Queenstown

The premier lake and alpine resort town, Queenstown is located 480 kilometres south west of Christchurch. Built around an inlet called Queenstown Bay, sitting on the shores of crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu and bordered by imposing alpine mountains, the scenery that greets you will take your breath away.

Queenstown has a resident population of around 18,000, but its attractions and natural beauty draws over 1.8 million visitors per year amounting to more than 100 times its population. Once an old gold mining town, it now attracts tourists from around the world and was made even more attractive during the making of the trilogy “Lord of the Rings” - fans will recognize many of the locations of Middle-earth in the region.

The town is the adventure capital of New Zealand and here you’ll find an activity for everyone, at any time of the year. You can try your hand at skiing or snowboarding, enjoy an exhilarating Shotover jetboat ride, bungy jumping, white water rafting and much more.

For those who would prefer to stay flat on their feet, it is one of the most spectacular cities to just take in the fresh air and the stunning scenery. The marvellous view of Lake Wakatipu can be enjoyed from many parts of town and one of the best views is from the top of Bob's Peak which can be reached by the Skyline Gondola, an awe-inspiring and unforgettable view. You might also prefer to relax and enjoy luxury experiences such as gourmet food, a famous Queenstown wine tour, spa treatments or even a leisurely game of golf.

Queenstown is also a gateway to the World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park. A three hour drive west will take you to this amazing 1.2-million-hectare National Park, one of the world’s largest National Parks renowned for its exceptional scenic beauty.

The picturesque town of Te Anau is the hub of the Park, known as the gateway to the fiords. From here it’s a scenic 2 hour drive to the famous Milford Sound and just 20 mins to Lake Manapouri, where you can jump aboard the scenic cruise into Doubtful Sound.

Choose from a variety of AAT Kings tours in and around Queenstown. Choose the most suitable trip for you, tours range from 9 day Guided Holidays of the South Island to a full experience of New Zealand of up to 21 days.

Frequently Asked Questions - Queenstown Tours

There are plenty of options to keep you busy when you have a day free in Queenstown. You could feel the wind in your hair on the high-octane jet boat ride, perhaps, or discover some of New Zealand’s feathered friends at a wildlife centre. Wine aficionado? Sip your way through the surrounding vineyards. Wherever you wander, make sure you make it to the Lake Wakatipu boat tours aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue dinner and a little late-night dancing.

Ultimately, the ideal duration for your stay in Queenstown depends on your interests and how much time you have available. It's a destination with a wide range of activities and attractions, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time in this beautiful part of New Zealand. 2-3 days will let you enjoy the city itself and give time to enjoy a scenic nature cruise on Lake Wakatipu, while 5-7 days gives you the opportunity to explore the spectacular scenery and landscapes of nearby Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. A Guided Holiday with AAT Kings, such as the New Zealand Marvel tour, is designed to show you the best Queenstown has to offer.

Several charming towns around Queenstown are worth visiting, each offering a unique New Zealand experience. Arrowtown, located just a short drive away, is renowned for its historic gold rush architecture, while Wanaka boasts the stunning Lake Wanaka as its centrepiece. For natural wonders, a trip to Glenorchy is well worth it, surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes made famous by "The Lord of the Rings", and don't miss out on exploring Lake Wakatipu with a Walter Peak Farm tour. Our Southern Wonders Best Buys tour includes a free day to explore Queenstown and surrounds, with optional experiences from gourmet food and wine tours to scenic heli-flights and more. Simply ask your Travel Director for more information.

Queenstown is best known for its breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Southern Alps, Queenstown offers some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in New Zealand. The town is famous for its dramatic mountain scenery and crystal-clear lakes. Queenstown is also a gateway to the nearby Fiordland National Park and the world-famous Milford Sound, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

FIRST CHOICE
Internal-vacation flights included
Internal-vacation flights included

Australia and New Zealand Panorama

15 Day Guided Vacation | Melbourne to Auckland | QPACA

Just how many legendary Antipodean attractions can you tick off in one journey?

From $8120 Above lowest price is for departure 2024-03-07, twin share per person
FIRST CHOICE
Internal-vacation flights included
Internal-vacation flights included

Contrasts of Australia and New Zealand

18 Day Guided Vacation | Melbourne to Christchurch | QCANA

A bit city, a bit country; sometimes beachy, sometimes mountainous; in the company of locals and Indigenous guides – this epic Melbourne to Christchur...

From $9955 NOW $9107 Above lowest price is for departure 2024-02-15, twin share per person
FIRST CHOICE
Internal-vacation flights included
Internal-vacation flights included

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand

22 Day Guided Vacation | Melbourne to Christchurch | IMZB

Three World Heritage Sites on one tour?

From $12870 Above lowest price is for departure 2024-03-24, twin share per person
BEST BUYS

New Zealand Magic

17 Day Guided Vacation | Christchurch to Auckland | LCBA

From bubbling geysers to yawning gorges; gem-like glaciers to mirrored lakes; snow-tipped mountains to subtropical islands; it’s hard to believe that ...

From $6540 NOW $5886 Above lowest price is for departure 2024-09-30, twin share per person
BEST BUYS

New Zealand Marvel

14 Day Guided Vacation | Christchurch to Auckland | LCCA

One country, two islands, two weeks, countless highs… this could well be the ultimate New Zealand guided tour.

From $5550 NOW $4995 Above lowest price is for departure 2024-09-30, twin share per person
BEST BUYS

Southern Spirit

14 Day Guided Vacation | Christchurch to Wellington | LCQW

It’s hard to do the South Island of New Zealand justice in just two weeks.

From $5099 NOW $4589 Above lowest price is for departure 2024-10-03, twin share per person
BEST BUYS

Southern Wonders

9 Day Guided Vacation | Christchurch Return | LRQC

A little bit city, a little bit country.

From $3665 NOW $3299 Above lowest price is for departure 2024-09-30, twin share per person
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