Undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in New Zealand during the winter, Queenstown is brimmed with exhilarating adventures you definitely shouldn’t miss. The list of things to do here is almost endless: from snow activities in Queenstown to nature expeditions and indoor attractions, you’re sure to find something you’ll love.
Need some help planning your itinerary? We’ve got you covered. Read on below for our list of the must-try Queenstown activities in winter:
1. Enjoy a day of skiing and snowboarding
Snowboarding and skiing down the slopes are a must for a winter trip to Queenstown.
Famous for its alpine terrain, skiing and snowboarding are definitely two of the best things to do in Queenstown in winter. Head out to The Remarkables Mountain Range or Coronet Peak, take the lift up, and get ready to hit the slopes. Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy the powdery snow, scenic views, and delicious food at the restaurants at the top.
Klook Tip: Don’t have your own equipment or simply just want to save yourself the hassle of bringing gear up the mountain? Rental equipment such as jackets, pants, boots, snowboards, skis, and more is available.
2. Explore Milford Sound
Fly over Milford Sound for the best views of New Zealand’s most stunning natural attraction.
New Zealand's most stunning natural attraction, Milford Sound is a must-visit for its stunning landscapes. Here, you can spend hours taking in everything it has to offer: from majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and even abundant wildlife, there’s plenty for you to discover!
For the best views of this area, why not go on a scenic flight and cruise at Milford Sound? See the Southern Alps, glaciers and the alpine lakes from above, then get up close to Stirling Falls and the Fiordland rainforest. You’ll also get to enjoy either a morning tea or a picnic lunch, depending on your departure time.
3. Visit the Tasman Glacier
Explore the ice caves at Tasman Glacier.
For a truly unique adventure, there’s nothing better than a day trip to the Tasman Glacier! Spend the day hiking in the snow to see the natural, ever-changing wonders of the South Island’s glaciers. Your experienced tour guide will also take you deep inside ice caves, which shift daily due to temperature fluctuations and glacier movement, so no two caves are the same!
Klook Tip: While all necessary equipment like crampons, boots, socks, and ice axes will be provided, note that you’ll still need to pack personal items like sunglasses, hats, and food. Make sure to bring an extra set of warm clothes as well, just in case it gets too cold out there!
4. Try skydiving above Queenstown
Take the plunge and watch Queenstown the best way possible - way up above!
Feel the thrill when you plunge from 15,000 feet above the ground in Queenstown, one of the best places to visit in New Zealand if you’re up for the adrenaline rush! Go skydiving above the Wakatipu basin and catch breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and neighboring mountains.
To start the journey, head onto the drop zone, where you’ll be geared with all necessary safety equipment, then board a 15-minute flight to get to your desired altitude. All that’s left to do is to take that heart-racing jump! Get to experience up to 25 seconds of freefall and a 5-minute canopy ride before landing safely.
Keep your memories forever when you order a photo and video pack of your skydiving experience!
5. Take a dip in Onsen Hot Pools
Be one with nature as you soak in a relaxing hot tub.
SLooking for indoor things to do in Queenstown? Why not soak all your troubles away at Onsen Hot Pools, where you can ease your mind as you take a dip in a classic cedar-lined hot pool spa heated to the optimal temperature.
Depending on your chosen hot pool package, you may go for either an original Onsen indoor soak or the garden outdoor soak experience, all matched with the best overlooking alpine view of Shotover River, as well as complimentary drinks and snacks. You can also arrange for a shuttle bus service so you don’t have to worry about going to and from your hotel!
6. Go on a jet boat ride at Lake Wakatipu
Feel the thrill as you zoom past Lake Wakatipu in this high-speed boat ride!
If you’re looking for more unique things to do in Queenstown in winter, we highly recommend this jet boat ride experience! Embark on a 60-minute high-speed boat ride on Lake Wakatipu, one of the best places to visit in New Zealand. Experience full 360-degree twists and turns as you zoom past the Remarkables Mountain Range, as well as Shotover and Kawarau Rivers.
