FREE! summer 2017
QUEENSTOWN d WANAKA d FIORDLAND d d d d d d d d d
Exclusive Family Deals! Attractions & Adventures Budget Ideas Activity Age Guide Biking With Kids Rainy Day Activities Family Accommodation Child-Friendly Dining Maps Plus More!
THE ONLY FAMILY GUIDE TO THE SOUTHERN LAKES
Queenstown Glenorchy Arrowtown Wanaka Lake Hawea Cromwell Te Anau Milford Sound Doubtful Sound
$$ SAVE $ I V E S EXCLU NTS DISCOU ! P88
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....................Public Toilets Babychanging facilities ......................Playground ..................Connectabus ...............................Library ..............Medical Centre ...................Holiday Park .................Supermarket ......................Post Office ............................Carpark .................Police Station .................Petrol Station .......................Skate Park ....................Frisbee Golf ...................Main Routes .............One Way Street .............Pedestrian-only ..............Walking Tracks (see page 47)
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Your one-stop family guide to New Zealand’s stunning Southern Lakes region. Page 8
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30th edition Publisher Kidz Go Ltd Phone
027 411 9530
info@KidzGo.co.nz
Website
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Managing Meg McKenzie Director Design
Kidz Go Ltd
Queenstown, Arrowtown, Glenorchy – you’ll never run out of things to do in Queenstown but you may run out of time! With breathtaking scenery, activities and festivals, beaches and bike tracks, shopping and wineries, this lakeside alpine resort justifiably rates as one of the world’s top destinations for all ages and seasons. Just 20km away, the old-world ambience of Arrowtown is also a mustvisit, while the tiny township of Glenorchy, at the head of the lake, really is the gateway to Paradise!
Wanaka – Lake Wanaka, surrounded by magnificent mountains, is a perfect year-round holiday spot with a laid-back feel. Wanaka offers stunning scenery, fabulous dining, festivals and plenty of family fun, making this a dream destination for families. Activities include jet boating, horse riding, kids’ climbing, the new trampoline centre, kayaking, SUP and water toys, the famous Puzzling World as well as family biking tracks. Wanaka's beaches are wonderful for shallow swimming, slow picnics and lots of friendly families to meet. Nearby the idyllic township of Lake Hawea is waiting for you to discover it! Fiordland and Te Anau – the peaceful lakeside town of Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park with the rugged wonders of Milford and Doubtful Sound just a short trip away. Te Anau offers fun family activities including lake cruises, biking, hiking tours and horse riding. It’s also the perfect base from which to explore the glowworm caves and is the set-off point for walking the outstanding Milford or Kepler Tracks. Nearby Lake Manapouri is home to NZ's Pearl Harbour and Doubtful Sound departures.
All information published in this guide was believed to be correct at the time of publication. Whilst every effort has been made to provide accurate, up-to-date information, Kidz Go Ltd or any associates thereof cannot be held liable for alterations to prices or products, or for information that may mislead the consumer. Reproduction of this guide in whole or in part is forbidden without prior consent from the publisher. This guide is copyright and may not be sold or re-sold.
Visit KidzGo.co.nz for your family holiday web guide to the Southern Lakes and the whole of New Zealand. Finished your trip? If you don't wish to keep this magazine, please pass it on to another family.
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1 Southern Discoveries 2 Real Journeys 3 Public Kitchen and Bar 4 Finz Seafood and Grill 5 Minus 5° ICE BAR 6 TSS Earnslaw departures 7 Segway on Q pick-up 8 Off Road Adventures 9 Odyssey Sensory Maze 10 Vortex 12D Theatre/360° VR 10 360°Battleground/360°Drift 11 Kidz Club Queenstown 12 Fear Factory 13 Rockies Childrenswear 14 Minami Jujisei Restaurant 15 Escape Quest 16 Kiwi Birdlife Park 17 The Bead Shop 18 Adventure Centre 19 Hell Pizza 20 Below Zero Ice Bar 21 Winnies Gourmet Pizza 22 Ballarat Trading Co. 23 KJet & Underwater Obs. 24 Erik’s Fish and Chips 25 Dark Ride VR Game Ride
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Contents
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Contents
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KI DZ GO WANAK A
Wanaka activities Wanaka birthday party ideas Family shopping and services Wanaka walking/biking tracks Eating out made easy
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KIDZ GO FIORDL AND
Te Anau activities Te Anau walking/biking tracks Eating out made easy Milford Sound Doubtful Sound
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FAMILY ACCOMMODATION
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Queenstown, Glenorchy, Arrowtown Wanaka and Lake Hawea Te Anau
KIDZ GO QUEENSTOWN
ACTIVITIES AND TRIPS On a budget ideas Rainy day ideas Family attractions Discover Queenstown Discover Glenorchy Adventure activities The Queenstown Trail and family bike rides Discover Arrowtown Playgrounds Walking tracks and picnic spots Discover Cromwell Annual and season activity passes Birthday party activities and ideas
8 9 10 20 28 31 38 42 45 47 48 52 52
81 86 87
SOUTHERN L AKES MAPS Queenstown, Fernhill and Sunshine Bay 2 Queenstown centre 4 Frankton and Kelvin Heights 4 Family Bike Rides 40 Arrowtown 42 Cromwell 49 Wanaka 60 Te Anau and Manapouri 71 The road to Milford Sound 76 Southern Lakes area 91
OTHER STUFF
THE KIDS’ DIRECTORY Summer events highlights 6 Childcare, clubs, party ideas, annual passes plus Queenstown useful contacts 7 lots more information for parents 50 Getting around 7 EATING OUT MADE EASY A nugget of Southern Lakes history 41 Family-friendly restaurants and cafés 54 The Legend of our Breathing Lake 46 Meet the Locals ~ the cheeky kea 75 FAMILY SHOPPING and SERVICES Family deals and savings 88 Clothing, toys, books, supermarkets and more. 58 Index 90
GET IT ONLINE!
All your family needs to play and stay anywhere in New Zealand! Visit kidzgo.co.nz and plan your holiday now!
6 Summer Events Highlights
Summer Events Highlights NOVEMBER 5 Arrowtown Trolley Derby Competitors race in hand-made trolleys! 5 Wanaka Medieval Festival A pop-up Medieval village with artisan crafts, knights' encampment, musicians and peddlers. Hands-on activities for all ages. Watch knights in combat and puppeteers with life-sized marionettes and feast on medieval-inspired fare! Rippon Hall, Mt Aspiring Rd, 11am-4pm www.wanaka-medieval-festival.nz 12-13 Extravaganza (Gypsy Fair) Unique and interesting market stalls, arts and craft, food, musical entertainment, including kids shows and games. Wanaka Recreation Ground, 9am-5pm. 12-13 Highlands 101 A world-class motor racing event with big name drivers in high performance race cars. www.highlands.co.nz 13 More FM Kids Duathlon, Wanaka Race registration from 9:30am, racing starts at 11:15am www.morefm.co.nz 19 Air NZ Queenstown International Marathon 42km, 21km and 10km races plus a 2.2km (approx) kids' race – age group categories for 5-6 years, 7-9 years and 10-12 years. Every child that finishes receives a medal. www.queenstown-marathon.co.nz
JANUARY 2 Wanaka Rodeo The guys and gals of rodeo demonstrate the prowess and sheer bravery it takes to get in the ring. Albert Town Reserve www.wanakarodeo.co.nz 7 Glenorchy Races Races, kids' fun, food and hopefully glorious sunshine! Glenorchy, from 11am. 7 Te Anau Cardboard Boat Race and Family Fun Day A fun-filled day with a grand parade, boat creations, crazy outfits and more! Lions Park, from 12.30pm. Contact Ruth, 03 249 6664 www.marakura.org 14 Lake Hayes A&P Show Show jumping, dog trials, sheep shearing, food stalls, competitions, rides, petting zoos, children’s entertainment. Grand parade at noon. Lake Hayes Showground, 9am-4pm. 29 Colour Burst Run Competitors in all-white clothing get transformed with multi-coloured powder throughout the race! Inspired by India’s Holi Festival. QT Events Centre, 11am-1pm FEBRUARY 6 Waitangi Day (Public Holiday) 17 Puzzling World Junior Challenge Wanaka Fun event for beginners to budding triathletes ages 5 to 11 years. www.challenge-wanaka.com
25 Christmas in the Park (wet weather day, 26th Nov) A free community event at Highlands. Watch as local Cromwell Schools perform on stage, plus a guest appearance from Santa Claus. Phone: 03 445 4052 www.highlands.co.nz
MARCH 11-12 Wanaka A&P Show Equestrian shows, live music, market stalls, inflatable games and fairground rides, plus the entertaining Jack Russell race. www.wanakashow.co.nz
26 Remarkables Park Town Centre – Family Fun Day Activities, Santa, entertainers, competitions and more! www.remarkablesparktowncentre.co.nz
12 More FM Kids Duathlon, Cromwell Race registration from 9:30am, racing at 11:15am.
DECEMBER 4 Shotover Jet Christmas Cracker Fun, family christmas-themed show with performances at 1pm and 5pm, 75-90 minutes. Family $35 (w/ up to 3 children), Adult $15, Child $5, under 5s free. Indoors, Queenstown Events Centre www.christmascracker.co.nz Tickets from eventfinda.co.nz or at QT Events Ctre or QT i Site.
APRIL 16 Easter Sunday
18 More FM Kids Duathlon Queenstown Race registration from 9:30am, racing at 11:15am.
20 -25 Akarua Arrowtown Autumn Festival 5 days of fun festival events, from children’s scarecrow competitions and dog show to duck races, painting classes and aerobatic displays. www.arrowtownautumnfestival.co.nz
31 Queenstown and Wanaka New Year's Eve Live music, entertainment and fireworks. A FREE event. Queenstown & Wanaka Lakefronts, 8pm -1am.
www.KidzGo.co.nz
20 Otago Anniversary Day (Public Holiday)
16 Queenstown Bike Festival – Kids Mini X Mountain bike circuits for 5-14 year olds. Bouncy castle, music, best-dressed bike competition and more! Butlers Green, Arrowtown, 11am-2pm. www.queenstownbikefestival.com
25 Anzac Day (Public Holiday)
Queenstown Useful Contacts
Useful Contacts
EMERGENCY AND MEDICAL AID Police / Fire / Ambulance 111 Queenstown Medical Centre 03 441 0500 9 Isle Street, Queenstown Remarkables Park Medical Centre 03 450 9199 Level 2, Building12, Remarkables Park Town Centre, Frankton Wakatipu Medical Centre 03 442 2288 11 McBride Street, Frankton Arrowtown Medical Centre 03 442 1215 cnr Buckingham/Berkshire Streets, Arrowtown Lakes District Hospital 03 441 0015 Douglas Street, Frankton Mountain Lakes Medical 03 442 7188 38b Gorge Road, Queenstown Wakatipu Community Mental Health 03 441 0010 19 Douglas Street, Frankton PHARMACIES Unichem Arrowtown Pharmacy 20 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown Queenstown Pharmacy Isle Street, Queenstown QT Pharmacy O’Connells Shopping Centre, Queenstown Summerfield’s Frankton Pharmacy Frankton Roundabout, Frankton Unichem Remarkables Pharmacy Remarkables Park Town Centre, Frankton Life Pharmacy Wilkinson's 4 The Mall, Queenstown DENTAL SERVICES Frankton Dental Surgery Queenstown Dentist Ltd Lakeside Dental Practice Queenstown Dental Centre Remarkables Dental Centre
03 442 0975 03 441 0590 03 442 6326 03 442 3467 03 442 2800 03 442 7313
03 442 2711 03 442 7274 03 441 8248 03 442 8580 03 442 3531
INFORMATION CENTRES & BOOKING AGENTS Discover Queenstown Info Centre 03 441 2979 corner The Mall and Camp Street Dept of Conservation Visitor Ctre Stanley St 03 442 7935 Info and Track Shotover Street 03 442 9708 Lakes District Museum and Info Centre 03 442 1824 Buckingham St, Arrowtown QT Information Centre 03 442 7319 corner Shotover/Camp Street Queenstown i-Site Visitor Centre 03 442 4100 corner Shotover/Camp Street Qbook Central 03 409 2969 Lower Shotover Street Queenstown Local Sights 03 442 7936 2 Rees Street Southern Discoveries Info Centre 03 441 8038 St Omer Wharf, 110 Beach Street Southern Lakes Info Centre 03 442 7640 corner Shotover/Rees Street The Station corner Shotover/Camp Street 03 442 5252
7
Getting Around DISCOUNT RENTALS Locally owned and operated, long established Discount Rentals provide a great range of quality vehicles to suit any family! We offer budget cars, 4WDs, minibuses, touring vehicles and people-movers. We’re reliable and consistent, plus there’s no charge for those extras like child seats or airport transfers. Phone: 03 442 6039 Mobile: 027 432 7621 Freephone: 0800 161 716 www.discountrentals.co.nz QUEENSTOWN TAXIS Personal door-to-door transport! We get you door-to-door with total flexibility and convenience – no schedules, no timetables – you decide when you want to travel and we’ll be there! Your safety, comfort and enjoyment are our priority. We have cars (seat 1-4) or minivans (seat 1-11) for everything from sightseeing to airport transfers. Child seats on request. Phone: 03 450 3000 (24 hours) Freephone: 0800 QT TAXI (0800 788 294) www.queenstowntaxis.com Alpine Connexions 03 443 9120 Transport service between Queenstown and Wanaka (four departures daily), plus connections to Dunedin, Cromwell and Otago Central Rail Trail shuttle service. Connectabus/Connect Wanaka 03 441 4471 Local area bus service connecting all Queenstown suburbs, airport, Remarkables Park Town Centre, Events Centre, Arrowtown and daily service to Wanaka. Intercity (Queenstown Agent) 03 441 1137 / 0800 264 536 Daily services to Te Anau, Wanaka, Cromwell, Franz Josef, Christchurch, Dunedin and Mount Cook. Queenstown Water Taxis 03 441 1124 Water transport from the centre of town to accommodation along the Frankton Arm, Kelvin Heights and Kawarau Village. Supershuttle Airport Shuttle
0800 748 885
Tracknet 03 249 7777 Daily services to and from Queenstown, Invercargill, Stewart Island (with Real Journeys boat link), Te Anau, Milford Sound. Charters to walking tracks available. KT Sightseeing and Taxi, Wanaka Our drivers can take you to the most scenic walks, secret beaches, perfect photo spots, local attractions, vineyards for lunch... and more! Whenever you want to go, sit back in our luxury, 6 seater vehicles that can go just about anywhere. See us for taxi service, airport transfers, sightseeing tours and walking/biking track transfers. Phone: 03 443 9368 / 021 159 3085 Freephone: 0800 4 KT SIGHTS (0800 4 58 744487) www.ktsightseeing.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
8 Activities :: On a Budget
Queenstown Activities On a budget Rainy day ideas Family attractions Discover Queenstown Discover Glenorchy Adventure activities Family bike rides Discover Arrowtown Playgrounds Walks and Picnic Spots Discover Cromwell Annual & season passes Birthday party ideas
Skippers Canyon Jet
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On a budget?
bright ideas to entertain the family
FREE
$79 OR UNDER for family
v Arrowtown historical houses walk v Botanical gardens, Queenstown v Explore one of Queenstown’s family-friendly bike tracks (p38) v Feed the ducks at the lakefront v Free walking tour of Queenstown – operates daily, donations-only v Frisbee golf, Queenstown gardens v Kawarau Bungy Centre v Playgrounds (see p45) v Saturday markets, Earnslaw Park v Skateboard halfpipe / skatepark v Visit Chinese Settlement v Visit the new Cromwell bike park v Walks (see p47 and our maps) v Swimming at Lake Hayes, Moke Lake, Queenstown Bay or Frankton beach
v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v
Airshed trampolines, Wanaka Clip ‘N Climb, Wanaka Design jewellery at The Bead Shop Highlands Museum Game Over – Lazer Tag Glenorchy Animal Experience Highlands Jurassic Safari Kids Spy Network : secret mission Lakes District Museum Minus 5° or Below Zero Ice Bar Reading Cinemas family pass Play 'Foot Golf' at Frankton Golf Course - combo of soccer + golf! Queenstown Zoological Gardens Reading Cinemas family pass Ride the Skyline Luge Swimming at Alpine Aqualand Transport & Toy Museum, Wanaka Underwater Observatory
v Warbirds and Wheels, Wanaka v Hire beach toys at Lakeland Adventures, Wanaka v Old Fashioned Photography family portrait
$125 OR UNDER for family v v v v v v v v v v v v
Beach rental w/ Paddle Wanaka Rent bikes: Arrowtown Bike Hire Dark Ride, Queenstown Family Paddleboard lesson with Paddle Wanaka Fear Factory, Queenstown Highlands Taxi Porsche Cayenne Kiwi Birdlife Park Odyssey Sensory Maze PowderPak Parks indoor dryslope SITE Trampoline Skyline Gondola Vortex 12D Motion Theatre/360°VR
Note: prices based on cost for family of four at time of print.
QUALMARK® is New Zealand tourism’s official mark of quality. All businesses that carry the Qualmark® have chosen to be independently assessed and have been found to be professional and trustworthy, so you can book and buy with confidence. You will find the Qualmark logo next to those activities that have been assessed and licensed by Qualmark. RESPONSIBLE TOURISM Qualmark Enviro-Gold, Silver or Bronze recognises those businesses that are actively participating in energy efficiency, waste management, water conservation or community activities. Please note: It is not mandatory to apply for a Qualmark assessment. While this guide acknowledges those businesses that have done so, this is not in any way intended to negatively implicate non-Qualmark rated businesses.
Activities :: Rainy Day Ideas 9
Rainy Day Activities and Trips Day Trip to Arrowtown Visit the Lakes District Museum, Old Fashioned Costume Photography and Chinese Settlement. p42 Day Trip to Milford Sound It may be fine at Milford Sound even if it’s raining in town. Otherwise the waterfalls are spectacular in the rain. p76 Day Trip to Wanaka Visit Puzzling World, Airshed, Transport & Toy Museum, Clip ‘N Climb, Warbirds and Wheels, Cinema Paradiso or have a play at the Wanaka Pool. p60 Alpine Aqualand, Frankton Leisure pool, lazy river, hydroslide, lap pool, hot pool. p18 The Bead Shop, Queenstown Design your own wearable art. Below Zero Ice Bar, Queenstown Visit the biggest Ice Bar in Australasia!
p14 p14
Dark Ride Interactive Game Ride p10 Award-winning virtual reality game ride; incredible, action-packed, multi-sensory experience! Escape Quest p10 Unravel the mystery and escape the room in one hour. Fear Factory p16 New Zealand's scariest haunted house! Spine-tingling surprises and lots of fun – if you're brave enough! Game Over Queenstown p16 Grand Prix indoor karting, Lazer Tag and much more! Highlands Jurassic Safaris & Buggy Adventures p19 Journey through the forest in a warm, dry vehicle and discover a taste of the Jurassic era! Near Cromwell. Highlands Go-Karts p34 The latest day-out destination, FASTlaps Porsche rides available for adults, motorsport museum, mini golf, go-karting and café. Near Cromwell.
