home
maps
self drive
coach tours
hotels
freewheeling
great walks
sightseeing
special interest
about  NZ
booking
contact us
about us
conditions

QUEENSTOWN AND FIORDLAND
SIGHTSEEING AND ATTRACTIONS

SKIPPERS CANYON  – Half Day
Code ZQNS001

A visit to the Southern Lakes isn't complete without an excursion to Skippers Canyon featuring ancient gold mining settlements situated along the banks of the Shotover River.  The coach winds its way through torturous glacier-formed terrain hugging the steep sides of the canyon.  The journey crosses Skippers Bridge, an engineering wonder of the 1920's, suspended 300 feet above the canyon spanning the famous rapids of the Shotover River.  Travel through the Gates of Heaven and Hell to Pinchers Bluff and Devil's Elbow. Continue on through Pine Forest, view the remains of the original Skippers Settlement and arrive at the Cemetery to learn about past hardships and adventures of the mining pioneers. Gold panning in the Shotover River included.

Departs: 8.30am & 1.30pm (allow 4 hours return to Queenstown) – times may vary during winter. 

LAKESHORE FOREST AND BIRD WALK – Half Day
Code ZQNS002

There’s simply no finer way to appreciate the real Wakatipu Basin than getting in amongst it. Less than 20 minutes from Queenstown you’ll feel like the first person ever to set foot in scenery straight out of your imagination.  After a brief road trip complete with fascinating commentary on the region’s history and make-up, begin a walk in a lush, native New Zealand beech forest.  The track winds easily down to the crystal clear waters of Lake Wakatipu which form a glorious foreground to mountain views framed by evergreen trees and bush.  As well as the lapping of the lake, the only other sounds heard will be the music of the native birds, and the guide will call them for close-up appreciation and photography.  Gold-mining and farming form the backbone of the lake’s human history and a little further down the track, in a sheltered cove visit relics of century-old habitation and cottage industry.   A gentle incline through native shrubbery leads to a rocky peninsula hilltop with glorious views in all directions, including an overview of the winding path along the lakeshore back to pre-arranged pick-up point for the return trip to Queenstown.  3 hours walking is required.

October – May: Departs 8.00am & Returns 12 Noon.  Departs 1.30pm & Returns 5.30pm
June – September: Departs 10.00am & Returns 2.00pm) 

QUEENSTOWN WINE TRAIL - Original
Code ZQNS003

Discover one of the world’s most exciting new wine regions. Visit a selection of the regions best vineyards, taste some great wines and get a chance to meet the local winemakers. The first stop will be at the Gibbston Valley Winery, with a visit to the Wine-Cave and opportunity to hear about winemaking in the region and also taste their world-class pinot noir and Chardonnay wines. There is time for lunch at Gibbston Valley before continuing onto Wentworth Estate and also Chard Farm for a winery tour and tasting.  A brief stop will be made at Kawarau to view the original home of the AJ Hackett bungy.

Departs:  12.30pm      Returns: approx.  5.30pm
 

> Children of any age may takes wine under their parent’s supervision. Should any children partake in wine tasting with their parent’s consent they will be charged full price.

TSS EARNSLAW – WALTER PEAK HIGH COUNTRY FARM EXCURSION
Code ZQNSRJ501

A return scenic cruise from Queenstown Bay to Walter Peak High Country Farm on board the Vintage Steamer TSS Earnslaw. Following a 40 minute cruise, passengers disembark at Walter Peak High Country Farm where they can experience farming life. There is time to wander through the beautiful lakeside gardens and enjoy tea/coffee and home made baking in the Colonel’s homestead. Farm demonstrators take visitors on a walking tour of the farmyard and there is ample time to view the farm animals – sheep, red deer and Scottish Highland cattle. Highlights include a shearing demonstration and working sheep dog display.
After the farmyard tour, there’s still time to do a little shopping and view a wool spinning demonstration before returning on the Earnslaw to Queenstown.

 Departs Queenstown Wharf:
12.00 pm         Returns 3.35pm
2.00pm            Returns 5.35 pm
4.00pm            Returns 7.35pm (October – April)                       

> Child 0- 4 years (inclusive) is Free of Charge

DART RIVER SAFARI
Code ZQNS004

The Dart River Safari includes:

• the most scenic jetboating experience

•  towering snow-capped peaks and glaciers

• waterfalls and ancient forests

• the mystery of Gondwanaland

• the untouched wilderness of Mt Aspiring National Park

• friendly guides and lively commentaries

• history and nature; and eco-experience

• magnificent views of the Southern Alps

• A backroad journey by 4x4 coach through the high country farmland of the Rees Valley and Paradise and the opportunity to travel through an area used in the filming of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy.

• A 30 minute walk on the Rees/Dart Track

• Jetboat one way (two ways on the most scenic top section of the Dart River)

A camera or video camera is absolutely essential for today.
Lunch today is included.
Departs:  8.00am      Returns:  2:00pm      Departs: 12 Noon     Returns:  6.00pm 

MILFORD SOUND COACH/SCENIC CRUISE/LUNCH/COACH DAY TRIP
Code ZQNSGS76L

Visitors enjoy a relaxing trip by coach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau.  After a morning tea break in Te Anau, where guests have the option of purchasing refreshments, the coach continues along the spectacular Milford Road.  There is time for photo stops and short walks along the way.  On reaching Milford Sound, visitors board a luxury vessel for a cruise the full length of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea.  The vessel provides excellent, viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy the waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife.  A comprehensive commentary is presented throughout the cruise.

