If you’re looking for things to do in Queenstown, you’ve got a lot of options. From skiing and snowboarding to mountain biking and wineries, the New Zealand city is home to a whole host of terrific activities. Here are the best things to do in Queenstown all year-round.

Best: Experience

Best for: Adventure

One of the best things to do in Queenstown if you like being on the water, and don’t mind getting a bit wet while you’re at it, is stinging a lift on a jet boat. By far the best way to experience the Shotover River and bask in the surrounding uninterrupted views, the boat takes you to the more unseen corners of town and wind through the Shotover River Canyons. Don’t get too distracted by the scenery, however, it’s a bumpy ride so hold on!

No matter what you do, if you find yourself in Queenstown, one of New Zealand’s most picturesque locales, booking a trip to the Onsen Pools is a must. If you haven’t heard of these mysterious pools, they’re a sort of day spa offering private, cedar-lined hot tubs overlooking the Shotover River canyon. The ideal way to relax post-adventure, they’re boujee, romantic and the closest thing you’ll get to the real-deal onsens in Japan in the Southern hemisphere.

We all know that when in Queenstown, most things to do consist of an epic mixture of views, adrenaline and all-around good times, and you can experience all three at the Skyline Luge. Jump in a little buggy and make your way down the twisting downhill racetrack – you can also race your friends if they are keen! Try not to get too swept up in the views, or you’ll definitely bug a turn.

Best for: Foodies

Best for: Fitness Freaks

If you’re visiting Queenstown, renting a car is definitely the way to go. With a car, it also means you can explore nearby towns that are just as cool, like Arrowtown, just 15 minutes drive from Queenstown. The town was originally a gold rush settlement, which shines through in its charming, historic streets lined with heritage buildings and old-school pubs. A must-visit if you have some spare time on your hands.

Best for: Luxury Fans

As one of the best things to do in Queenstown, where you get to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, canyoning here is an adventurer’s dream come true. There are lots of canyons here for you to discover, all just a short drive from Queenstown central. If you’re more experienced, there are also plenty of climbs where you can jump off waterfalls when you get to the top! How Good.

Alright, so maybe all your mates are adrenaline junkies, and you need to ease into things. Luckily, you can, thanks to iFly Queenstown. Experience skydiving in Queenstown with a twist, basking in the views from the comfort of the indoors thanks to their new 360 Virtual Reality Experience. It’s basically like the real thing!

One of the best things to do in Queenstown if you prefer sitting back to soak in the views is taking a scenic ride on the Skyline Gondola. The ride will take you  450 metres above Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. When you arrive at the top, the fun has only just begun, with plenty of things to do like a downhill ride on the Skyline Luge or a delicious meal at Stratosfare Restaurant.

If you’re looking for a moment to relax in between all of your adventuring, what better way to do so than a stroll through the tranquil Queenstown Gardens? The gardens are peaceful and offer beautiful views of Lake Wakatipu, in addition to bowling, tennis, and ice skating during the winter months.

Not for the faint-hearted, given the chilly temperatures of the water in New Zealand, but for that exhilarating feeling we all love after a cold dip, we recommend a swim in Moke Lake. A short drive from the city and surrounded by beautiful mountains, it’s the perfect spot for a swim. Or, if you prefer not to get up too close and personal with the chilly waters, perhaps paddleboarding or kayaking is more your cup of tea.

You don’t have to be a foodie to know that one of the things to do in Queenstown is to eat. Essential for fuelling all the thrill-seekers out there by day, there are heaps of amazing restaurants in Queenstown, from fine dining, to contemporary Asian restaurants and everything in between. Check out our rundown of the best restaurants in Queenstown to discover more.

Queenstown is conveniently bordering Central Otago, which you may or may not know (depending on your wine expertise) is one of the top wine regions in the world. Thus, there are countless wineries around the area for you to explore and indulge in all the delicious drops on offer. Go for a wine tour, tasting or visit cellar doors, the world is your oyster! Our favourites include Amisfield and Gibbston Valley.

Unsure if you’re fully prepared and ready to head to Queenstown this holiday season? Why not check out our other articles on what you need to get your next snow holiday kicked off?