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Queenstown, New Zealand 7-Day Trip Itinerary

Queenstown, New Zealand Trip - Jan 15, 2026 to Jan 21, 2026

Jan 15 - Jan 21

Embark on a memorable 7-day family adventure to Queenstown, where moderate-budget experiences blend thrilling outdoor activities and wildlife encounters with relaxing scenic beauty. Explore family-friendly attractions, local markets, and create lasting memories amidst New Zealand's stunning landscapes.

Queenstown, New Zealand view
1

Arrival & Skyline Views

Thursday, January 15
1.1
15:00 - 19:55

Flight from Sydney to Queenstown

Depart from Sydney Airport (SYD) and fly to Queenstown (ZQN).

Enjoy the scenic approach to Queenstown, known for its stunning mountain landscape.

Remember to account for the time difference when arriving. New Zealand is ahead of Australian Eastern Standard Time.

1.2
20:30 - 21:00

Hotel Check-in

Check into your accommodation, Stay of Queenstown, and settle in after your journey.

1.3
21:00 - 22:00
AUD 75-120 for 3 people

Casual Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local family-friendly restaurant near your hotel, recovering from the travel.

2

Middle-earth Magic & Skyline Fun

Friday, January 16
2.1
09:00 - 13:30
USD 351 for 3 people

Half Day in Middle Earth Tour

Join 'Lord of the Rings' guides for an adventure to original film locations near Queenstown, delving into the magic of Middle-earth.

Great for all ages who love the films!

2.2
13:30 - 14:30
AUD 60-90 for 3 people

Riverside Lunch

Enjoy a casual lunch at a cafe by the beautiful Shotover River or in central Queenstown.

2.3
15:00 - 18:00
AUD 210 for 3 people

Skyline Queenstown & Luge

Take the iconic Gondola up Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.

Enjoy exhilarating Luge rides, suitable for kids and adults alike. There's also a cafe and gift shop at the top.

Book Gondola tickets online to save time. Luge passes can be purchased at the top. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g255122-d301483-Reviews-Skyline_Queenstown-Queenstown_Otago_Region_South_Island.html?m=66827

2.4
18:30 - 19:30
AUD 120-180 for 3 people

Dinner with a View

Dine at one of the restaurants at Skyline Queenstown, offering stunning views over the town and lake as the sun sets.

3

Indoor Thrills & Time Travel

Saturday, January 17
3.1
10:00 - 11:30
AUD 300-450 for 3 people

iFLY Indoor Skydiving

Experience the sensation of freefall in a safe and controlled indoor environment.

A thrilling activity suitable for most ages and fitness levels, perfect for families seeking adventure.

Book in advance, especially during peak season. All necessary gear is provided. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g255122-d14788233-Reviews-IFLY_Indoor_Skydiving_Queenstown-Queenstown_Otago_Region_South_Island.html?m=66827

3.2
11:30 - 12:30
AUD 0 for 3 people

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Queenstown Gardens, located on a peninsula jutting into Lake Wakatipu.

Enjoy the walking paths, disc golf, and scenic views.

3.3
12:30 - 13:30
AUD 60-90 for 3 people

Lunch by the Pier

Grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes or eateries near Queenstown's Main Town Pier.

3.4
14:00 - 15:00
AUD 90-120 for 3 people

Time Tripper Queenstown

Go on a unique journey through time and legend, learning about the history and formation of Lake Wakatipu beneath the Main Town Pier.

An engaging and family-friendly experience.

Good for a rainy day or a unique historical perspective. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g255122-d301162-Reviews-Time_Tripper_Queenstown-Queenstown_Otago_Region_South_Island.html?m=66827

3.5
15:00 - 17:00
AUD 0-50 for 3 people

Queenstown Mall Exploration

Wander through Queenstown Mall, New Zealand's scenic shopping destination.

Browse local shops, souvenir stores, and art galleries.

3.6
18:30 - 19:30
AUD 90-150 for 3 people

Lakefront Dinner

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants along the lakefront, offering varied cuisines and beautiful views.

4

Milford Sound Grandeur

Sunday, January 18
4.1
07:30 - 21:00
USD 651 for 3 people

Milford Sound Tour with Cruise

Embark on a full-day luxury tour from Queenstown to Milford Sound, experiencing the dramatic landscapes of the Milford Road.

