10 Best Things to Do in Queenstown with Kids (2026)
- rachnamone
- Jun 6, 2024
- 11 min read
Updated: Apr 13
If you're looking for the best things to do in Queenstown with kids, you've come to the right place. We have visited Queenstown twice with our two children and this time, we spent 2 full days working through every family activity the town has to offer — from the Skyline Gondola and luge to jet boat rides and Deer Park Heights. Queenstown is expensive, yes, but it earns every dollar. This guide covers our 10 favourite family activities, practical tips on costs and age suitability, and the best day trips you can do from Queenstown with kids.
10 Best Things to Do in Queenstown with Kids
1. Skyline Gondola and Luge — the #1 Family Activity in Queenstown
If you only do one thing in Queenstown with kids, make it the Skyline Gondola and Luge. The gondola whisks you 450 metres up Bob's Peak — the steepest cable car ride in the Southern Hemisphere — to jaw-dropping panoramic views of the town, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables.
At the top, there's a café with a small indoor play area for younger children, a souvenir shop, and the star attraction: the luge. The 800-metre downhill track is suitable for all ages (children under 8 ride with an adult), and we strongly recommend booking multiple rides — three luge runs each is the minimum; five is better.
Tip: Book the combined gondola + luge ticket online for the best value. Aim to go up in the late afternoon for golden-hour views and a less crowded experience.
Cost: Approx. NZD 60–80 per adult, NZD 40–55 per child (varies by luge ride count). Check the Skyline Queenstown website for current prices.
Age suitability: All ages. Kids under 8 ride luge with an adult.
2. Jet Boat Ride on Lake Wakatipu and the Rivers
The jet boat ride is pure, undiluted fun — and one of the most child-friendly adrenaline activities in Queenstown. KJet departs from central Queenstown and takes you across Lake Wakatipu before shooting into the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers at speeds of up to 95 km/h, complete with heart-stopping 360-degree spins.
Children as young as 2 can ride if they fit into the smallest life jacket and sit on an adult's lap. Bring a change of clothes — you will get wet during the spins, and the kids will love every second of it.
Tip: Book the KJet + Time Tripper combo ticket for better value if you plan to visit both on the same day.
Cost: Approx. NZD 149 per adult, NZD 89 per child.
Age suitability: 2 years and above.
3. Time Tripper — Best Educational Activity for Kids
Located beneath the Main Town Pier on the Queenstown waterfront, Time Tripper takes families on a 30-minute animated journey through 90 million years of geological and natural history — how Lake Wakatipu was carved by glaciers and how the region evolved. It ends with an underwater observatory where you can watch eels, trout, and diving ducks in their natural habitat.
It's genuinely engaging for children aged 5 and above, educational without being dry, and one of the more affordable family activities in Queenstown. The kids talked about the eels for days.
Cost: Approx. NZD 30 per adult, NZD 20 per child.
Age suitability: 4 years and above.
4. iFLY Indoor Skydiving
For a taste of flying without the terrifying leap from an aircraft, iFLY's indoor skydiving tunnel is an experience unlike anything else. A certified instructor is with you the entire time, and the activity is suitable for all ages and abilities. Our 8-year-old tried it and was completely hooked.
For those who want the real thing, Queenstown is also one of the best places in the world for outdoor skydiving — but obviously that's one for older children and adults.
Cost: Approx. NZD 90–110 per person for a beginner flight.
Age suitability: 3 years and above are eligible (with instructor).
5. Deer Park Heights — a Truly Unique Queenstown Experience
Deer Park Heights is arguably the most underrated family activity in Queenstown. This private hilltop farm allows you to drive up at your own pace while free-roaming animals — deer, ducks, pigs, goats, ponies, and donkeys — wander right up to your car window. You buy animal feed at the entrance (NZD 2 per cone) and hand-feed them throughout the drive. The views from the summit over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables are arguably better than from the Skyline Gondola.
Pack a picnic lunch and plan to spend 2 to 3 hours here. The experience is leisurely, unhurried, and wonderful for children of all ages — including very young ones who can't do the more active activities.
