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In my opinion, taking the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak in Queenstown is one of the best things to do here. In fact, it’s one of the first things I always do with my friends and family when they come to visit!
The views are incredible and there’s tons to do at the top, so what’s not to love?
But if you haven’t ridden the gondola before, you may be wondering what to expect, when to go, and whether or not it’s worth it. Rest assured, I’m going to answer all of those questions – and more – in this blog, so stay tuned!
About the Skyline Gondola
The Skyline Gondola takes you right to the top of Bob’s Peak for incredible panoramic views of Queenstown. And I really do mean incredible!
You can see for miles, and I never get tired of gazing out at Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables, Coronet Peak, and Walter Peak – oh, yes, and Queenstown itself, of course!
The gondola ride takes about 10 minutes and a brand new one has just opened! The old version only held 4 people per pod, but the new gondola can accommodate up to 10 at a time, which is perfect for those traveling in a big group. They’re making other improvements, too, so watch this space!
Once you get to the top, there’s tons to do at the summit. As well as marveling at the panoramic views, I also find the luge rides a lot of fun, but there’s also a bike park, a restaurant, and some hiking trails.
Speaking of hiking, it is actually possible to hike to the top of Bob’s Peak rather than riding the gondola via the Tiki Trail. However, it’s very steep so as much as I love hiking, I almost always take the gondola!
Where is the Skyline Gondola located?
The lower gondola station is at the base of Bob’s Peak, located on the northwest edge of Queenstown. It’s a 2-minute drive or a 10-minute walk from the town center, so it’s very easy to access. You can even see the gondola from downtown!
New and improved parking!
Great news if you’re planning on driving here – the parking situation is much better these days! Parking used to be nonexistent, but there have been lots of renovations and now there’s a multi-story car park at the base of the gondola.
There are tons of spaces for cars, bicycles, and motorcycles, and even charging stations for electric vehicles.
Parking here costs $6 NZD per hour, but if you have a large campervan or motorhome, you’ll need to go and park it at the Boundary Street car park instead. This only costs $2 NZD per hour during the day and is a 10-minute walk from the gondola base.
How do I get tickets for the Gondola?
You can either buy your gondola tickets online, or on the day at the gondola base. However, depending on what you want to do once you get to the top, I recommend buying your tickets at least a few days in advance online.
Basically, if you want to join in with some of the activities at the top, you’ll need to buy a combo ticket. I should warn you that dining at the Stratosfare restaurant is a super popular thing to do, and it always sells out in advance.
Gondola tickets alone cost $64 NZD, but there are lots of combos available. All of the following cover your gondola ticket, plus the extra activity:
- $173 – $223 NZD for the guided walks
- $86 – $115 NZD for the luges (depending on how many times you want to ride)
- $127 NZD for lunch at the Stratosfare restaurant
- $147 NZD for dinner at the Stratosfare restaurant
- $129 NZD for a full-day mountain biking uplift pass
There are also premium lunch and dinner options if you’re feeling fancy. You can also combine multiple activities, such as dinner and unlimited luge rides.
Browse all the ticket options and buy Gondola tickets in advance here!
What are the best things to do at the top of the Skyline Gondola?
Viewing Platform
At the main gondola complex at the summit of Bob’s Peak, you’ll find an epic viewing platform. I never get tired of the panoramic views of Queenstown from up here.
In my eyes, this is a must-visit viewpoint over the city! I also like wandering around the main complex as there are tons of great viewpoints and a few different places to sit and just soak it all in.
The Luge
I have a confession to make: before I rode the luge myself, I thought it would be, well… a bit lame! But it turns out, I couldn’t have been more wrong, as it’s an absolute blast, and you have full control of the speed so you can go really fast if you want to.
With that said, it is very family-friendly and suitable for kids, I was just surprised by how much fun it was for adults, too! Before you go, check out my top 5 tips for riding the Queenstown Luge here!