A Buffet lunch and complimentary tea and coffee are available on board the vessel.
Following the cruise, guests return to their waiting coach for the return journey to Queenstown.
Departs:   6:40am                 Returns:   07:30pm 

> Child 0- 4 years (inclusive) is Free of Charge when not occupying a seat.
 

SHOTOVER TRIO – JETBOAT/HELICOPTER/WHITE WATER RAFTING
Code ZQNS005

Combine jet boating with Shotover Jet, a helicopter flight into Skippers Canyon and white water rafting down the Shotover River.
Hot showers and refreshments will be provided for guests upon conclusion.

Departs:   07:45am     Duration approx. 5 hours. 

> Rafting not suitable for children under 13 years

SHOTOVER JET
Code ZQNS005A

Experience "the world's most exciting Jet Boat ride." Shotover Jet is the only company permitted to operate in the spectacular Shotover River Canyons.  Once aboard your expert driver puts the jet boat through its paces, speeding past rocky outcrops, twisting through narrow canyons and a major highlight – the famous 360 degree turn. Complimentary coach transfers available every 15 minutes from The Station in Queenstown.

 > Child 3- 4 years (inclusive) is Free of Charge when accompanied by fare paying adult.

GOLF AT MILLBROOK
Code ZQNS006

Designed by internationally renowned professional golfer and former British Open winner Sir Bob Charles, Millbrook Resort’s 18-hole par 72 championship course is an exceptional golfing experience.
Set against a remarkable alpine backdrop Millbrook resort fully utilises the natural terrain of the region incorporating water and sand traps to ensure exciting and demanding golf.  There are 4 different tee positions for the enjoyment of all levels of play.
Included today will be the following:-

• Return hotel transfers

• A round of 18 holes (Green Fees)

• Golf club hire and shoe hire

• Electric cart hire  (2 persons per cart)

GRAND CIRCLE HELICOPTER FLIGHT
Code ZQNSHLQ2

On this premier scenic flight you will marvel at the outstanding landforms and stunning beauty of the Wakatipu basin.  Rise up and over one of the world’s most picturesque towns as you fly towards the surrounding mountains.
Get close up to Coronet Peak famous for its ski area and fly down over the Shotover River, the home of thrilling jet boat rides.  The flight includes a landing on the spur of the Remarkables 1538m above Queenstown where you can stand in the snow during winter and admire the fantastic panoramic views.

Flight time:      approx 30 minutes (including landing) 

> Child 0-3 years (inclusive) is Free of Charge when not occupying a seat.

DOUBTFUL SOUND EXCURSION – Full Day
Code MANSRJ300

Your Doubtful Sound adventure begins as you cruise across Lake Manapouri.  Then it’s over Wilmot Pass, stopping along the way to experience some of Fiordland’s densest rainforest and to view the colourful alpine moss gardens.
Once at Doubtful Sound, you will board the spacious catamaran for a three hour cruise of the beautiful Sound to the Tasman Sea. Keep a look out for wildlife as bottlenose dolphins frequently come alongside our vessel, fur seals bask on the rocks around the fiord and rare penguins can at times be observed.

Leaves from Pearl Harbour, Manapouri
Departs: 9.30am         Returns:  5.30pm (October – April)
Departs: 9.45am         Returns:  5.15pm (May – September) 

Coach transfers available from Te Anau and Queenstown (rates on application) 

> Child 0- 4 years (inclusive) is Free of Charge

DOUBTFUL SOUND OVERNIGHT CRUISE
Code MANSRJ350

Following a short cruise across Lake Manapouri and a coach trip over Wilmot Pass you will board the overnight cruise vessel for a leisurely exploration of Doubtful Sound.
There is plenty of time to enjoy the stunning views and discover the hidden arms of Doubtful Sound along with kayaking around the shoreline or exploring in the tender craft with a nature guide. You have the choice of private cabins with ensuite bathrooms or shared bunk –style accommodation. Buffet dinner and full breakfast included. Operates from October to May.
Leaves from Pearl Harbour, Manapouri
Departs: 12.30pm       Returns:  12 noon on the second day
(Boarding 30 minutes prior to departure)

Coach transfers available from Te Anau and Queenstown (rates on application) 

> Only an overnight bag should be brought on board for passenger convenience and safety. Limited lock-up storage is available at the Visitor's Centre at Manapouri.

TE ANAU CAVES GLOW WORM CAVES
Code TEUSRJ400

Cruise across Lake Te Anau to Cavern House on its western shores where you will receive a multi media presentation on the glow worm life cycle. You will then be taken by experienced guides in small groups by path and small boats underground into the caves where you will view limestone caverns, waterfalls and finally the glow worm grotto.

Departs:
2.00pm            Returns:   4.30pm (year round)
6.45pm            Returns:   9.15pm (30 September - 1 May)
8.15pm            Returns:   10.45pm (October - April) 

> Note $7.00 per person surcharge applies to 8.15pm departure