Posted: June 30, 2025Category:

🎣 Best Things to Do in Queenstown These School Holidays – A Guide for Aussie Families

Planning a family trip to Queenstown during the Australian school holidays? You’re in for an adventure-packed getaway filled with stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and experiences the whole family will love.

Whether you’re visiting for winter snow fun or summer lake adventures, Queenstown is the ultimate family-friendly destination. Here’s your guide to the best things to do these school holidays with plenty of tips for visiting families from Australia.

βœ… Family-Friendly Fishing Adventures

Looking for an easy, fun activity for the whole family? Our 2-hour and 3-hour fishing trips are perfect for kids and parents alike.

  • 🎣 No experience needed, our expert guides make it simple.

  • 🚀 Safe, stable boats with cover for all weather.

  • 🐟 Target trout and salmon on stunning Lake Whakatipu.

  • πŸ‘¨β€πŸ‘©β€πŸ‘§β€πŸ‘¦ A hands-on adventure that kids absolutely love!

Pro Tip: Fishing is one of the few activities that runs year-round, perfect for winter and summer holidays.

πŸ‘‰ Check out our family-friendly fishing charters here.

❄️ Winter Fun (June–September)

If you’re visiting during the July school holidays, Queenstown turns into a winter wonderland!

  • ⛷️ Ski or snowboard at Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, or Cardrona.

  • πŸ›· Go snow tubing or sledding – no skills needed!

  • 🚠 Ride the Skyline Gondola for epic snow-capped views.

  • β˜• Warm up with hot chocolate at cosy mountain cafes.

🌞 Summer Adventures (December–January)

Summer school holidays are all about lake days and sunshine.

  • 🚀 Jet boating, kayaking, or paddle boarding on Lake Whakatipu.

  • 🚑 Skyline Gondola + Luge – a hit with every kid!

  • 🏞️ Easy family hikes like Bob’s Cove or Queenstown Gardens.

  • 🍦 Ice cream by the lake while spotting trout swimming below.

🐾 Wildlife & Nature Experiences

  • 🦜 Kiwi Park: See real Kiwi birds and learn about native wildlife.

  • πŸ‘ Visit a local farm for sheep shearing and animal encounters.

  • πŸšΆβ€β™‚οΈ Scenic walks, bike rides, or even a lakeside picnic.

🍽️ Kid-Friendly Cafes & Eats

  • πŸ• Fergbaker for the best pies in town.

  • πŸ” Erik’s Fish & Chips – grab and eat by the lake.

  • 🍦 Patagonia Chocolates – famous for ice cream and churros.

  • β˜• Plenty of cafes with play areas and space for kids to roam.

πŸ“ School Holiday Travel Tips

  • ✈️ Direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Gold Coast make it super easy.

  • πŸš— Hire a car for flexibility with the family.

  • πŸ“… Book popular activities early – Queenstown is busy during Aussie holidays.

  • πŸ‘¦ Kids love fishing, luge rides, and snow tubing. It’s all easy, fun, and close by.

🎣 Book Your Family Fishing Trip These School Holidays

Looking for a relaxed, memorable family adventure? Our fishing charters are perfect for school holiday fun. No stress, no hassle β€” just good vibes, stunning scenery, and the chance for your kids to catch their first fish.

🎣 Your next adventure starts here.
explore. fish. repeat.