Things to do in Queenstown (Rain or Shine!)

Best Things to do in Queenstown with Kids During School Holidays 

Queenstown is a paradise for family adventures, bursting with natural wonder, lakeside charm, and exciting activities for every age. If you’re planning a family getaway during the school holidays, you might be wondering what the best things to do in Queenstown with kids are. Whether the sun’s out or the rain’s rolling in, Queenstown has your family covered with unforgettable experiences that spark curiosity, laughter, and wide-eyed wonder.  

At RealNZ, we know how precious holiday moments are. That’s why we’ve crafted family-friendly experiences that are easy, enriching, and full of heart - so you can focus on making memories, not managing logistics.

Top Outdoor Family Activities in Queenstown 

Walter Peak Farm Tour

This high country experience starts with a scenic cruise across Lake Whakatipu and ends with happy hearts and full bellies. Once ashore at Walter Peak, families can meet and feed farm animals, stroll through abundant gardens, and gather around a delicious farm-baked morning or afternoon tea, all served indoors at the charming woolshed. 

It’s relaxed, scenic, and great for kids of all ages. Easy access and a slow, welcoming pace make it the perfect family-friendly farm experience in Queenstown.

Kids will love: Feeding friendly farm animals, exploring the gardens, and having space to roam. 

Adults will love: A gorgeous afternoon tea experience in a lakeside homestead and the tranquil, scenic setting.

Queenstown Lake Cruise 

There’s something magical about seeing Queenstown from the water. A relaxing lake cruise offers panoramic views of alpine peaks, charming bays, and the Remarkables, captivating kids and calming parents. With indoor and outdoor seating and year-round departures, it’s an easy and engaging way to soak in the scenery together. A Queenstown lake cruise with kids is a must on any family itinerary.

Kids will love: Spotting mountains, birds, and bush, and the novelty of being on a boat. 

Adults will love: Uninterrupted lake views, peaceful cruising, and effortless sightseeing. 

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise 

For families wanting to unplug and go deeper into nature, Doubtful Sound is a true hidden gem. With fewer crowds and grander scale than its famous neighbour Milford Sound, this day-long journey is rich in stillness, wildlife, and wow moments.

Kids will love: Riding across Lake Manapouri, looking for dolphins, and the magnitude of the fiord 

Adults will love: Immersing in untouched wilderness, the sense of scale and solitude, and the full-day adventure through remote, majestic landscapes.

Cardrona Day Pass 

If you’re looking for family things to do in Queenstown that deliver big on fun and adventure, a day at Cardrona Alpine Resort is a must. Just over an hour from town, this is New Zealand’s biggest alpine playground, and it’s packed with outdoor adventure for all ages, all year round.

Whether you're visiting in winter for the snow or in summer for hiking, biking, and mountain carting, Cardrona makes it easy for families to explore the mountains together. With gentle beginner slopes, ski kindy, and lift-accessed fun, it’s one of the best things to do in Queenstown with kids, winter or summer. 

Kids will love: Zooming down beginner slopes, kids’ snow camps, or riding bikes and mountain carts in summer. 

Adults will love: World-class ski resort experience, stunning views over the Southern Alps, and nine different (delicious) eateries to choose from.

Rainy Day Activities in Queenstown for Kids 

Queenstown doesn’t stop when the weather turns. In fact, there are still plenty of things to do in Queenstown when raining. In fact, some experiences become even more enchanting with a few raindrops.

Milford Sound Day Cruise

Rain transforms Milford Sound into something out of a storybook. Waterfalls tumble from every cliff, mist curls around the mountains, and the mood is nothing short of magical. For families, this Milford Sound cruise with kids is an easygoing, full-day adventure that offers comfort, epic scenery, and plenty of space to unwind. It’s proof that rainy days can be the best days. 

Kids will love: Watching waterfalls cascade down cliffs and looking for seals or dolphins. 

Adults will love: An immense, all-weather cruise through one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.

Te Anau Glowworm Caves 

Just a scenic drive from Queenstown, these glowworm caves are pure magic. Stay dry as you take a gentle underground boat ride revealing sparkling constellations of glowworms above, while the storytelling guides make the adventure feel like a fairy tale come to life. It’s the perfect glowworm caves for families day trip—rain or shine. 

Kids will love: The magical glowworms lighting up the cave ceiling like a starry sky.

Adults will love: A gentle, guided nature experience that’s both relaxing and awe-inspiring.

Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dining

On a rainy day, there’s nothing better than stepping into the warmth of Walter Peak’s Colonel’s Homestead. Rain brings a lush, moody beauty to the high country - and the Gourmet BBQ Dining is indoors and cosy. After your lake cruise, gather around for a fest in a relaxed, inviting setting. Indoors and filled with flavour, this is a family-friendly dining experience that brings joy to every bite - rain just adds to the charm. 

Kids will love: The boat cruise over, being in charge of what’s on their plate, and tucking into a hearty meal. 

Adults will love: A cosy, feast-inspired dining experience with local, farm-fresh flavours and historic charm. 

RealNZ’s indoor nature experiences keep the magic alive, whatever the weather.

Queenstown School Holiday Tips for Families 

Planning ahead can make your family getaway smoother and more enjoyable. Here are a few tips: