Trying to find an inexpensive activity or outing can be challenging, especially when you have budgets in mind. Queenstown offers plenty of free activities that the whole family can enjoy while taking in the beauty and glorious views Queenstown has to offer.
SKIPPERS CANYON
Skippers Canyon, surrounded by the Shotover River, is known for being one of the gold-bearing rivers in the history of New Zealand. Shotover River is now used for jetboat activities, making for some exhilarating adventures. You should, however, take heed to the paths and roads as they can be quite dangerous for your average car, 4WD’s are more suited for this adventure.
GO TO THE PARK
Frisbee Golf can be a fun activity for the family and even animals if you have brought them with you on your family trip. Queenstown has a unique offering of a Frisbee course, where you need to throw the frisbees at targets such as baskets or tress. You have a scorecard to determine the winner. This can be so much fun, bringing out the kid in you.
LAKE HAYES
Lake Hayes offers a beautiful walking trail with spectacular views. Bosting the most incredible views of the lake and the surrounding mountains you will need to make sure that your camera is handy so that
you can capture all its beauty. The walk can take between 2 and 3 hours, depending on your pace. Passing plenty of joggers and cyclists, it will make your walk even more enjoyable.
BIKE TRAIL
If you are a novice or experienced biker, the Queenstown bike trails are suitable for everyone. The experienced bikers can challenge themselves to the full area trail, which is 122km in total. The novice riders may prefer a slower-paced ride, stopping for the sights along the way. You can take a moment and capture the views of the Bungy Jumpers as well as stop off and grab something to nibble on. The bike trails are open all year round but the most suggested times would be around autumn and spring as
Queenstown showcases its natural beauty.
SWIM
Wilson Bay offers a beautiful spot for you to cool down in those warmers months. If you have had a full day of bike rides or trail hikes, this would be the best place to take a dip, relax and take in the scenery.
THE CHINESE SETTLEMENT
Gold panning is a different and unique activity for kids and adults. Hire a gold pan for a few hours and see what you can find… not many can say they have experienced gold panning. The river runs along Arrowtown which is known for its history, and it’s only a 25-minute drive from Queenstown. They offer many places to eat and drink, allowing you to take your time and enjoy the rich history on offer.
SNOW
Steering away from the slopes and crowds, find the perfect hill spot where you and your family can embrace the beauty of the snow and snow fights. Make a snowman or even snow angels but don’t forget to take a camera, so you capture those wonderful family moments. Perhaps a hike up Ben Lomond
or even Queenstown Hill to take in the views.