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Family-Friendly 6-Day Itinerary in Queenstown

Saturday, December 21: Arrival in Queenstown

Welcome to Queenstown! Start your family adventure by checking into your accommodation and exploring the beautiful surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Remarkables mountain range. In the afternoon, visit Queenstown Gardens, a picturesque park offering various recreational activities such as walking trails, a frisbee golf course, and a playground for the kids. Wrap up the day with a scenic gondola ride to the Skyline Queenstown, where you can enjoy panoramic views, indulge in a delicious buffet dinner, and experience thrilling downhill luge rides.

  • Lake Wakatipu: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Queenstown Gardens: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Skyline Queenstown: Gondola ride approx. $39, Buffet dinner approx. $60, Luge rides from $15, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Sunday, December 22: Milford Sound Tour

Embark on a memorable day trip to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most stunning natural wonders. Join a guided tour or self-drive to this majestic fjord, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, and abundant wildlife. Enjoy a scenic cruise through the sound, spotting seals, dolphins, and penguins along the way. Don't forget to capture the iconic Mitre Peak and soak in the tranquility of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Milford Sound Tour: Full-day guided tour from approx. $175, Self-drive option available, Time spent: 8-10 hours
Monday, December 23: Adventure-filled Day

Get ready for an action-packed day filled with thrilling adventures. Start your morning with a visit to the Shotover Jet, where you can experience an exhilarating jet boat ride through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River. Afterward, head to the Kiwi Birdlife Park, a conservation sanctuary housing various native bird species, including the iconic kiwi. In the afternoon, visit the Skyline Luge Queenstown for more adrenaline-fueled fun. Zip down the scenic tracks in gravity-powered carts, providing endless fun for the whole family.

  • Shotover Jet: Adult ticket approx. $145, Child ticket approx. $85, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Kiwi Birdlife Park: Adult ticket approx. $55, Child ticket approx. $22, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Skyline Luge Queenstown: Luge rides from $15, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 24: Explore Arrowtown and Wineries

Take a day trip to the charming historic town of Arrowtown, located just a short drive from Queenstown. Explore the well-preserved gold-mining heritage, stroll through the quaint streets lined with boutique shops, and enjoy a picnic by the peaceful Arrow River. In the afternoon, treat yourself to a wine tasting experience in the nearby Gibbston Valley. Visit renowned wineries, sample exquisite Central Otago wines, and learn about the region's winemaking process.

  • Arrowtown: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Gibbston Valley Wineries: Wine tasting fees vary, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 25: Christmas Day Festivities

Enjoy a magical Christmas in Queenstown! Begin the day with a festive brunch at a local restaurant, savoring traditional holiday delights. Afterward, join a Santa's Cruise on Lake Wakatipu, where the entire family can participate in fun activities, meet Santa Claus, and soak up the joyful atmosphere. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, exploring the town's Christmas decorations or simply relaxing and enjoying the holiday spirit.

  • Festive Brunch: Prices vary, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Santa's Cruise: Prices vary, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 26: Outdoor Adventures

On your last day in Queenstown, make the most of the stunning natural surroundings. Head to the Queenstown Hill Time Walk, a scenic trail offering panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the beautiful scenery before venturing to the Onsen Hot Pools for a relaxing soak in private hot pools with breathtaking views. End your day with a memorable dinner at one of Queenstown's family-friendly restaurants.

  • Queenstown Hill Time Walk: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Onsen Hot Pools: Prices vary, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Dinner: Prices vary

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When you have some extra time, be sure to visit Walter Peak High Country Farm for a unique farm experience. Take a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship and enjoy farm activities, including sheep shearing demonstrations and horse trekking. Another local favorite is the Kiwi & Birdlife Park, which offers educational encounters with native wildlife and a behind-the-scenes kiwi conservation experience. These off-the-beaten-path attractions provide a wonderful opportunity to learn about New Zealand's natural heritage and rural life.

For hotel and flight prices, click here.

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