We occasionally get days in our New Zealand winter holidays where the snow just isn’t what we hoped it may be and a day with bored teens can become a drag. We know we have some beautiful vacation rentals, holiday homes and villas, but you probably don’t want to spend all day at home- after all, holidays are all about exploring the local area. If you are visiting Queenstown for a winter ski holiday, and want to know the best family friendly activities, don’t fear! Our team of local experts have the perfect day that will keep you busy, and the teens fidget-less. You may even impress them…
Start the day in historic, beautiful Arrowtown, there you can load up with a hearty breakfast ready for the day ahead! The Postmasters Cafe is the a strong favourite but be sure to get there quick (Especially on a weekend) to get a table!
Time to Ride! – Winter bike rides are stunning and give you access to views that the roads don’t offer. Rent a few bikes and set off towards Wine Country! Taking the path along the Arrow and Kawarau rivers, weave through the country following the Kawarau Gorge, cross amazing suspension bridges and see the local wildlife. There are a few amazing photo opportunities along the way to the historic Kawarau Bridge
Who’s feeling Brave? – The Kawarau Bridge is the site of the worlds first commercial bungy jump, so who’s feeling brave? If you’ve never launched yourself from a bridge towards a rapid swelled river 43 meters below you before, well now is your chance. Bungy is at the top of the list of things to do for more than 70% of visitors to New Zealand visitors, and here is your chance. Go solo or tandem, you’ll never feel a rush like it again!
Wine O’clock – Just a kilometre down the road, Gibbston Valley Winery awaits! With a mouthwatering selection of locally made cheeses, meats and AntiPasto great for sharing, Gibbston is a wonderful place to lunch, relax and take in this amazing vineyard in the heart of Gibbston Valley Wine country. A wine cave tour to sample the fruits of Central Otago’s harvest is bound to be the best way to treat yourself, and why not spoil yourself entirely and get a bottle to go, because Wine O’clock will come around again!
Don’t panic! You don’t have to ride back to Arrowtown, you’ve done enough exercise for one day, you’ll need your fitness! You will be picked up and taken back to Queenstown via courtesy shuttle and dropped at Fear Factory Queenstown. A unique tailor-made experience to ensure the most hardcore lovers of horror are thrilled!
All of this and for less than a day Skiing!
Here’s an alternative, fun day out in Queenstown, that won’t break the bank if the snow is lacking – everything listed is located in Central Queenstown, so this day is perfect for those without a hire car.
Head for a warm up: Cookie Time Hot Chocolate is just the thing you’ll need to warm the soul, as you head toward Queenstown Gardens and check out the amazing variety of life including a 12-Meter-wide Giant Sequoia, which makes a great family photo opportunity. The spectacular views from around the track will make the brisk morning worth it, maybe you could even learn how to play Disc Golf on your way around?! Enjoy the local ice rink! A family pass is $68 which includes your skate hire and for those who don’t skate, the Mulled Wine is to die for!
So, now you’re probably ready for a spot of Lunch and a sit down….Here are some family friendly suggestions:
The London – Wood fired Pizza’s!
Lone Star – A great setting & Family Friendly
The Ballarat Trading Company: Amazing Variety!
Once you’ve enjoyed a relaxing long lunch inside, it’s time for some adventure, so here are a few suggestions:
Take to the Skies! – iFly Queenstown, is The Southern Hemispheres only indoor Skydiving Experience great fun for Kids, Big Kids, and Kids at Heart!
Go to the Scare Floor- Depending on how old the kids are (not recommended for the little ones), Fear Factory is a bespoke way to get the blood rushing. With Live actors and pyrotechnics, the Fear Factory will have the whole pack yelling and screaming!
Photo Hunt – Queenstown has a few Iconic photo opportunities that are unmissable Selfie opportunities to hunt. How many of the lists can you tick off? Don’t forget to tag @MajordomoNZ on social media to share your day filled with family friendly activities in Queenstown!
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