10 Best Outdoor Adventures in and Around Queenstown

The TSS Earnslaw Cruise is a scenic 90-minute round-trip cruise on Lake Wakatipu, from Queenstown to Walter Peak High Country Farm on a vintage steamship. Get set for stunning mountain scenery as 2 ranges, the Remarkables and the Tapuae-o-Uenuku, lie along the lake’s southern edge.

Make a day of it and add on a gourmet buffet BBQ lunch at the Walter Peak Farm, watch the sheepdogs at work and – at the right time of the year – stop by the shearing shed for a demo of sheep shearing.

The Routeburn Hike is a 32-kilometre (20-mile) hike through New Zealand’s South Island between Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks, which offers the chance to immerse yourself in wild nature. This multi-day trek takes in a dizzyingly diverse range of landscapes, from lush rainforests and untouched alpine meadows to cascading waterfalls and soaring mountains.

You can expect to take 3 days and 2 nights on this tranquil nature route. Most walkers stay at the Routeburn Falls and Lake Mackenzie Huts along the way.

The Kiwi and Birdlife Park is a family-owned 5-acre oasis in the heart of Queenstown that is dedicated to saving endangered wildlife species. Home to more than 100 native species of birds and reptiles, the park gives you a unique opportunity to encounter some of New Zealand’s most iconic bird species in their natural habitat, including the elusive and endangered kiwi.

Enjoy a retreat from the bustling city and enjoy the serenity of a stroll through the lush grounds, listening to melodious tui birds and spotting colourful kaka parrots winging overhead.

The Queenstown Hill Time Walk climbs 500 meters (1600 feet) through the pine forests to the summit of Te Tapu-nui, just a 5-minute drive from downtown Queenstown. Popular with locals, this hike doesn’t just take in the jaw-dropping beauty of the forest, lake and mountains; it also adds an interpretive element to your adventure with information panels along the way that explain the different epochs of Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown.

The hike is a moderate-level trail, making it accessible for a wide range of hikers. Once you reach the summit take a moment to enjoy the "Basket of Dreams" sculpture and take in the panoramic views.

Coronet Peak Ski Area is a mountain resort, 20-minutes’ drive from downtown Queenstown, that is open for mountain biking between December and April, and skiing from June to September. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Coronet Peak offers up a pleasingly diverse terrain of groomed trails, steep chutes and off-piste options. Absolute beginners can sign up to ski school and learn how to snowboard or ski with friendly instructors.

No matter what your slope skills are, in ski season, Coronet Peak has a famously lively après-ski scene with buzzing bars, restaurants and special events running throughout the season – that even non-skiers can enjoy.

Skyline Queenstown is a seasonal gondola ride in the Ben Lomond Scenic Reserve above Lake Wakatipu, just a few minutes’ walk from downtown Queenstown. The cable car ride takes you 450 metres (1475 feet) up to the mountain top where you’ll find plenty of exciting experiences. They include a gravity-fuelled luge ride, a network of hiking trails and – rather more sedate – dining options.

Make sure you add in time to experience the city, lake and mountain views at sunset from the panoramic viewing platform, which gives you the chance to capture a truly awe-inspiring sight over this gorgeous part of the world.

The Queenstown Luge is an exhilarating outdoor gravity-fuelled luge ride at the Skyline Queenstown complex at the Ben Lomond Scenic Reserve, just a few minutes’ drive from downtown Queenstown. Suitable for all ages, there are tandem carts available for parents and children to ride together, as well as speedier options for adventurous types.

With multiple tracks to choose from, including scenic and advanced options, the Queenstown Luge is a good option for first-time riders or seasoned thrill-seekers, and you can race against friends or just enjoy a leisurely spin through the picturesque mountain and forest trails.

The Scenic Lord of the Rings tour is an immersive outdoor adventure experience in Mount Aspiring National Park that sets off from downtown Queenstown daily. This amazing 4.5-hour tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the locations of “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” movies (as well as “Wolverine,” “X-Men Origins” and “The Chronicles of Narnia”) with knowledgeable guides who share trivia and anecdotes from your favourite films.

Walk through the Shire in the footsteps of wizards, hobbits and elves, dress up in “The Lord of the Rings” costumes and take amazing photographs in Lothlorien Forest. Make memories that will last a lifetime!

The Shotover Canyon Jet boat ride is an exhilarating outdoor adventure experience on the Shotover River canyon near Queenstown. Race through the canyon on a specially designed jet boat, surrounded by towering cliffs, rugged rock formations and crystal-clear waters.

Proudly owned by Ngāi Tahu, the Māori People, their connection to the Kimiākau (Shotover River) goes back centuries. Share this connection and hear stories of their tīpuna (ancestors) as you travel along the waters of the spectacular Shotover Canyon and enjoy their exclusive access. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses as well as warm layers.

AJ Hackett Bungy Jumping is the ultimate high-adrenaline outdoor adventure with a location on the iconic Kawarau Bridge near Queenstown, home to the world’s first commercial bungy jump. Stand on the edge and step into the void, free-falling 43 meters (140 feet) to touch the icy waters below before bouncing back up on the rubbery cord.

Safety is paramount during an AJ Hackett bungee jump and the company has a strong focus on safety standards, with high-quality equipment, well-trained staff and strict observation of jump safety protocols. Jumps are safe for kids aged 10 and over, and single jumpers must weigh between 35-150 kg (75-330 pounds), and the combined weight of tandem jumpers should be no more than 150 kg (330 pounds). Happy landings.