10 Best Things to do in Queenstown in Winter

Planning to be in Queenstown during the winter? I’m so excited for you!

As a Queenstown local, I’m here to tell you that winter here is pure magic. The mountains are dusted in snow, the air is crisp and fresh, and there are a ton of fun things to do, from jet boat rides and cozy tastings to glacier landings. Yes, really! 

I’ve rounded up the 10 best winter activities in Queenstown to help you make the most of your time in this magical town, as well as all of the need-to-know details about each one. They’re all easy to book and totally worth it, so bundle up and let’s dive into the best of Queenstown in winter!

Things to do in Queenstown

1. Go on a thrilling Jetboat ride!

The best way to get your adrenaline fix in Queenstown is on this 25-minute jet boat ride. This high-speed adventure whips you through the stunning Shotover Canyon, reaching speeds up to 90 kph (56 mph) as you race around rivers and lakes. You’ll scream and laugh the entire time—I guarantee it!

Not only is jet boating one of the most popular activities in town, but it’s also an affordable way to get out on the water and experience Queenstown from a unique vantage point. Your driver will execute 360-degree spins, pulling up only inches from the shoreline or rocks. It’s a thrilling experience that feels even more intense than the jet boat rides departing on Lake Wakatipu!

The Shotover River is absolutely stunning, and this top-rated tour is one of those must-do activities you’ll be talking about long after your trip ends.

If you need transport from your accommodation, they can arrange that, or you can easily meet the tour in downtown Queenstown. There are over 1,900 five-star reviews, so you can expect good things from these guys—see the reviews for yourself here! 

This tour also operates all year round, so you can enjoy it during the winter. Just make sure to dress warmly in layers, gloves, a hat, and a waterproof jacket. 

2. Take a day trip to Milford Sound

Visiting Milford Sound while you’re in New Zealand is a must! While I personally recommend staying a couple of nights in Te Anau or Fiordland National Park to give yourself time to explore the area, it’s very easy to visit Milford in one day from Queenstown. But there are a few options…

Coach and cruise tour (most affordable)

If you were to ask for my top choice, it’s this small-group full-day tour to Milford Sound. Why? It’s not only a small group tour, but you also board the smallest boat in Milford Sound for a boutique experience that gets you as close as possible to the action. The best part is, it only costs about $30 NZD more than the big bus, big boat tours.

And trust me, it’s soooo worth it! Half of the adventure is getting to Milford Sound, and your tour will stop at some amazing places en route, such as the Mirror Lakes and the famous Homer Tunnel. 

Milford Sound is best explored in the winter months. Don’t get me wrong, I love the warm sunsets in the summer on the Milford Sound foreshore, but seriously, the place is so overcrowded! But during the winter, Milford is quiet and much more peaceful, cruises are cheaper, the famous Miter Peak is dipped in snow, and fewer boats sail the fiord, making it my favorite time to visit!

So if you’re looking for an affordable and unforgettable experience, I highly recommend this tour. And I’m not the only one who loves it—check out over 2,000 five-star reviews right here!

Fly and cruise tour (most adventurous)

If you’re short on time but don’t want to miss Milford Sound, this fly cruise fly tour is easily the best way to see it! It allows you to experience the bucket-list-worthy Milford Sound in just half a day, which is pretty amazing if you ask me. 

Flying over the snow-covered Southern Alps towards Queenstown was just incredible. My jaw was on the floor the entire time as we soared above the jagged peaks and glacial valleys, and saw Milford Sound come into view. 

Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, we landed in Milford Sound for a 2-hour nature cruise. There really is nothing like gliding through those majestic, towering cliffs, and I spotted lots of seals, dolphins, and even a penguin or two along the way. Then, we flew back to Queenstown via a different flight route, so I got to admire even more scenery. 

This tour will take your breath away, but it’s also a super efficient experience. In just 4.5 hours, you experience something most people take a full day to do! And if you’re prone to motion sickness, avoiding the long and winding drive is a huge bonus.

Now, I won’t lie to you, this tour is a splurge, but for two scenic flights and a cruise through one of the most incredible landscapes in New Zealand, it’s totally worth it. If it fits your budget, then I say go for it. This is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences you’ll be so glad you didn’t skip!