Bike Park
The Queenstown Bike Park is actually built into the side of Bob’s Peak, and it has over 30 km (18 mi) of trails going down the mountain. Yup, it’s actually the only mountain bike park in New Zealand where you can take the gondola up and then ride down – they even offer special lift passes. If you’re into mountain biking, then I promise, this is the ultimate place to do it.
Hiking
There are a few hikes to choose from at the summit of Bob’s Peak. There’s the Skyline Loop Track, which takes you to see the paragliders, and my personal favorite, the Ben Lomond Track. It’s 11 km (7 mi) return from the top of the gondola and fairly challenging, although you can shorten it if you like – I’ve got a whole guide to it here! But you can also book a guided hike to Ben Lomond during the summer when you buy your gondola tickets online.
Stargazing
Between March and October, it’s possible to go stargazing at the top of Bob’s Peak! Queenstown’s night skies truly are breathtaking, and I love the idea of having expert astrologers teach you about the Milky Way and its constellations, using high-powered telescopes.
You have to book this advance because it’s incredibly popular and numbers are very limited. Since stargazing is also weather-dependent, I recommend booking this activity at the beginning of your time in Queenstown so that you’re able to reschedule if you don’t get a clear night.
Related Read: For more evening activities, look through my guide on all the things to do in Queenstown at night!
Are there restaurants at the top?
Yes – in fact, one of the most sought-after restaurants in all of Queenstown can be found at the top of the Skyline Gondola. I’m talking, of course, about the Stratosfare, which is known for delivering epic views through its floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as amazing food.
The meal you get is actually a buffet, but it’s definitely not your typical tourist buffet, I can promise you that! There are lots of different stations, but everything is fresh, seasonal, and made with local ingredients, which is always a good thing when you’re dining in New Zealand.
Lunch up here costs $127 NZD per person, or $147 NZD if you go for the premium option, which guarantees you a window seat, and includes a drink. To be honest, I would go for the premium option if possible, as it’s not like you get to dine somewhere like this every day!
Then, dinner costs $147 NZD for the standard option, or $167 NZD to go premium. For both lunch and dinner tickets, you can add luge rides, and your gondola ticket is always included in the price.
Trust me, you’ll want to book this experience in advance. It’s super popular and pretty much everyone who comes to Queenstown tries to get a reservation up here, so don’t wait too long to book.
If you don’t manage to make Stratosfare reservations in time, there’s also the Market Kitchen Cafe at the top of the gondola. This is nothing to be sniffed at, and it serves up nice cafe and pub grub, but it just doesn’t offer the same views and experience. To be honest, the Stratosfare is where everyone really wants to go!
When is the Skyline Gondola open?
The gondola itself is open from 9:30 am until 9 pm daily, all year round. However, this isn’t the same for all of the attractions up there.
The luge rides are usually open from 12-7 pm, although it opens at 10 am on weekends.
Meanwhile, the Stratosfare Restaurant is open from 11:45 am until 8:45 pm, but the bar stays open until 10 pm – wink wink. And if you’re getting food at the Market Kitchen Cafe instead, that closes at 4 pm.
When is the best time to go?
I’ve found that the Skyline Gondola is usually busiest on the weekends during the summer, or school holidays. Other than that, it’s pretty relaxed and you shouldn’t have to queue for ages.
However, if you’re visiting during the winter I do recommend double checking the website to make sure it’s open before you go, as sometimes the gondola closes due to bad weather.
And if you want to eat, well, it doesn’t get better than the Stratosfare Restaurant. I love having dinner here at sunset, and I think it’s totally worth the cost. The views are spectacular and nothing can beat watching the sun go down from up here. That alone would be enough to make me fall in love with the Stratosfare, but I do enjoy the food as well!
Other activities that are up there but not part of the “Skyline”
AJ Hackett Bungy
Did you know that commercial bungy jumping was born here in Queenstown? Well, now you do!
