A Perfect Day in Queenstown, New Zealand: Top Activities for the Non-Adrenaline Junkie

1. Start with a lovely breakfast overlooking Lake Wakatipu. I recommend staying at a hotel like Azur Lodge or The Rees Hotel, which features gorgeous views over the lake right from your room.

2. Take a quick 50-minute helicopter ride to Glacier Country and land on the surface of a snow-capped glacier for a glass of bubbles with a view. Our friends at The Helicopter Line do a fabulous glacier helicopter excursion, and the scenery is stunning!

3. Back in town, do some shopping. Be sure to pick up some iconic Icebreaker wool clothing! Perhaps have lunch at Fergburger, and don’t forget to try a scoop of Hokey Pokey Ice Cream from Patagonia Chocolates. 

4. Walk to Kiwi Birdlife Park (at the base of the Skyline Gondola) and catch a feeding of their kiwi birds. I love this quirky little park, and it’s a great way to see a kiwi—New Zealand’s adorable national bird, which is almost impossible to spot in the wild! 

5. Take another short walk to the Sofitel Queenstown and indulge in a wonderful massage or spa treatment; I like to treat myself to a facial whenever I travel. Relax and enjoy. 

6. Head back to the hotel, freshen up, and enjoy a glass of New Zealand wine in front of the fireplace. Then, take a transfer to Amisfeld Bistro for a Trust the Chef degustation dinner with matching wines (you’ll need reservations). I love this little bistro; it has delectable food and equally wonderful wines. Take your time with a fabulous 3- or 4-hour dining experience and return to town via taxi. 

7. Lastly, if you aren’t falling asleep from all that lovely wine, go to the Skyline Gondola base and ride up to the top of Bob’s Peak. Soak up breathtaking views high above Queenstown as the city lights sparkle below you. Perhaps have a glass of bubbles and then end with stargazing (a perfect excuse to wear that Icebreakers gear you picked up earlier). 

Adventure and Outdoor Activities 

Thrill-seekers will find endless adventure sports to choose from in Queenstown in New Zealand. Take a leap with AJ Hackett Bungy at Kawarau Bridge or zip through Shotover Canyon on the Shotover Jet. For a different kind of thrill, try bungee jumping from the Nevis platform or paragliding above the Remarkables for breathtaking views. 

If hiking is more your style, the Queenstown Hill Track offers a rewarding, easy climb, while the Ben Lomond Summit Track challenges serious trekkers with panoramic alpine scenery. For those who prefer water, kayaking, paddleboarding, or scenic lake activities on Lake Wakatipu are ideal ways to connect with nature without the adrenaline rush. Every activity here feels like a Queenstown must-do moment. 

Leisure and Cultural Experiences 

Queenstown’s charm goes beyond adventure. Discover the relaxed elegance of the region through its art, food, and scenery. Stroll through the peaceful Queenstown Gardens or drive to Arrowtown and Glenorchy for unforgettable sightseeing moments surrounded by golden hills and mirrored lakes. 

Art lovers can browse local galleries showcasing New Zealand artists, while wine enthusiasts can sample award-winning vintages on guided wine tours through the Gibbston Valley. For fine dining, Rātā, Botswana Butchery, and Eichardt’s deliver world-class dining experiences that blend creativity, flavor, and style. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration and enjoy the best of Queenstown, New Zealand to-do options. 

Winter Sports and Snow Adventures 

In winter, the mountains become a playground for snow lovers. Queenstown ski resorts like Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Cardrona Alpine Resort cater to all levels, from beginners to seasoned skiers. Try snowboarding, snowshoeing, or heli-skiing New Zealand’s backcountry slopes for untouched powder. When the day ends, relax fireside at a cozy lodge or spa and soak in the magic of the winter sports season. 

Family-Friendly Activities 

Families will love Queenstown’s playful side. Visit Kiwi Birdlife Park to meet native wildlife or enjoy the Skyline Luge for all-ages excitement. Lake cruises, farm tours, and gentle hikes make great family activities that visitors of every age can enjoy. For history buffs, the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement adds culture and context to your day trips.