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Queenstown School Holiday Favorites

Turn school holidays into an adventure in Queenstown with thrilling experiences, stunning views, and fun activities the whole family will enjoy.
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Queenstown School Holiday Favorites
Tourists exploring Te Anau Glowworm Caves with rock formations.
Tourist walking through illuminated Te Anau Glowworm Caves on guided tour.
Tourists on boat exploring Te Anau Glowworm Caves in New Zealand.
Tourists on a walkway exploring Te Anau Glowworm Caves with illuminated rock formations.
Glowworms illuminating the Te Anau Caves in New Zealand.
Glowworm threads hanging from cave ceiling in Te Anau Glowworm Caves.
Tourist exploring Te Anau Glowworm Caves on a walkway.
Tourists walking through lush Te Anau Glowworm Caves on a guided tour.
Tourists walking through lush forest on Te Anau Glowworm Caves guided tour.
Tourists exploring Te Anau Glowworm Caves entrance surrounded by lush forest.
Te Anau Caves exhibit room with timeline displays and seating area.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hrs 15 mins
  • Enjoy a small-group guided tour of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves with your family, a 2.5-hour journey exploring New Zealand's famed subterranean wonder.

  • Begin with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau, leading to the Cavern House on the Western shore, featuring informative displays about the caves.

  • Venture into the heart of the Glowworm Caves, a mesmerizing natural light show created by bioluminescent gnats, a quintessential Fiordland experience.

  • Go on a serene forest walk with your guide, learning about native flora and fauna, before cruising back and enjoying complimentary tea or coffee.

  • Did you know? These caves are relatively young, at just 12,000 years old, and are still being sculpted by the river flowing within them.

More details

  • Enjoy a small-group guided tour of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves with your family, a 2.5-hour journey exploring New Zealand's famed subterranean wonder.

  • Begin with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau, leading to the Cavern House on the Western shore, featuring informative displays about the caves.

  • Venture into the heart of the Glowworm Caves, a mesmerizing natural light show created by bioluminescent gnats, a quintessential Fiordland experience.

  • Go on a serene forest walk with your guide, learning about native flora and fauna, before cruising back and enjoying complimentary tea or coffee.

  • Did you know? These caves are relatively young, at just 12,000 years old, and are still being sculpted by the river flowing within them.

from
NZ$145
Cruise boat on Milford Sound surrounded by misty mountains and calm waters.
Couple enjoying a cruise on Milford Sound with mountains in the background.
Cruise boat near waterfall in Milford Sound, New Zealand, surrounded by lush cliffs.
Group of passengers posing for a photo beside a coach with mountains in the background during a trip from Edinburgh to Loch Ness.
Cruise passengers on deck with view of Mitre Peak, Milford Sound, New Zealand.
People enjoying a stream in Milford Sound, surrounded by lush mountains.
Couple walking on a boardwalk in Milford Sound, New Zealand, surrounded by lush forest.
Group enjoying a 2-hour cruise on Milford Sound with scenic cliffs in the background.
Passengers enjoying scenic views on a glass-roofed bus during Milford Sound day trip from Te Anau.
Visitors enjoying the view from a boardwalk in Milford Sound, surrounded by lush greenery.
Couple sitting on a bench overlooking Milford Sound with mountains and water, Te Anau departure.
View from Pop's Valley lookout over lush green forest and distant snow-capped mountains.
Dolphin swimming in Milford Sound fjord during cruise, New Zealand.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
8 hrs - 9 hrs
2 more
  • Start your guided tour of Milford Sound from Te Anau. Start closer and breathe easier: shorter travel times mean a relaxed 8–9-hour day with crowd-beating schedules.

  • Catch earlier cruise departures, then enjoy quieter afternoon photo stops on the return; more nature, less queue.

  • Travel in comfort on a coach with live commentary, bringing the region’s stories and landscapes to life.

  • The short walks and photo ops at sights like Pops Lookout and Christie Falls best highlight Milford Sound’s geology and unique ecosystems.

  • Marvel at dramatic fjords and waterfalls during your Milford Sound cruise; camera at the ready for every angle.

More details

  • Start your guided tour of Milford Sound from Te Anau. Start closer and breathe easier: shorter travel times mean a relaxed 8–9-hour day with crowd-beating schedules.

  • Catch earlier cruise departures, then enjoy quieter afternoon photo stops on the return; more nature, less queue.