3. Cruise Lake Wakatipu 

This lake cruise to Walter Peak is one of my absolute favorite things to do in Queenstown. In fact, I always do it with friends and family who come to visit because it really delivers everything you come to Queenstown for: beautiful scenery, delicious food, and a slice of real Kiwi life! 

For most of the year, you ride across the lake on the historic TSS Earnslaw, but the steamship will be undergoing maintenance between 19th May to 8th September this year. But don’t let that put you off, as you’ll get to enjoy the catamaran option instead and stay warm in the cozy indoor section while you enjoy the views from the big windows.

Speaking of which, cruising across Lake Wakatipu is especially magical in the winter when the surrounding mountains are capped with snow! Then, once you arrive at Walter Peak High Country Farm, you’ll be welcomed into the beautiful Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant for a gourmet BBQ lunch. It’s Kiwi food at its finest! 

After lunch, we wandered through the gardens by the lake and then watched a sheep shearing and sheepdog demonstration. I didn’t think I’d find it that exciting, but it was super entertaining and offered a glimpse into rural Kiwi life.

A cruise to Walter Peak is a total must on any visit to Queenstown, but I especially enjoy it in the winter because it’s extra cozy. The hearty food tastes even better when it’s cold outside, and the snowy views are beyond stunning.

4. Discover Lord of the Rings filming locations

This Lord of the Rings tour in Queenstown is an absolute must for fans of the films, and it’s easy to see why. These movies helped put New Zealand on the tourist map, and some travelers even come here just to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters!

Many iconic scenes were filmed right around Queenstown, but finding them on your own can be tricky. That’s why joining a Lord of the Rings tour is the best way to uncover Amon Hen, Ithilien, Isengard, and so much more. You’ll see the spectacular landscapes that brought Middle-earth to life, and there’s something truly magical about standing in the exact spots that captured our imaginations on the big screen.

Now, I’ll be honest with you, I’m not as big of a LOTR fan as some, but I still had an absolute blast on this tour, and all of the locations are absolutely breathtaking, even if you take the movie magic out of the equation. 

We stopped by so many iconic sites from Tolkien’s world, such as Isengard Lookout, Twelve Mile Delta, and Mount Aspiring. At one point, our guide even gave us props to recreate some of the franchise’s most famous moments for ourselves, which was so much fun and made me laugh a lot. I even learned that other popular movies, like X-Men and The Chronicles of Narnia, were filmed here, too! 

This tour is a must for LOTR fans, but it’s also just an incredible way to get off the main tourist track and admire some of Queenstown’s best scenery, which you might otherwise have missed. I’d do it again tomorrow!

5. Go skydiving! 

Skydiving in Queenstown is an unforgettable experience, especially during winter! I mean, plummeting thousands of feet towards the ground is always exhilarating, but doing it with breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains makes it even more incredible. 

You can choose to skydive from 9,000, 12,000, or 15,000 feet (2,700, 3,700, or 4,500 meters), and I find that the prices here are actually pretty good for skydiving. And you really couldn’t ask for a more beautiful location than Queenstown! 

Obviously, I’m biased because I just love living here so much, but I genuinely can’t think of anything better than gazing at the vast expanse of Lake Wakatipu and the aptly-named Remarkables as you plunge to the Earth. And honestly, the Remarkables are at their most stunning when they’re covered in a blanket of white snow.

The freefall is intense and thrilling, and then when the parachute opens, you’ll float peacefully over the winter landscapes, giving you plenty of time to take in the rugged mountains and clear lake from above. It’s a truly awe-inspiring view!

Skydiving in Queenstown in winter is perfect for anyone looking for a bucket-list adventure. The adrenaline rush, combined with the stunning snow-covered views, makes this season a fantastic time to jump! However, it’s a popular thing to do all year round, so don’t hesitate to book.

6. ATV through the mountains 

This quad biking tour in Queenstown is one of the most popular adventure tours around, and for good reason! Quad bikes, also known as ATVs, let you take control as you climb up mountains, cross rivers, and speed through the mud—these powerful machines tackle just about anything you throw at them.

I’ve done a ton of quad biking all over the world, and I can honestly say that this experience is one of the best. Queenstown’s rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes make for an unforgettable ride. You name it, the quad will (try) to tackle it!

