreshing cocktails Blue Kanu style.
From there, you can extend your nightlife experience to one of the many bars, pubs, and clubs. Although just a small town, Queenstown has a vibrant nightlife with tons of fantastic places to party.
If you’re feeling lucky, you have the SkyCity Casino — Queenstown’s gaming entertainment venue located right in the CBD. You’ll find the many popular casino games, a fantastic bar & kitchen, and often you’ll discover extraordinary events going on inside.
Before you leave Queenstown, make sure you visit Skyline Queenstown at Brecon Street. Then, hike the Tiki Trail or take a scenic ride on the Skyline Gondola, 450 metres to Bob’s Peak. You can enjoy panoramic vistas of The Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu from the summit. While you’re there, enjoy an exciting, gravity-fuelled downhill ride on the Skyline Queenstown Luge surrounded by spectacular lake views. Then, pop into the Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar to enjoy a world-class meal and watch the sunset.
Spread your wings in a Pegasus rental car, book now!
Whatever you are looking for, Queenstown, New Zealand, is your one-stop shop. Pegasus Rental Cars have an extensive fleet that will suit your individual need and budget. You can be sure that we are here to help you with your travels – we look forward to seeing you in your next destination — Queenstown, New Zealand!