Queenstown · New Zealand · Things to do
5 things to do in Queenstown with kids
The five best things to do in Queenstown with kids are looking up at the Remarkables mountains, cruising Milford Sound, riding the gondola above the town, visiting the lone tree in Lake Wanaka, and relaxing by Lake Wakatipu. Milford Sound is a long day trip, so book it ahead and plan the rest of the week around lighter days.
What to do, in order
- 1
Look up at the Remarkables
The Remarkables are a jagged mountain range that rises right behind Lake Wakatipu, and they are the backdrop to Queenstown. The best views are from the lakefront and the road to the ski field. In summer, the road is open for scenery and short walks, and in winter it turns into a ski area with beginner slopes for children. Late afternoon light turns the peaks pink. Take a picnic to a lakeside spot and let children throw stones in the water.
- 2
Cruise Milford Sound
Milford Sound is a fjord in Fiordland National Park, with cliffs rising straight from the water and waterfalls pouring off them. From Queenstown it is a long day: about four hours each way by road, or a scenic flight that cuts the time. Book the cruise ahead, since it sells out in summer. Rain is common, but it brings hundreds of waterfalls. Bring a rain jacket and motion remedies for the road, and check road conditions before you leave.
- 3
Ride the gondola
The Skyline gondola climbs steeply from the centre of town to a lookout on Bob's Peak, with a view of the lake, the town and the mountains. At the top there is a restaurant and a luge track where children can race downhill on wheeled carts. It is a good first activity because it takes little time and gives you a sense of the geography. Go in the late afternoon for sunset light and fewer queues, and check the wind, as strong gusts can pause it.
- 4
See the Wanaka tree
The Wanaka tree is a lone willow growing out of the lake near Wanaka, a drive of about an hour over the Crown Range from Queenstown. It is one of the most photographed trees in New Zealand, and sunrise and dusk are the best times. Please do not climb it, as the tree is fragile and signs ask visitors to stay off. Combine the stop with a lakeside walk or lunch in Wanaka, and stop at the lookout on the Crown Range road on the way.
- 5
Relax by the lake
Lake Wakatipu is deep, clear and cold, with the town on its shore and mountains all around. Families can walk the lakefront, feed ducks, play at the beaches or visit Queenstown Gardens on a small peninsula. The historic steamship TSS Earnslaw runs cruises across the lake. Swimming is possible in summer, but the water is very cold. Bring a jacket, since the evening wind off the water can be cool, even in January.
Plan it
- Best time
- December to February is warm and long-daylight. March and April bring autumn colour. June to August is ski season. Book ahead in January and school holidays.
- How long
- Four days covers these five, including a full day for Milford Sound. Five or six gives room for weather and a slower pace.
- Getting around
- The town centre is walkable, and a rental car is useful for Wanaka and Glenorchy. Coaches and flights run to Milford Sound, with pick-ups in town.
Good to know
- Book Milford Sound and any activity you care about at least a few weeks ahead in summer.
- Sandflies bite at Milford Sound. Bring repellent.
- Queenstown weather changes quickly. Layers and a rain jacket work in every season.
Frequently asked
Is Queenstown good for families? +
Yes. It has gentle lake activities, a gondola and luge, and short walks as well as adventure sports for older children. Mountain weather is changeable, so keep plans flexible and pack layers.
How long does it take to get to Milford Sound from Queenstown? +
About four hours each way by road. Many people take a coach tour or fly one way. Allow a full day in either case, and check road conditions in winter and after heavy rain.
How far is Wanaka from Queenstown? +
About an hour by car over the Crown Range, a scenic and winding road. In winter it can need chains. The Wanaka tree is a short walk from the lakeside car park.
When is the best time to visit Queenstown? +
December to February for warm weather and long days, or June to August for skiing. March and April are quieter and colourful. Book early for January and for the winter school holidays.