For one thing, I don’t think that the beautiful landscapes of Queenstown can ever be beaten, and for another, you get ex-race champions as your tour guides! That’s certainly not something I’ve encountered anywhere else.

Your expert guide will teach you everything you need to know before setting off to enjoy some of the most incredible views from up above Queenstown. With weather-proof gear provided, quad biking is one of the adventure tours you can do in Queenstown, even when it’s cold. In fact, I think that it’s even more scenic in the winter when the mountains are capped with snow, and the bikes are easily able to handle mud or icy ground.

The quad biking tour is suitable for anyone 16 years or older and is suitable even for people who’ve never driven a quad before! The tour departs from central Queenstown and lasts for 1 hour, so it’s easy to fit into your busy schedule. With over 750 five-star reviews (see them here), it’s safe to say this is one of the best things to do in Queenstown!

7. Visit Arrowtown and Wanaka 

If you’re short on time in Queenstown but still want to explore more of the region, this half-day tour to Arrowtown and Wanaka is perfect. It stuns right from the start with a scenic drive through the Crown Range, the highest main road in New Zealand. The views from here are just beautiful, especially when the mountains are dusted with snow!

Then, the first main stop is the iconic Cardrona Hotel, which is one of New Zealand’s oldest pubs. I always enjoy a drink here because it’s so full of character, and the tour just so happens to include one right by the fire. I also had a chance to snap some fun photos of the quirky Bra Fence outside!

Next up is Wanaka, a postcard-perfect town that’s known for the famous Wanaka Tree, which is half-submerged in the lake. It’s a real must-visit, and during winter, you’ll also see the snow-capped Southern Alps reflecting in the calm water, so it feels extra special at this time of year. 

And on the way back to Queenstown, you’ll stop in Arrowtown, which is a charming former gold mining town with a well-preserved Chinese settlement. I often come here on weekends, so maybe I’ll see you in one of the boutique shops or cute cafes along the scenic main street. 

This tour packed in a lot without ever feeling rushed. I’d absolutely recommend it, and it’s especially great to have a professional local driver during winter when the mountain roads can be icy.

8. Enjoy snowy mountain peaks on a helicopter flight 

This helicopter flight is honestly one of the most incredible things that you can do in Queenstown, and that’s really saying something in a place known for adventure! I loved flying over the Southern Alps in a helicopter, but the real showstopper was getting to land on a glacier. Standing there, surrounded by snow-covered peaks, was an experience I will never forget. 

You can book this flight year-round, but it’s most spectacular during the winter months when the snow makes the mountains look even more beautiful. The take-off point is near Lake Wakatipu, and you get a bird’s-eye view of Queenstown as soon as you take to the skies. 

And the views only got better as we soared deeper into the mountains. The pilot gave great commentary as we flew over valleys, icefalls, and alpine lakes, and he even pointed out notable glaciers and peaks, including Mt. Aspiring. It looks even more incredible from high up in the air!

As I climbed out of the helicopter onto the Jura Glacier, I remember thinking about how the mountains looked like something out of a fantasy film. It was such a surreal feeling! We had time to walk around and take photos before flying back to Queenstown on a different route that took us over the Rees and Dart River Valleys. 

Helicopter flights aren’t cheap ,but trust me, you’ll be SO glad that you booked this tour afterwards. I know that I was! 

Related Read: For more great scenic flight options in Queenstown, check out my post here that outlines the 9 best ones!

9. See a Kiwi Bird up close 

This Kiwi Birdlife Park experience in Queenstown is a must-visit for anyone curious about New Zealand’s incredible birdlife. This wildlife refuge is dedicated to protecting native birds and animals, giving you a chance to see these unique species up close, even in the winter!

New Zealand was once a sanctuary for many bird species, free of predators until humans arrived and introduced pests like stoats, possums, and cats. These invasive species now threaten the survival of many native birds, and populations are shrinking as we speak.

Visiting the Kiwi Birdlife Park not only gives you a chance to marvel at these creatures but also supports important conservation efforts to ensure their survival.

Visitors can explore the park to see some of these birds for themselves, including the New Zealand Kiwi. There are daily shows where you can watch the birds being fed and learn about the park’s conservation efforts, which are super impressive, just FYI. And all of these shows are included in your entry fee, so you may as well try to catch one while you’re here.