Enjoy a scenic cruise through the fiord, marveling at waterfalls, towering cliffs, and wildlife.

This is a long but highly rewarding day trip. Pack snacks, water, and rain gear. Pick-up and drop-off from Queenstown accommodation included. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Queenstown/Milford-Sound-Tour-from-Queenstown-with-Cruise/d407-415521P2?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

5

Buggy Adventure & Glenorchy Beauty

Monday, January 19
5.1
09:30 - 11:00
USD 1164 for 3 people

Mountain Express Buggy Tour

Join an expert guide for a thrilling 1.

5-hour ride-along buggy tour through Queenstown's exclusive 650-acre terrain. Enjoy spectacular views and an adrenaline rush, suitable for families looking for an off-road adventure.

Minimum age for passengers may apply, check with the operator. Product Code: 18273P1. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Queenstown/Scenic-Guided-Off-Road-Buggy-Tour-from-Queenstown/d407-18273P1?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

5.2
11:30 - 12:30
AUD 60-90 for 3 people

Lunch in Queenstown

Enjoy a casual lunch in Queenstown after your buggy tour.

5.3
13:30 - 17:00
AUD 0-50 for 3 people

Glenorchy-Queenstown Scenic Drive

Drive along the incredibly scenic Glenorchy-Queenstown Road, often dubbed one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Stop at viewpoints like Bennett's Bluff and explore charming Glenorchy, known as the 'Gateway to Paradise'.

Allow plenty of time for stops and photos. Consider a short walk around Glenorchy or along the lake. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g6612616-d9454150-Reviews-Glenorchy_Queenstown_Road-Mount_Creighton_Otago_Region_South_Island.html?m=66827

5.4
18:30 - 19:30
AUD 90-150 for 3 people

Relaxing Dinner

Have a relaxing dinner back in Queenstown after a day of adventure and scenic drives.

6

Glenorchy Scenery & Indoor Thrills

Tuesday, January 20
6.1
09:00 - 14:00
USD 672 for 3 people

Glenorchy Photography Tour

Embark on a scenic half-day photography tour from Queenstown to Glenorchy.

Learn life-long photography skills while exploring the stunning landscapes often featured in movies, perfect for capturing family memories.

Enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Suitable for all ages.

6.2
14:00 - 15:00
AUD 100 for 3 people

Lunch in Glenorchy

Enjoy a casual lunch at a local cafe in Glenorchy before heading back to Queenstown.

6.3
16:00 - 17:30
USD 300 for 3 people

iFLY Indoor Skydiving

Experience the thrill of pure flight in a safe, indoor environment.

A unique and exhilarating activity for the whole family, suitable for kids aged 5 and up.

Book your session in advance, especially during peak season. All equipment is provided. Check for family packages.

6.4
18:30 - 20:00
AUD 150 for 3 people

Family Dinner

Enjoy a final family dinner at a local Queenstown restaurant, perhaps one with views of the lake or mountains.

7

Leisurely Morning & Departure

Wednesday, January 21
7.1
09:30 - 11:30
Price varies

Souvenir Shopping

Spend your last morning exploring Queenstown Mall, picking up souvenirs and gifts to remember your New Zealand adventure.

Enjoy the variety of shops and the scenic backdrop of the mountains and lake.

7.2
11:30 - 13:00

Lake Wakatipu Stroll

Enjoy a final leisurely stroll along the beautiful shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Let the kids play at a nearby playground before heading for lunch.

Take in the stunning views and enjoy the fresh air.

7.3
13:00 - 14:00
AUD 100 for 3 people

Farewell Lunch

Enjoy a final lunch at a casual eatery in Queenstown before heading to the airport.

7.4
14:30 - 15:30
AUD 50 for 3 people

Hotel Check-out & Transfer

Check out from Stay of Queenstown and arrange for transfer to Queenstown Airport (ZQN).

Stay of Queenstown to Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

Consider a pre-booked shuttle or taxi for convenience with luggage and children.

7.5
20:50

Depart Queenstown

Board your evening flight from Queenstown back to Sydney, concluding your memorable family holiday.

Be sure to arrive at the airport with ample time for check-in and security, especially when traveling with family. The flight departs at 8:50 PM, allowing for a full day of activities.

This 7-day itinerary for Queenstown, New Zealand can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.