Queenstown Family Adventure Extravaganza

Family-Friendly Itinerary for

Family-Friendly Adventures in !

Lake Wakatipu

Family-Friendly view of Lake Wakatipu in

Why Visit?

Embark on a magical family adventure to Lake Wakatipu, a stunning glacial lake nestled in the heart of New Zealand"s scenic South Island. Known for its vivid blue waters and breathtaking surroundings, this lake offers a treasure trove of activities suitable for families.

Day 1: Explore Queenstown

- Start at Queenstown: Fly into Queenstown Airport, which is conveniently located just a few kilometers from the town center. Rent a car for easy mobility to various attractions around the lake.

- Queenstown Lakeside: Walk along the shores of Lake Wakatipu right in Queenstown. The lakeside is perfect for a family picnic with spectacular views of The Remarkables mountain range. Don’t miss out on a fun ride on the historic TSS Earnslaw, a 1912 Edwardian vintage steamship, which offers scenic cruises across Lake Wakatipu. It’s a fantastic way to see the lake and learn about its history.

Day 2: Adventure in Glenorchy

- Drive to Glenorchy: Take a scenic 45-minute drive to Glenorchy, located at the northern tip of the lake. This journey is known for its stunning landscapes, often featured in films like "The Lord of the Rings".

- Family Hiking and Photography: Enjoy a family-friendly walk on the Glenorchy Walkway, where you can witness local wildlife and visit beautiful lagoons. The area offers incredible photo opportunities, so keep your camera ready!

Day 3: Relax in Kingston

- Head to Kingston: Drive to the southern end of Lake Wakatipu to visit Kingston, a quieter location perfect for relaxing. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Queenstown.

- Ride the Kingston Flyer: If your visit coincides with its operating schedule, take a ride on the Kingston Flyer, a vintage steam train that offers a unique experience through stunning landscapes.

Lake Wakatipu is not only a natural wonder but also steeped in Maori legend, believed to be formed by the giant Matau"s burning heart. This makes every corner of the lake not just a sight to behold, but also a piece of New Zealand"s rich storytelling heritage. Enjoy your family adventure at Lake Wakatipu, where each activity and vista promises to be as enriching as it is exhilarating.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

The Remarkables

Family-Friendly view of The Remarkables in

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure to The Remarkables, one of New Zealand"s most stunning mountain ranges, located in the heart of the Southern Alps near Queenstown. This breathtaking destination offers year-round excitement.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Start your journey by flying into Queenstown Airport. From there, rent a car or hop on a shuttle bus for a scenic 40-minute drive to The Remarkables. The route offers panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and rugged mountain landscapes—perfect for captivating the little ones’ imaginations!

Upon arrival, check into one of the family-friendly lodges or holiday parks in the area. Spend your first day acclimatizing and exploring the base facilities. Don"t miss the interactive visitor center which offers fascinating insights into the region"s geology and history, including how these mountains got their name—supposedly because they are one of only two mountain ranges in the world that run directly north to south.

Day 2: Skiing and Snowboarding

Winter visits (June - October) mean hitting the slopes. The Remarkables is renowned for its family-friendly ski areas. Beginners can take lessons at the snow school, while the more adventurous might tackle some of the gentle intermediate trails. Rent all your gear on-site and enjoy a day of snowy fun.

Day 3: Summer Hiking and Alpine Flora

In the warmer months, the snow gives way to lush hiking trails. Opt for a guided family hike to Lake Alta, a glacial lake that provided a backdrop in the "Lord of the Rings" films—an exciting tidbit for the kids. The hike is moderately easy, suitable for children, and offers opportunities to spot rare alpine flora and fauna.

Day 4: Departure

Before heading back to Queenstown, enjoy a leisurely morning. Perhaps take a short walk around the area or simply relax at your lodge, soaking in the alpine atmosphere one last time.

Whether visiting for the snowy escapades or the summer trails, The Remarkables promises a magical and memorable family experience.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Kawarau Suspension Bridge

Family-Friendly view of Kawarau Suspension Bridge in

Why Visit?

Begin your family adventure at the historic Kawarau Suspension Bridge, located in the scenic Otago region of New Zealand, just 20 minutes from Queenstown. This iconic bridge, completed in 1880, spans the Kawarau River and offers breathtaking views and a peek into gold mining history.