  • Travel in comfort on a coach with live commentary, bringing the region’s stories and landscapes to life.

  • The short walks and photo ops at sights like Pops Lookout and Christie Falls best highlight Milford Sound’s geology and unique ecosystems.

  • Marvel at dramatic fjords and waterfalls during your Milford Sound cruise; camera at the ready for every angle.

from
NZ$205
Group posing for a photo with a tour bus and snow-capped mountains in Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Cruise boat on Milford Sound with passengers viewing scenic mountains.
Couple enjoying a cruise on Milford Sound with mountains in the background.
Couple enjoying Milford Sound views from a cruise deck, surrounded by mountains and water.
Bus traveling through Homer Tunnel towards Milford Sound.
Passengers enjoying scenic views through glass roof on Milford Sound coach.
Cruise boat in Milford Sound with fjord views, lush mountains, and waterfalls, New Zealand.
Waterfall cascading down lush green mountains in Milford Sound, Queenstown day trip.
Tourists on a boat viewing a waterfall at Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Tourists in raincoats smiling near a waterfall on Milford Sound day trip from Queenstown.
Group posing on Milford Sound cruise with cliffs in background, Queenstown day trip.
Playful seals resting on rocks in a natural setting.
Couple walking on a boardwalk in Milford Sound, New Zealand, surrounded by lush forest.
Person photographing misty mountains and lake in Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Visitors enjoying the view from a boardwalk in Milford Sound, surrounded by lush greenery.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
12 hrs - 13 hrs
3 more
  • Enjoy door-to-door convenience with transfers that eliminate the need for alpine driving or parking stress.

  • Travel the Milford Road with guided commentary and photo stops at Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and The Chasm.

  • Pick your comfort level between a standard coach or a premium small-group service for a more personalized trip.

  • Relax knowing coach, cruise, and stop timings are carefully coordinated to avoid wasted waiting time.

  • Experience Milford Sound highlights in a seamless full-day itinerary designed for first-time visitors and non-drivers.

More details

  • Enjoy door-to-door convenience with transfers that eliminate the need for alpine driving or parking stress.

  • Travel the Milford Road with guided commentary and photo stops at Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and The Chasm.

  • Pick your comfort level between a standard coach or a premium small-group service for a more personalized trip.

  • Relax knowing coach, cruise, and stop timings are carefully coordinated to avoid wasted waiting time.

  • Experience Milford Sound highlights in a seamless full-day itinerary designed for first-time visitors and non-drivers.

from
NZ$265
Family walking through flower garden at Walter Peak High Country Farm, New Zealand.
Steamboat cruising on Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand.
Barbeque platter with meats and sides at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Couple enjoying a meal at Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Experience with lake view.
Grilled meats and vegetables on a platter at Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Experience.
Sheepdog herding sheep at Walter Peak High Country Farm with visitors watching.
Handler with sheepdog during farm show at Walter Peak, Queenstown.
Tourists petting a Highland cow at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Cruise boat on Lake Wakatipu with mountain backdrop, Queenstown, New Zealand.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
3 hrs 30 mins
  • Ideal for foodies and nature lovers, the TSS Earnslaw Cruise with Walter Peak BBQ offers a unique Queenstown lakeside dining adventure.

  • Step aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown and enjoy a cruise across Lake Wakatipu with alpine and lakeside views along the way.

  • Relish a gourmet BBQ buffet at the charming Colonel’s Homestead, featuring wood-fired meats, fresh salads, and indulgent desserts.

  • Unwind after dinner with an entertaining farm dog show showcasing the skill and teamwork of working dogs.

  • Fun fact: Launched in 1912, the TSS Earnslaw is the last remaining coal-fired steamship in the Southern Hemisphere, lovingly preserved for all to enjoy.

More details

  • Ideal for foodies and nature lovers, the TSS Earnslaw Cruise with Walter Peak BBQ offers a unique Queenstown lakeside dining adventure.

  • Step aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown and enjoy a cruise across Lake Wakatipu with alpine and lakeside views along the way.

  • Relish a gourmet BBQ buffet at the charming Colonel’s Homestead, featuring wood-fired meats, fresh salads, and indulgent desserts.

  • Unwind after dinner with an entertaining farm dog show showcasing the skill and teamwork of working dogs.

  • Fun fact: Launched in 1912, the TSS Earnslaw is the last remaining coal-fired steamship in the Southern Hemisphere, lovingly preserved for all to enjoy.

from
NZ$169
Steamboat cruising on Lake Wakatipu with snow-capped mountains in the background.
Tourists walking along a path at Walter Peak High Country Farm with scenic views.
Woman leaning out steamship window with arms outstretched on a lake near Queenstown.
Family walking through flower garden at Walter Peak High Country Farm, New Zealand.
Tourists feeding Highland cattle at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Queenstown waterfront with boats on Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by buildings and trees.
Couple ordering at a cafe on board an old vessel, Walter Peak.
Horse trekking group on trail in Walter Peak's rolling farmland.
Tourists planting trees at Walter Peak High Country Farm with lake and mountains in background.
Tourists petting a Highland cow at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Tourists exploring greenhouse at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Barbeque platter with meats and sides at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Walter Peak High Country Farm with steamboat on Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand.
Boat cruising on Lake Wakatipu with mountainous landscape in the background.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
1 hr 30 mins - 3 hrs 30 mins
1 more
  • Take a scenic cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown catamaran across Lake Wakatipu, with views of Queenstown's alpine peaks.

  • Combine your cruise with a guided tour of Walter Peak High Country Farm, where you'll meet farm animals and enjoy freshly baked afternoon tea.

  • Choose to add a gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner at Walter Peak Farm to your cruise, where you'll dine with lakeside views in a peaceful high-country setting.

  • Add a small-group horse trek to your cruise, riding through Walter Peak's rolling farmland, led by an experienced guide.

  • Fun fact: Lake Wakatipu’s unique Z-shape causes its water level to rise and fall rhythmically every 25 minutes—local legend calls it the heartbeat of a giant.

More details

  • Take a scenic cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown catamaran across Lake Wakatipu, with views of Queenstown's alpine peaks.

  • Combine your cruise with a guided tour of Walter Peak High Country Farm, where you'll meet farm animals and enjoy freshly baked afternoon tea.

  • Choose to add a gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner at Walter Peak Farm to your cruise, where you'll dine with lakeside views in a peaceful high-country setting.

  • Add a small-group horse trek to your cruise, riding through Walter Peak's rolling farmland, led by an experienced guide.

  • Fun fact: Lake Wakatipu’s unique Z-shape causes its water level to rise and fall rhythmically every 25 minutes—local legend calls it the heartbeat of a giant.

from
NZ$75
People preparing to board a small plane for a scenic flight to Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Plane flying over a lake with mountains during a scenic flight to Milford Sound.
Small boat cruising near waterfall in Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Tourists on a cruise at Milford Sound, viewing the fjord's towering cliffs and clear waters.
Group posing by tour van with scenic Milford Sound backdrop, Queenstown tour.
Milford Sound mountains and forest reflected in water under a blue sky, New Zealand.
Aerial view of Queenstown with Lake Wakatipu and surrounding mountains at sunset.
Aerial view of Milford Sound with cruise ship and plane, Queenstown flyover experience.
Small plane flying over snow-capped mountains during Milford Sound scenic flyover from Queenstown.
Aerial view of Milford Sound with a cruise ship below, scenic flyover from Queenstown.
Aerial view of Milford Sound mountains with a plane flying over, showcasing scenic flyover from Queenstown.
Tourists on a boat tour at Milford Sound with scenic fjord views.
Couple taking selfie on Milford Sound cruise with waterfall in background.
Person enjoying a drink on a Milford Sound cruise with mountain views.
Fur seal resting on a rock at Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
4 hrs 30 mins - 13 hrs
3 more
  • Enjoy a day trip to Milford Sound from Queenstown, either by scenic flight or coach. Visit Mirror Lakes, Knobs Flat, and Homer Tunnel if traveling by coach.

  • All experiences include a Milford Sound cruise with live commentary, plus tea, coffee, and all taxes and fees covered.

  • See Milford Sound’s dramatic scenery from the water, with expert commentary bringing the landscape to life, and its geographical sights from above

  • This seamless day trip includes hotel transfers from Queenstown, making it hassle-free for visitors looking to save time.

  • Choose between a round-trip flight experience or go for a one-way coach transfer to get the best of both views.

More details

  • Enjoy a day trip to Milford Sound from Queenstown, either by scenic flight or coach. Visit Mirror Lakes, Knobs Flat, and Homer Tunnel if traveling by coach.

  • All experiences include a Milford Sound cruise with live commentary, plus tea, coffee, and all taxes and fees covered.

  • See Milford Sound’s dramatic scenery from the water, with expert commentary bringing the landscape to life, and its geographical sights from above

  • This seamless day trip includes hotel transfers from Queenstown, making it hassle-free for visitors looking to save time.

  • Choose between a round-trip flight experience or go for a one-way coach transfer to get the best of both views.

from
NZ$749
Group hiking on Fox Glacier during guided helicopter tour in New Zealand.
Helicopter and tourists on Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
Tourists hiking on Fox Glacier with a helicopter overhead, New Zealand.
Group hiking on Fox Glacier during guided helicopter tour in New Zealand.
Tour group hiking on Fox Glacier, New Zealand with a waterfall in the background.
Hikers taking photos on Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
Person hiking through ice cave on Fox Glacier, New Zealand, during guided helicopter tour.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
4 hrs
  • Explore Fox Glacier with round-trip helicopter flights and guided glacier hike for an unforgettable alpine adventure.

  • Fly high over rugged mountains and icefalls before landing directly on the glacier, then spend time walking on the ice with an expert guide.

  • See crevasses, ice formations and ever-changing glacier features while learning about this dynamic environment.

More details

  • Explore Fox Glacier with round-trip helicopter flights and guided glacier hike for an unforgettable alpine adventure.

  • Fly high over rugged mountains and icefalls before landing directly on the glacier, then spend time walking on the ice with an expert guide.

  • See crevasses, ice formations and ever-changing glacier features while learning about this dynamic environment.

from
NZ$795
Small boat cruising near waterfall in Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Tourists on a cruise at Milford Sound, viewing the fjord's towering cliffs and clear waters.
Cruise boat near waterfall at Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Fur seal resting on a rock at Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Tourists on a boat tour at Milford Sound with scenic fjord views.
Couple taking selfie on Milford Sound cruise with waterfall in background.
Guided group exploring lush forest on Milford Sound wilderness walk.
Hikers on Milford Track bridge near waterfall, Te Anau, New Zealand.
Bridge over forest stream in Milford Sound, New Zealand, with hikers on a Small-Boat Cruise tour.
Group on bridge with waterfall view during Giant Gate Falls walking tour.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hrs - 7 hrs
1 more
  • Set sail on a boutique vessel cruise through Milford Sound, with panoramic decks for unbeatable fjord and waterfall views.

  • Premium feel without the premium price tag; pay a little more than big boats, gain a lot more atmosphere.

  • Smaller hull, bigger encounters: get within meters of seal colonies and closer to birdlife while the skipper maneuvers into hidden coves.

  • Onboard commentary brings the region’s dramatic landscapes and wildlife to life as you cruise.

  • Glide past towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and thundering waterfalls—nature’s show at every turn.

  • Choose the guided walk upgrade for an expert-led Milford Track adventure, adding an iconic hiking experience to your cruise.

More details

  • Set sail on a boutique vessel cruise through Milford Sound, with panoramic decks for unbeatable fjord and waterfall views.

  • Premium feel without the premium price tag; pay a little more than big boats, gain a lot more atmosphere.

  • Smaller hull, bigger encounters: get within meters of seal colonies and closer to birdlife while the skipper maneuvers into hidden coves.

  • Onboard commentary brings the region’s dramatic landscapes and wildlife to life as you cruise.

  • Glide past towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and thundering waterfalls—nature’s show at every turn.

  • Choose the guided walk upgrade for an expert-led Milford Track adventure, adding an iconic hiking experience to your cruise.

from
NZ$169
Cruise ship sailing through Milford Sound with mountain views.
Tourists on a boat tour at Milford Sound with scenic fjord views.
Seals resting on rocks at Milford Sound with a cruise ship in the background.
Seals resting on rocks during an Overnight Milford Sound Cruise.
Fjordland crested penguins on a rock in Milford Sound.
Cruise boat on Milford Sound with passengers viewing scenic mountains.
Couple on a boat enjoying Milford Sound's scenic mountain views.
Group on a boat viewing Stirling Falls at Milford Sound.
Person enjoying a drink on a Milford Sound cruise with mountain views.
Tourists enjoying a scenic view of Milford Sound from a cruise deck in New Zealand.
Aerial view of Milford Sound with a cruise ship below, scenic flyover from Queenstown.
Cruise boat navigating Milford Sound with waterfall and lush mountains in New Zealand.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
1 hr 45 mins - 6 hrs
3 more
  • Cruise beneath glacier-carved cliffs and tumbling waterfalls, with both open decks for photographers and indoor lounges for all-weather comfort.

