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Welcome to your friendly guide on Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown! If you’re planning a trip to this stunning town in New Zealand, knowing the best things to do can make your journey unforgettable. This guide will walk you through the Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown, explain each with clear details, and mention important info on how to check your NZeTA Visa Status and Submit NZeTA Online. Let’s begin our adventure!

Introduction: Why Queenstown?

Queenstown is a charming town on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by mountains. It is famous for action, beautiful views, and tasty food. You can go heart-pounding adventure or relaxing walks here. The Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown cover both kinds of experiences. Let’s dive in.

Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown

1. Ride the Skyline Gondola & Luge

One of the most jaw‑dropping Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown is riding the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak. As you go up, you’ll see the lake and mountain views. At the top, hop on a luge—a fun gravity cart ride down winding tracks. It’s easy and fun for all ages. Viewing the lake from above is magical .

2. Cruise on the Historic TSS Earnslaw

Another highlight in Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown is the TSS Earnslaw steamship. This old, charming boat takes you across Lake Wakatipu. On board, you can enjoy stories from the crew. At Walter Peak station, enjoy a farm tour and BBQ buffet. It feels like stepping back in time.

3. Speed Down in a Shotover Jet Boat

Want a rush? Riding the Shotover Jet boat is one of the most exciting Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown. You zoom through narrow river gorges, spinning and splashing in high-speed excitement. It’s thrilling and unforgettable.

4. Take a Bungy Jump

Queenstown made bungee jumping famous. Leaping off Kawarau Bridge is one of the classic Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown. If you’re brave, try the Nevis Bungy—134 meters high, the third-highest in the world.

5. Hike Queenstown Hill or Ben Lomond

If you love walking, add hiking trails to your Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown list. Queenstown Hill’s “Basket of Dreams” viewpoint offers peaceful mountain and lake scenes . For more challenge, hike Ben Lomond for sweeping views from the summit.

6. Walk Through Queenstown Gardens & Waterfront

One of the calmer Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown is visiting the Queenstown Gardens. Here you can relax, take photos, or take a few swings in disc golf. A stroll along the waterfront is equally lovely—watch ducks, eels, and boats while enjoying lake breeze.

7. See Kiwi at Kiwi Birdlife Park

Meet New Zealand’s national bird at Kiwi Birdlife Park, one of the Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown. You’ll learn about these shy birds and their habitat, plus see other native wildlife. It’s perfect for families and bird lovers .

8. Soak in Onsen Hot Pools

To relax after busy days, soaking at Onsen Hot Pools is one of the Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown. These private cedar tubs sit above a river with mountain views. You can choose indoor or outdoor, day or night. It’s like a warm hug for your soul.

9. Go Flightseeing by Helicopter or Plane

Seeing Queenstown and its mountains from the sky is unforgettable. A scenic flight—or flightseeing—is a top choice among Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown. You get postcard-level views, and some tours even take you to Milford Sound or Mount Cook.

10. Eat Fergburger & Chill at an Ice Bar

Queenstown food is part of the fun! Grab a legendary Fergburger—it’s big, juicy, and unforgettable, making it part of the Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown. For a unique evening, relax in an ice bar with drinks served in ice glasses. It’s cool in every way!

Bonus Ideas Beyond the Top 10

If you stay longer or want more, here are bonus options:

• Day trip to Milford Sound—fiord cruise and hikes.
  
• Wine tasting in Gibbston Valley—pinot noir and scenic vineyards.
  
• Day hikes on Routeburn or Kepler Tracks—part of NZ’s Great Walks.
  
• Stargazing at Kawarau Gibbston Dark Sky Park—a certified dark sky reserve since 2024, perfect for Milky Way views.
  
• Mountain biking and zip-lining for you adventure lovers.

Planning Tips & FAQ

How long should you stay?

3–4 days lets you tick off the Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown comfortably, with room for one or two extras.

When to visit?

Summer (Dec – Feb) is warm and great for water activities. Winter (June – Aug) is perfect for skiing. Spring and autumn bring fewer crowds and nice light .

Need a car?

No. Queenstown town is walkable. Many tours start from town center. For far places like Gibbston or Milford, day tours or buses work well .

Don’t Forget Your NZeTA

Before travel, check your NZeTA Visa Status. It’s quick and essential for New Zealand entry. If you haven’t yet, Submit NZeTA Online now to ensure you clear customs smoothly on arrival.

Final Thoughts

Queenstown offers a beautiful mix of excitement and relaxation. From the Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown, you’ll ride gondolas, cruise lakes, take thrilling rides, hike, and relax in hot pools. Add tasty food moments and stargazing, and you have a perfect trip. With your NZeTA Visa Status checked and Submit NZeTA Online done, you’re set.

Enjoy every moment in the “Adventure Capital of the World”! Safe travels, and have fun ticking off the Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown!