Queenstown with Kids: The Ultimate Family Guide (2026)
Planning a family holiday in Queenstown? You've chosen one of New Zealand's most exciting destinations. From skiing and scenic adventures to playgrounds, lakeside walks and family-friendly restaurants, Queenstown offers something for children of every age.
At Inside Out Property Management, we know what families need because we welcome hundreds of families to Queenstown every year. Our professionally managed Queenstown holiday homes provide the extra space, comfort and convenience that makes travelling with children so much easier.
Whether you're visiting in winter or summer, here's our guide to the best family activities in Queenstown.
Why Queenstown is Perfect for Families
Queenstown isn't just New Zealand's adventure capital—it's also one of the country's best destinations for families.
Parents love the combination of outdoor activities, safe walking areas, incredible scenery and accommodation options suitable for every family size.
Whether your children are toddlers, teenagers or somewhere in between, there's always something to do.
Where to Stay in Queenstown with Kids
Choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference to your holiday.
Rather than squeezing everyone into a hotel room, many families choose a Queenstown holiday home where everyone has room to relax.
At Inside Out Property Management, our family-friendly accommodation may include:
Multiple bedrooms
Fully equipped kitchens
Washing machines and dryers
Free parking
High-speed Wi-Fi
Outdoor areas
Heat pumps
Modern bathrooms
Easy self check-in
Having your own kitchen means breakfast is simple before heading out for the day, while laundry facilities are invaluable after skiing, biking or lake adventures.
1. Skyline Queenstown & Luge
One of Queenstown's most popular family attractions is the Skyline Gondola.
Ride high above Queenstown for spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu before enjoying the famous Luge tracks suitable for children and adults alike.
Many families spend half a day here.
2. Ayrburn
Only a short drive from Queenstown, Ayrburn has quickly become one of the region's favourite family destinations.
Children love exploring the open spaces while parents enjoy the beautiful gardens, restaurants and mountain scenery.
During winter, Ayrburn transforms into a magical Winter Wonderland, featuring festive lights, outdoor fires and seasonal activities.
From late June to late July, families can also enjoy ice skating at The Dell, making Ayrburn one of the best winter activities in Queenstown for children.
Afterwards, enjoy hot chocolate, marshmallows by the fire and dinner at one of Ayrburn's restaurants.
3. Kiwi Park
Meet New Zealand's native wildlife at Kiwi Park.
Children can see kiwis, tuatara, kea and many other native animals while learning about New Zealand conservation.
It's a fantastic rainy-day activity and only a short walk from central Queenstown.
4. Queenstown Gardens
If your family simply wants to relax, Queenstown Gardens is perfect.
Children can enjoy:
Duck feeding
Walking paths
Open grass areas
Playground nearby
Frisbee golf
It's also one of the best picnic spots in Queenstown.
5. Coronet Peak & The Remarkables
If you're visiting during winter, skiing is an unforgettable family experience.
Both Coronet Peak and The Remarkables offer:
Beginner ski lessons
Children's ski schools
Equipment hire
Cafés
Snow play
Even if you don't ski, children love playing in the snow.
6. Queenstown Beach
During warmer months, Queenstown Beach is a favourite.
Kids can:
Throw stones into the lake
Paddle in shallow water
Enjoy an ice cream
Watch the steamship TSS Earnslaw
Play on the grass
Parents can relax while taking in the Remarkables.
7. Onsen Hot Pools
After a busy day exploring, there's nothing better than soaking in a private hot pool overlooking the Shotover River.
Older children especially enjoy this unique Queenstown experience.
8. Arrowtown
Historic Arrowtown is only twenty minutes from Queenstown.
Families love:
Ice cream shops
Walking beside the Arrow River
Playground
Gold mining history
Boutique shopping
It's easy to combine Arrowtown with a visit to Ayrburn.
9. Shotover Jet
For older children and teenagers, Shotover Jet is an unforgettable adventure.
Experience high-speed jet boating through the spectacular Shotover Canyons.
10. Ben Lomond & Easy Family Walks
Not every walk has to be challenging.
Great family-friendly options include:
Lake Hayes Walkway
Frankton Track
Kelvin Heights Trail
Sunshine Bay Walk
Bob's Cove
Queenstown Gardens
Rainy Day Activities in Queenstown
If the weather changes, there are still plenty of things to do.
Families enjoy:
Kiwi Park
Escape rooms
Time Tripper
Indoor rock climbing
Cinema
Shopping
Restaurants
Ice skating (seasonal)
Family-Friendly Restaurants
Queenstown has plenty of restaurants that welcome families.
Some popular choices include:
Ayrburn
Blue Kanu
Fergburger
Patagonia Chocolates
Erik's Fish & Chips
Winnies
Smiths Craft Beer House
Bespoke Kitchen
Tips for Visiting Queenstown with Kids
✔ Pack clothing for changing weather.
✔ Book winter activities early.
✔ Allow extra travel time during ski season.
✔ Bring reusable drink bottles.
✔ Choose accommodation with parking.
✔ Stay somewhere with laundry facilities.
✔ Book directly with a local accommodation provider for personalised recommendations.
Why Families Choose Inside Out Property Management
Inside Out specialises in professionally managed Queenstown holiday accommodation designed to make family holidays easy.
Our local team can help you choose the right property based on:
Family size
Children's ages
Ski holidays
Walking distance
Parking requirements
Budget
Location
Whether you're looking for a cosy apartment or a spacious holiday home, we'll help you find accommodation that suits your family.
Book Your Family Holiday in Queenstown
If you're planning a family getaway, browse our range of Queenstown holiday homes, family accommodation and short-term rentals.
Booking directly with Inside Out Property Management means you'll receive local knowledge, personal service and professionally managed accommodation throughout your stay.
Book your Queenstown family accommodation direct today and start creating unforgettable memories with Inside Out Property Management.