And not only that, but you can actually jump off of Bob’s Peak at The Ledge Bungy. How insane is that?
Bungy jumping isn’t part of the Skyline Gondola so you have to book it separately, but you’ll still need to ride the gondola to the top. Plus, this is a freestyle bungy, so you can choose whichever jump style you want … I feel nervous just thinking about it! If you’ve got nerves of steel, I honestly cannot think of a more beautiful place for a bungy jump.
Paragliding
If you’re not quite ready for a full-on bungy jump but still feel like flying, then you can also go paragliding off of Bob’s Peak. This is definitely the option that I would choose!
This tandem paragliding flight will see you soaring off of the side of the mountain with epic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables.
This flight has over 900 5-star reviews, so you’re definitely in good hands. It costs $320 NZD, so it’s a little pricey, but it’s most definitely worth it – you really aren’t going to get a better view than this. And as with bungy jumping, you’ll still need to ride the gondola up separately.
Book your paragliding experience here and you can pay later!
Ziplining
If you’re looking for a fantastic adventure with the family at the top of Bob’s Peak, then I highly recommend booking this zipline tour. It’s so much fun and the views are incredible, but it’s far less scary than bungy jumping or even paragliding. Plus, kids aged 6 and over are welcome!
However, adults shouldn’t rule this one out either, as some of the drops and longer ziplines will still get your heart beating pretty fast. One of the reasons I love ziplining so much is because it offers the right amount of adventure without being too scary or extreme. I also think it would also be an awesome way to enjoy the views at the summit of Bob’s Peak, without any little ones moaning that they’re bored.
Ziplining at the top of the gondola costs $119 NZD, so it’s definitely a cheaper alternative to bungy jumping or paragliding. However, given that it has 600+ 5-star reviews, I think it’s safe to say you’ll still have a blast!
Grab a spot on this popular ziplining tour before it sells out!
Why I Book Tours on Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! I almost always book all of my tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here!
Is the Skyline Gondola suitable for families?
Yes, definitely. Kids love the adventure activities up here, especially the luge rides and the ziplining! I think this is a fantastic place to bring the entire family because there’s a ton to do and honestly, these views have no age limit!
Related Read: If you’re traveling as a family, check out my list of the best free and cheap activities for kids in Queenstown!
Is the Skyline Gondola worth it?
Yes, it most certainly is. In fact, it’s one of the best things to do in Queenstown, and definitely one that you should add to your itinerary, even if you’re short on time. Perhaps especially if you’re short on time, as you get to see so much from up here!
Must-Do Activities While in Queenstown
While in Queenstown there are plenty of other activities that will keep you busy … honestly there are so many it’ll be hard to choose which ones to do! Below are some of my favorites.
- Central Otago Wine Tour and Tasting – This is my personal favorite wine tour in Queenstown! It is one of the best value for money, for $259 NZD your tour bus will stop at 4 different boutique wineries in the Otago region that include a wide range of wine samples and a provided gourmet lunch platter. As you hop between wineries you’ll gaze out the window at spectacular views.
- TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise – This scenic and relaxing cruise in Queenstown is an activity great for any afternoon. The ship you will be cruising on is the Historic TSS Earnslaw and you will get to watch crew members add coal to the flames that power the vessel. You can also upgrade this tour here to include dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
- Queenstown Canyoning Adventure – Climb and jump off waterfalls, rappel, swim, and trek your way down a part of a Queenstown canyon with a qualified guide. This thrilling full-day activity is perfect for those who love adventure and exploration! As long as you aren’t afraid of heights and have a basic swimming ability you won’t need any other skills.
- Day Trip to Milford Sound With Picnic Lunch – This tour will give you the ultimate ability to explore the beauty of Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park. Not only will your guide stop at several impressive viewpoints on the way from Queenstown but there is also a cruise in Milford Sound included. This small-group tour is highly rated and a much more personalized experience.
