Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown with Kids | 2023 Guide – Part 2

Welcome to the second part of our ultimate guide to experiencing the best of Queenstown with your little adventurers. In this section, we’ll delve into five more must-try activities that are sure to spark excitement and wonder in every child. From interactive wildlife encounters to captivating nature walks and beyond, we’re about to reveal the hidden gems that make Queenstown an unmatched destination for family fun. Join us as we share detailed insights, ensuring you can plan an unforgettable and seamless family vacation in this captivating Kiwi paradise.

For those just joining us, make sure not to miss the first part of our comprehensive guide to Queenstown with kids. Explore the initial five exhilarating activities that set the stage for an unforgettable family adventure. Catch up on the excitement and valuable insights by checking out Part 1.

Key Takeaways

– Queenstown is an ideal family holiday spot, situated by Lake Wakatipu with a scenic alpine backdrop.

– Abundance of kid-focused attractions such as wildlife parks, luge rides, and skyline rides.

– Thrilling boat rides and bungy jumps available for older kids.

– The town center is easily walkable, with plenty of shops and eateries to explore.

– Access to breathtaking natural landscapes, including rivers and mountains.

– Options for farm stays and wineries to experience the charm of New Zealand’s countryside.

– Kiwi Self Drive Tours recommends family-friendly accommodations equipped with kitchens and play areas.

– Check height and age restrictions before booking activities to ensure everyone can participate.

– Allow for downtime between adventurous days to rest and recharge.

– Consider joining kid-oriented tours for an extra dose of enjoyment.

– Remember to pack warm layers as the weather in Queenstown can be changeable.

Now let's explore the last 5 of our top 10 kid-approved activities in Queenstown!

6. Meet Kiwis at Kiwi Birdlife Park

Kiwi Birdlife Park is a must-do activity for families visiting Queenstown. This unique park is home to over 20 native New Zealand bird species, including the iconic kiwi.

Kiwis are nocturnal birds, so they are most active at night. However, at Kiwi Birdlife Park, you can see kiwis up close in their nocturnal house. This is a rare opportunity to see these amazing birds in their natural habitat.

In addition to kiwis, Kiwi Birdlife Park is also home to kaka, kea, kakapo, takahē, and other native New Zealand birds. You can see these birds up close and learn about their importance to the New Zealand ecosystem.

Kiwi Birdlife Park is also a great place to learn about New Zealand’s conservation efforts. The park is involved in a number of conservation programs, including the kiwi breeding program.

A visit to Kiwi Birdlife Park is a fun and educational experience for the whole family. It’s a great way to learn about New Zealand’s native birds and conservation efforts.

Tips for visiting Kiwi Birdlife Park with families:

Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the park is mostly outdoors.
Bring a camera to capture the amazing wildlife.
Take your time and enjoy the experience. There’s no need to rush.
Be sure to see the kiwis in the nocturnal house. It’s a rare opportunity to see these amazing birds up close.
Ask the staff questions. They are knowledgeable about the birds and the park’s conservation efforts.

Kiwi Birdlife Park is a great place to visit with your family. It’s a fun and educational experience that everyone will enjoy.

7. Relax at Millbrook Resort

Relax at Millbrook Resort for families, a luxurious resort set amongst the stunning scenery of Arrowtown, New Zealand. Millbrook Resort has something to offer everyone in the family, from world-class golf and spa facilities to a variety of family-friendly activities.

Families can enjoy swimming in the resort’s heated indoor and outdoor pools, playing tennis on one of the many courts, or exploring the resort’s extensive grounds. There are also a number of family-friendly activities available, such as nature walks, bike rides, and horse-drawn carriage rides.

After a long day of exploring, families can relax and unwind at the resort’s spa. The spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.

Millbrook Resort offers a variety of family-friendly accommodation options, including rooms, suites, and villas. The rooms and suites are spacious and comfortable, and the villas offer the ultimate in luxury and privacy.

Millbrook Resort has a number of restaurants to choose from, offering a variety of cuisines, including New Zealand, Asian, and European.

Here are some specific family-friendly activities available at Millbrook Resort:

Nature walks: Millbrook Resort has a number of nature walks to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging. The walks offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
Bike rides: Millbrook Resort offers bike rentals, so you can explore the resort’s grounds at your own pace. There are a variety of bike trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging.
Horse-drawn carriage rides: Take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the resort grounds. It’s a relaxing and enjoyable way to see the resort.
Playground, a kids playground can be found on site
Family pool: The resort’s heated indoor and outdoor pools are perfect for families with children.
Tennis courts: Millbrook Resort has a number of tennis courts, so you can enjoy a game of tennis with your family.
Spa: The resort’s spa offers a variety of treatments for adults and children.

Millbrook Resort is the perfect place to relax and unwind with your family. With its luxurious accommodations, world-class facilities, and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

8. Beach Play at Lake Wakatipu

Lake Wakatipu is a large lake in the South Island of New Zealand. It is known for its stunning scenery, clear waters, and abundant wildlife. Lake Wakatipu is also a great place for families to enjoy a day at the beach.