Important: Booking is essential and must be done in advance at deerparkheights.co.nz. Only a limited number of vehicles are permitted each day.
Cost: NZD 55 per vehicle (paid online at booking).
Age suitability: All ages — excellent for toddlers and young children.
To read in details about our experience at Deer park heights, what to expect and how to plan a fun trip to this gem , check out our blog Top 12 Family Experiences in South Island, New Zealand — Part 2 (More Amazing Things to Do with Kids) where we talk about must do experience with kids when in South Island, New Zealand.
6. Below Zero Ice Bar — Perfect Rainy Day Option
When the weather turns (and in Queenstown, it sometimes will), Below Zero Ice Bar is a memorable indoor option. The entire bar — furniture, sculptures, glasses — is made entirely of ice, and the temperature inside is a constant -8°C. Thermal jackets and gloves are provided at the entrance, so no special clothing is needed.
Kids of all ages are welcome. You can order mocktails for the little ones or cocktails for yourself, all served in cups carved from ice. It's quirky, photogenic, and genuinely fun. Worth combining with a waterfront stroll — the bar is right in the town centre.
Tip: Check Klook for discounted tickets before you go.
Cost: Approx. NZD 30–45 per person including a drink.
7. The Queenstown Waterfront and Town Centre
Not everything in Queenstown needs to cost money. The lakefront is stunning — walking along the water with the Remarkables as a backdrop is one of those simple travel moments that stays with you. Kids love chasing the ducks, feeding them bread at the water's edge, and burning off energy on the grass.
Queenstown Gardens (a 5-minute walk from town) has a well-maintained playground, ponds, and wide open spaces. For families with very young children or babies, this is an easy, free morning spent beautifully.
Also nearby: Patagonia Ice Cream on the waterfront is a Queenstown institution — the flavours are exceptional and the queue moves quickly.
8. Food in Queenstown — What to Eat with Kids
Queenstown has excellent food, but costs add up fast. A few tried-and-tested recommendations:
Fergbaker (next door to the famous Fergburger): avoid the long Fergburger queue and head here instead for outstanding pies, pastries, and sandwiches. Far quicker and equally delicious.
Patagonia Ice Cream on the waterfront: a non-negotiable stop. The salted caramel and hokey pokey flavours are especially good.
Supermarkets (Pak'nSave in Frankton): if you're on a budget or self-catering, this is the best-stocked supermarket near Queenstown and worth a stop before heading into town.
For Indian families: Queenstown has a decent spread of Asian and Indian restaurants in the town centre. Bollywood Indian Restaurant and Kiwi Masala are reliable options for a familiar, comforting meal after days of New Zealand café food.
9. Free Playground + Best Parking Tip
A small but very welcome practical tip: the best free parking in Queenstown is at the 7 Mile Car Park (about a 15-minute walk from the town centre). There's a public washroom here, and right next to the car park is a lovely playground with views across the lake. If you're arriving by car (as most families on a South Island road trip will be), park here, let the kids run around for 20 minutes, and walk into town refreshed.
10. Wilson Bay — Escape the Crowds
About 15 minutes' drive from Queenstown, Wilson Bay is a quiet lakeside spot where you can just breathe. Pull over, walk down to the water, and admire the mountains in peace. No entry fee, no crowds, no activity. Sometimes that's exactly what you — and the kids — need after a full day.
More Family Activities in Queenstown Worth Considering
In addition to the ones mentioned earlier, Queenstown offers a plethora of exciting activities for families:
Kiwi Birdlife Park: A 5-acre wildlife sanctuary in the heart of Queenstown. Great for spotting the kiwi bird (NZ's national icon) and other native species. Ideal for children who are interested in wildlife.
TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise: A 90-minute cruise on Lake Wakatipu aboard a historic 1912 steamship. You can combine this with a visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a sheep shearing demonstration and farm animal experience — a wonderful half-day outing.