Kawarau Bungy Centre p35 Watch bungy jumpers, discover the history of bungy jumping, experience a thrilling zipride and enjoy lunch. Kids Spy Network p19 Your child embarks on their very own Special Agent secret mission around Queenstown! Kiwi Birdlife Park, Queenstown p26 Lots to see under cover, cosy café, umbrellas available. ` Minus 5° ICE BAR, Queenstown p14 Come inside and marvel at a room where EVERYTHING is carved from ice.
Odyssey Sensory Maze p15 Feel your way from one illusory room to another – each of the zones is different, exciting and unexpected. Off Road Adventures 4x4 Scenic Tours p32 Stay inside a warm vehicle on our exciting 4x4 adventure. Off Road Adventures Quad Bike Tours p32 Even more fun in the wet! We have kids' quads, a tour that is tailor-made for families and wet weather gear. Paintball Central, Cromwell p49 It’s often dry in Cromwell when raining in town so come on out and enjoy some action adventure! Reading Cinemas Three screens and all the latest releases.
p16
SITE Trampoline Playground p18 Have fun and build confidence at SITE trampoline. Skyline Queenstown p20 The trip in the iconic gondola is a Queenstown ‘must do’. Southern Discoveries Mt Nicholas Farm Experience A great boat trip combined with farm tour. p21 Te Anau Glowworm Caves p72 Boating and glowworms, all in an underground cave. Thrill Zone – a World of Thrills! p12 Fun and adrenaline with 360° Drift and 360° Battleground including Xtreme Reball, Laser Tag and Hero Blast. TSS Earnslaw / Walter Peak High Country Farm p25 Combined with a farm tour, this is a great trip, rain or shine. Underwater Observatory, Queenstown p15 Life under the surface of the lake; see the trout, salmon and eels in their natural habitat. Vortex 12D Motion Theatre/360⁰ VR State-of-the-art motion theatre; a white-knuckle adventure with lots of surprises!
p12
Ziptrek – Flying Fox Ecotours, Queenstown p35 Harness up and fly through the air while keeping dry under the tree canopy – a guided ecological adventure.
WORLDS BEST GAME RIDE N FU FOR ALL
AGES!
10pm phone 03 441 8080 Open 7 days 10amwww.KidzGo.co.nz
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Escape Quest Main Town Pier
Family Attractions
ESCAPE QUEST
ESCAPE QUEST QUEENSTOWN Min Age 7* Can you escape the room in time? Escape Quest is a fun, bonding family experience. Embrace kiwi ingenuity and teamwork to hunt for clues and solve the puzzles. As time travelling detectives, Escape Quest will take you back to Queenstown’s 1860s gold rush with a mission: solve the crime and escape the room in 60 minutes! Race the clock or compete in teams to solve the mysteries ... then dress the part for your fun, family photo. New, exciting and incredibly fun! 1st Floor, 32 Rees Street (above Kathmandu) Phone: 03 442 4948 Hours: daily, 10am-10pm (last session starts at 8:30pm) Price: $38 - $44 *We suggest the puzzles would be too hard for under 7 year olds, though they may accompany you at no cost. Adult supervision for children under 15 recommended. Email: queenstown@escapequest.co.nz BOOK ONLINE: www.escapequest.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Underwater Observatory Dark Ride Below Zero Ice Bar
Queenstown has never had as many fun, family attractions on offer as now! With so much entertainment with appeal to grown-ups and children, you can challenge your senses, explore mazes, interact with multi-D motion pictures, take a dinosaur safari, dare to visit the Fear Factory, discover the ice bar, go trampolining, create your own jewellery and more. Note: map above shows family attractions in the centre of Queenstown only. See map p4 for location of SITE Trampoline, Game Over and Alpine Aqualand & map p49 for Highlands Jurassic Safari. DARK RIDE :: VIRTUAL REALITY FUN Virtual Reality plus mad motion = the world’s best game ride, and Dark Ride – voted the world’s best new ride at IAAPA – is the Ferrari of simulators! Why choose Dark Ride? • You’ll experience the thrill of 400D (dynamic movements per second). • Superior, state-of-the-art technology means no motion sickness. • Dark Ride blends a competitive game into a motion ride. • Best of all …. It’s fun! Six different experiences to suit all ages will have you fighting off zombie attacks, reptilian aliens or robotic cowboy outlaws with your own laser gun while the special effects create an immersive experience where you will genuinely believe what’s happening on screen is happening to you! Dark Ride is a must-do experience! 7 Earl Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 441 8080 Hours: daily, 10am-10pm Combo 1: 1x Dark Ride and 1x XD Theatre $40 Combo 2: 2x Dark Ride $45 Bonus!! Buy any combo and get extra rides for only $15pp per ride (for up to 5 days). Family Deal: buy combos and the fourth person goes free! Birthday parties/large groups please email for discount pricing. Email: info@darkride.co.nz www.darkride.co.nz
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Prices for THRILLZONE ACTIVITIES Start from Adult $29, Child $24 Save up to 20% with our family and multi-activity passes!
KIDZ CLUB
Age 4-13 years
Leave the kids with us and we’ll indulge them with fun and entertainment! Our Kidz Club includes access to all our products plus fun and games conducted by our enthusiastic staff! Bookings are recommended but walk-ins are welcome from one hour to all-day.
KIDZ CLUB QUEENSTOWN OPEN 7 DAYS 10am to late. Phone: 03 441 1159 53 Shotover Street
VORTEX 12D MOTION THEATRE Stimulate your senses when you visit th state-of-the-art Motion Theatre! A white-knuckle adventure with snow, and a few surprises! With over 80 MOVIES to choose from in we have themes to suit all ages. Choos roller coasters, cyber races, haunted ho even a visit to the land of dinosaurs. LOADS OF FUN FOR EVERYONE! Minim
360º VR Step into new dimensions and experien 360ºVR is THE revolutionary magic cine fighting intergalactic wars on alien plan the darkest of dungeons. With 360ºVR ture. 360ºVR is the fully-realized future more. Our integrated Virtual-Reality tec see, move and feel 360ºVR dimensions completely immersive and realistic way Minimum age 6 years.
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360º DRIFT Drive, spin, or drift like a pro! Drive like a Go Kart or lift the Drift bar to turn into 360º drift mode. The 360º drift system allows you to drive and drift forward, backward, sideways, diagonally and everything in between! ITS FAST, FUN AND LOTS OF ACTION! Minimum age 4 years. 360º BATTLEGROUND – LASERTAG * HEROBLAST * REBALL Forget everything you previously knew about traditional Lasertag and Paintball! We have the most exhilarating indoor shooting activities with your very own referees for action-packed fun! Reball is the newest way to play paintball without the mess but still packs that paintball punch when you’re hit! Our Lasertag and Heroblast offers the most interactive experience – all the action with none of the impact! Take your weapon of choice and blast into the future with our revolutionary gear and exceptionally different gaming modes! Lasertag and Heroblast: minimum age 4 years Reball: minimum age 10 years
ee us!
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14 Activities :: Family Attractions o
belowzero
Searle Lane, Queenstown
FREE ENTRY FOR KIDS Book Now 03 409 0040
1 child free with each full paying adult
Create your own...
jewellery earrings phone dangles bracelets gifts key rings Check out our sweet kids’ activity deals on BookMe!
2b Shotover St p 03 441 8466
QTgem.nz
QUEENSTOWNS ANTARCTIC EXPERIENCE
KIDS GO FRE
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WWW.MINUS5ICEBAR.COM 03 442 6050 • STEAMER WHARF • QUEENSTOWN LAKEFRONT
BELOW ZERO° ICE BAR Kids Go FREE!* Kids and grown-ups will love visiting the biggest ice bar in Australasia! We'll make sure the family is toasty warm, then come inside and marvel at a room where EVERYTHING is carved from ice — our amazing sculptures constantly change, but include something to delight the kids and an awesome photo booth — intrigued?...come and see it for yourself! Even all our drinks are served in an ice glass! Lots of fun and a great camera opportunity. Searle Lane, Queenstown Phone: 03 409 0040 Hours: daily from noon Prices from: Adult $20 (Entry only), Child $17, non-alcoholic mocktail included. (Child is 12 years and under) E: info@belowzeroicebar.co.nz www.belowzeroicebar.co.nz *KIDZ GO DEAL: One child (12 and under) goes FREE with each full-paying adult with colour ad on this page. THE BEAD SHOP Relax in our friendly, colourful shop. Have fun designing your own wearable art or choose from our own beautifully handcrafted jewellery selection. Hundreds of colours and styles of pieces to choose from to make your wardrobe unique! Kids love selecting their favourite beads and creating something special with help and ideas if needed from our awesome staff. Birthday parties and groups welcome. Check out our amazing kids’ activity deals on Book Me! 2b Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 441 8466 Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-6pm Prices: from as little as $5 Email: lee.eliott@gmail.com www.QTgem.nz MINUS 5° ICE BAR Kids Go FREE!* A FROZEN ADVENTURE… Take a step into our Winter Wonderland and experience life like a penguin in extreme temperatures of -5º and colder! Dressed like an Eskimo, you get to explore this Antarctic World created by over 18 tonnes of crystal clear ice architecture, ice furniture, and hand-made ice carvings. Drink from ICE glasses filled with our famous yummy non-alcoholic cocktails for the kids or delicious alcoholic cocktails for the parents. A family experience you will never forget! Bookings recommended. Jackets, gloves and warm footwear provided. Steamer Wharf, Beach Street, Queenstown Lakefront (next to the TSS Earnslaw). Phone: 03 442 6050 Hours: ICE BAR open 2pm-late (reception open from 12pm) Prices from: Adult $20 (entry only), Child $15 (includes mocktail). Family Pass: $75 (2 Adults + 2 Children. Includes 2 cocktails and 2 mocktails). Cocktail refills from $6. Email: info@minus5icebar.com www.minus5icebar.com *KIDZ GO DEAL: One child goes FREE with each paying adult with colour ad on this page
Activities :: Family Attractions ODYSSEY SENSORY MAZE A family must-do, the kids will love exploring Odyssey! It’s hands- (and feet!) on; a sensory experience of discovery and illusions that will challenge and delight! Feel your way from one illusory room to another – each zone is different, exciting and unexpected. Nothing is quite what it seems, you won’t always travel on foot and you won’t always be where you think you are! Weave through obstacles, get lost in the Mirror Maze, transport yourself into Native NZ bush and much more! 57 Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 441 3313 Hours: daily, 10am-10pm Duration: allow 30 minutes Price: Adult $29.50, Child $19.50 (aged 5-15 years) Second Go: $10.50 (must be taken on the same day as full price ticket purchased) Email: info@odysseysensorymaze.co.nz www.odysseysensorymaze.co.nz AJ HACKETT KAWARAU BUNGY CENTRE No Queenstown holiday would be complete without visiting "The World Home of Bungy’' – The Kawarau Bungy Centre. It’s free to enter and you can get up close to the action on our purpose-built viewing decks at the world’s first commercial bungy jump – this is a great spectator sport! There are lots of other things to do as a family here – discover the Kawarau Zipride, explore the bungy shop, watch our bungy movie or ease those hunger pangs at the bungy café. Kawarau Zipride – minimum age 8 years. The Kawarau Zipride consists of three 130m ziplines that take solo or tandem Zipriders alongside the scenic Kawarau River at speeds of up to 60kph. SH6, Gibbston Valley, 20 minutes drive from Queenstown Phone: 03 450 1300 Freephone: 0800 BUNGYJUMP (286 495) Hours: 7 days (except Christmas Day), 9.30am-4pm Kawarau Zipride: see page 35 for more info on this family fun! Email: bungycentre@bungy.co.nz www.bungy.co.nz UNDERWATER OBSERVATORY Check out the underwater inhabitants of Lake Wakatipu – diving ducks, massive trout and slinky eels mix and mingle just metres from the lakeshore! Fascinating and informative entertainment for all ages in all weather. Informative story boards tell the Māori mythological history of the lake and the 56-year history of KJet while feeding the fish offers excitement for the fish as well as the viewers. Underwater Observatory is possibly the best value attraction available in Queenstown. Main Town Pier, Marine Parade, Queenstown Phone: 03 409 0000 Hours: daily, 8.30am-dusk Price: Family $20, Adult $10, Child $5 *Two children go free with two paying adults with Kidz Go.
MAIN TOWN PIER QUEENSTOWN PH: 03 409 0000 ch and wat ! zy the fren
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16 Activities :: Family Attractions GAME OVER QUEENSTOWN Indoor Karting and Lazer Tag Queenstown's adrenalin destination and one-stop entertainment venue features Grand Prix Indoor Electric Karting, Lazer Tag, Lazer Web and a life-like sports simulator. Grand Prix Indoor Karting – race your mates on our 290m track with bridge and tunnel features. Junior karts run separately (minimum age 8 years). Lazer Tag – play in our purpose-built, Jurassic-themed Lazer Tag arena (minimum age 4 years). Also onsite is the fun Lazer Web and Arcade games to test your skills. Check out our website for awesome combo deals and birthday party packages. 14 Red Oaks Drive, Frankton, Queenstown Phone: 03 441 3139 Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 10am-6pm Karting: Adult $39 (14 lap race), Child $35 (10 lap race) (Minimum age 8 years, child is 8-12 years) Lazer Tag: 1 mission $15, 2 missions $20 (Minimum age 4 years, or at parents’ discretion) www.gameoverqt.co.nz FEAR FACTORY New Zealand's scariest haunted house is not for the faint-hearted! Will you survive the dark hallways or will you join the ever-growing 'Chicken List'?! Watch out for spine-tingling surprises around every corner as you follow the trail of red lights. You are surrounded by live, interactive theatre and no two adventures in Fear Factory are ever the same! This scary but super-fun experience is best enjoyed in a group – under 15s MUST be accompanied by an adult. We recommend this activity for brave 10 year olds and above. 54 Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 4428 666 Freephone: 0800 FEAR FACTORY Hours: daily, 11am-late Duration: allow 30 minutes Price: Adult $35, Child $20, Family $99 (2 adults + 2 children, child is under 15 years) Email: info@fearfactory.co.nz www.fearfactory.co.nz READING CINEMAS QUEENSTOWN Reading Cinemas Queenstown screens the latest blockbusters in spectacular 2D and 3D, our cinemas feature wall-to-wall screens, stadium seating, value-packed candy bar deals and Timezone™ games centre. SPIT THE DUMMY WEDNESDAYS Enjoy our Wednesday morning movie session for parents. We keep the lights dimmed so you can see what you’re doing and entry is free for children under five years (max two per paying adult). Not available during school holidays. 11-13 The Mall, Queenstown Movie Hotline: 03 442 9990 Price: Adult $16.20 (3D $19.30) Student $14.70 (3D $16.90) Child $10.50 (3D $13.20) Plus check website for weekly discount days. Family Pass: $42 (3D $55) for family of four P & PG movies only BOOK ONLINE: www.readingcinemas.co.nz or like us on Facebook for our weekly schedule and regular updates www.facebook.com/readingcinemasqueenstown www.KidzGo.co.nz
Activities :: Family Attractions
11 THE MALL, QUEENSTOWN
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MOVIE HOTLINE (03) 442 9990
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Activities :: Family Attractions SITE TRAMPOLINE Book online Not just your normal trampoline experience! Express yourself and jump, dive, twist and turn for the ultimate freedom of movement. SITE Trampoline's padded floors, super-soft foam pit and air bag, combined with the world’s best trampolines, gives you the opportunity to test out your freestyle moves in a safe and fun environment. An experience the whole family will enjoy. 1/15 Red Oaks Drive, Remarkables Park Town Centre, Frankton Freephone: 0800 QT BOUNCE (0800 78 268623) Hours: 9.30am-9.30pm / 7 days a week Price: over 6 – $25 for 60 minute session 6 years and under – $15 for 60 minute session After School Lessons: one hour, phone for details. Birthday Parties: contact SITE for info. Private room available. Mini Bouncers (under 5s): Tuesdays and Fridays 9am-10:30am E: info@sitetrampoline.co.nz www.sitetrampoline.co.nz
HOW HIGH W
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W O N K O O B O.NZ .C E IN L O P M SITETRA Visit Alpine Aqualand for hours of family entertainment. Hydroslide Leisure Pool Lazy River Toddlers’ Area Water Features Adult Hot Pool 25m Lap Pool Swim Lessons sportrec.qldc.govt.nz
Queenstown Events Centre, Joe O’Connell Drive T 03 450 9005 | qec@qldc.govt.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
ALPINE AQUALAND Our indoor swimming complex has something for everyone – a leisure pool, lazy river, two hydroslides, toddlers’ area, 25m lap pool, inflatables, adult hot pool and a swim school. Located at Frankton with plenty of parking on-site. Note: Children must be actively supervised by an adult and under 5s kept within arm's reach. Queenstown Events Centre, Joe O’Connell Drive, Frankton Phone: 03 450 9005 Hours: Mon-Fri 6am-9pm, Sat-Sun & Public Holidays 8am-8pm Price: Adult $8, Child $4 (5 years and over) One Adult + two Toddlers (4 years & under) $6 15% discount for 5 or more people. Hydroslide Pass: $5 (open during certain hours – call for details.) E: qec@qldc.govt.nz http://sportrec.qldc.govt.nz/swim ROCKATIPU CLIMBING WALL Min age 8 Give indoor climbing a go! We have a wide range of climbs catering for beginners through to advanced climbers. Our expert instructors will show you the ropes. Queenstown Events Centre, Joe O’Connell Drive, Frankton Phone: 03 450 9005 Price: Adult $12.50, Child $10, gear hire $5 Instructor Supervised Sessions: Monday and Thursday 6.30pm9pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 7pm-9pm, Friday 3pm-9pm http://sportrec.qldc.govt.nz/climb POWDERPAK PARKS Min age 5* New Zealand's first indoor dryslope ski and snowboard terrain park. Stay out of the weather while you learn the basics of skiing or snowboarding, practice tricks and build confidence! It's perfect for all levels. Watch from the mezzanine – or jump in and have some fun! With staff to guide you, and airbags to land on – in no time you will be able to perfect your style! Red Oaks Drive, off Hawthorne Drive, Remarkables Park, Frankton Phone: 022 432 9103 Hours: 7 days, 9.30am-9.30pm Email: info@powderpaknz.com www.powderpaknz.com *Younger dependent on experience.
Activities :: Family Attractions KIDS SPY NETWORK Come and join the Kids Spy Network, in what could quite possibly be one of the most fun, engaging and secretive missions in Queenstown – shh! Delivery is key, so parents, put your thinking caps on – leave their interactive, secret agent mission under their pillow, have hotel staff bring it to your room, ask a waiter to bring it to your table halfway through dinner… Next, prepare for the adventure and excitement that follows with activities involving problem-solving, eyespy, puzzles, adventure at the wharf and code-breaking! Order your Queenstown mission online today! Suitable for children aged 7+ years. Phone: 020 4100 1385 Price: $20 per mission (includes delivery and entry into Underwater Observatory) Purchase: order your child's secret mission online, for delivery within 3 days NZ-wide, or 48 hours within Queenstown. Email: missioncompleted@kidsspynetwork.com www.kidsspynetwork.com HIGHLANDS JURASSIC SAFARIS AND SAFARI BUGGY ADVENTURE Millions of years ago dinosaurs roamed New Zealand and in a forest behind Highlands, you can discover a taste of the Jurassic Era on our fun Jurassic Safari (suitable for all ages from the littlest upwards) or with an exciting 'U Drive' Safari Buggy Adventure! The kids love being first to spot the next dinosaur or moa with a dinosaur map to help them and with interesting commentary from guide, Glendasauraus, older kids will learn new dinosaur facts. JURASSIC SAFARI On Jurassic Safari there's time for a play in our forest adventure playground – with flying fox, frisbee golf and a photogenic dinosaur (kids love to climb in its mouth for an action picture!) JURASSIC BUGGY ADVENTURE Jurassic Buggy drivers can explore our forest with the added fun of driving their own buggy – following a guide on a skills-based dirt track featuring a tipping bridge and dinosaur tunnel. OTHER HIGHLANDS FUN While you’re at Highlands: have lunch, visit our Wacky Sculpture Park, enjoy the interactive Museum, race our Go-Karts or enjoy a family lap of thrills and speed in our famous, high-speed Highlands Porsche Cayenne Taxi plus much more. Visit www.highlands.co.nz for our grown-up adventures! Departures: throughout the day Duration: one hour Highlands Jurassic Safari: $79 (2 adults and up to 3 children). Safari Buggy Adventure: $69 per two-seater buggy. Drivers must have a license. Passenger minimum age 8 years. Cnr SH 6/Sandflat Road, Cromwell (45 mins from Queenstown or Wanaka) Phone: 0508 HIGHLANDS (0508 444 452 637) www.highlands.co.nz Visit us on Facebook
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c i s s Jura ari SAFARI
ADVENTURE
$79 FAMILY PASS
Journey through the forest, visit the adventure playground and meet creatures great and small.
BUGGY
ADVENTURE
$69 PER BUGGY
Test your ability in our offroad vehicle, by navigating the tracks ups and downs, bridges and terrain.
Wacky
ADVENTURE Explore with the family, our Wacky Sculpture Park, Mini Golf, Balance Bikes and Cafe.
INFO/BOOK NOW FREE PH: 0508 4444 526 (HIGHLANDS) TEL: +64 (0)3 445 4052 INFO@HIGHLANDS.CO.NZ H I G H L A N D S . C O . N Z www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Activities :: Discover Queenstown
Discover Queenstown
There are plenty of ways to see and enjoy the natural beauty of Queenstown and the surrounding area – around nearly every corner is new scenery to take your breath away and you can discover it for yourself on a family-friendly cruise, by jet boat, canoe, bike or perhaps on horseback. Say g'day to the famous kiwi, visit a high country farm, or take part in one of Queenstown's famous, thrilling, adventure activities – this chapter has all the information on which ones you can experience with the kids, family deals and more! Dart River Fun Yaks
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SKYLINE QUEENSTOWN LUGE Take a trip on the iconic Skyline Queenstown Gondola for a day of family fun! The Luge is a gravity-powered ride that is fantastic fun for all ages. The unique design of the braking and steering system gives the rider full control whilst twisting and turning down the specially designed Luge tracks. With a scenic and more relaxed Blue Track, as well as the thrilling Red Track, there is something for everyone and once is never enough! Height restrictions: Blue Track • Children under 110cm must ride tandem with an adult. (Note: must be able to walk and support their own body weight. $2 per child.) • Children over 110cm can ride unaccompanied. Red Track • Children over 135cm can ride unaccompanied. Hours: 10am until dusk; check the website for daily closing times. Family deal: Gondola & 2 Luge rides each – family of 4 $155, family of 5 $188, prices valid to March '17 Phone: 03 441 0101 E: queenstown@skyline.co.nz www.skyline.co.nz/Queenstown
Brecon Street, Queenstown, New Zealand queenstown@skyline.co.nz
skyline.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
SKYLINE STARGAZING Perched high above Queenstown, our location provides the perfect opportunity to access the hidden secrets of our galaxy. The Stargazing tour takes you to a specially-constructed platform high above the Skyline complex, allowing for an unbelievably clear view of the night sky. High powered telescopes reveal stunning sights not visible to the naked eye. Perfect for children, the commentary is informative with easy to understand explanations and plenty of cool facts. • Learn to navigate using the iconic Southern Cross • See over 6000 stars including the Alpha Centauri • Explore the Milky Way and be captivated by the constellations and planets that make up our galaxy • Spot satellites and shooting stars Tours run nightly, weather dependent, from 6:00pm in winter and 10:45pm in the summer months. Allow two hours in total, including Gondola transit time. A Canada Goose jacket will be provided for the duration of the tour. Please wear warm, comfortable walking shoes. Price: Adult $89, Child $47 (includes return Gondola ride) Phone: 03 441 0101 www.skyline.co.nz/Queenstown
Say
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Mt Nicholas
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Kids go free
During New Zealand school holidays with full fare-paying adults. *Conditions apply. See website for details.
Visit a truly authentic, family-run merino sheep farm supplying wool exclusively to Icebreaker Meet the local sheep, horses, pigs and Belle the sheepdog Watch sheep being moved by the farm guide and dog Journey deep into the heart of New Zealand’s high country in our 4WD vehicle Enjoy a Ploughman’s Lunch and morning/ afternoon tea at Mt Nicholas Virtual sheep shearing and colouring in packs available Adult
Duration
3 hrs 45 mins Departs
9.00am
$
75
Child
$
25
• 11.00 am • 1.00 pm
Mt Nicholas Farm Experience includes a scenic cruise on Spirit of Queenstown
Departs 1 Dec – mid Apr only Children 4—14 years inclusive, 3 years and under travel free.
FIND US AT ONE OF OUR VISITOR CENTRES St Omer Wharf, 110 Beach Street Queenstown
Main Town Pier, Marine Parade Queenstown
0800 264 536 southerndiscoveries.co.nz info@southerndiscoveries.co.nz
22 Activities :: Discover Queenstown
What’s a jet boat? Unlike a conventional propeller-driven boat, a jet boat utilises an internal propeller (impeller), drawing water up through an inlet in the bottom of the boat and driving it with great force through a moveable nozzle at the rear. This allows the jet boat to travel in water only inches deep, and it is so manoeuvrable it can perform a 360⁰ turn on the spot. The jet boat’s uses worldwide vary from passenger ferries to military and coastguard craft. Yet it was invented right here in the 1950s by Bill ‘Mad Irishman’ Hamilton, a farmer and self-taught engineer. He devised it as a means of getting around his Canterbury farm via shallow rivers without the propellers hitting rocks. Just under a decade later in 1960 the world’s first tourist jet boat operation commenced in Queenstown.
THEN
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BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY Enquire today about BOOK NOW our latest Family offer. Phone: 0800 802 804
www.KidzGo.co.nz
NOW
SHOTOVER JET Min height 1m For the ultimate family fun and unforgettable Queenstown family holiday, Shotover Jet – ‘The World’s Most Exciting Jet Boat Ride’ and the only company permitted to operate in the spectacular Shotover River Canyons. Our unique canyon location, unrivalled drive style and driver entertainment provide fun and thrills for the whole family. A major highlight, hold tight for the world famous Shotover Jet full 360° spins — excitement guaranteed! Shotover Jet River Base, Gorge Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown RESERVATIONS ESSENTIAL Freephone: 0800 SHOTOVER (0800 746 868) Departs: up to every 15 minutes FREE return transport available from ‘The Station’ Information Centre Duration: allow 90 minutes Queenstown return Price: Adult $145, Child $75 (child is 5-15 years) One child goes FREE with our Family Pass – save $75! Family: 2 adults + 2 children $365 Rates valid to 30/09/2017 Email: reservations@shotoverjet.co.nz www.shotoverjet.com
Activities :: Discover Queenstown SKIPPERS CANYON JET Min age 3 Experience a spectacular guided tour of Skippers Canyon followed by a thrilling jet boat ride through the narrowest canyons on the Shotover River. Discover a land rich in gold mining history and stunning scenery via the infamous Skippers Road, carved out of the vertical rock face over 120 years ago. On the jet boat you will travel deep into Skippers Canyon while our highly-skilled drivers manoeuvre the boat inches from the sheer canyon walls and keep the excitement levels high with a series of 360° spins. This is the only jet boat ride where you’ll see historic gold mining relics that still remain in the river plus Lord of the Rings movie locations. Phone: 0800 CANYON (0800 226 966) Departs: 8.30am, 12pm and 3.30pm (summer hours) Pick Up: ‘The Station’ Information Centre, cnr Camp / Shotover St Duration: 3 hours return trip from Queenstown Price: Adult $145, Child $85, Family $290* *FIRST CHILD GOES FREE WITH TWO PAYING ADULTS! Extra children are charged at the child rate. Email: info@skipperscanyon.co.nz www.skipperscanyonjet.co.nz
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Family fun. Unbeatable value. Breathtaking drive. Thrilling jet boat ride. The narrowest canyons. Lord of the Rings locations. Gold mining history. Stunning scenery.
BACKCOUNTRY SADDLE EXPEDITIONS Min age 5 26 years in the Cardrona Valley Your horse trek adventure starts in the Cardrona Valley – experienced riders or first-timers alike will love our friendly Appaloosa (spotted) horses with comfortable western saddles (easy to hold on to!) and our rides that explore historic goldmining valleys, splash through streams, then climb up to the high country with towering mountains as your backdrop. Our horses have a lovely, calm nature and we adjust each ride to the age, experience and ability of your family. NEW LOCATION – 2130 Cardrona Valley, Wanaka Phone: 03 443 8151 (bookings essential) Freephone: 0800 4 SADDLES (0800 4 723 3537) Departs: 10am and 1.30pm year round (minimum 2 riders) Duration: 2 hours Price: 2 hour trek – Adult $90, Child $70 E: nzbse@xtra.co.nz www.backcountrysaddles.co.nz
SPOT THE ! E DIFFERENC
CARDRONA HORSE TREKKING Experience a high country horse ride on our spotted Appaloosas. Comfy western saddles are easy to hold on to! 26 years in the Cardrona Valley. find us on Trip Advisor
BACKCOUNTRY SADDLE EXPEDITIONS Adult $90, Child $70 Ph 03 443 8151 Freephone 0800 4 SADDLES backcountrysaddles.co.nz
TO BOOK FREEPHONE 0800 CANYON www.skipperscanyonjet.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
24 Activities :: Discover Queenstown
an
of hour For Power the whole family
KJET You can step into a big yellow KJet every hour at the Main Town Pier, Queenstown. Travelling across the pristine waters of Lake Wakatipu and through the tranquil beauty of the willow-lined Kawarau River, the Jet boat then speeds into the shallow, fast-moving braids of the Shotover River. The 43km, hour-long adventure highlights the magnificent diversity of Queenstown’s waterways. This trip includes FREE entry into Queenstown’s Underwater Observatory. Main Town Pier, Queenstown Phone: 03 409 0000 Freephone: 0800 52 92 72 Departs: 7 days, every hour on the hour from 9am-6pm Duration: 1 hour Price:* Adult $129, Child $69 (child is 5-15 years), Family $307* Children aged 2-4 years ride FREE. *Rates valid until 30th September 2017 Email: bookings@kjet.co.nz www.kjet.co.nz *Family Deal: $307 for two adults and two children with FREE entry into the Underwater Observatory! TWIN FLOW – FLOW AND KJET COMBO ADVENTURE Double the action with our Jet boat and canoe/raft adventure with KJet and Flow. ‘Pump it up’ by stepping into one of our big yellow Jet boats and feel the thrill of the ride as we power up to 85km/hr along the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers – then experience a gentle paddle in a raft or inflatable canoe on the stunning Kawarau River with Flow’s idyllic water adventure for families. 35 Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 9792 Freephone: 0800 723 8464 Departs: 12:50pm daily Duration: 4 hours (2-3 hours on river) Price: Adult $284, Child $174 (4-15 years) Family $742 (2 adults + 2 children) Flow: minimum age 9 for canoe. Ages 4-8 years must ride in raft. All children under 10 must have adult in same craft. Email: info@funcanoes.co.nz www.funcanoes.co.nz
Family Pack $307
save $89! Includes free entry into the Underwater Observatory Family - 2 adults and 2 children
www.kjet.co.nz or PH: 03 409 0000 www.KidzGo.co.nz
Activities :: Discover Queenstown
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The Lady of the Lake TSS Earnslaw was launched in 1912 – the same year as the Titanic. She was the largest boat ever to be built in New Zealand at the time and became known as the ‘Lady of the Lake’. Her original purpose was to transport sheep, cattle, goods and passengers to and from the high country stations. As more roads were built, steamers slowly disappeared from Lake Wakatipu until only the TSS Earnslaw remained. In 1968 she too, was almost scuttled. Rescued by Fiordland Travel (now Real Journeys) she would eventually become one of New Zealand’s most iconic tourism attractions – taking visitors across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm to see animals in the farmyard and the workings of a Kiwi sheep station. TSS EARNSLAW: TSS stands for Twin Screw Steamship. TSS Earnslaw is the oldest coal-fired passenger-carrying steamship in the Southern Hemisphere – a highlight of your trip is watching the stokers in action! Visit the fo’c’sle gallery for a glimpse of the vessel’s long and colourful past. The TSS Earnslaw travels 1½ times the circumference of the earth every year – not bad for a 104-year old!
TSS EARNSLAW & WALTER PEAK Experience Queenstown's heritage with a cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak. Departs: daily from Steamer Wharf, Queenstown TSS Earnslaw Cruises Adult $59, Child $22 Cruise & Walter Peak Farm Experience Adult $79, Child $22 Cruise, Farm Tour & Gourmet BBQ Lunch Adult $105, Child $45 Cruise & Walter Peak Horse Trek Adult $129, Child $77 Cruise & Walter Peak Cycling Adult $235, Child $115
FREEPHONE: 0800 65 65 01
www.realjourneys.co.nz
KIDS TRAVEL FREE DURING ALL NZ SCHOOL HOLIDAYS WITH FULL FARE-PAYING ADULTS* * Maximum two school-aged children (up to 18 years) per adult. Conditions apply. See website for details.
Real Journeys Visitor Centre Steamer Wharf, Queenstown
26 Activities :: Discover Queenstown
FUN, FUR & FEATHERS with NZ’s original wildlife show plus we guarantee you’ll see a kiwi!
meet a living dinosaur!
KIDZ FRE GO E!*
Open daily with 5 acres to explore and 20 species of wildlife to get up close to!
www.kiwibird.co.nz
*Kids free with paying adult; see listing for conditions.
DISCOVERY DAY Family tours Half or full day Discover secret spots All the must-visit locations Explore, taste, swim, play! Friendly drivers, fun times!
YOUR FAMILY ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE! freephone
0800 788 294
queenstowntaxis.com www.KidzGo.co.nz
KIWI BIRDLIFE PARK Kids Go FREE!* See a real live kiwi! The kids will love getting up close with over 20 species of native wildlife in our 5-acre breeding sanctuary. Come face to face with a kiwi at our kiwi feedings, experience birds flying overhead in our exciting free-flight Conservation Show, and meet our ‘living dinosaur’, the tuatara! We're an all-weather activity so any day is great to explore our sanctuary and experience conservation in action. Entry ticket valid all day. Gift shop and café onsite. See map p4. Brecon Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 8059 Conservation Show: daily, 11am, 1.30pm and 4pm (allow 30 minutes) Kiwi Feeding Times: daily, 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm and 5pm Price: Adult $48, Child $23* (Child is 5-14 yrs, under 5s FREE) Family $110 (2 Adults and up to 3 Children) www.kiwibird.co.nz *One child goes free with each paying adult on mention of Kidz Go (all day access, includes kiwi feedings, exciting free-flight Conservation Show and audio tour). FAMILY DISCOVERY DAY :: QUEENSTOWN SIGHTSEEING Half or Full Day Adventure Your family adventure begins here! Learn how to pan for gold in a Chinese Village, explore the fun and interactive Old Cromwell Town, marvel at the magnificent Clyde Dam, tuck into yummy local gelato, discover a secret picnic spot (swimming opportunity if weather permits), get lost in the famous Puzzling World and travel along New Zealand's highest highway! Your friendly driver will guide you to and through places of interest, with your safety, comfort and enjoyment being top priority. We have cars (seat 1-4) or minivans (seat 1-11). Child seats available. Call us for your half or full-day adventure or customize your own tour in your own time frame! Taxi Base: Level 1, 37 Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 450 3000 (24 hours) Freephone: 0800 QT TAXIS (0800 788 294) Enquiries: enquiries@queenstowntaxis.com www.queenstowntaxis.com Mobility taxi available. Member of the New Zealand Taxi Federation and the first taxi company in New Zealand to be ACC accredited. CHARGEABOUT QUEENSTOWN Electric Adventure Bikes Ride further and see more of Queenstown’s cycle trails on Electric Mountain Bikes – the ultimate way to keep everyone in the family happy and riding together. The smart pedal-assist system is so easy to ride, the only difficulty will be hiding your grin as you power up the hills! If going on a big adventure, ChargeAbout have places to recharge in Arrowtown, Gibbston Valley and Jacks Point. Bikes are available for ages 9 years up, plus they have tagalong and trailer options for your younger ones. Find them on the lakeside trail at The Hilton Hotel or available from agents in Queenstown & Arrowtown. Free delivery and pick-up for 4 or more eBikes. Booking Essential Phone: 03 442 6376 Freephone: 0800 324 536 www.chargeabout.co.nz
Protecting the Kiwi and other Natives Activities :: Discover Queenstown
Did you know?
* The kiwi, New Zealand's national emblem, is a flightless bird with hair-like feathers and a long, slender bill which it uses to pull worms and insects out of the ground. * The kiwi is nocturnal, so it is active only at night, in forest areas. * The kiwi is only found in New Zealand. There are five species: little spotted, great spotted, brown, rowi and tokoeka. * The tokoeka kiwi is found in Fiordland and literally means, 'weka with a walking stick'! * Only 10% of kiwi chicks make it to six months and fewer than 5% reach adulthood.
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Protecting the Kiwi and other Natives
The Kiwi Birdlife Park is more than a tourist attraction – they assist the Department of Conservation with recovery efforts for, amongst others, brown kiwi, tuatara, brown teal, kea, weka, blue duck and black stilt. Captive breeding programs, together with rehabilitation and ultimately release into natural habitat, are the key goals of the park's programs. Kiwi are bred at the Park and cared for until they are 1kg in weight – big enough to fend off the predators that are killing them as hatchlings. They are then released into safe predator-controlled areas. Kiwi Birdlife Park have released kiwi into the Rimutaka Forest Park, Mt Bruce Sanctuary, and the Maungataniwha Sanctuary. They are also involved with the breed-for-release programme for critically endangered grand and Otago skinks. These lizards are NZ’s largest and rarest, sharing a threat rating with kakapo.
* All species, apart from the little spotted, are in gradual or critical decline.
Kiwi Conservation As the park is self-funded, public visits and contributions have been vital to their efforts over the last 30 years, to ensure that our rare and beautiful native birds aren't lost forever. See more on visiting the Kiwi Birdlife Park on opposite page.
* An average of 27 kiwi are killed by predators every week. A single roaming dog can wipe out an entire kiwi population in a matter of days. * The Kiwi Birdlife Park in Queenstown is devoted to conservation and rehabilitation of the kiwi and other native birds.
Kids Go free Looking for an activity for the whole family to enjoy? During the New Zealand school holidays, our Queenstown Scenic Cruise and Mt Nicholas Farm Experience is FREE for children 4-14 years of age. Meet the skipper in the open wheelhouse on Spirit of Queenstown Scenic Cruise and join us on our Mt Nicholas Farm Experience to meet Belle the sheepdog and her farm friends.
0800 264 536 southerndiscoveries.co.nz
Please visit our website for more information and full terms and conditions. Please note children must be accompanied by a full fare paying adult.
www.KidzGo.co.nz
28 Discover Glenorchy At the Head of the Lake Glenorchy sits at the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu, overlooked by the awe-inspiring Mt Earnslaw and Earnslaw Glacier. It's also home to the Rees and Dart valleys (whose rivers are two main sources of Lake Wakatipu) and the starting point for the famous Routeburn Track. This really is a slice of paradise and you can stay overnight at the delightful Mrs Woollys Campground (see page 81). Getting There: The stunning 45km lakeside drive offers breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu, hanging valleys and sheer mountains. Make sure you stop at the Bennetts Bluff Lookout (on the left, 25kms from Queenstown) for an amazing view of the head of the lake and an excellent photo opportunity.
ACTIVITIES GLENORCHY ANIMAL EXPERIENCE The kids will love this delightful, fun encounter with a wide variety of friendly farm animals – in an amazing setting! Feed and pat our quiet and friendly goats, miniature horses, alpacas, llamas, sheep, donkey, cows, bunnies and guinea pigs – get really close for great photo opportunities! Make an afternoon of it, explore the nearby Lagoon walk, play in the paddocks, watch a sheep shearing demonstration and experience NZ farm life up close. 2km from Glenorchy township towards Paradise; look out for the Big Red Shed on the left Phone: 021 252 7753 Open: 7 days, 9am until 5pm (closing hours may vary) Duration: allow 30 mins, but stay as long as you like. Shearing demonstration: 2pm daily Price: Adult $20, Child $10 (child is 5-15 years), Under 5s go FREE Family Pass: 2 Adults + up to 3 Children $50 www.glenorchyanimalexperience.co.nz To THE ROUTEBURN, GREENSTONE AND CAPLES TRACKS, PARADISE and THE REES VALLEY
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WALKS Lagoon Loop Easy – 1 hour Facing the lake and Glenorchy jetty, follow the path to your right – it leads to a boardwalk skirting the lagoon. Stunning views and lots of birdlife, including black swans. Lake Sylvan Easy – 1½ hour return Driving from Glenorchy, follow the Routeburn road and turn right towards the Routeburn Track. The Lake Sylvan turn-off is well-marked and the pleasant bush walk starts with a swing bridge and finishes at a hidden lake.
Mrs Woolly’s Campground and General Store
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MRS WOOLLY’S GENERAL STORE – GLENORCHY A breathtaking drive to Glenorchy is not complete without a visit to Mrs Woolly’s General Store where you’ll find everything you need, and a few things you just have to have! Easy to find as you enter Glenorchy, our store is famous for its delicious Full Monty gelato sundaes, healthy takeaway salads, wraps and treats for your picnic; plus great coffee, irresistible homemade cookies, fresh pastries and a divine range of groceries and supplies. The whole family will love to browse our imaginative gift store – with unique mementos of your visit to the South Island. Supplies include games, books, hats, water bottles, maps, sunscreen or that extra layer, so stop by and stock up before you head out to explore Paradise, or come see us for hot chocolates or gelatos on your way home! Check out our website for free workshops, market days and fun family events throughout the year. 64 Oban Street, Glenorchy Phone: 03 409 0051 Hours: 10am - 5.30pm daily www.MrsWoollysGeneralStore.co.nz
Routeburn Track Day Walk Moderate This track takes 2–3 days to complete but even the first few kilometres features show-stopping scenery. The first track hut is at Routeburn Flats and takes 1½ to 2 hours one way (8km). There are stunning mountain views on the hike up to Routeburn Falls hut, about 3½ hours one way (11km) with the final hour or so being a steady climb.
Discover Glenorchy DART RIVER WILDERNESS JET Min height 1m Journey deep into the World Heritage area of Mt Aspiring National Park. Learn from your guide about the area’s history, the Greenstone trail and lore of the Māori. Walk in the ancient beech forest, unchanged for 80 million years. Travel by locations used in the 'Lord of the Rings' movies to illustrate Middle Earth. An authentic New Zealand experience in an untouched world. RESERVATIONS ESSENTIAL Queenstown Information Centre: corner Camp/Shotover Streets Dart Visitor Centre: Mull St, Glenorchy Freephone: 0800 DART JET (0800 327 853) Departs: up to twice daily Duration: Queenstown return 6 hours / Glenorchy return 3 hours MAIN season: 1 Oct - 31 Dec 2016 and 1 April - 30 Sept 2017 Price: Adult $239, Child $139, Family $617 (save $139) PEAK season: 1 Jan - 31 March 2017 Price: Adult $249, Child $139, Family $637 (save $139) Family is 2 adults + 2 children (age 5-15 years) Email: reservations@dartriverjet.co.nz www.dartriverjet.co.nz Rates valid until 30/09/17 DART RIVER FUNYAKS Min age 5/height 1m This is an amazing journey deep into the Mt Aspiring National Park. Jet boat up the Dart River then in your inflatable Funyak get immersed in nature and enjoy exploring the Dart River as well as hidden side streams, rock pools and dramatic chasms. Enjoy a delicious wilderness buffet lunch before continuing downstream to ‘Paradise’. Then travel a back-country route passing by locations used in the 'Lord of the Rings' movies to illustrate Middle Earth. RESERVATIONS ESSENTIAL Queenstown Information Centre: corner Camp/Shotover Streets Dart Visitor Centre: Mull St, Glenorchy Freephone: 0800 DART JET (0800 327 853) Departs: 7.45am daily Duration: Queenstown return 9 hours / Glenorchy return 7 hours MAIN season: 1 Oct - 31 Dec 2016 and 1 April - 30 Sept 2017 Price: Adult $339, Child $239, Family $917 (save $239) PEAK season: 1 Jan - 31 March 2017 Price: Adult $349, Child $239, Family $937 (save $239) *Family is 2 adults + 2 children (age 5-15 years) Email: reservations@dartriverjet.co.nz www.dartriverjet.co.nz Rates valid until 30/09/17
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Connect with real New Zealand
Family pass: 2nd child goes FREE BOOK NOW!
0800 327 853 www.dartriver.co.nz Queenstown, New Zealand
Go with the flow, leave with the memories
PARADISE AND LORD OF THE RINGS Paradise, 20km north of Glenorchy, is named after the Paradise ducks that are found there. The region is packed with 'Lord of the Rings' movie locations and can be visited with Dart River Safaris or Off Road Adventures. MRS WOOLLY’S CAMPGROUND - GLENORCHY This might just be the most stunning campground setting on Earth! Bring the family and snuggle down in our stylish, funky and all-new “glamping” tents – fullyfurnished and with all the home comforts – or set up at one of our tent or campervan sites. Read more on p81. 64 Oban Street, Glenorchy Phone: 021 0889 4008 www.MrsWoollysCampground.co.nz
Family pass: 2nd child goes FREE BOOK NOW!
0800 327 853 www.dartriver.co.nz Queenstown, New Zealand
www.KidzGo.co.nz
30 Activities :: Discover Queenstown
immerse yourself...
No experience needed Splash through rivers Moke Lake family ride 1½ hours Free transport from town Rides from $90pp
0800 236 566
nzhorsetreks.co.nz
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www.KidzGo.co.nz
BEN LOMOND HORSE TREKS The whole family will love exploring NZ's most spectacular scenery on horseback. Immerse yourself in the stunning lake and mountain views, splash through rivers, wander through a working sheep and cattle farm and grab the perfect photo alongside picturesque Moke Lake. No experience necessary – our familyfriendly treks are suitable for children/adults of all abilities and younger children can have their own guide to lead them. Treks depart just 20 minutes from Queenstown but you'll find yourself in another world! Treks for all abilities – ride from 1½ or 2 hours to a half or full-day. Moke Lake, 20 mins from Queenstown Freephone: 0800 236 566 Departures: free pick-up and return from central Queenstown, or self-drive. Hours: daily treks at 9am, 12pm and 3pm Duration: from 1½ hours Price: from Adult $99, Child $90 (1½ hour Moke Lake ride) Child is 5-16 years. E: info@nzhorsetreks.co.nz www.nzhorsetreks.co.nz QUEENSTOWN COMBOS: SHOTOVER HIGH FIVE Jet boat through the iconic Shotover Canyons with world-famous Shotover Jet before being transferred by helicopter to the summit of the Skyline Gondola. Take in the views before experiencing the excitement of the Luge, a gravity-fuelled fun ride suitable for all ages. Finally, sit back and relax while the Skyline Gondola carries you back down to Queenstown. Guaranteed to be fun, fun, fun! ∙ 5 Luge rides per person. ∙ Courtesy transfer from check-in location to activities. ∙ Children must be over 1m tall. ∙ Spaces limited so book ahead to avoid disappointment. Phone: 0800 423 836 Duration: 4½ hours Freephone: 0800 423 836 www.combos.co.nz FRANKTON ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS AND PICNIC RESERVE Step into this delightful world of animals and hidden surprises that will put a smile on the adult faces too! Created with love and care by generations of the same family, who personally guide you around, then leave you to explore and find the magical little areas they have created for the little ones (clue – ‘look out for Squirrel Nutkin’). Stay as long as you want, bring a picnic and enjoy the reserve next to the ‘zoo’. This haven is filled with rabbits, pigs, roosters, ponies, dogs, chickens and much more (some rescued, some home-grown) and not forgetting over 20 stunningly beautiful vibrant peacocks that just wander over the sanctuary! The only downside is – the kids will not want to leave! End of Riverside Road, Frankton Hours: 10am - 4.30pm, 7 days Price: Adults $15, Kids go free
Activities :: Adventure Fun MINIMUM AGES Find the minimum age information for Queenstown's adventure activities. All activities are mentioned once, at the minimum age. Therefore read all activities up to and including the age of your child. Some activities will indicate a minimum weight or height in brackets. In these cases a child of any age must have reached this weight/height to participate.
Age 3
Jet boating*, Family Adventures Rafting, Skyline Luge (Blue Track, accompanied), Clip 'N Climb
Age 4
Kidz Club*, Thrillzone Xtreme Laser Tag, Hero Blast and 360° Drift*, Flow Fun Canoes and Rafts, Game Over Lazer Tag*, SITE Trampoline*, Off Road Queenstown 4x4 Buggy (passenger)
Age 5
Dart River Fun Yaks (min height1m), PowderPak Parks*, Dark Ride, Horse Treks with our listed companies.
Age 6
Skyline Luge (Blue Track, unaccompanied – min height 110cm, Red Track, unaccompanied – min height 135cm), Ziptrek EcoTours (min weight to ride solo 30kg), Highlands Go-Karts (passenger), Via Ferrata, Off Road Quad Bike Tour, Thrillzone 360° VR
Age 7
Escape Quest, 360° Drift*, Kids Spy Network, Paintball Central*
Age 8
Kawarau Zipride (min weight 35kg), Riverboarding, Highlands Jurassic Buggy Adventure (passenger), Game Over Go- Karts, Rockatipu Climbing Wall
Age 10 Canyoning Queenstown*, Thrillzone Reball*, Shotover Canyon Swing (min weight 35kg) and Fox (min weight 45kg), Segway on Q, (min weight 35kg)*, AJ Hackett Bungy (Kawarau Bridge – min weight 35kg), Highlands Go-Karts (single kart driver), Fear Factory* (recommendation – at your discretion)
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ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES
E AGE GUID M U M I N I M Canyoning Queenstown
* may be suitable for younger children at the discretion of the operator. Your child's participation in an activity may also be dependent on factors such as confidence or weather. Please see individual listings for more information.
Discover a new sensation that’s fantastic fun! 1 and 2 hour tours of Queenstown
Age 12 Riversledging
SEGWAY ON Q Min age 10* Discover a new sensation that's fantastic fun! The whole family will have a blast on these unique and easy to ride eco-friendly transporters! Segways are selfbalancing, which means they only move when you lean forward – so speed it up or go real slow. Smile your way through their 1 hour trip for a spin around Queenstown Bay. Extend the fun on their 2 hour tour for an adventure around Queenstown’s best locations. Shop Location: shop 5, 93 Beach Street Departs: town centre Ph: 03 442 8687 (TOUR) Freephone: 0800 734 386 (SEG FUN) Bay Ride – 1 hour Adult $89, Child $79, Family $299 Queenstown Tour – 2 hours Adult $129, Child $115, Family $425 SAVE UP TO $63 WITH OUR FAMILY PACK! Child is 15 and under, family is 2 adult/2 child or 1 adult/3 child Email: info@segwayonq.com www.segwayonq.co.nz Minimum weight 35kg. *Slightly younger/smaller children may be permitted at operator's discretion.
0800 SEG FUN (734 386)
63 P TO $ S AV E U U R FA M I LY O WITH ACK!* P
www.segwayonq.co.nz
*See listing for details www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Activities :: Adventure Fun
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0800 CLIMBING
CLIMBINGQUEENSTOWN.COM
CLIMBING QUEENSTOWN Climbing Queenstown offers your family the ultimate adventure – where you can have an exciting, active experience in parts of Queenstown or Wanaka that most tourists never get to see. No experience is necessary and we tailor our rock climbing outings to suit you – whether the whole family is new to it, or if just the kids want to climb, or even if you're all climbing at different levels – we promise you an outing that will be just the right mix of challenge and fun! Our professional guides love to pass on the climbing bug and work regularly with local school groups. Choose from a half or full-day experience, departing either Queenstown or Wanaka and climbing in either Queenstown or Wanaka. Visit our website ‘families’ page for climb+hike combos plus family hike-only excursions. Find us in Outside Sports, 9 Shotover Street Phone: 0800 CLIMBING (0800 254 624 64) Departs: daily, Queenstown or Wanaka Duration: half- (4 hours) or full-day experiences Price: Adult from $179, Child from $99 E: info@climbingqueenstown.com www.climbingqueenstown.com OFF ROAD QUEENSTOWN OFF ROAD ADVENTURES : QUAD BIKE TOURS The best hands-on adventure for the family! Our kids' quads are super-easy to use and this friendly, guided trip is tailor-made for families on an 11,000 acre playground with custom training area, creek crossings, fun range of trails and stunning views. Wet weather gear supplied if required. Min age 6 years. Departs: 9am and 1pm Duration: Allow 3 hours (1 hour riding) Explorer Quad Bike Tour Price: $199 per person. FAMILY SPECIAL: $50 off for kids under 12 yrs on 9am Explorer Tour with an accompanying adult. FREE ACTION PHOTOS INCLUDED. OFF ROAD 4X4 QUEENSTOWN : 4x4 SCENIC TOURS Amazing Scenery – Fun Off Roading– Best Value Splash through rivers, explore canyons and visit LOTR movie scenes! Our guides know how to navigate longforgotten trails to abandoned gold-rush settlements, and stunning lookouts. Forward-facing window seats, iPad presentations and picnic lunch available plus gold panning, farm animal experience and wine tasting options. Departs: 8:15am & 1:15pm Duration: from 2½ hours to 4 hours Price: Adult $169 HALF PRICE for kids under 12 years! OFF ROAD EXPEDITIONS : SELF-DRIVE & GUIDED BUGGY TOURS Min age 4 New Zealand’s premium buggy experience utilising the best machines, guides and terrain, including steep mountain climbs, creek crossings and beautiful forest tracks leading to stunning viewpoints over Queenstown. Self-drive and guided tours available. Challenger Tour Duration: 1½ hours (60 mins off-road action) Price: from $348 per vehicle. Min age 4 (passenger only). Shop: 61A Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 7858 Freephone: 0800 OFF ROAD (633 7623) www.offroad.co.nz Choose a combo of the above for 10% discount.
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Activities :: Adventure Fun
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VIA FERRATA QUEENSTOWN Min age 6 This fully-guided family adventure will find you clipped in and climbing routes constructed of rungs, ladders and wire ropes up the rocky cliffs and grassy ledges above Queenstown. Small groups, experienced guides and all equipment supplied apart from footwear. No experience is necessary – just moderate fitness, a bottle of water and a great attitude! There are climbs for all confidence and ability levels so give the kids a taster of climbing in the great outdoors. Just two minutes drive from our base at the Adventure Centre in downtown Queenstown. Adventure Centre, 39 Camp Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 441 3003 Departs: 9.30am and 1.30pm Duration: Approx 3½ hours Price: Adult $179, Child $99 (12 years and under) Email: info@viaferrata.co.nz www.viaferrata.co.nz SHOTOVER CANYON SWING and CANYON FOX SHOTOVER CANYON SWING Min age 10 /35kg Jump from our immense 109m high platform, free-fall alongside the cliff face for 60m then swing in the canyon for 200m. We’ve over 70 jump styles to choose from so how about a tandem jump with your mum or dad? Gravity is a toy; come out and play! SHOTOVER CANYON FOX Min age 10 /45kg This is no ordinary flying fox, it’s a running, flying, dropping, screaming, foxing thing! You’ll jump from our 182m platform and experience a heart-pumping drop before you get scooped up and zipped 240m across the Canyon, and then back again, creating a foxy experience only Shotover Canyon Swing could dream up! Kids LOVE this! Shop location: 34 Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 6990 Freephone: 0800 2 SWING (279 464) www.canyonswing.co.nz One spectator FREE with each Canyon Swing or Canyon Fox purchased. Additional spectators $20.
STEP INTO
’S NATURTE OR ELEVA
LET’S GO
CLIMBING!
03 441 3003
viaferrata.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Activities :: Adventure Fun
SINGLE GO-KART
$39
PER SESSION PER PERSON
Challenge your friends and family, and set your fastest lap time on our track, possibly even making the leaderboard?!
