Hotel St Moritz - Luxury hotel - FRESHLY PICKED SPRING-INSPIRED ACTIVITIES

Queenstown in Spring brings a burst of colour and vibrancy, with the mountains still tipped with snow.  We locals revel in the sheer variety of outdoor activities available – skiing in just a t-shirt, or catching the first rounds of golf on a pristine course. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Queenstown between September and November, be sure to book some activities to explore the best of our beautiful region. On behalf of the Concierge team, Joaquin Dockendoff, shares his knowledge and some of his favourites:

Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound Cruises 

The ultimate activity for wildlife and nature lovers. A full day’s adventure, the journey to either of these Sounds is truly spectacular, with each breathtaking cruise delivering world-class scenery, imposing snow-capped mountains, waterfalls and sea-life.

Funyaks 

A unique and fun way to explore the Dart River. A combination of a Jet Boat ride up river with all the thrills, followed by a Funyak rafting journey back down among the truly scenic landscape that is a World Heritage environment.  Familiar scenes from popular films such as Lord of the Rings and Mission Impossible Fallout are easy to spot, and we think you’ll love the silence and varied pace of this activity.

Heli Tours Scenic Flights

Take flight and see the South Island’s magnificent mountain ranges and National Parks by air. One of the most popular ways to see New Zealand’s natural beauty and a chance to experience an alpine landing in a secret spot that will simply take your breath away.  Highly recommended is to take a Lombardi picnic!!

Shotover Jet

A great activity if you’re a little pressed for time – and a chance to see the Queenstown’s Shotover Canyons whilst pumping adrenaline in this action packed activity. Celebrating 50 years in business, this is a local favourite. Hold tight for the spins!

Horse riding in Glenorchy

An activity that’s fun for all and caters to all riding abilities. Ride along the Dart Valley with panoramic views of stunning mountains ranges, while taking in the landscape.  Feel the thrill of crossing glaciers rivers on your noble steed and enjoy the senses of Spring in the high country.

“If I have to pick a favorite activity for Spring it would be the Funyaks. It’s an amazing, well rounded experience and one that should be on everyone’s bucket list. First you start off with a bit of scenic jetboating going up the Dart river, then dropped off for a guided canoe down the river. After visiting one of the iconic spots of the tour near a location literally named Paradise, you stop for lunch in a stunning spot with amazing views of mountains and glaciers rivers. It can not get any better!” 

Of course, there are many beautiful walks and hikes for those that enjoy a slower pace. Take a look at our story on Walks of Queenstown.