Discover Queenstown’s thrill and tranquility in a 10-hour tour: Shotover Jet, Arrowtown history, Gibbston wines, and stunning landscapes await.
Discover Queenstown’s thrill and tranquility in a 10-hour tour: Shotover Jet, Arrowtown history, Gibbston wines, and stunning landscapes await.
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Arrowtown - Begin your journey in the historic town of Arrowtown, just a short drive from Queenstown. Founded during the Otago gold rush of the 1860s, Arrowtown retains much of its old-world charm. Strolling through its tree-lined streets, visitors are transported back to the gold-mining era.
Highlights include:
Buckingham Street – a charming main…
- Arrowtown - Begin your journey in the historic town of Arrowtown, just a short drive from Queenstown. Founded during the Otago gold rush of the 1860s, Arrowtown retains much of its old-world charm. Strolling through its tree-lined streets, visitors are transported back to the gold-mining era.
Highlights include:
Buckingham Street – a charming main street lined with 19th-century cottages, boutique shops, cafés, and galleries.
Chinese Settlement – a reconstructed village showcasing the modest huts built by Chinese miners who sought fortune in the goldfields. Their story reflects resilience and hardship, enriching New Zealand’s history.
Arrow River Walk – if time permits, a short walk by the Arrow River offers tranquility, with willows dipping into the water and tales of miners who once panned for gold here.
- Lake Hayes - After the excitement, slow down and embrace the tranquility at Lake Hayes. Often referred to as the “mirror lake,” its calm waters perfectly reflect the surrounding mountains and skies, making it one of the most photographed lakes in New Zealand.
The lake is also a vital habitat for birdlife, including black swans, scaup, and paradise ducks. In spring and summer, wildflowers adorn the shores, while in autumn, the surrounding trees blaze with color.
Many visitors enjoy a short lakeside walk or simply take in the views from a scenic lookout. It’s a place to breathe deeply, relax, and soak in the alpine atmosphere.
- Gibbston Valley Winery - Continuing the journey, arrive in the Gibbston Valley, known as the “Valley of Vines.” This region is internationally celebrated for producing some of the world’s finest Pinot Noir, thanks to its unique climate and soil conditions.
Highlights here may include:
Wine Tasting – sample award-winning vintages from renowned wineries, learning about the craft of viticulture in this rugged, beautiful environment.
Wine Cave – Gibbston Valley Winery features New Zealand’s largest wine cave, a cool, atmospheric place where barrels of Pinot Noir mature to perfection.
Scenic Vistas – the contrast of lush vineyards against dry, rocky hillsides creates an unforgettable landscape.
For food lovers, the valley also offers artisan cheeses, fresh produce, and gourmet dining experiences, making it a treat for both the eyes and the palate.
- Queenstown - Returning to Queenstown’s city center, there is time to explore the lively heart of this alpine resort town. The compact area is filled with attractions, cafés, restaurants, and boutiques, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables.
Things to experience:
Marine Parade & Lakefront – a leisurely walk along the lakefront offers stunning views and fresh mountain air.
Boutique Shopping – browse New Zealand-made wool, greenstone (pounamu) jewelry, and art galleries.
Dining & Cafés – try iconic local eats like a Fergburger or indulge in fine dining with lake views.
Gardens & Recreation – the Queenstown Gardens provide peaceful walking trails and beautiful viewpoints.
This stop offers a balance of free time and guided insight, allowing visitors to enjoy the energy of Queenstown at their own pace.
- Shotover Jet Queenstown - No visit to Queenstown is complete without experiencing the world-famous Shotover Jet. Known as the ultimate jet boat ride, it takes adventurers on a thrilling journey through the dramatic Shotover River Canyons. Hold on tight as the boat races across just centimeters of water at incredible speeds, performing daring 360-degree spins and weaving through narrow rock gorges. Beyond the adrenaline, the scenery is spectacular—the sheer canyon walls, turquoise waters, and mountain backdrops showcase the natural drama of the region. Even if one chooses not to ride, simply watching from the riverside is a heart-racing spectacle. This activity captures the adventurous spirit of Queenstown like nothing else.
- Lake Wakatipu - Stretching 80 kilometers in length, Lake Wakatipu is the heart of Queenstown. Surrounded by towering mountain ranges such as the Remarkables, this glacial lake is famed for its ever-changing colors—from deep sapphire blues to shimmering turquoise greens. According to Māori legend, the lake was formed by the burning heart of a giant, and its rhythmic “tide” (a rise and fall of about 10 centimeters every 25 minutes) is said to be his heartbeat. Visitors can enjoy lakeside strolls, picnics, or simply soak in the views from Queenstown’s waterfront. Whether at sunrise, when the mountains glow pink, or at sunset, when the lake reflects golden hues, Lake Wakatipu offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in New Zealand.
- Cardrona Bra Fence - Quirky, bold, and undeniably unique, the Cardrona Bra Fence is one of New Zealand’s most unusual landmarks. What began as a few bras hung on a rural fence has grown into a long-standing tradition, with thousands of visitors adding their own contributions over the years. The fence has become a symbol of fun, freedom, and individuality—reflecting the playful spirit of the Cardrona Valley community. Today, it also serves a charitable purpose, raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research. Stopping here is not only entertaining but also thought-provoking, as it blends humor with a deeper cause. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a little slice of Kiwi eccentricity that will be remembered long after the trip.
- Lake Wanaka - Set against the Southern Alps, Lake Wanaka is one of New Zealand’s most iconic and picturesque destinations. Its clear waters stretch for 45 kilometers, offering endless opportunities for recreation—from kayaking and swimming in summer to simply relaxing by the shore. The surrounding peaks make it a year-round paradise, with snow-capped vistas in winter and golden landscapes in autumn. Perhaps the most famous sight is the “Wanaka Tree,” a lone willow that grows out of the lake, often photographed with mountains behind it. The town of Wanaka itself is charming, filled with cafés, boutiques, and a relaxed alpine vibe. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, Lake Wanaka provides a perfect balance of natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere.

- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- On-board WiFi
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- On-board WiFi
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Discover the highlights of Queenstown with an all-encompassing 10-hour tour that combines adventure, history, and breathtaking views. Start your journey with a pick-up in Queenstown, then travel to the historic gold-mining town of Arrowtown. Feel the thrill of the Shotover Jet ride through stunning canyons, followed by relaxation at the serene Lake…
Discover the highlights of Queenstown with an all-encompassing 10-hour tour that combines adventure, history, and breathtaking views. Start your journey with a pick-up in Queenstown, then travel to the historic gold-mining town of Arrowtown. Feel the thrill of the Shotover Jet ride through stunning canyons, followed by relaxation at the serene Lake Hayes. Delight in world-class wines in the Gibbston Valley and see the birthplace of bungy jumping at Kawarau Gorge. Conclude your day in lively Queenstown and enjoy a scenic drive to the picturesque Glenorchy, showcasing New Zealand’s magnificent landscapes.
- Full-day tour featuring Queenstown’s premier attractions
- Participate in exciting activities like the Shotover Jet and bungy jumping
- Unwind at Lake Hayes and discover the historic Arrowtown
- Indulge in wine tasting in the famous Gibbston Valley
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.