TANDEM GO-KART
HIGHLANDS – EXPERIENCE THE EXCEPTIONAL Take the family on an action-packed adventure at Highlands! Choose from single or tandem Go-Karts and race on our exciting outdoor track. (Drivers must be 10 years+, passengers from 6 years.) While you’re at Highlands: Highlands is also home to a 4.1km international standard motorsport circuit that you can experience at speed – the family can take a faaast ride in our famous Highlands Porsche Cayenne Taxi or choose from 6 high-speed track adventures! Add to the outing with our interactive Museum, Wacky Sculpture Park, brand new café and tots' playground, and of course our Jurassic Safari and U-Drive Safari Buggy Adventures! Departures: throughout the day Go-Karts: choose single or tandem Go Karts. (Single Go-Kart driver – minimum age 10 years, tandem Go Kart driver 16+years, passengers from 6 years). 10-minute session: single Go Karts $39, tandem Go Karts $49 Highlands Famous High-Speed Taxi (Porsche Cayenne): $120 for 1-4 people. Adrenalin Track Activity – FASTLaps in a Porsche GT3, McLaren 650S or U-drive in a Radical SR3 or V8 Muscle Car. Prices vary. Jurassic Safari and U-Drive Safari Buggy Adventure: see p19 for prices and details Cnr SH 6/Sandflat Road, Cromwell Phone: 0508 HIGHLANDS (0508 444 452 637) www.highlands.co.nz Visit us on Facebook.
$49
PER SESSION PER KART
Pair up and blast around the Highlands 650m Go-Kart track. There’s nothing more exhilarating.
FAMOUS
HIGH-SPEED TAXI Explore the famous Highlands circuit with one of our talented drivers. One educational lap and one at speed.
INFO/BOOK NOW FREE PH: 0508 4444 526 (HIGHLANDS) INFO@HIGHLANDS.CO.NZ H IGH L AND S.CO .NZ www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Activities :: Adventure Fun ZIPTREK ECOTOURS 2-3 hour tour Min age 6 NZ’s #1 original zipline tour is an exhilarating and fun adventure for the entire family! Ride the Skyline gondola to our tree-house, harness up and fly through the air as you traverse the forest on ziplines with our knowledgeable guides, who take care of everything technical so you can sit back and enjoy the spectacular views of Queenstown from a unique angle as you 'zip' from tree to tree. Proud to celebrate 7 years of operation, Ziptrek is a fun, guided adventure for the whole family that’s unforgettable, rain or shine! Warm clothing and closed-toe footwear is essential, year-round. Booking Desk: 45 Camp Street (opposite The Station Building). Bookings essential as small personal groups of 10. Phone: 03 441 2102 Freephone: 0800 ZIPTREK (0800 947 873) Hours: tours daily, 10am ‘til 6pm Departs: The Ziptrek Treehouse, top of Skyline Gondola Duration: allow 2 hours for Moa 4-Line Tour and 3 hours for Kea 6-Line Tour (not including Gondola travel) Price*: Adult $139 (Moa 4-line tour) $189 (Kea 6-line tour) Child (6-14yrs) and Seniors (65+) $89 (Moa) $139 (Kea) Family rates available during school holidays. *prices do not include Skyline gondola access. www.ziptrek.co.nz Note: min weight to ride alone is 30kg. Children over 6 years but under 30kg may ride the Moa 4-Line tour in tandem with a guide.
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ZIPLINING
Great fun for the whole family!
ZTE15290
KAWARAU BUNGY CENTRE and ZIPRIDE No Queenstown holiday would be complete without visiting "The World Home of Bungy’' – The Kawarau Bungy Centre. It’s free to enter and you can get up close to Bungy action – or if you’re feeling brave, take the leap yourself (we recommend booking ahead to jump). There are lots of things to do as a family here – jump on the Kawarau Zipride, explore the bungy shop, watch the bungy jumpers or tuck in at the bungy café. Kawarau Zipride – minimum age 8 years. The Kawarau Zipride consists of three 130m ziplines that take solo or tandem Zipriders alongside the scenic Kawarau River at up to 60kph. This exhilarating ride offers a variety of styles to Zipride: scenic sightseer, backwards, tandem, Superman-style or even Batmanstyle; the choice is yours! Up to 6 people can Zip at once, so why not round up the troops and race eachother. SH6, Gibbston Valley, 20 minutes drive from Queenstown Phone: 03 450 1300 Freephone: 0800 BUNGYJUMP (286 495) Hours: 7 days (except Christmas Day), 9.30am-4pm Kawarau Bungy Centre: FREE entry Single Zipride: Adult $50, Child $40 (Discounted to $35 including Zipride, burger and fries: present ad on opposite page). Children 8+9 years must ride tandem with an adult and all children must fit the harness correctly to Zipride. Multi-Zipride discount: 3 Pack $105, 5 Pack $150 (Ideal for families, friends and groups – multi-zipride packs can be shared amongst several people). Bungy Jump: Child $145*, NZ Student $165, Adult $195 *Child is10-14 years inclusive, min weight 35kgs.
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Activities :: Adventure Fun
river ing .. . board s fun! seriou
st MINIMUM riverboarding ...the mo y AGE 8 ivit act exciting water on the plAnet
PHONE 0800 SERIOUS / 03 442 5262 BOOK@RIVERBOARDING.CO.NZ WWW.RIVERBOARDING.CO.NZ
RIVERBOARDING Min age 8* Go Riverboarding with the originals! Celebrating 25 years operating in the pristine waters of Kawarau River. If you are planning one water activity in Queenstown it HAS to be this – riverboarding is the most thrilling water activity on the planet. We offer you and your family the chance to navigate a wild and historic river, surf standing waves, ride whirlpools, try squirting (underwater flying) and play on eddy lines. There are good guide-to-swimmer ratios and an extra guide in the water to assist under 12 year olds. Please contact us to check availability for 8-12 year olds. Phone: 03 442 5262 Freephone: 0800 SERIOUS (0800 737 468) Riversurfing: $219pp or $195pp for family of four or more. Departs: 8.30am and 2pm (November to March), 1pm (September, October, April) and noon (May). Min age 8 years. *Must be able to swim. Maximum of two under 12s per trip. Sledging: $229pp Departs: 11am (November to March). Minimum age 12 years. Duration – either trip: 4 to 4½ hours (up to 2 hours in river). E: book@riverboarding.co.nz www.riverboarding.co.nz FAMILY ADVENTURES RAFTING For ages 3-103 (older by arrangement) We specialise in soft adventure trips, rafting the gentle rapids of the upper reaches of the famous Shotover River. Our bus and raft adventure is an exciting way to experience the goldmining history of amazing Skippers Canyon, experience easy rafting that’s just perfect for the kids and create memories of a lifetime! Our trip is suitable for everyone from 3 years upwards. Join us for a half day of family fun! Water confidence not necessary. Phone: 03 442 8836 Freephone: 0800 4 RAFTING (0800 472 384) Departs: 7.45am & 1.45pm, Alpine Sports, 39 Shotover St Duration: allow 5 hours Price: Adult $189, Child $120 (up to 17 years) drive only (non-rafters) $70 Email: info@familyadventures.co.nz www.familyadventures.co.nz Our Rivers - river...ting facts!
shotover river | skippers canyon TEL: 03 442 8836 FREEPHONE 0800 4 RAFTING
www.familyadventures.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
There are FIVE rivers flowing into Lake Wakatipu but just one flowing out – the Kawarau River (the 'in' rivers are the Dart, Rees, Greenstone, Lochy and Von). The Shotover River empties into the Kawarau, which itself flows to Cromwell to join the mighty Clutha! RAPIDS – all rivers are classed according to their rapids with Grade 1 being mostly flat water and Grade 2 being gentle whitewater that kids will love bouncing through in their raft, through to Grade 5 – extreme technical skills necessary (by guide) and lots of hazards/manoevering required. At Grades 1-3, the upper Shotover and the Kawarau River are ideal for families, while the lower Shotover provides excitement+ with Grade 3-5 river conditions!
Activities :: Adventure Fun
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CANYONING QUEENSTOWN Min age 10* Come and play in Nature's Water Park! Combine the fun and adrenalin of this action-packed family adventure with safe, experienced guiding. Walk through ancient beech forest to the hidden canyon, fly by zipline, rappel down waterfalls, plunge into rock pools, cascade down chutes and float down narrow passageways as you descend through the canyon. No experience necessary. Activities are fullydemonstrated by professional, qualified guides. You can choose the level of challenge you want and will get all the instruction you need. Adventure Centre, 39 Camp Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 441 3003 Queenstown Adventurer : Queenstown Canyon Departs: 4 departures daily, from 8.30am Duration: 4 hours (1½ - 2 hours in canyon) Price: $199 per person Email: info@canyoning.co.nz www.canyoning.co.nz * Min age 10 years; trip participation also subject to weight, height and water confidence. FLOW FUN CANOES & RAFTS Min age 4* Family Fun for everyone! Experience a gentle paddle in a raft or inflatable canoe on the stunning Kawarau River with Flow’s idyllic water adventure for families. You literally ‘go with the flow’ as you float or paddle down a picturesque 7km stretch of river with The Remarkables mountains as your backdrop. Your experienced guide will ensure you have a super-fun outing your family will be reliving for years. No experience necessary. Non-swimmers welcome. Operated by Queenstown Rafting (rafting in Queenstown since 1974). 35 Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 9792 Freephone: 0800 723 8464 Departs: daily, 8.45am and 1.45pm Duration: 3 hours total, 1-2 hours on river Price: Adult $159, Child $99 (4-15 years) Family $417, save $99! (2 adults + 2 children 4-15 years) *Min age 9 for canoe. Ages 4-8 years must ride in raft. All children under 10 must have adult in same craft. Email: info@funcanoes.co.nz www.funcanoes.co.nz TWIN FLOW – FLOW AND KJET COMBO ADVENTURE ‘Pump it up’ by stepping into one of our big yellow Jet boats and feel the thrill of the ride as we power up to 85km/hr along the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers – then experience a gentle paddle in a raft or inflatable canoe on the stunning Kawarau River with Flow’s idyllic water adventure for families. 35 Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 9792 Freephone: 0800 723 8464 Departs: 12:50pm daily Duration: 4 hours total (2-3 hours on river) Price: Adult $284, Child $174 (4-15 years) Family $742 (2 adults + 2 children) Email: info@funcanoes.co.nz www.funcanoes.co.nz
www.canyoning.co.nz
Contact us on 03 441 3003
Go with the Flow Family Pass FROM $417
BOOK NOW: 03 442 9792 35 Shotover St, Queenstown
funcanoes.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Family Bike Rides
The Queenstown Trail
The Queenstown Trail unveils 100+kms of stunning vistas for you to explore by bike or on foot. Discover hidden ruins, spectacular suspension bridges, secret swim holes, cute cafés and wonderful wineries, all on easy bike or walking trails. The Queenstown Trail makes a perfect outing for families and below you'll find information on some of our favourite sections. See page 40 for trail map.
Easy Rides
Lake Wakatipu Ride Departs: Queenstown Distance: 15km one way The easiest section of The Queenstown Trail starts from the centre of town and follows the lake around the Frankton Arm to Kelvin Heights. At Frankton follow the signs to the historic one-way Kawarau Falls Bridge – an exciting view and photo spot! Ride past Kawarau Village, and look out for the stunning sculptures on the Kelvin Heights Peninsula Loop section of the track. For a shorter ride (about 15km return), turn around at Frankton beach – a great place to picnic by the lake, or catch a water taxi back from Kawarau Village. There are café stops right on the track at Frankton Marina, Kawarau Village and Kelvin Heights golf course. Highlights: Follows the lake shore with stunning views all the way, easy and social riding for all ages. Millennium Track Departs: Arrowtown Distance: 10km return Ride from Arrowtown alongside the Arrow River, over the little bridge and back along the far side. An easy ride on a wide trail that's great for young bikers. A very pretty, cruisy ride with swim and play spots along the way. Very popular with younger riders.
Arrow River Bridges Ride Departs: Arrowtown Distance: 16km one way Ride alongside the Arrow River, and through the Arrow Gorge to the Kawarau River and Gibbston Valley. The suspension bridges are fun to ride across and worth a stop in the middle to admire the view! The historic Kawarau Bungy Bridge has a café which makes a great lunch spot if you're riding back the same way. Highlights: Crossing the two suspension bridges, watching the bungy jumping at Kawarau Bungy Bridge. Gibbston River Trail Departs: AJ Hackett Bungy Bridge Distance: 18km return A gorgeous ride along Queenstown's famous 'valley of the vines'. Follow an easy bike trail with spectacular views down to the Kawarau River as it snakes its way towards the gorge. The route is dotted with wineries with cellar door tastings, a wine cave to visit and several great lunch options. If you only want to ride one way (8.7km) you can arrange bike pick-up with Arrowtown Bike Hire. Highlights: Riding through and alongside the vines plus stunning views of Kawarau River.
BIKE HIRE FROM $15!
Arrowtown Bike Hire provides quality front suspension bikes for all ages, plus tag-a-longs, trailers and child seats. Ride from our base right onto all-year-round, non-muddy, family bike trails. Explore Arrowtown and beyond either on your own or with a guide. Bike one way then take advantage of our quick and easy pick-up service! Bike Tours from $79 including wine tours, goldpanning, sightseeing and more! Arrowtown Bike Hire - the best place to start your ride! We pick up in Queenstown!
...good times! www.KidzGo.co.nz
59 Buckingham St/Romans Lane Arrowtown. p 03 441 1144 Freephone 0800 22 44 73 Save dollars and book online at www.arrowtownbikehire.co.nz
Family Bike Rides
Intermediate Rides Arrowtown Return via Lake Hayes Circuit Departs: Arrowtown Distance: 19km loop A beautiful ride from Arrowtown, through Millbrook Resort and down to picturesque Lake Hayes. It's an 8km circuit around the lake on slightly undulating gravel path/boardwalk. Look out for the NZ native pukeko (Purple Swamphen). There's an excellent swimming and picnic beach with toilets at one end of the lake. Note: for a shorter ride, park at Lake Hayes and take the 8km loop around the lake. Highlights: Riding alongside beautiful Lake Hayes. Shotover Countryside Ride (Lower Shotover Bridge to Morven Ferry Road) Departs: near Frankton Distance: 24km return From the Old Shotover Bridge follow the willow-lined bank of the Kawarau River where you'll find lots of cool picnic and play spots. There are a few hilly sections until you climb away from the river and alongside a deer farm. This is a good spot to turn round for the return ride or you can arrange a shuttle pick up back to your starting point. Otherwise you can continue to Arrowtown (8km). Highlights: Riding alongside the Kawarau River.
Advanced Rides
Three Rivers Ride Countryside + Twin Rivers + Arrow River Bridges Departs: Arrowtown Distance: 33km loop Ride from Arrowtown through Millbrook Resort then alongside the Shotover River to the Old Shotover Bridge. Follow the trail along the Kawarau River up to Morven Ferry Road, along the Arrow River and back to Arrowtown. Toilets and café at Millbrook Resort or in Arrowtown. Highlights: Riding alongside three rivers. Crossing the Southern Discoveries suspension bridge.
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Frankton to Jacks Point Departs: Frankton Beach Distance: 14km one way The first half is an easy trail along the Kelvin Heights Track. Leave this section at Bay View Road and pick up the trail at Jardines Park. This track is more technical; undulating with some short, steep climbs, making it more enjoyable for children 10 years + with reasonable fitness. Highlights: Riding alongside the majestic Remarkables mountain range. Jack's Point restaurant and playground.
Other local bike tracks JUMP PARKS WYNYARD FREESTYLE TERRAIN PARK A steeper park with flowy berms and big jumps! Fun to try some of the smaller stuff or go watch the action! Bike shuttle available to return you to top of park. GORGE ROAD JUMP PARK Well-maintained freestyle facility – hit jumps, work berms and grab some pump track action. The size of a rugby field with over 40 jumps and other features. Something for all riders – from 5 years to experts! SKYLINE GONDOLA MOUNTAIN BIKING Pop your bikes on the Skyline Gondola and explore the Queenstown Bike Park's 30kms of downhill tracks. The 14 world-class trails cater for beginner to expert riders. The Skyline offer season or day passes, or you can just pay for one gondola ride + bike. Kidz Go recommends the 6km long Hammys Track – it's a beginners' downhill run – wide single track with few obstacles and a more gradual descent. This is heaps of fun, recommended for 8 years and up.
MOUNTAIN BIKES
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Located at The Hilton or available from outlets in Queenstown/Arrowtown. Our eBikes are suitable for riders from 9 years old, with tow-along options for riders from 6 mths - 8 yr old.
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Tel +64 (0)3 442 6376 WWW.CHARGEABOUT.CO.NZ www.KidzGo.co.nz
Queenstown Bike Trails
8km - hard JACKS POINT
CHARGEABOUT ELECTRIC BIKES 03 442 6376
7km - easy
SHOTOVER COUNTRY
6km - easy
CHARD FARM VINEYARD
Morven Ferry Rd aw a r au Riv e r
Commuter Trail
Lake Hayes Circuit
Distance between 2 points on the trail and graded for families. Moderate is not technical but there will be hills.
Jacks Point Ride
Gibbston River Trail
7km - easy
Twin Rivers Ride
Arrow River Bridges Ride
www.queenstowntrail.org.nz
Toilets
Countryside Ride
Lake Wakatipu Ride
GIBBSTON VALLEY WINERY & CHEESERY
easy - wineries
KAWARAU SUSPENSION BRIDGE
Edgar Suspension Bridge
Southern Discoveries Bridge
ARROWTOWN BIKE HIRE 0800 22 44 73
QUEENSTOWN TRAIL KEY
12km - moderate
LAKE HAYES ESTATE
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8km - easy
7km - easy
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Lake Hayes Rd
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13km - moderate
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QUEENSTOWN BIKE HIRE 0800 557 232
CHARGEABOUT ELECTRIC BIKES 03 442 6376
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Family bike and accessories hire shop in the centre of Queenstown, easy riding to QT gardens & bike trail. Shuttle service available. Freephone 0800 557 232
QUEENSTOWN BIKE HIRE
Go further, see more with an electric mountain bike. Free bike charge stations along the Queenstown Trail. See ad p39. Phone 03 442 6376
CHARGEABOUT ELECTRIC BIKE HIRE
bike hire plus shuttle service. See ad p38. Freephone 0800 22 44 73
ARROWTOWN BIKE HIRE In the centre of Arrowtown. Kids and adults'
Bike Hire and Shuttle Services
40 Family Bike Rides
A Nugget of Southern Lakes History 41
A nugget of Southern Lakes history In 1862 gold was discovered in the Shotover River and over the ensuing two years thousands of miners came from around the world in search of gold and good fortune.
Here’s how it all began…
Way back, before white men had even set foot on Aotearoa the Mãori lived in tribes around the South Island. They travelled through the area known today as the Southern Lakes on their journeys to the coast, hunting Moa and searching for pounamu (greenstone) for their tools and weapons. Then one day just over 150 years ago two tired travellers emerged at a point high above the presentday Arrowtown. The Europeans had come searching for land to settle and use for agriculture and pasturing sheep. The view that greeted them must have taken their breath away – William Rees and Nicholas von Tunzelmann gazed upon rich high country, glistening lakes, flowing rivers and rugged mountains. Surely this must be paradise! It was no easy matter getting themselves and their horses through the spiky Speargrass (or Spaniard Grass) and thorny Matagouri bushes and it was a weary and bloody pair that finally emerged at the water’s edge (where William Rees’ statue stands today). By early 1861 Rees was established as the first farmer of the Wakatipu, with a high-country farm near the mouth of the Kawarau River, whilst Von Tunzelman established a farm at the location of Mt Nicholas. Boats now provided transport and the population of Queenstown, the town that was considered fit for Queen Victoria, started slowly to grow.