Queenstown Hill Walk: A 1.5 km uphill trail from the town centre to a 360° view of the region. There's even a fairy forest halfway up. Manageable for children aged 5 and above with encouragement. Budget 2 to 3 hours return.
Bungy Jumping / Paragliding: Firmly in the older-kids-and-adults category. Queenstown is the home of AJ Hackett Bungy — worth researching if you have teenagers in tow.
Best Day Trips from Queenstown with Kids
Queenstown is ideally positioned for day trips. Here are the best ones for families:
Milford Sound (4–5 hours from Queenstown)
The most dramatic fjord in New Zealand and one of the great natural wonders of the world. Doable as a long day trip from Queenstown, but we'd recommend staying overnight in Te Anau to break the drive. If doing it as a day trip, the coach-and-cruise option is easier than self-driving. Read our full guide: [Milford Sound Travel Guide with Kids].
Read our blog on Milford Sound Travel Guide With Kids: How to Plan the Perfect Trip.
Glenorchy (45 minutes from Queenstown)
The drive alone — along the edge of Lake Wakatipu — is worth the trip. Glenorchy is where the Lord of the Rings and Narnia films were shot, and the landscapes are otherworldly. The Glenorchy Animal Farm lets kids hand-feed alpacas, sheep, and other animals against a backdrop of mountains. Combine with the Lagoon Walk and lunch at Mrs Wooly's General Store. Read our full guide: [Glenorchy: A Must-Visit Day Trip from Queenstown].
Check out our blog, Glenorchy: A Must-Visit Day Trip from Queenstown, to plan you own trip!
Arrowtown (25 minutes from Queenstown)
A beautifully preserved gold rush town with great cafés, a museum, and easy walking tracks along the Arrow River. Especially stunning in autumn.
Read our full guideut our Arrowtown New Zealand with Kids: Best Things to Do & Day Trip Guide (2026) to plan your own adventure.
Cromwell and Bannockburn (45 minutes from Queenstown)
The historic gold rush precinct at Cromwell is charming, and the Jackson's Orchard fresh fruit ice cream is not to be missed. Bannockburn offers wine tasting at Carrick Winery if you want a more adult-oriented afternoon.
Wanaka (1 hour from Queenstown)
Puzzling World is the standout family attraction here — an eccentric maze and optical illusion complex that genuinely entertains kids for 2 hours. The Wanaka Lavender Farm nearby has friendly farm animals and a lovely café.
Read more in our blog Top 12 Family Experiences in South Island, New Zealand — Part 1 (Best Things to Do with Kids)
Practical Tips for Visiting Queenstown with Kids
How many days do you need in Queenstown with kids?
We recommend spending 2 to 3 days in Queenstown with kids, along with at least one easy day trip (like Glenorchy or Arrowtown). This gives you enough time to enjoy top attractions like the Skyline Gondola, lakefront walks, and a relaxed family-friendly itinerary without rushing.
Best time to visit Queenstown with kids
Queenstown is a year-round destination, but each season offers something unique:
Summer (December–February): Peak season, long daylight hours, perfect for outdoor activities
Autumn (March–May): Stunning fall colours, fewer crowds, and mild weather (our personal favourite)
Winter (June–August): Ideal for skiing and snow experiences with kids
Spring (September–November): Quiet, scenic, and great for budget-friendly travel
👉 If you're planning a family trip to Queenstown, autumn is a sweet spot for both weather and crowd levels. We visted in April 2024 (autumn) and had a great time.
Parking tips in Queenstown (family-friendly options)
Parking in central Queenstown can be limited and expensive.A great alternative is the 7 Mile Car Park (free parking), located about a 10–15 minute drive from town.
From here you can:
Walk into town (approx. 15–20 minutes)
Take a quick local bus ride
This is one of the easiest ways to save money while visiting Queenstown with kids.
Budget for Queenstown with kids (family of 4)
Queenstown is one of the more expensive destinations in New Zealand, but it’s absolutely worth it. For a family of 4, budget approximately NZD 600–800 per day.