There are a number of beaches located around Lake Wakatipu, each with its own unique charm. Some of the most popular beaches for families include:

Jacks Point Beach: This beach is located on the western shore of Lake Wakatipu, about 10 minutes from Queenstown. Jack’s Point Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach is also home to a playground, making it a great place for families with young children.
Bob’s Cove: This beach is located on the eastern shore of Lake Wakatipu, about 20 minutes from Queenstown. Bob’s Cove is a small beach with sheltered waters, making it a great spot for young children to swim. The beach is also home to a number of walking trails, making it a great place to explore the surrounding area.
Kinloch Beach: This beach is located at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, about 45 minutes from Queenstown. Kinloch Beach is a long, sandy beach with clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The beach is also home to a number of restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat.

When visiting Lake Wakatipu with your family, be sure to bring the following items:

Sunscreen
Hats
Sunglasses
Towels
Swimwear
Picnic lunch (optional)
Drinks (optional)
Camera
Toys for children (optional)

Lake Wakatipu is a great place for families to enjoy a day at the beach. With its stunning scenery, clear waters, and abundant wildlife, Lake Wakatipu is sure to create lasting memories for your family.

9. Lunch at a local winery

There are plenty of family-friendly winerys located in the heart of the Central Otago wine region, about 15 minutes from Queenstown. Each winery offers a variety of dining options, including a restaurant, cafe, and outdoor terraces.

These restaurants are a great place to enjoy a leisurely lunch with your family. The restaurants offers a seasonal menu featuring dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Most have a children’s menu available but make sure you ring first to find out.

If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, the local Cafes are a great option. Cafes offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and pastries. There is also a children’s menu available.

No matter which dining option you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a delicious meal at any of the local Winery’s, just pick one that fits your budget. Most winery’s also offer a variety of family-friendly activities, such as playground, nature walks, and vineyard tours.

Tips for dining at a Winery with families:

Make a reservation in advance, especially if you’re dining at the restaurant during peak season.
Bring a hat and sunscreen if you’re dining on the outdoor terrace.
Be aware that the restaurant and cafe can get busy, especially during the summer months.
If you have young children, be sure to bring a stroller or carrier.
Take your time and enjoy the experience. Queenstown Winery’s are a beautiful place to relax and enjoy a meal with your family.

10. Queenstown Ice Arena for Families

Queenstown Ice Arena is a great place to visit with your family, regardless of the weather outside. It’s a one-stop shop for all things ice skating, including public skating, ice hockey, and ice bumper cars.

Public Skating

Public skating is a great way to get some exercise and have some fun with your family. Queenstown Ice Arena offers public skating sessions throughout the day, and they provide skate rentals for all sizes.

Ice Bumper Cars

Ice bumper cars are a unique and fun activity for families. Queenstown Ice Arena is the only place in New Zealand where you can experience ice bumper cars.

Tips for Visiting Queenstown Ice Arena with Families:

Dress warmly, even if it’s a warm day outside. The ice rink is cold, and you’ll want to be comfortable.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. You’ll be doing a lot of walking on the ice.
Bring a hat and gloves to protect yourself from the cold.
If you’re skating for the first time, consider taking a lesson. Queenstown Ice Arena offers lessons for all ages and skill levels.
Take breaks and stay hydrated. Ice skating can be strenuous, so it’s important to take breaks and drink plenty of water.
Have fun! Queenstown Ice Arena is a great place to create lasting memories with your family.

As we conclude our exploration of the family-friendly marvels in Queenstown, we’ve revealed the keys to crafting enduring memories with your little ones. From engaging wildlife encounters to picturesque nature strolls, the latter portion of our guide has unveiled the entirety of delights this Kiwi paradise presents. We trust that our insights and suggestions will guide you towards a magical family retreat. For a comprehensive overview of the top 10 activities in Queenstown with kids, revisit Part 1.

Kiwi Self Drive Tours wishes you and your family an incredible adventure in a very special part of New Zealand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Queenstown with Kids

What are some free things to do in Queenstown with kids?

Great free activities include walking Queenstown’s beautiful lakefront trail, beach play at Lake Wakatipu and Frankton Arm, and exploring Queenstown Gardens.

What are some indoor activities in Queenstown for rainy days?

Head indoors on wet weather days to Adventure World Family Fun Park, Skyline complex, bowling alley MegaFun, or Queenstown Mall’s shops and cafes.

What food-related activities are good in Queenstown with kids?

Try cheese at Gibbston Valley, Devonshire tea at Walter Peak High Country Farm, lakeside picnics, or casual restaurants along the Queenstown waterfront.

What educational activities are there in Queenstown for kids?

Kiwi Birdlife Park, farm tours, lake cruises, and Maori cultural experiences teach kids about New Zealand history, wildlife and culture.

What safety tips should you follow in Queenstown with kids?

Use lifejackets on water-based activities, apply sunscreen regularly, supervise children near water, research age/height restrictions before booking activities with kids.

Top 10 Things to Do in Queenstown with Kids | 2023 Guide – Part 2

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