There's gold in the rivers!
However, Rees’ peaceful new life was soon to be disrupted – gold was being discovered throughout Otago and the goldseekers were making their way towards the rivers of Queenstown… A sailor, William Fox, was one of the first men to find gold in the Arrow River, in 1862. It sparked an invasion of miners from the Australian and Californian goldfields and makeshift tent towns sprung up almost overnight as eager fortune-hunters set out to pan the Arrow and Shotover Rivers, willing to risk life and limb for their share.
Photo courtesy of Sue Todd
Competition was fierce and on one supply run, Fox realised he was being followed by prospectors keen to discover where he was finding his gold. Desperate, 'every man for himself' times called for cunning measures – he crept away in the middle of the night, leaving his tent standing, and managed to fool his stalkers for a short time.
The goldrush is on!
Unbelievably, in the height of the rush, with 18,000 miners and supporting trades, the local population was similar to that of today and ghost towns like Macetown, Seffertown and Skippers, now just a deserted handful of old stone cottages, were flourishing with schools, bakeries, bars and churches. Within just a few years, the frenzy was over. The days of plucking gold nuggets from the icy waters of the local rivers were gone. In two years alone over 40 tonnes of gold had been discovered, yet the surface had barely been scratched! There was still gold to be had but getting at it was to involve slightly more sophisticated methods than a pair of hands and a goldpan. Commercial mining began in earnest until eventually it too fizzled out, but not without reputedly leaving more gold in the hills than has ever been mined from them. So if you want to try your luck at making it big, there’s still gold in them there hills!
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Discover Arrowtown Only 20km from Queenstown, Arrowtown was born of the 1862 goldrush and is a step back in time with tree-lined streets, old miners’ cottages and a main street reminiscent of a ‘Wild West’ movie. The Arrow River, with the fascinating Chinese Settlement on its bank, was at one time worked by thousands of goldseekers who came from around the world to toil in the Arrow River for gold and good fortune.
Discover Arrowtown Macetown & Sawpit Gully Tracks
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Discover Arrowtown 43 Arrowtown is a great destination for an inexpensive, chilled morning or afternoon with the kids. The Lakes District Museum is interactive and fun for all and they also hire out goldpans, so you can try your luck in the nearby Arrow River. Or take a memento of your step back in time at the Old Fashioned Costume Photography, located below the Lakes Museum. Meanwhile some of the region's best biking/walking tracks start here, with Arrowtown Bike Hire offering bike rental as well as a shuttle service. You're also just a short drive from the famous Kawarau Bungy Bridge and Gibbston Valley, home to some of the region's best wineries. There are also dozens of great eating places in town, including ice creameries and a chocolate shop! THEN
NOW
LAKES DISTRICT MUSEUM AND INFO CENTRE A lively museum, filled with hands-on displays and plenty to entertain the kids! The museum has a code-cracking treasure hunt to entertain you as you explore the stories behind the gold rush that turned Queenstown and Arrowtown into a frenzy! Meet colourful characters from the past and discover how you and the kids would have lived through a gold rush. You can even hire a pan, and try your luck in the Arrow River just like the early miners (seriously – gold is still discovered there!) See exhibits from the lives of the early MÄ ori and even artefacts from the extinct moa bird! The museum contains a fabulous bookshop and exhibition gallery that changes regularly. There are local walking and biking maps, internet access and an activity booking desk, all making the Lakes District Museum a must-visit! Buckingham Street, Arrowtown Phone: 03 442 1824 Hours: daily, 8.30am to 5pm (except Christmas Day) Price: Adult $10, Seniors $8, Child $3 (17 years and under), Family $20 (2 adults + 2 children) Museum treasure hunt $1 Gold pan hire $3 (plus a $10 refundable deposit) E: info@museumqueenstown.com www.museumqueenstown.com
IVE!
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Visit the fun place to explore the past, take a treasure hunt or grab a goldpan and hunt for gold! s The ONLY local museum s Discover the goldrush, pioneers,
greenstone, moa and Maori
s Information & booking centre s Child entry $3, Treasure Hunt $1
Buckingham St Arrowtown Phone 03 442 1824 museumqueenstown.com Senior $8, Adult $10, Child $3, Family $20
OLD FASHIONED COSTUME PHOTOGRAPHY Gorgeous old-time family or child portraits from talented photographer, Karen Reid. Lots of fun, and a special family memento.
We offer children's and adults' Victorian costumes from the years of pioneers and goldminers, along with props such as dolls, guns, parasols and musical instruments. Fuss-free, costumes fit all ages and sizes and go over your street clothes. Kids just love the dressing-up! Karen will work with you to arrange a pose, scenario and backdrop to suit you and the result is your own beautiful, sepia photo from the past. Below The Lakes District Museum, Buckingham St, Arrowtown Phone: 027 445 2569
www.oldfashionedcostumephotography.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Discover Arrowtown
KIDS LOOP ARROWTOWN Your one-stop children’s store! We carry a unique combination of everything you need for your kids from premature to 12 years. Kids Loop Arrowtown sources from leading designers and offers a selection of quality New Zealand-designed products and European brands that you would rarely find anywhere under the same roof. Stocking buggies, carriers, portacots, swimwear, rainwear, clothing, footwear and accessories, books, games, toys, teddies and so much more… 50 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown Phone: 03 442 0580 Hours: daily, 9.30am-5.30pm Email: kidsloopnz@gmail.com www.kidsloop.co.nz Mention this Kidz Go ad and receive a FREE Gift when you THE ARROWTOWN BIKE TRAILS The Queenstown Bike Trail runs right through Arrowtown with such exciting family tracks, if you've only got one day to explore, you can't go wrong starting from here! With riverside swim holes, stunning picnic spots, suspension bridges, wineries and the bungy bridge – all within an easy bike ride's reach, Arrowtown has it all covered. See page 38 for our Bike Trail feature and ad below for bike hire and shuttle service or page 39 for electric bike hire.
ARROWTOWN MEMORIAL POOL Our solar-heated outdoor pool is open from early December through til March. The main pool is 29m long with 6 lanes; additionally there is a 5m x 5m toddler pool. We have a snack shop on-site, a large grassy picnic area and a covered BBQ area. 4 Hertford Street, Arrowtown Phone: 03 442 0145 Hours: 7 days, 11am-6pm throughtout summer, except for Christmas Day & New Year's Day. ARROWTOWN CHINESE SETTLEMENT On the bank of Bush Creek is the partially restored and well-interpreted chinese settlement from the 1880s (see map p42). Discover how the Chinese immigrants lived during the gold rush; explore inside their restored huts and Ah Lum’s store that was central to their community. The settlement is a reminder of some of the 3,500 chinese miners and businessmen who lived in Otago during the goldrush. The last known inhabitants left in 1928. Two of the huts are original and the rest have been reconstructed. Parking and toilets are at the entrance to the Chinese Settlement in central Arrowtown. You can try goldpanning yourself in the nearby Arrow River – visit the Lakes District Museum for goldpan hire and tips.
BIKE HIRE FROM $15!
Arrowtown Bike Hire provides quality front suspension bikes for all ages, plus tag-a-longs, trailers and child seats. Ride from our base right onto all-year-round, non-muddy, family bike trails. Explore Arrowtown and beyond either on your own or with a guide. Bike one way then take advantage of our quick and easy pick-up service! Bike Tours from $79 including wine tours, goldpanning, sightseeing and more! Arrowtown Bike Hire - the best place to start your ride! We pick up in Queenstown!
...good times! www.KidzGo.co.nz
59 Buckingham St/Romans Lane Arrowtown. p 03 441 1144 Freephone 0800 22 44 73 Save dollars and book online at www.arrowtownbikehire.co.nz
Family Walks and Playgrounds
Arrowtown walking tracks
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See Arrowtown map p42 for locations.
Millennium Track Easy – 1 hour return Start from the carpark in Ramshaw Lane, centre of Arrowtown. Follow the Arrow River along the flat to the outskirts of Arrowtown. Cross the bridge and return most of the way along the other side, crossing a bridge once more and finishing in the carpark. Buggy-friendly. Easy biking. Lake Hayes Track Easy – 2 hour loop This easy walk takes you around Lake Hayes on a gravel path/boardwalk. There are a number of parking spots alongside the lake and you can join the walk at any point. The track has steep drop-offs at some points so keep small children with you. Excellent beach, picnic/swim area and toilets with easy road access at one end. Buggy-friendly. Biking: some undulating terrain but a good family track. Tobins Track Med/Hard – 1 hour return for Tobins Track or 2 hour loop via New Chum A brisk walk to the top of Tobins Track will reward you with unsurpassed views of Arrowtown and the Wakatipu Basin. A straightforward, wide track; short and steep! For a longer loop walk, look out for the sign to New Chum track as you walk up the hill – this single track enters the bush and comes out along the Macetown Road. Arrow River - Macetown Road (Easy) and Sawpit Gully Trail Med/Hard – 2-3 hour loop Follow the Arrow River Trail towards Macetown on an easy path that sidles the river as you wander through unforgettable scenery. The track is above the river for the first 45 minutes before you hit the river crossings, so this is a good turnaround point. For a harder, loop walk, look for the turn-off and steep path up to your left, to Sawpit Gully. You'll climb alongside an old water race and past gold-mining tailings before the walk back down towards Arrowtown with Lake Hayes in full view. Private farmland; strictly no dogs or mountain bikes.
Playgrounds Main Beach entrance to Queenstown Gardens Features: slide, swing, climbing frame, see-saw, dedicated toddler area Nearby: lake, beach, Queenstown Gardens, café, toilets Queenstown Gardens off Park St, next to Ice Arena Features: skatepark Nearby: lake, beach, picnic and BBQ area, toilets St Omer Park Lake Esplanade, Queenstown Features: slide, swing, climbing frame Nearby: lake, beach, picnic and BBQ area, toilets Man Street Queenstown Features: swing, climbing frames, slide Nearby: walking distance to town centre Fernhill Road Fernhill, Queenstown Features: slide, swing, climbing frame, see-saw, fenced area for ball play Nearby: BBQ area, dairy
Williams Street Sunshine Bay Features: slide, swing, climbing frame Nearby: picnic bench, tennis courts, BBQ Frankton Waterfront Features: slide, climbing frame, tennis court Nearby: toilet, BBQ, bike track, shallow swimming beach Remarkables Crescent Frankton Features: slide, swing, climbing frame, see-saw Nearby: basketball hoop and court Kelvin Grove entrance to golf course, Kelvin Heights Features: slide, swing, climbing frame Nearby: toilet, BBQ, picnic benches, beach Bayview Reserve Kelvin Heights Features: slide, swing, climbing frame, see-saw Nearby: toilet, picnic benches, lake beach, bike track Jardine Park Kelvin Heights Features: slide, swing, climbing frame, playing field Nearby: kid-friendly mountain bike pump tracks, Jacks Point walking/biking track, croquet club, multi-purpose sports court Jacks Point Playground Jacks Point Features: slide, climbing frame, mega tunnel slide, flying fox Nearby: restaurant, bike trails, sports field, tennis court Hope Avenue Lake Hayes Estate Features: slide, swing, climbing frame, see-saw, climbing boulder, flying fox Nearby: toilet, gas BBQ, tennis court, restaurant, dairy Rose M Douglas Park Wiltshire St, Arrowtown Features: slide, swing, see-saw, fire engine climbing frame and water pump play feature, playhouse on the hill Nearby: toilet, picnic bench, outdoor swimming pool www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Legend of our Breathing Lake
About our lake... some parts of Lake Wakatipu are 380m deep and it is 82km in length. The temperature
of the water varies by only a few degrees from winter to summer. Wakatipu is NZ's longest lake and the third largest (after Taupo and Te Anau). But, the strangest fact of all is that the lake rises and falls by 12cm every five minutes. Here's one explanation. Wakatipu (măori) ~ 1. trough of the giant 2. hole of the giant
The Legend of our Breathing Lake A long time ago in the South of Aotearoa there lived a Māori chief. He had a fine looking daughter with glossy black hair and velvety brown eyes. The warrior, Matakauri, had fallen in love with her. But the Chief told Matakauri to stay away – he wasn’t good enough for her! The Chief’s daughter, Manata, was sorry she was not allowed to be with her love. Then, one morning, it was noticed that Manata was missing from her bed. The villagers searched everywhere they could think of, but found nothing. Then, one of the tribes people called, “over here!” Everyone rushed to the woodland he had been searching, and there, in the mud, was a footprint bigger than a house. “I remember the ground shaking in the night,” cried one man. “I thought it was an earthquake.” But everyone knew who owned the footprint – the mighty and feared giant, Matau. Matau was bigger than all the houses in the village put together. He was bigger than a mountain, and what was more, he had a terrible temper. So when the Chief said “who is going to rescue my beloved daughter?” everyone looked down, even the biggest, strongest warriors in the tribe. “Whoever rescues Manata may marry her” the Chief tried in desperation. Still, no one moved. No one believed you could come back from a fight with a giant. However, one warrior was missing. While the Chief had been pleading with his men, Matakauri was already packing his bags. Off he went with determination in his stride, heading for Matau’s lair. Suddenly, there he was, fast asleep, with Manata tied to his body by ropes made from nearby bushes. Her eyes lit up as she caught sight of her rescuer, but at the same time she cautioned him. “Be careful. If the wind changes he’ll wake up. You’ll be killed!” she whispered.
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Matakauri was not to be put off. He crept up to the mountain of snoring flesh and grasped one of the ropes tied to his love. “You’re free!” he cried recklessly, as he swung his trusty axe, made from the finest greenstone. The axe did not make one mark on the rope. Again and again he swung it, but to no avail. Manata wept. “Go back,” she pleaded, “it’s useless!” But then a strange thing happened. The girl’s tears fell onto the rope and as they touched it the rope melted and broke away. Matakauri gasped in delight and gathered up Manata. The pair ran home to safety and when Manata’s father saw them he proclaimed the two must be married. Still, to make sure Manata stayed safe, Matakauri had to destroy Matau once and for all. Although he explained that while the northwest wind blew the giant would sleep, once more not one man stepped forward to help. So Matakauri was alone again, creeping up to the giant. Matau was curled up like a child, his enormous head and feet resting on mountain tops many miles apart. His very snore rumbled across the valley like an earthquake. Quietly Matakauri started gathering armfuls of flax and dried wood. It took many days to pile the scrub all around the huge body, but still Matau slept. Then, just before the wind seemed to be changing Matakauri lit the fire. He ran along the giant, from arm to leg, across hills and around stomach until it seemed the world was ablaze and Matau was devoured by the flames. The flames were so hot and so fierce that they burned a hole in the ground where the giant had been and what's more, they melted all the snow on the mountain tops. The streams swelled and the water flowed into the newly made hole, filling it right up until it became the Lake Wakatipu we know today. The water still lies in the giant-shaped hole that Matau left; his head was up in Glenorchy, his knees tucked up in Frankton, and his feet all the way down in Kingston. But there’s one strange thing. Legend has it you can never destroy a giant’s heart. Sure enough, the heart of Matau, deep in the lake, beats on and the waters of Lake Wakatipu rise and fall whilst Matau still sleeps. The Beating Heart There's a tiny island that sits off the far shore of the lake, near the base of Cecil Peak. It's only visible from some parts of Queenstown or from close up, on the lake itself. It's called Hidden Island, and known to some as the heart of Matau the giant...
Family Walks and Picnics
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Sunny Summer Days It's what summer with the kids is all about! Check out Queenstown's favourite summer walks and picnic hang-outs. Note: Walks labelled 'Hard' have been done so with a family in mind. The hard walks here may be too much for children under 10 and reasonable fitness would be required for adults or children.
Walks
Picnic spots
W1 Sunshine Bay Track W1 Easy – 1 hour return Sunny, lakeside walk below the Glenorchy Road. Starts from Fernhill roundabout. Map p2 W2 Arawata Track, Sunshine Bay Easy – 1 hour return Stunning lake views. Look out for the mountain goats (thar). Path descends to road at end – follow and loop back along road, or return along the track. Map p2
P1 The Esplanade Lakefront, playground and toilets. BBQ areas.
W3 Queenstown Gardens W3
Easy – 30 mins Views right around the peninsula. Great for the family to walk/ bike around, play tennis or try the frisbee golf course, or picnic on one of the beaches. Buggy friendly. Map p2
W4 Queenstown Hill Time Walk Hard – 3 hrs return Starts from Belfast Terrace. A steady 500m climb through pine forest is rewarded with amazing views from the summit of Te Tapu-nui (mountain of intense sacredness). Interpretive panels along the way. Map p2
Skyline Tiki Trail Hard – 90 mins return Steady climb from the Gondola base as you zig zag your way up to the Skyline. View Ziptrek, paragliders and mountain bikers from some sections of track. Map p2 W6 Kelvin Heights Loop Easy – 90 mins return Start from playground and carpark on Bay View Road. Head to the golf course and round the perimeter. Map p4 W5
W7 Kelvin Heights Track Easy – 90 mins return Start from Kawarau Village. Head to the left and follow the easy, well-graded track alongside the lake towards the peninsula. Buggy friendly. Map p4 W8 Frankton Track Easy – 2 hours return A pleasant lakeside walk with views across the Frankton Arm. Finish at Frankton Marina or continue to the main beach at Frankton. Buggy friendly. Map p2 W9 Bob’s Cove Scenic Reserve Med – 1 hour return A gentle descent through bush to Bob’s Cove beach, then on past the old lime kiln and jetty. One of Queenstown’s prettiest inlets. Buggy friendly. Map p91 W10 Oxenbridge Tunnel Track Easy – 20 mins return Follow the footpath from the beach opposite Shotover Jet. Watch the jet boats and look out for whitewater rafters coming out of the Oxenbridge Tunnel and down their final rapid! The track finishes with a stunning view down the Shotover Canyon. Map p91
Map p2
Frankton Beach Picnic tables, BBQ, toilets, short walk to playground plus Lake Wakatipu's warmest swimming beach. Map p4 P2
P3 Moke Lake A small lake (takes approx. 90 minutes to walk round) and an ideal swimming spot. Toilets and camping onsite. No dogs allowed. Map p91 P4 Devils Staircase Queenstown – Kingston road. Spectacular lookout spot and lake access. Map p91 P5 Drift Bay Queenstown – Kingston road. Secluded beach spot, ideal for relaxing, fishing or swimming. Map p91 P6 Lake Hayes Recreation Area The best picnic area is 2km along the Arrowtown-Lake Hayes road at the Arrowtown end of the lake. Sandy beach, warm shallows, lots of space, shade, toilets. Map p91 P7 Bob's Cove Scenic Reserve A gentle 10 minute descent through bush to the beach at Bob’s Cove. Ideal picnic and swimming spot. Toilets onsite. Map p91 P8 Wilson Bay Five minutes drive along the Glenorchy Road brings you to the gorgeous beach at Wilson Bay. Parking right at the beach and toilets onsite. The 7 Mile Reserve walking tracks and mountain bike trails start from here. Map p91 P9 Kelvin Grove, Kelvin Heights At the entrance to the golf course, right on the lake. Toilets and playground. Map p4
P9
P10 Arrow River, Arrowtown Grab a spot under the trees anywhere along the shallows of the Arrow River; kids love splashing around in the water. Map p42
BE SAFE, BE SUNSMART The New Zealand sun is particularly strong. Don’t let your child get burnt. Be Sunsmart, sunscreen up and cover yourselves, particularly between 11am and 3pm. www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Discover Cromwell
Discover Cromwell
A 45-minute drive from Queenstown or Wanaka brings you to Cromwell, the gateway to Central Otago. On the shore of Lake Dunstan and the bank of the Kawarau and Clutha Rivers, Cromwell is one of Otago's top wine and fruit-growing regions with a funky 'old town' to explore and the region's exciting family attraction, Highlands, along with the super-fun Paintball Central. HIGHLANDS GO-KARTS & JURASSIC ADVENTURES The ultimate destination for the whole family! Have a blast on the Go-Karts, take a Jurassic Dinosaur Safari, explore on a U-Drive Off Road Safari Buggy Adventure, choose from 6 high-speed circuit thrills, visit the Wacky Sculpture Park & interactive Museum.