Morning: Arrival and Bungy Jump Watching

Start your day early and drive from Queenstown along State Highway 6. There’s ample parking, and the bridge is a short walk from the car park. Begin by exploring the visitor center where you can learn about the bridge"s construction and its transformation into the world"s first commercial bungy jumping site by A.J. Hackett in 1988. Even if you"re not up for the jump, watching thrill-seekers plunge 43 meters into the blue Kawarau River is exhilarating.

Lunch: Picnic by the River

Pack a picnic to enjoy on the banks of the river. There are designated areas where you can relax and enjoy the stunning river and vineyard views.

Afternoon: Goldfields Mining Centre

Post-lunch, take a five-minute drive or a scenic 20-minute walk to the Goldfields Mining Centre. Engage with the history of the Otago Gold Rush with guided tours that demonstrate gold mining techniques and offer a chance to pan for gold. It’s both educational and fun for kids.

Wrap Up: Jet Boat Ride

Conclude your adventurous day with a thrilling jet boat ride. Departing from near the bridge, the jet boat whisks you through the narrow Kawarau Gorge. It’s an exhilarating way to take in the landscape and a favorite with families.

This itinerary combines history, thrill, and beautiful landscapes, ensuring a memorable day for the whole family at the Kawarau Suspension Bridge and its surrounding attractions.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Coronet Peak

Family-Friendly view of Coronet Peak in

Why Visit?

Embark on an exciting family getaway to Coronet Peak, one of New Zealand"s most beloved ski destinations, located just 20 minutes from Queenstown. Renowned for its breathtaking views and varied terrain, Coronet Peak offers a range of activities that promise a memorable adventure for the whole family.

### Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Start your journey by driving from Queenstown to Coronet Peak. The scenic drive is straightforward, taking you directly to the ski area via Coronet Peak Road. Once there, settle in and familiarize yourselves with the facilities. Take a leisurely walk around the base area to soak in the stunning alpine scenery.

### Day 2: Skiing and Snowboarding

After a hearty breakfast, it"s time to hit the slopes. Coronet Peak is perfect for families, offering ski and snowboard lessons for all ages and skill levels. Children can join the Skiwiland program, which provides fun and safe instruction. Meanwhile, parents can explore more challenging runs or enjoy a guided tour of the slopes.

### Interesting Fact

Did you know Coronet Peak is one of the few places in the Southern Hemisphere to offer night skiing? Experience the thrill under the stars on select evenings, a magical experience for both kids and adults.

### Day 3: More Fun on the Snow

Dive into more snowy fun with a day packed with activities like snowshoeing or a scenic chairlift ride to the summit for panoramic views of the Remarkables Mountain Range and Lake Wakatipu.

### Departure

Conclude your visit with a relaxing late afternoon drive back to Queenstown, filled with stories of thrilling runs and breathtaking sights, making your family trip to Coronet Peak truly unforgettable.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Queenstown Hill

Family-Friendly view of Queenstown Hill in

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Queenstown Hill

Morning: Start with a Scenic Walk

Begin your day early by tackling the Queenstown Hill Time Walk. The trailhead starts conveniently at the end of Belfast Terrace, easily accessible by a short drive from central Queenstown. Parking is available but limited, so an early start also ensures a spot. The walk takes approximately 2-3 hours return and is a manageable challenge for kids, with a gradual ascent. As you ascend, you"ll be treated to historical plaques that detail the area"s rich history, perfect for educational stops.

Midday: Picnic with a View

At the summit, enjoy a family picnic with panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain Range. The "Basket of Dreams," a large basket-like sculpture, provides an excellent focal point for photos and a chance to discuss its representation of the dreams and aspirations of different cultures.

Afternoon: Explore Queenstown Gardens

After descending, drive or take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Queenstown Gardens. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautifully manicured gardens, frisbee golf course, and the small but charming pond. The gardens offer a tranquil setting where the kids can run around while adults enjoy the rose gardens and the views.

Evening: Sunset by the Lake

Wrap up your day by the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The lakeside is perfect for a serene family dinner as you watch the sun set behind the mountains. Choose from numerous family-friendly restaurants near the lake or opt for a takeaway meal to enjoy by the water.

Interesting Fact

Queenstown was originally named "Tahuna", which means "shallow bay" in Māori, a nod to the tranquil yet shallow waters of Lake Wakatipu that you"ll admire from Queenstown Hill!

This itinerary combines a mix of physical activity, educational opportunities, and relaxed family time, all set against the backdrop of Queenstown’s stunning natural scenery.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.