- Extreme Jet Boating – Looking for a thrill? Jet Boating is one of New Zealand’s most unique activities. On the tour out of Queenstown, you’ll be able to zoom up the Shotover River through narrow canyons at high speeds and make 360-degree spins. Trust, me it’s epic!
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 – $$$
For a luxurious stay, I highly recommend Kamana Lakehouse. This hotel is located just on the outskirts of town. Although it’s super peaceful, it’s just a 5-minute drive into the center of town. The place overlooks both the lake and the mountains, and the onsite restaurant uses local, seasonal ingredients to create the freshest meals. To top it off, many of the rooms boast lake views, and some even have outdoor baths!
The trick will be snagging this for your dates (it’s a popular place!). Rooms start around the $400 NZD mark, and you can check availability and book online here.
La Quinta Queenstown – $$
If you’re looking for a mid-range hotel, then you should seriously consider La Quinta Queenstown. This beautiful hotel is right by the airport but still very quiet. Plus, the views are amazing (although you won’t find me recommending a place without great views!). The rooms are all studio or one-bedroom apartments, which is really handy if you want to cook or even just have breakfast in your room.
Prices start at $200 NZD and you can 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.
Renting a Car, Campervan, or Motorhome in New Zealand
Let’s face it, you’re going to need wheels to get around New Zealand. Although a small country, buses between destinations are infrequent and expensive. Plus, some of the best experiences you can have in NZ are on road trips!
You have three options when it comes to getting wheels in New Zealand; a car, a campervan, or a motorhome. Here’s what you need to know about each and where to get them:
- Car – A normal car is the cheapest rental vehicle you can get in New Zealand. It’ll get you around to all of the best destinations with ease. The only downside to a car is that you will need to stay in hotels or Airbnbs during your travels (no camping.) The easiest place to rent a car in New Zealand is on Discover Cars where you can compare cars, companies, prices, features, and more very easily.
- Campervan – A Campervan is a large van that has a bed and a small kitchen in the back. It’s what most budget travelers use for traveling around New Zealand since it allows you to camp comfortably and for free (most) nights. Campervans are best for couples or solo travelers who are happy to live in a small space. You should also love the outdoors and camping…and be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime! My favorite campervan rental company is JUCY because they have a huge selection of campervans to choose from, plus multiple pick-up/drop-off locations. You can browse JUCY’s campervan selection online here. Alternatively, you can easily compare all campervans available in NZ on Motorhome Republic here.
- Motorhome – A motorhome is larger and more comfortable than a campervan. Many motorhomes will comfortably sleep 6 or more people – perfect for a family visiting New Zealand. Motorhomes are the most expensive option, but with one you won’t ever need to stay in a hotel and you’ll save money that way. My top choice for a motorhome company is Star RV because they have beautiful motorhomes at affordable prices. You can check prices and availability for Star RV motorhomes online here. Alternatively, you can use Motorhome Republic to search all motorhomes in NZ. For more detailed info, read my complete guide to renting a motorhome in New Zealand!
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT CODE: I’ve managed to snag a discount code for 5% off for my readers if you book your campervan or motorhome through JUCY or Star RV! Simply click here to select your JUCY campervan, or click here to select your Star RV motorhome, and then use the code DTRAVEL25 at checkout to get 5% off – it’s that easy!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, I currently use and recommend SafetyWing. I’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had my back when I needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference I’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. I’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum and you get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped me out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given me peace of mind. Read my full review on if you should get travel insurance in NZ for more info!
Thanks for reading!
Riding the Skyline Gondola in Queenstown is a lot of fun, and the views are incredible from the outset. Then, once at the top, there’s so much to do and you can spend hours enjoying all of the fun activities up here, as I have done many times!
I’m a Queenstown local, so let me help you plan the best trip! Check out all my blogs on Queenstown or a few popular ones I think you might like below. I can’t wait for you to visit!
The BEST time to visit Queenstown – Comparing the Four Seasons