This typically includes:
Mid-range accommodation
Mix of self-cooked and takeaway meals
2–3 paid activities
💡 You can reduce costs by:
Choosing free activities (lakefront, playgrounds, short hikes)
Booking accommodations with a kitchen
Planning activities in advance
Travel tips for Indian families visiting Queenstown
If you're travelling from India, here are a few practical things to know:
Driving: New Zealand follows left-hand driving (same as India), making road trips easy and comfortable.
Licence: Your Indian driving licence is valid for up to 12 months and should be in English.
Visa: Indian passport holders require a visitor visa, which can be applied for online via the official New Zealand immigration website( immigration.govt.nz) — the process is fully online and typically takes under 15 days.
Processing time: Typically under 2 weeks
👉 This makes New Zealand a very convenient international destination for Indian families with kids.
Queenstown truly is one of the best places in New Zealand for families. With so many fun things to do in Queenstown with kids — from gondola rides and lakeside strolls to wildlife encounters and easy day trips — there’s something here for every age and adventure level. Whether you’re planning a relaxed holiday or an activity-packed itinerary, Queenstown’s stunning landscapes and family-friendly vibe make it a destination your kids will remember forever.
👉If you are looking for the perfect road trip itinerary for your south island adventure, check out our blog South Island New Zealand Road Trip in 15 Days: Ultimate Itinerary & Family Travel Guide
Heading to South Island with kids? Don't miss our complete guide: 10 Essential Things to Know Before Traveling to New Zealand (Especially for Indian Families)
Planning to rent a car in New Zealand? We highly recommend self-driving — it’s the easiest and most flexible way to explore Queenstown and the South Island with kids. Don't miss our detailed blog: Renting a Car in New Zealand: Complete Family Guide and Driving Tips (2026)
FAQ: Queenstown with Kids
Q1. Is Queenstown good for families with young kids?
Yes, absolutely. Queenstown has excellent family-friendly infrastructure — children's menus are standard, there are playgrounds along the waterfront, and most attractions have age-appropriate options. Activities like Deer Park Heights and the Time Tripper are brilliant even for toddlers, while the Skyline Gondola and jet boat work for children as young as 2.
Q2. How many days should you spend in Queenstown with kids?
We recommend a minimum of 2 to 3 days to cover the main activities in Queenstown itself. Add 1 to 2 extra days if you want to include day trips to Glenorchy, Arrowtown, or Milford Sound.
Q3. What are the best free things to do in Queenstown with kids?
The Queenstown waterfront, Queenstown Gardens (with its playground and duck pond), Wilson Bay, and the 7 Mile Car Park playground are all free and enjoyable for children. The Queenstown Hill Walk is also free.
Q4. What ages are Queenstown activities suitable for?
Most major attractions cater well to ages 3 and above. The jet boat accepts children from age 2 (on an adult's lap), the luge is suitable from around age 3 (with an adult), and iFLY from age 3. Always check minimum age and height requirements when booking.
Q5. Is Queenstown worth visiting with kids under 5?
Yes. Deer Park Heights, the Queenstown waterfront, Queenstown Gardens, the gondola, and the TSS Earnslaw cruise are all ideal for very young children. The jet boat and Time Tripper also work well for toddlers.
Q6. What are the best day trips from Queenstown with kids?
Glenorchy (45 min) and Arrowtown (25 min) are the easiest and most family-friendly day trips. Wanaka (1 hour) is excellent for the Puzzling World attraction. Milford Sound (4–5 hours) is more demanding but unforgettable.
Q7. Is Queenstown expensive for families?
Yes — it's the most expensive destination in New Zealand. However, many activities offer good family value (the combined gondola + luge ticket, for example, gives several hours of fun). Self-catering some meals and using free parking helps manage costs. Budget NZD 600–800 per day for a family of 4.
Q8. Can Indian families drive in Queenstown and New Zealand?
Yes. An Indian driving licence is valid in New Zealand for up to 12 months. New Zealand drives on the left, the same as India, making the transition very easy. Self-driving is by far the best way to explore South Island with kids.
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