Keep in mind that while there are captive animals, it is a conservation program. The park helps heal injured birds from the area and manages breeding programs for endangered species, working closely with the DOC. So, your entrance fee helps support the program, which is definitely something to feel good about!

10. Go wine tasting in the Gibbston Valley 

Wine lovers, this tour is for you! The Gibbston Valley wine region is exactly where you should go to check out local Queenstown wineries and drink as much wine as your heart desires. And wine tasting in winter means cozying up in tasting rooms and sampling lots of rich reds—what could be better?

The Gibbston Valley is only a 20-30 minute drive from Queenstown, but of course, you don’t want to drive when there’s all of this world-class wine on offer! Plus, I love that this tour includes all of your food and tastings, so all you need to worry about is enjoying yourself. 

And trust me, that will not be a problem! With boutique wineries like Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Cromwell on the itinerary, I can almost guarantee that you’ll fall head-over-heels in love with the Otago wine region. 

Lunch is a real highlight, too. It’s a farm-to-table platter of local cheeses, olives, fruits, and freshly baked bread, so you’ll get to sample some of Otago’s best produce alongside its outstanding wines. 

I always do this tour with wine-loving friends who come to visit me in Queenstown, because I think it does such a great job of showcasing what’s special about the Otago Region, and the Gibbston Valley more specifically. Don’t miss out!

Related Read: Now that you’re all set with the ultimate winter adventures in Queenstown, be sure to check out my detailed guide on the best places to stay in Queenstown—because every great trip starts with the perfect home base!

Where to Stay in Queenstown

Finding the right place to stay in Queenstown can be hard. Don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of awesome choices, but things book up fast! For that reason, I highly suggest booking your accommodation well in advance.

Honestly, during peak times, any of the best hotels in Queenstown will be fully booked several weeks in advance…you have been warned! To help you plan ahead, here are a few places I personally love and that would make an awesome place to stay in Queenstown.

Kamana Lakehouse – $$$

For a luxurious stay, I highly recommend Kamana Lakehouse. This hotel is located just on the outskirts of town. Although it’s super peaceful, it’s just a 5-minute drive into the center of town. The place overlooks both the lake and the mountains, and the onsite restaurant uses local, seasonal ingredients to create the freshest meals. To top it off, many of the rooms boast lake views, and some even have outdoor baths!

The trick will be snagging this for your dates (it’s a popular place!). Rooms start around the $400 NZD mark, and you can check availability and book online here.

mi-pad Queenstown – $$

If you’re looking for a mid-range hotel, then you should seriously consider mi-pad Queenstown. It’s a modern and eco-friendly stay right in the heart of town that features compact yet stylish rooms with app-controlled lighting and temperature. Plus it also boasts a rooftop terrace with stunning lake and mountain views!

Prices vary depending on the season but usually start around $200 NZD per night. You can check availability and book online here.

Absoloot Hostel Queenstown – $

My top choice for budget travelers is the Absoloot Hostel Queenstown. This small hostel has dorm rooms and budget private rooms, and it’s really clean and comfortable. The location is in the heart of Queenstown – the window from the kitchen looks out over Lake Wakatipu!

Dorms are around $55 NZD, and private rooms begin around $210 NZD. The Absoloot Hostel is easily one of the top cheap hostels in Queenstown and can be booked on Hostelworld.com or Booking.com.

Thanks for reading!

Now you know the absolute best winter activities in Queenstown! I might be biased as a local, but I really believe there’s no better place to embrace the cold and discover some of the most epic adventures New Zealand has to offer. From gliding over glaciers and carving up the trails on a quad bike to cozy wine tastings and seeing real-life kiwis up close, winter here is unforgettable.

I hope this guide helps you plan your own magical trip to Queenstown this winter. For even more inspiration, check out my Queenstown page here! Or read some of my favorite travel guides below. I’ve got tons of resources and insider tips for exploring Queenstown and beyond—plus even more winter adventures you won’t want to miss. Safe travels!

9 BEST Scenic Flights in Queenstown: Which One to Choose

My 4 Favorite Milford Sound Tours from Queenstown: Which One to Choose!

5 Best Wine Tours in Queenstown

Where to Stay in Wanaka, New Zealand: 5 Best Areas & Hotels