$39
PER SESSION PER PERSON
SINGLE
$49
PER SESSION PER KART
TANDEM GO-KART
GO-KART
HIGH SPEED
INFO/BOOK NOW
$120 TEL: +64 (0)3 445 4052 PER TAXI INFO@HIGHLANDS.CO.NZ TAKES 4 H I GH L A N DS .CO . N Z FREE PH: 0508 4444 526 (HIGHLANDS) www.KidzGo.co.nz
TAXI RIDE
Go-Karts – choose single or tandem Go-Karts. 10-minute session: $39 (single), $49 (tandem). Single driver: min age 10 years Tandem drive: min age16 years (height restrictions apply). Tandem passenger: min age 6 years (height restrictions apply). Highlands Jurassic Safari: Only $79 per family (2 adults & up to 3 children) Safari Buggy Adventure: $69 per two-seater buggy. Drivers must have license. Passenger minimum age 8 years. Famous Highlands High-Speed Taxi Sample the circuit at speed in our Porsche Cayenne taxi – great for the whole family! $120 for one to four people. Highlands Museum Family $50 (2 adult +up to 3 children) ‘Friends of Highlands' Family annual pass $149 – over $230 of value plus unlimited Highlands entry. Adrenalin activity on track – choose from FASTLaps in a Porsche GT3, U-drive in a Radical or a V8 Muscle Car or a Fast Dash in a McLaren Supercar. Prices vary. Corner SH6 and Sandflat Road, Cromwell Phone: 0508 HIGHLANDS (444 452 637) www.highlands.co.nz Visit us on Facebook
Discover Cromwell PAINTBALL CENTRAL Min age 7 Ultimate action adventure that can be played with a minimum of two players. With three exciting courses and 14 different games you can tailor your mission to suit your family or group. Paintball is fun, fast and as action-packed as you want! Play on 10 acres of courses or make your way through Shantytown! Note: children under 18 years must be accompanied by adults at or on the field. We require a ratio of max four children aged 7-15 years to one adult, and younger children must be fully-supervised. Bannockburn, Cromwell Bookings essential: 027 448 5399 Open: daylight to dusk – game times arranged on booking. Duration: 2 hours Price: $35 per person for basic game (includes 100 shots, gun, overalls and mask) Email: paintballcentral@xtra.co.nz www.paintballcentral.co.nz OTHER ACTIVITIES * Paintball Central; games for 2+ players. * Ride at the new Cromwell bike park, Ortive Street with BMX, learn-to-ride area, and jump tracks. * Highlands – a day out with exciting activities for all ages. See ad on opposite page. * Explore the Clutha River by kayak or boat – there are family-friendly options departing from nearby Clyde. * Explore Old Cromwell Town. * Visit Cromwell and Districts museum. * See the famous and spectacular Clyde Dam. * Visit one of the many fruit outlets or try the delicious Benger Gold Juice for a taste of Central Otago! * Picnic by the river or take a family walk or bike ride. * Visit Bannockburn – including the historic relics and 'Wild West' scenery of the Bannockburn sluicings, swim or picnic at the Inlet and enjoy some of the country's best wineries, many serving lunch. * Visit Goldfields Mining Centre and pan for gold. * Visit Cromwell mini golf next to the giant 'fruit sculpture'.
Old Cromwell Town & The Clyde Dam Most of historic Cromwell is now underwater – as the Clyde Hydro Dam was constructed, the waters of the Clutha River and what is now Lake Dunstan, rose behind it, eventually submerging 280 homes, 6 farms, 17 orchards and 2 bridges. In 1985 a selection of historic buildings due to be submerged were rescued and relocated to where they stand now, on the banks of the Kawarau and Clutha Rivers, and so began Old Cromwell town. Well worth a visit, Cromwell Old town provides an insight into the past along with cool cafés, weekend markets and unique shops to browse. Read more at cromwellheritageprecinct.co.nz Picnic spots, a riverside walk and bike tracks start from Old Cromwell Town and from here you can also see the spectacular confluence of the Clutha and Kawarau Rivers. Head 15 minutes out of town towards Clyde and Alexandra and you can swing into a lookout point for the 100m high Clyde Dam – the result of 14 years of construction and controversy, completed in 1993 – and visit the historic riverside settlement of Clyde just beyond it.
McN u 6
Old Cromwell s er Town
Ave
8 To Clyde & Alexandra Paintball Central
no c
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Ro
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Highlands Go Karts and Jurassic Adventures
Ba n
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To Bannockburn & wineries
via Cromwell Gorge
Clutha River
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Kawarau River
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Sandflat Road
Pe a
Neplu sultra
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To Mt Cook & Christchurch
i Site & town centre
Road
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To Queenstown via Kawarau Gorge
8b
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Alpha Stre et
To Wanaka via Luggate
Cromwell
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Clyde Dam
www.KidzGo.co.nz
50
The Kids’ Directory :: Childminding
The Kids' Directory For locals >> it's all about the kids – including childminding and nannies, clubs and hobbies, after-school care, school holiday programmes, annual activity passes and organisations that help make family life easier. For locals and visitors >> there are contacts for everyone – essential info for childminding, birthday party ideas, baby furniture rental and more.
Babysitting & Holiday Nanny Service 027 643 2298
Day & night. Nannies for newborn to teens In-room at your accommodation All areas of Queenstown – we come to you Rates from 3 hours to multi-day Baby equipment available for hire
10 lOver in s r a ye town ns Quee
Around The Clock Childcare
Book online and save!
aroundtheclock.co.nz
1ST FLOOR, ABOVE COUNTDOWN AND BRANDLAND, 5 MILE RETAIL CENTRE CASUALS AND ONE DAY BOOKINGS WELCOME! Stunning, brand new & purpose built. Creative and passionate teachers. We welcome your visit - seeing is believing!
P 03 442 9440 www.mamaschildcare.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
BABYSITTING / CHILDMINDING AROUND THE CLOCK CHILDCARE Childcare, Babysitting, Holiday Nannies Experienced babysitters are available 24/7 to care for your children at your hotel or holiday accommodation. From minimum 3 hours to multiple days or nights, we can ensure the same babysitter or nanny for your stay. They will bring books, games and age-appropriate activities while you enjoy an uninterrupted day or night out. Last minute bookings are no problem. We have a capable team of carers, all personally interviewed, New Zealand police-checked and first aid current. Our carers have support from our agency at all times while at a job. Rest assured, your children are in safe hands. We also have a wide range of quality baby equipment available for hire. Contact: Lucy Wilkinson Phone: 03 442 0409 Mobile: 027 643 2298 Email: aroundtheclock@xtra.co.nz www.aroundtheclock.co.nz MAMAS CHILDCARE CENTRE Open 7 days - casuals welcome! Mamas Childcare Centre provides care for your child 7 days a week – it's a place you can leave your little ones (from infant to 5 year olds) knowing they will be safe and happy in a stimulating environment and with creative, caring teachers. This well-resourced, purposebuilt centre provides challenging equipment and activities suitable for every age and a huge outdoor area including a grassy lawn to play on. Just visiting or local and wanting some casual care? Call now for our attractive casual rates. 5 Mile Retail Centre, Level 1, above Countdown Supermarket and Brandland Phone: 03 442 9440 Hours: daily, 8am-5.30pm www.mamaschildcare.nz KIDZ CLUB Kids-only entertainment – everyone wins! Treat the kids at our awesome Kidz Club, perfect for ages 4-13 years, while you enjoy Queenstown at your own pace! Our fun-filled program includes: * 12D motion rides at Vortex * 360 ° VR Cinematic Experience * 360 ° Battleground – Lasertag, Hero Blast games * 360 ° Drift * Green Screen fun * Nintendo Wii * Colouring plus fun games run by our fantastic & enthusiastic staff! Hours: 10am-10pm – hourly, 1/2 or full-day sessions available. Bookings are recommended but walk-ins welcome. Phone: 03 441 1159 www.kidzclubqueenstown.co.nz
The Kids’ Directory HOLIDAY PROGRAMMES/AFTER-SCHOOL CARE Lakes Leisure holiday programmes 5-7 years and 8-12 years. 03 450 9005 Local Library holiday programmes Limited space so bookings are essential. 03 441 0600 sKids Remarkables 021 251 8688 Queenstown, Remarkables, Arrowtown and Shotover schools after-school care. Queenstown and Arrowtown school holiday programmes. Queenstown after-school care 022 676 6700 5-12 yrs (3pm-5.30pm) Contact: Jane Schieb Remarkables Park Shopping Centre Free programme during school holidays for 2-3 hours per day and one fun activity each day! See their Facebook page for more information. The Booth 11-24 years. 03 442 8115 Youth Centre operated by Wakatipu Youth Trust. After-school activities and holiday programmes. 66 Stanley Street www.theyouthbooth.co.nz CHILD FURNITURE AND EQUIPMENT HIRE TOTS ON TOUR With a wide range of quality equipment for hire Tots on Tour can make life easier by setting up your baby equipment at your holiday home, apartment or hotel, so that everything is ready for you on your arrival. Offering portacots, bassinets, linen, baby monitors, buggies, backpacks, car seats, stair gates, toys, glide bikes and more! We also have a secure online booking system where you can view the equipment and check availability. Phone: 021 293 7125 Email: info@totsontour.co.nz www.totsontour.co.nz ROCKIES Adventure Buggy – newborn to 4 years: $20 per day Backpack – from 3 months, or up to 16 kilos: $15 per day 49 Beach St, Queenstown Hours: daily, 9am to 9pm Phone: 03 442 8153 www.rockies.co.nz OTHER HELP FOR PARENTS The Buddy Programme 03 442 4470 For children aged 4-12 in need of additional adult support; one-on-one friendship with a specially-matched buddy. Happiness House 03 442 6531 Providing practical support for the community. Craft groups, legal and budgeting advice, second-hand clothes, free produce day and more. 4 Park St, Queenstown Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm Donations welcome Hypno For Birthing Vicky, 027 329 0364 Gain techniques to manage tension and prepare for a relaxed birth. www.lifeunlimitedhypnotherapy.com Queenstown Lakes Family Centre Professionally-trained clinicians work with children and teenagers to build empathy and self-esteem along with providing positive parenting advice. 03 441 4331
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Wakatipu Toy Library 027 678 5593 Toys, games, puzzles, outdoor equipment available for children 6months+. Different membership options available. Feel free to come and have a look. Monday 9.30am-11am, Wed 1pm-2.30pm, Sat 9am-1pm. Man St, near the playground. www.toylibrary.co.nz Wakatipu Youth Trust & The Booth Supporting & advocating for Wakatipu youth ages 11-24 years. www.wakatipuyouthtrust.co.nz FACEBOOK US! Queenstown Kids Stuff Buy and sell secondhand clothes and kids toys, furniture – plus useful information and things going on locally. Queenstown Kids Activities For families with primary age children who live in the Queenstown area info on clubs, after school programs, school holiday programs and events. CLUBS AND HOBBIES Art Classes 5 -12 years 03 441 1458 Aqualand Swim School 6 months-16 yrs 03 450 9115 Arrowtown Cubs and Scouts Mark, 03 409 8823 Queenstown Scout Group Facebook: Queenstown Scouts Wakatipu Girl Guides Association Sharon, 027 246 8962 Climbing Classes 03 450 9005 Danceworks 2 years to adult 021 062 2939 Drama Queenstown 5-18 years 021 178 1669 Junior Athletics www.remarkablerunners.co.nz Junior Football www.queenstownfootball.com Foot Golf 03 442 3584 Fun French Club Natalie, 03 442 0075 Kidz Club Queenstown 0800 KIDZCLUB (543 925 82) Drop off the kids (4-13 years) and we'll entertain them. Little Yogis Arrowtown Niki Goile, 027 866 7681 Mainly Music Arrowtown Amanda, 03 441 4900 Mainly Music Queenstown Janetta, 03 442 3194 PowderPak Parks 5 years to adult. 022 432 9103 An indoor ski/snowboard facility. Queenstown Climbing Club www.queenstownclimbing.com Queenstown Cricket Club www.queenstowncricketclub.co.nz Queenstown Gymnastics Club www.qtgymnastics.co.nz Queenstown Mountain Bike Club www.queenstownmtb.co.nz Singing Margaret O’Hanlon, 03 442 8696 SITE Trampoline toddler-adult 0800 QT BOUNCE Small Seeds 03 442 8391 Parent and toddler music group, twice weekly. St John Youth Penguin and Cadet Programmes 6-18 years 10 Douglas St, Frankton 021 262 6026 Tennis Club www.queenstowntennisclub.co.nz Wakatipu Junior Golf Club www.wjgc.co.nz Yoga for Kids - Nadi Wellness Centre 03 409 0318 www.KidzGo.co.nz
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The Kids’ Directory :: Annual/Season Passes
ANNUAL & SEASON PASSES Skyline Gondola Annual Pass 03 441 0101 Unlimited gondola rides for you + one accompanying child, plus awesome discounts throughout complex. Annual: Adult $79, Child $59 Kiwi Birdlife 'Friend of the Park' 03 442 8059 Enjoy unlimited visits to the Kiwi Birdlife Park, plus perks & discounts for friends. Annual: $49 (Local residents) Friends of Highlands 03 445 4052 10-50% discount on Highlands activities, café and merchandise. Complimentary Go-Kart session on purchase + LOTS more benefits! Annual: Adult $99, Family $149 (2 adults + up to 3 children) KJet 03 409 0000 Jet boat whenever you like, year round! Annual: Adult $75, Child $55. Proof of address required.
Game Over Locals Pass 03 441 3139 Enjoy 50% off mid-week karting and lazer tag and 10% off for your friends. Includes two free sessions – on joining day and your birthday. Annual: $99 (Local residents) Puzzling World Wanaka – Puzzports 03 443 7489 Unlimited access to all attractions for 12 months. Annual: Adult $49, Child $34 (5-15 years) Real Journeys Real Rewards Card 0800 65 65 01 Unlimited TSS Earnslaw steamship cruises and discounts across Real Journeys product range. Annual: Adult $125, Child $65 (conditions apply). Southern Discoveries 'Locals Discovery Card' Unlimited travel on Spirit of Queenstown and discounts on Milford Sound Scenic Cruises. Annual: Adult $99. Conditions apply. 0800 264 536 SITE Trampoline 0800 (QT BOUNCE) 78 268623 Great value multi-passes available. 5 sessions $110 (12% off) 10 sessions $200 (20% off) Underwater Observatory 03 409 0000 'Friends of the Fish' annual membership: $50 per family, valid for 12 months. Main Town Pier
#000100
15
Jet boat with KJet as many times as you’d like
for only $75 Special Friends & Family rates available for all card holders too! Terms & Conditions apply
National Transport and Toy Museum Locals Pass 03 443 8765 Pay full price 1st time, then go FREE for the first 6 months, and pay only $5 for the following 6 months. The Airshed 027 261 2277 Summer Season Pass (excluding school holidays) $249. Unlimited access to bouncing, indoor bouldering, skateboarding, lounge area + $5 laser tag.
BIRTHDAY PARTY IDEAS Alpine Aqualand Pool Party 03 450 9005 Bring a birthday group and the birthday child swims free! Book ahead for exclusive use of learners' pool. Game Over Queenstown 03 441 3139 Choose from a Lazer Tag or Karting party package, or book our deluxe package for even more fun! Parties run for two hours and include food.
PIZZA MAKING PARTY!
Visit Winniesʼ kitchen and make your own pizzas! Groups of 10 at $20 per child, includes activities, goody bag, food, drinks & free t-shirt for birthday child. THE MALL, QUEENSTOWN 03 442 8635 WWW.WINNIES.CO.NZ
NEW!
WINNIES + BELOW ZERO ICE BAR BIRTHDAY COMBO PARTIES
www.KidzGo.co.nz
The Kids’ Directory :: Birthday Parties Dark Ride – Awesome Locals Birthday Special Bring yourself and a friend on your birthday and enjoy a thrilling Dark Ride each absolutely FREE! Any extra friends ride half price, only $15. Conditions apply, bookings essential. 03 441 8080 Kids Spy Network - Birthday Mission 020 4100 1385 Awesome group activity as children work together to solve our latest case! Approx one hour, $20 per head.
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Puzzling World 03 443 7489 Special rates for the birthday group, large party booth, snack packs and plenty of birthday fun! Download your party invites free from the Puzzling World website. See page 67 for more Wanaka birthday party ideas
Highlands 03 445 4052 Go-Karts, dirt buggies, balance bikes and the Highlands Adventure Park. For more on party options contact: functions@highlands.co.nz Paintball Central 027 448 5399 With three courses and 14 different games this is a brilliant and energetic birthday party group activity. Rockatipu Climbing Wall 03 450 9005 Perfect for groups of 6-12. Birthday child climbs free. Ring for party, instruction and party room prices. Segway on Q Polo Parties 03 442 8687 Party fun for small or large groups. Instruction, playtime and Segway games such as relay slalom, time trials or Segway Polo. Please ring for pricing. SITE Trampoline 0800 QT BOUNCE Unlimited access to the whole facility, plus the option of a private party room for food and drinks to enjoy after you have finished bouncing. Thrill Zone 03 441 1159 An awesome range of activities for you to create the perfect combo birthday package ~ 12D Motion Theatre, 360° VR, 360° Drift and 360° Battleground with Xtreme Indoor Reball, Laser Tag and Hero Blast. 2 hours of entertainment ~ packages from $25 per head. Winnies Pizza-Making Party 03 442 8635 Visit Winnies' kitchen and make your own pizzas! Groups of 10 at $20 each, includes activities, goody bag, food and drinks. Free t-shirt for birthday child. NEW – Winnies + Below Zero Birthday Combos!
CELEBRATE YOUR NEXT BIRTHDAY WITH US!