Klook Tip: We recommend that you wear warm layers and casual footwear!
7. Fly above Aoraki Mt. Cook in a helicopter
Glide over the spectacular views of New Zealand’s natural wonders!
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fly over New Zealand’s natural wonders on a helicopter! Soar in the skies and get the best views of Aoraki Mt. Cook, the Tasman Glacier, and the rugged mountains of Ben Ohau. You’ll also experience an alpine landing, where you’ll be surrounded by pristine snow-covered landscapes, perfect for a souvenir photo!
8. Join a Queenstown wine tour
Complete your Queenstown experience with the finest glass of Pinot Noir.
Discover Queenstown one sip at a time in one of our highly recommended Queenstown activities for wine connoisseurs: wine tours! Visit premium vineyards set against the stunning backdrop of must-see Queenstown landmarks such as The Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu.
Take your pick from 4 wine tours departing from Queenstown, and get round-trip transfers, plus up to 20 wine tastings! Sip on the finest Pinot Noir and learn more about the grape-growing conditions of the remarkable vineyards in this wine country.
Depending on your tour package, indulge yourself on delectable lunch platters and exquisite cheese boards paired with local artisan chocolates.
9. Visit the Gibbston Valley wineries on a bike
Create your own adventure in this self-guided tour, and visit wineries along the way.
Take off on an adventure outside Queenstown and visit Gibbston Valley on a bicycle, one of the best places to visit in New Zealand, especially for those who love wine. From Queenstown, embark on a scenic shuttle ride that will take you to Gibbston Valley.
Pedal on your chosen bicycle and pass through charming trails such as the Arrow River Trail, Miners Trail, and Gibbston River Trail in the area. We recommend taking quick breaks to admire the panoramic views of the vineyard-filled Gibbston Valley or to visit taverns, cafes, and eight wineries along your route.
Klook Tip: There’s no need to worry about getting lost, as a custom map with landmarks will be handed out before you go on your bike tour.
10. Go canyoning in the Gibbston Valley
Beginners are recommended to try out this canyoning tour in Gibbston Valley!
While you’re in New Zealand’s South Island, make the most out of your trip by trying one of the most extreme things to do in the area: a canyoning tour in Gibbston Valley! Spend a fun-filled half-day abseiling down canyons and waterfalls. By the end of the day, you’ll consider yourself one with nature!
Professional guides and protective gear are provided during the trip, so abseil away to your heart’s ease.
11. Visit the world of The Lord of the Rings
Recreate your favourite LOTR scenes, complete with costumes and replica props!
Recreate iconic Lord of the Rings scenes with the provided props and costumes as you wander around Middle Earth. Pause to appreciate the magnificent natural scenery of the best places to visit in New Zealand, such as the mystical Paradise Forest, 12 Mile Delta, the quaint village of Arrowtown, and Lighthouse Rock.
You can also try your hand out at gold panning by Arrow River and enjoy thrilling off-road rides as you cross rivers and canyons during this Lord of the Rings day tour, all this with a lovely guide by your side to tell you more about the places.
12. Cruise inside the Te Anau Glowworm Cave
Cast your eyes upon the magical spectacle of glow worms in Te Anau!
If you’re travelling with kids, one of the best things to do in Queenstown in winter is touring around Te Anau Glowworm Cave. Ride on a cruise vessel on this spectacular half-day tour that lets you explore the cave’s limestone passages, where you can watch the majestic underground waterfall that cascades through the cave as well as the hidden grottos filled with glow worms!
For a hassle-free service, you can upgrade your package with roundtrip transfers to and from your hotel in Queenstown and enjoy Te Anau’s lovely views as you savor the selection of hot drinks available on board.
13. Paddle on a kayak at Moke Lake
Kayak at your own pace along Moke Lake and watch the stunning landscape unfold.