  • Spot fur seals, penguins, and dolphins along the fjord while guides share engaging live commentary about Fiordland’s wildlife and geology.

  • Book with confidence knowing multiple operators and departure slots give you better seat availability, even in peak season.

  • Choose the core cruise-only option for a flexible, great-value Milford experience without unnecessary extras.

  • Upgrade to a Fly–Cruise–Fly package from Queenstown to swap the 13-hour coach journey for a 5-hour trip with sweeping alpine and glacier views.

More details

  • Cruise beneath glacier-carved cliffs and tumbling waterfalls, with both open decks for photographers and indoor lounges for all-weather comfort.

  • Spot fur seals, penguins, and dolphins along the fjord while guides share engaging live commentary about Fiordland’s wildlife and geology.

  • Book with confidence knowing multiple operators and departure slots give you better seat availability, even in peak season.

  • Choose the core cruise-only option for a flexible, great-value Milford experience without unnecessary extras.

  • Upgrade to a Fly–Cruise–Fly package from Queenstown to swap the 13-hour coach journey for a 5-hour trip with sweeping alpine and glacier views.

from
NZ$150

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What our guests say

Mrs Helen P

Couple
3 weeks ago
Incredible amount of food and choices. Well displayed and staff helpful. Captain's commentary insightful. A busy boat but lots of room to sit or lookout and take in views.

From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise

Barbara L

New Zealand
Group
May 2026
The most perfect day, the staff were welcoming. The pianist created a wonderful ambience. The scenery and lunch at Walter Peak, followed with the farm show just perfect. Walter Peak is a beautiful place, the buffet had a large assortment of food. Our waitress was from Japan, she was wonderful.

From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise

Anne-britt B

Australia
Group
May 2026
This was a return visit for us after our honeymoon 15 years ago. The crew of the boat through to the tour guides were all friendly and knowledgeable. And the tour through the caves was a fun experience. We enjoyed it just as much a second time! There are stairs along the sturdy walkways, but it's an easy walk for most .. only two low spots that require ducking quite low, but nothing too arduous.

Te Anau Glowworm Caves Guided Tour

Madita B

Germany
Solo
May 2026
Loved the captain's commentary! Gave me a few good chuckles and provided lots of interesting facts about the area. Can only recommend it :)

Milford Sound Cruise with Optional Lunch

David E

Australia
Group
Apr 2026
The scenery was absolutely spectacular, loved the excellent commentary, and got sprayed by the waterfall, so I look 10 years younger! :) Free hot chocolate also hit the spot!

Milford Sound Cruise with Optional Lunch

Lillian G

Australia
Family
Apr 2026

+3 more

There are lots and lots of boats running every 10 minutes practically. They all do the same thing, same route as far I could tell. There are massive boats that hold 300+ people. This company have a small boat, we at times got really close to the cliffs for a close up of the seals or water fall. I don't think the bigger boats can do that. We were not over crowded and tea and coffee, hot chocolate was provided. We went on a dry sunny day and it was cold, but we were on the top level on the outside of the boat. The inside was warm. The best view on the boat is the front but you do get wet, so wear lots of layers and a raincoat and your set. The only thing I would have wanted more is rain, apparently if you go on a rainy day it's stunning.

Milford Sound Boutique Small-Boat Cruise

Veena S

India
Couple
Apr 2026

+4 more

The most breathtaking views ever! This is an amazing experience and it should not be missed. The cruise trip was such an unique experience and definitely one which though touristy, is NOT overrated. Cruise was on time, they served hot coffee, hot chocolate, tea on the cruise in a 2 hour ride. Captain's narration about Milford Sound was exceptional.

Milford Sound Boutique Small-Boat Cruise

Salome K

Germany
Group
Apr 2026

+6 more

A magical sightseeing flight with a stop on the glacier, topped off with great weather and stunning views. Perfectly organized, and a huge thank you to the entire crew🌟

From Franz Josef: Scenic Helicopter Flight Tour with Snow Landing

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