Queenstown With Kids

Queenstown is known for its stunning landscapes, adventurous spirit, and vibrant culture. It’s the perfect destination for your New Zealand family holiday. With a wide range of family-friendly activities, accommodations, and natural wonders, Queenstown offers something for every member of the family. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Queenstown with kids.

Why Visit Queenstown With Kids

1. Stunning Landscapes: Queenstown is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, including the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu, providing endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
2. Adventure Capital: Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown offers a variety of family-friendly activities such as jet boating, bungee jumping, and gondola rides.
3. Family-Friendly Activities: From kid-friendly hikes to interactive museums, Queenstown has a wide range of activities that are suitable for families with children of all ages.
4. Cultural Experiences: Immerse your family in the rich Maori culture with traditional performances and cultural tours, providing a unique learning experience for kids.
5. Safety and Accessibility: Queenstown is known for its safety and accessibility, making it a worry-free destination for families traveling with young children.

Things to Do in Queenstown With Kids

1. Skyline Gondola & Luge: Enjoy panoramic views of Queenstown while riding the Skyline Gondola, then experience the thrill of the Luge, a gravity-fueled ride suitable for all ages.
2. Milford Sound Cruise: Take a scenic cruise through the stunning Milford Sound, where you can spot seals, dolphins, and even whales with the family.
3. Family-Friendly Hikes: Discover the beauty of Queenstown through family-friendly hikes such as the Queenstown Hill Walk and the Lake Hayes Loop Track.
4. Ziplining: Experience the thrill of ziplining through the forest canopy with Ziptrek Ecotours, a fun and safe activity for the whole family.
5. Farm Tours: Visit a local farm and get up close and personal with sheep, cows, and other farm animals, providing a unique and educational experience for kids.

Best Places to Visit in Queenstown With Kids

1. Lake Wakatipu: Explore the stunning Lake Wakatipu, where you can take a scenic cruise, go fishing, or simply relax on the shores with the family.
2. Arrowtown: Visit the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown, where you can explore the Chinese settlement and learn about the town’s rich history.
3. Glenorchy: Take a day trip to Glenorchy, a picturesque town located at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, where you can enjoy stunning views and outdoor activities.
4. Kawarau Gorge: Visit the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, where you can watch bungee jumpers leap off the bridge or take the plunge yourself.
5. Queenstown Gardens: Spend a relaxing day at Queenstown Gardens, where you can enjoy a picnic, take a leisurely stroll, or play a game of frisbee with the family.

Where to Stay in Queenstown

1. Family-Friendly Hotels: Stay at one of Queenstown’s family-friendly hotels, such as the Novotel Queenstown Lakeside or the Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, which offer amenities and activities for kids.
2. Holiday Homes: Rent a holiday home or apartment in Queenstown, providing more space and privacy for the whole family.
3. Campgrounds: For families who enjoy camping, Queenstown has several campgrounds with facilities and activities suitable for kids.
4. Hostels: Queenstown also has a variety of budget-friendly hostels that offer family rooms and amenities.
5. Luxury Accommodations: Treat your family to a luxury stay at one of Queenstown’s luxury lodges or resorts, where you can enjoy amenities such as spas, pools, and gourmet dining.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Queenstown

1. Novotel Queenstown Lakeside: This family-friendly hotel is located in the heart of Queenstown, offering stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range. The hotel features a restaurant, bar, and complimentary Wi-Fi, as well as a kids’ play area and babysitting services.
2. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa: Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, this luxury resort offers spacious rooms with breathtaking views. The resort features a heated indoor pool, spa, and fitness center, as well as a kids’ club and family-friendly dining options.
3. Holiday Inn Queenstown Frankton Road: This family-friendly hotel is located just a short drive from Queenstown’s city center and offers comfortable rooms with mountain or lake views. The hotel features a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool, as well as a kids’ club and babysitting services.
4. Crowne Plaza Queenstown: This centrally located hotel offers modern rooms with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range. The hotel features a restaurant, bar, and fitness center, as well as a kids’ club and babysitting services.
5. Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and apartments with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range. The hotel features a restaurant, bar, and fitness center, as well as a kids’ club and babysitting services.

Best Time to Visit Queenstown

1. Summer (December – February): Summer is the peak tourist season in Queenstown, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the perfect time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and water sports.
2. Autumn (March – May): Autumn is a great time to visit Queenstown, with mild temperatures and stunning fall foliage. This is also the time of the year when you can experience the region’s famous wine harvest.
3. Winter (June – August): Winter is the ski season in Queenstown, with excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions. This is the perfect time for families who love winter sports and snow activities.
4. Spring (September – November): Spring is a great time to visit Queenstown, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. This is also the time of the year when you can experience the region’s famous cherry blossom season.

How Long to Stay in Queenstown

1. Short Break (2-3 Days): If you’re short on time, a 2-3 day break is enough to experience the highlights of Queenstown, including a visit to the Skyline Gondola, a cruise on Lake Wakatipu, and a day trip to Arrowtown.
2. Weekend Getaway (4-5 Days): For a longer weekend getaway, consider staying 4-5 days to explore more of Queenstown’s attractions, such as the Milford Sound cruise, Glenorchy day trip, and family-friendly hikes.
3. Week-Long Vacation (7 Days): A week-long vacation in Queenstown allows you to fully immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty and outdoor activities, with plenty of time for relaxation and exploration.

Queenstown Family Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Queenstown

• Check into your family-friendly accommodation
• Explore Queenstown’s city center and enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant

Day 2: Skyline Gondola & Luge

• Take a scenic ride on the Skyline Gondola
• Enjoy the thrill of the Luge with the whole family
• Visit the Kiwi Birdlife Park and learn about New Zealand’s native wildlife

Day 3: Milford Sound Cruise

• Take a day trip to Milford Sound and enjoy a scenic cruise
• Spot seals, dolphins, and whales with the family
• Explore the underwater observatory and learn about the marine life of Milford Sound

Day 4: Arrowtown & Kawarau Gorge

• Take a day trip to the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown
• Visit the Chinese settlement and learn about the town’s rich history
• Visit the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge and watch bungee jumpers leap off the bridge

Day 5: Glenorchy & Queenstown Gardens

• Take a day trip to Glenorchy and enjoy stunning views of Lake Wakatipu
• Go for a family-friendly hike in the area
• Spend the afternoon at Queenstown Gardens and enjoy a picnic or leisurely stroll

Day 6: Adventure Activities

• Enjoy a day of adventure activities such as jet boating, ziplining, or bungee jumping
• Try a family-friendly hike such as the Queenstown Hill Walk or the Lake Hayes Loop Track
• Enjoy a family dinner at a local restaurant and share your favorite memories of Queenstown

Day 7: Departure from Queenstown

• Check out of your accommodation and say goodbye to Queenstown
• Departure from Queenstown and return home with wonderful memories

Getting Around Queenstown

• Rental Car: Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around Queenstown, especially if you plan on exploring the surrounding areas.
• Public Transportation: Queenstown has a reliable bus service that connects the city center with popular attractions and suburbs.
• Walking and Cycling: Queenstown is a pedestrian-friendly city, with many attractions and activities within walking or cycling distance.
• Taxis and Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services such as Uber are available in Queenstown, providing a convenient option for getting around the city.
• Tour and Shuttle Services: There are also tour and shuttle services available in Queenstown, providing guided tours and transportation to popular attractions.