Paddle along picturesque Moke Lake in a kayak, one of the calmest and most relaxing Queenstown activities on this list. Immerse yourself in the rural New Zealand scenery as you kayak at your own pace, and freshen up with the kiwi refreshments available once you get back.
First-time kayakers don’t need to worry: friendly local guides will run through safety features. Safety equipment such as life vests and waterproof splash jackets is provided as well! With this experience, you can also try out SUPs and get free return transport from Queenstown.
14. Explore Queenstown at night
Queenstown at night is something you should definitely experience at least once. Credit: Ken Cheung | Pexels
When the sun’s down, don’t worry about running out of things to do in Queenstown! From riding the Skyline Gondola for night views to stargazing, there’s plenty to do here after sunset.
If you’re in the mood to party, then just head into the town center and find a local bar or pub for a few drinks. We recommend a trip to Minus Five Ice Bar, where cocktails and mocktails are served at temperatures below zero. Prepare to zip up your jackets because everything is made entirely from ice, from the furniture up to the drinkware!
Klook Tip: Don't worry about the dress code; the necessary attire will be provided on the spot.
15. Experience the local food scene
Make sure to visit Fergburger, one of Queenstown’s must-try restaurants.(Credit: Florian Bugiel | Wikimedia)
No trip to New Zealand would be complete without trying local cuisine, and Queenstown is just about the best place for it in the entire country. Popular options include:
- Fergburger: Don’t miss this chance to bite down what might be the juiciest burger in the world and order a classic burger, made from prime NZ beef and the tasty combo of crisp lettuce, tomato, red onion, aioli and tomato relish. Though lines may be long, it’s more than worth it, especially with the view of the lake just outside.
- Arrowtown Bakery: Arrowtown during the winter is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand, and the bakery is a must-visit, especially after a day out in the snow. Feast your eyes on the mouthwatering display of freshly-baked pies and delectable sausage rolls, as well as artisan sweets and chocolates.
Now that your Queenstown winter itinerary is all taken care of, all that’s left to do is to pack your bags and wait for your flight. Make sure to book any travel essentials such as your New Zealand eSIM in advance so you can focus on enjoying your adventure-filled vacation.
For more ideas on things to do in Queenstown in winter, check out some of our other guides:
FAQs about things to do in Queenstown in winter
1. Is Queenstown worth visiting in winter?
Yes, Queenstown is definitely worth visiting in winter, as you can enjoy a variety of activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and even non-snow activities such as biking and exploring vineyards. Popular places to visit in Queenstown in winter include The Remarkables Mountain Range, Coronet Peak, Milford Sound, and the Tasman Glacier.
2. What to do in Queenstown in winter if not skiing?
Aside from skiing, there’s plenty of other things to do in Queenstown in winter. We recommend:
- Hiking the Tasman Glacier
- Taking scenic tours of Milford Sound and Omarama
- Visiting the wineries at Gibbston Valley
- Exploring the local nightlife and food scene
3. What is Queenstown famous for?
Renowned as the "Adventure Capital of the World”, Queenstown is famous for thrill-seeking activities such as bungy jumping, jet boating, and sky diving. Its dramatic alpine scenery also makes it a perfect location for skiing, snowboarding, and exploring glaciers.
4. What to wear in Queenstown in winter?
For a winter trip to Queenstown, wear warm and moisture-wicking layers, as temperatures are typically freezing during this time of the year. Key items include thermal wear, a puffer jacket, and windproof/waterproof gear, along with beanies, gloves, scarves, and insulated footwear. Make sure that layers are easy to remove, as shops, restaurants, and cafes are heated.
5. Does Queenstown get snow?
Yes, it snows in Queenstown during winter (June to August), with July typically being the coldest month of the year. While snow is rare in the town center and doesn’t usually stick to the ground, note that heavy snowfall is common at the nearby ski fields and mountains.
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