BOOK TO BOUNCE sitetrampoline.co.nz
12-13
www.thrillzone.co.nz
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䘀漀爀 洀漀爀攀 椀渀昀漀爀洀愀琀椀漀渀 瘀椀猀椀琀 眀眀眀⸀最愀洀攀漀瘀攀爀焀琀⸀挀漀⸀渀稀
enquire now:
0800 734 386
SEGWAY POLO PARTIES!
segwayonq.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
54 Eating Out Made Easy
Eating Out made easy Dining with a family requires extra planning and with over a hundred eating places around Queenstown we’ve narrowed down your search. All establishments listed are family-friendly and will go the extra mile to ensure you have a great experience. All have either children’s menus or children’s portions. Sample Menu Items – these are selections from the restaurant’s menu at time of print. They are intended as a guide only and menus or prices may change. For locations see map p4. Open Daytime
Open Evening
Toys/ Colouring
Takeaways Available
High Chair Available Outdoor Dining
THE BALLARAT TRADING CO.
We pride ourselves on our relaxed and fun dining experience, located in the heart of Queenstown. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, Ballarat is ideal whatever the weather – if it's sunny diners can enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of The Mall at our al fresco tables. Fun and family-friendly with a varied children's menu.
$5
KIDS MEALS INCLUDING A FREE FIZZY DRINK
EVERY DAY BETWEEN 5pm & 6:30pm With any main meal purchased
T&Cs apply
No.7 The Mall, Queenstown, NZ. (03) 442 4222. www.ballarat.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Sample Menu Items - all from $25 *Linguini, grilled courgette, oven-roasted cherry tomato sauce, garlic and chilli, crème fraîche, parmesan and rocket. * 250g Wakanui beef burger, bacon, cheese, jalapenos, onion rings, smokey BBQ sauce and beer fries. * Marlborough Sound salmon, with buttered baby potatoes, sautéed leek and cabbage and caviar buerre blanc. * Braised pork ribs, smokey BBQ glaze, coleslaw and fries. * A classic, the local butcher's bangers & mash. * New Zealand steaks; your choice of ribeye or fillet with potato gratin and sauté greens. Children’s Menu $13 * Spaghetti pasta * Classic Kiwiana fish & chips * Soup of the day * Kids' burger *Sandwich of the day Children’s meals include a free fizzy drink. The Mall, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 4222 Hours: midday til late www.ballarat.co.nz
STEAMER WHARF ~
ABSOLUTE LAKESIDE DINING TWO TOP FAMILY RESTAURANTS
PUBLIC KITCHEN AND BAR Serving good, honest kiwi fare that’s designed to be shared – our innovative menu offers so much choice you’ll have no worries pleasing the whole family! Sample and share an assortment of plates and ph 03 442 5969 enjoy our delectable desserts! noon-late 7 days What better way to bring the family together than steamer wharf around the table at Public Kitchen? queenstown
Sample menu items * sticky pork belly sticks * chickpea chips * squid rings * smoked cod croquettes * lamb kofta * Marty’s handmade sausage with lentil sauce * duck pancakes * char-grilled vegetable & filo tart * lemon and thyme chicken * chicken kiev * coconut ceviche * venison osso buco * braised beef cheeks with roasted cauliflower * pork loin with honey * green-lipped mussels and southern clams * Stewart Island blue cod * salmon and fried capers
www.publickitchen.co.nz
FINZ SEAFOOD AND GRILL Casual Relaxed Dining in the Heart of Queenstown Affordable, relaxed, very kid-friendly! Whilst offering some of the freshest seafood and fish in Queenstown, Finz will also tempt you with prime NZ beef, Southland lamb and free-range pork. Ingredients are selected by the chef owners from the wonderful array of premium produce on Queenstown’s doorstep. Finz has a great waterfront location where diners can watch the TSS Earnslaw head off on its evening cruise. Sample Menu Items * Fresh New Zealand oysters * Seafood chowder w/ smoked fish, mussels, cockles, squid $18 * Crispy battered blue cod fish ‘n’ chips $30 * Steamed green-lipped mussels $30 * Chargrilled Stewart Island salmon $34 * Seafood platter for two $105 * Sesame rolled tuna loin $30 * Smoky BBQ beef short ribs $34 * NZ rack of lamb $45 * Slow-cooked pork belly $32 * Pumpkin gnocchi with blue cheese $28 Children’s Menu $12 Choose from... fish ‘n’ chips, squid rings, spaghetti bolognese or mini hot dogs. $14 combo includes soft drink and ice cream sundae. ph 03 442 7405 5pm-late 7 days steamer wharf queenstown www.finzdownunder.co.nz
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Eating Out Made Easy The Ballarat Trading Co. Cosy booths or outdoor Mall dining. The Mall, Ballarat Street Phone: 03 442 4222 www.ballarat.co.nz Coalfire Barbecue Bar Dishes that carry that distinctive smoky flavour that comes from long slow hours over hot coals. The Mall, Ballarat Street Phone: 03 442 8439 www.coalfire.co.nz Erik's Fish n Chips Delicious food in Central Queenstown. Cooked fresh in healthy rice bran oil. Order online. Earl Street, Queenstown & Shotover Garden Centre, Frankton www.eriksfishandchips.co.nz Finz Seafood and Grill Absolute lakefront dining, affordable, relaxed and very kid-friendly! Steamer Wharf, Beach Street Phone: 03 442 7405 www.finzdownunder.co.nz Hell Pizza Gourmet pizzas with unique toppings. Also kids' pizzas, salads, pastas and awesome desserts. Dine-in, takeaway or order a delivery online. Searle Lane Phone: 0800 666 111 www.hell.co.nz Minami Jujisei An award-winning Japanese restaurant, small portions of mains plus a kids' menu. Beach Street Phone: 03 442 9854 www.minamijujisei.co.nz
FLAVOUR BY FIRE! Divine bites and tempting choices for the whole family
MINAMI JUJISEI JAPANESE RESTAURANT
An award-winning restaurant, bringing the best of Japan to Queenstown for over 29 years. Our innovative chefs serve a wide range of delicious traditional cuisine, mixed with modern influences to create a unique menu. Small portions of all mains available. Our semi-private dining rooms are ideal for birthday dinners or special occasions. Sample Menu Items * Sushi and sashimi from $5 * Tempura – choose vegetables, prawns or fish from $12 * Teriyaki chicken $14 / $27 * Deep fried chicken drizzled with special sauce and served with Japanese mayonnaise $14 / $27 * Yakizakana – slices of NZ king salmon fillet grilled and served with salad $30 * Seared scallops, Japanese style $17 / $30 * Venison steak $30 * Lamb fillet and ginger $30 Children’s Menu $10 Chicken sushi roll, egg omelette, chips, a choice of deep-fried chicken or tempura fish or deep-fried prawns.
OPEN 8am - late 15 Ballarat St, The Mall Queenstown 03 442 8439 www.KidzGo.co.nz
Kids' ice cream $2.50, Kids' soft drink $2.50 45 Beach Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 9854 Hours: daily 11.30am til 2pm and 5.30pm til late www.minamijujisei.co.nz
Eating Out Made Easy
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O'Connells International Food Court with enough variety to please everyone! Great value dining. Beach Street, 6.30am-late Pedro's House of Lamb The very best NZ lamb takeaway dish. Cnr Gorge Road/Hallenstein Streets Phone: 0800 695 262 www.pedros.co.nz Public Kitchen and Bar Lakeside dining ~ good, honest Kiwi fare that's designed to be shared. Steamer Wharf, Beach Street Phone: 03 442 5969 www.publickitchen.co.nz Winnies Gourmet Pizzas Relaxed, fun dining, gourmet pizza plus non-pizza options. The Mall, Ballarat Street Phone: 03 442 8635 www.winnies.co.nz SWEET TREATS Cookie Time Homemade, warm choc chip cookies. Camp Street, Queenstown Jelly Belly The gourmet jelly bean shop. Free samples! Skyline, Bob's Peak, Brecon Street, Queenstown Mrs Ferg Amazing gelato, awesome flavours. Also juices and desserts. Shotover Street, Queenstown Patagonia All things chocolate, including desserts and ice creams. Beach Street and Rees Street, Queenstown and Ramshaw Lane, Arrowtown The Remarkable Sweet Shop Largest selection of confectionery in New Zealand. Free fudge tastings. Beach Street, Queenstown and Buckingham Street, Arrowtown
HELLISHLY GOOD PIZZA!
6.30am – late
SHOPPING CENTRE CAMP STREET, QUEENSTOWN www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Family Shopping and Services
Family Shopping and Services ALL FOR KIDS The Baby and Child Retail Experts All For Kids is a small family-friendly company, focusing on providing you with all your family needs. We specialise in all-terrain travel systems, car seat options with fully-certified fitting and many more family favourites. We have an order-by-website facility, with options to meet by appointment. All For Kids has the pleasure of retailing Diono, Britax, Safety 1st, Evenflo, Edwards & Co and many more amazing brands. Phone: 021 883 755 Email: info@allforkids.co.nz www.allforkids.co.nz Whitcoulls Great range of children’s books, toys, games and puzzles, school stationary, arts and craft and more. Beach Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 901 0043 Remarkables Park Shopping Centre Phone: 03 901 0100 Lakes District Museum Stocking a diverse book selection for adults and children, from native New Zealand stories to cook books, activity books and more. Buckingham Street, Arrowtown Hours: daily, 8.30am-5pm Phone: 03 442 1824
KIDS LOOP ARROWTOWN Your one-stop children’s store! We carry a unique combination of everything you need for your kids from premature to 12 years. Kids Loop Arrowtown sources from leading designers and offers a selection of quality New Zealand-designed products and European brands that you would rarely find anywhere under the same roof. Stocking buggies, carriers, portacots, swimwear, rainwear, clothing, footwear and accessories, books, games, toys, teddies and so much more… 50 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown Phone: 03 442 0580 Hours: daily, 9.30am-5.30pm Email: kidsloopnz@gmail.com www.kidsloop.co.nz Mention this Kidz Go ad and receive a FREE Gift when you shop at Kids Loop Arrowtown FRESH CHOICE – FREE FRUIT FOR KIDS! Looking after you while you shop... parents and caregivers are welcome to help themselves to a piece of fresh fruit for their children from the basket located in the produce department, for while they are shopping ...no charge! 64 Gorge Road, Queenstown Phone: 03 441 1252 Hours: open daily from 7am to 11pm www.freshchoice.co.nz
The only full range supermarket in town, for everything you need during your stay. • Email your order and pick up or we can deliver to you (fees apply).
Open 7am - 11pm, 7 days. 64 Gorge Road, Queenstown. Phone (03) 441 1252. Email fc.queenstown@xtra.co.nz
QUEENSTOWN www.KidzGo.co.nz
FreshChoice.co.nz FreshChoiceNZ
Owned and operated by locals
FREE FRUIT for Kids
Family Shopping and Services
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ROCKIES Rockies is a children’s boutique where children can channel their personalities and individuality through illustrious and niche fashion labels. Stocking brands such as Minti, Munster, Rock Your Kid, Billabong and Seafolly – It’s impossible to leave empty-handed. Rockies can not only adorn your kids in a perfectly chic outfit for any occasion with complimentary accessories, they can also provide them with the highest quality snow wear and accessories for the slopes. Find all you need for your little fashionista or prince charming from our enviable range of recognised footwear brands such as Converse, Vans, Skechers, Melissa’s and Bobux. Check out the collection in store or shop online at www.rockies.co.nz 49 Beach Street, Queenstown Hours: 7 days, 9am-9pm Phone: 03 442 8153 Email: shopping@rockies.co.nz www.rockies.co.nz Remarkables Park Shopping Centre Bigger and better than ever! Everything you need in one easy location! Excellent shopping, lots of eateries and plenty of parking. See ad this page. Hawthorne Drive, Frankton Salvation Army Family Store Second-hand clothing and shoes for children and adults, books, toys, furniture and other household goods. Gorge Road, Queenstown. Donations welcome. Phone: 03 442 9661 Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 10am-4.30pm
Summer gear for babies through to teenagers, with shoes, accessories and toys! 49 Beach Street, Queenstown Hours daily 9am-9pm Shop online at www.rockies.co.nz
O’Connells Shopping Centre This centrally-located complex includes fashion, souvenirs, sports apparel, hair and beauty, homewares, wine, outdoor gear, pharmacy and services such as internet, watch repairs and more…plus an international food court. Hours: daily, 9am 'til late O’Connells Shopping Centre, cnr Camp and Beach Street
Your one-stop kids’ shop creative educational inspirational
Check out our Facebook page to see whats on at Remarkables Shopping Centre!
Over 800 Car parks, on the bus route, close to Frankton, the airport and 10 minutes from Queenstown!
Huge range of toys Games and puzzles Art and craft supplies Books and magazines Cards, presents and wrapping Much more than just a bookstore 24 Beach Street, Central Queenstown Phone 03 901 0043
Frankton
Queenstown
Opening Hours 9am - 6pm Restaurants until 9pm kidz.remarkablesparktowncentre.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Wanaka
Wanaka
This idyllic family destination is situated on New Zealand’s fourth largest lake with the mountains and glaciers of Mount Aspiring National Park on its doorstep. Activities include jet boating the Clutha River, kayaking and paddleboarding (SUP), family-friendly bike tracks, horseriding, climbing, lake swimming, family walks, toy museum, the Warbirds and Wheels museum and the famous Puzzling World. Wanaka used to be called Pembroke, after a British Colonial Secretary, and was renamed Wanaka in 1940. Wanaka is an altered form of Oanaka – meaning ‘place of Anaka’ in Māori. (Anaka was an early Māori chief ). Lake Hawea Just 10 minutes drive from Wanaka is one of the most unspoilt townships on the planet. Lake Hawea is a tiny settlement with lots of safe swimming spots and fantastic family-friendly walking and biking tracks alongside the lake. Hire bikes at the Lake Hawea Holiday Park, get the boat out and go fishing, enjoy lunch at the local café or stay over and enjoy an idyllic family break.
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STUART LANDSBOROUGH’S PUZZLING WORLD Welcome to Wanaka’s wonderful world of weirdness! For over forty years Puzzling World has been baffling brains in the Great Maze and challenging reality in the Illusion Rooms. Take amazing photos, enjoy the Puzzle Centre, café and gift shop and visit New Zealand’s most incredible public toilets! Offering a great day out for all ages, Puzzling World provides affordable, world-unique entertainment making it a “must-see” addition to your NZ itinerary. Main Highway, Wanaka, 3 minutes drive from town centre. Phone: 03 443 7489 Hours: daily from 8.30am. Last admission 5.30pm Illusion Rooms PLUS Great Maze: Adult $20, Child $14, Family $61 (2 adults + 2 children) Illusion Rooms OR Great Maze: Adult $16, Child $12 (Child is 5-15 years) Email: info@puzzlingworld.co.nz www.puzzlingworld.co.nz
Wanaka :: Activities
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CINEMA PARADISO Cinema – Café – Bar This is how all cinemas should be and a must-do during your stay in Wanaka. This twin-screen, classic movie theatre is a Wanaka icon – seating includes comfy old sofas, lazy-boys and even a Morris Minor! The atmosphere is friendly and very relaxed with onsite licensed café serving delicious meals, pizza, homemade ice cream and warm cookies – all available to enjoy before, during or after your movie. Showing new and latest releases, call us now or check our website for current features. 72 Brownston Street, Wanaka Reservations/Enquiries: 03 443 1505 Hours: 7 days from 10am Email: info@paradiso.net.nz www.paradiso.net.nz CLIP ‘N CLIMB, BASECAMP WANAKA Min age 3 BOOK ONLINE! These colourful, funky climbing walls are awesome entertainment for kids and adults – our automatic belays mean no one has to manage the rope – just clip in and climb, then let the machine lower you gently back down! Everyone can climb at the same time and no experience is necessary. Staff supervise each session, but children require an adult to be present and help clip them in. Sessions start on the hour and bookings are required. No minimum number is required so if you’re not climbing yourself come and watch the kids have fun! Ideal for birthday parties. We also have a sport climbing wall onsite. 50 Cardrona Valley Road, Wanaka Phone: 03 443 1110 Hours: 12pm-8pm weekdays, 10am-6pm weekends From 10am daily during school and public holidays. Prices for Clip ’N Climb: 18 years and up $20, 10-17 years $16, 5-9 years $13, 3-4 years $10 E: climb@basecampwanaka.co.nz www.basecampwanaka.co.nz
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Wanaka :: Activities
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Jurassic
$79 FAMILY PASS
SAFARI
$69 PER BUGGY
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INFO/BOOK NOW
TEL: +64 (0)3 445 4052 INFO@HIGHLANDS.CO.NZ H I GH L A N DS .CO . N Z FREE PH: 0508 4444 526 (HIGHLANDS)
Go-Karts – choose single or tandem Go-Karts. 10-minute session: $39 (single), $49 (tandem). Single driver: min age 10 years Tandem drive: min age16 years (height restrictions apply). Tandem passenger: min age 6 years (height restrictions apply). Highlands Jurassic Safari: Only $79 per family (2 adults & up to 3 children) Safari Buggy Adventure: $69 per two-seater buggy. Drivers must have license. Passenger minimum age 8 years. Famous Highlands High-Speed Taxi Sample the circuit at speed in our Porsche Cayenne Taxi – great for the whole family! $120 for one to four people. Highlands Museum Family $50 (2 adult +up to 3 children) ‘Friends of Highlands' Family annual pass $149 – over $230 of value plus unlimited Highlands entry. Adrenalin activity on track – choose from FASTLaps in a Porsche GT3, U-drive in a Radical or a V8 Muscle Car or a Fast Dash in a McLaren Supercar. Prices vary. Corner SH6 and Sandflat Road, Cromwell Phone: 0508 HIGHLANDS (444 452 637) www.highlands.co.nz Visit us on Facebook
BOOK NOW: 027 261 2277
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www.KidzGo.co.nz
HIGHLANDS GO KARTS & JURASSIC ADVENTURES The ultimate destination for the whole family! Have a blast on the Go-Karts, take a Jurassic Dinosaur Safari, explore on a U-Drive Off Road Safari Buggy Adventure, choose from 6 high-speed circuit thrills, visit the Wacky Sculpture Park & interactive Museum.
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AIRSHED It’s all in the way you bounce! Airshed is a custom-made indoor and outdoor 'Jump Centre' of trampolines and airbags. Wanaka’s newest family activity is the most fun you can have on two feet (or in the air!). With our qualified air instructors you can learn the basics and progress to the next level of performance and tricks, or just have fun and play! No experience is required. Bring the family on our awesome value $50 pass and come bounce today! Other activities onsite: indoor bouldering (included in entry price) and outdoor laser tag ($5 per person). 28 Reece Cresent, Wanaka Phone: 027 261 2277 Hours: Monday-Friday 12 noon-7pm or later on request, Saturday/Sunday 10am-7pm or later on request The Airshed is open 10am-7pm every day during the holidays Price: 5 years and over – 1 hour $16.50, 2 hours $25 Under 5 years – 1 hour $10, 2 hours $16 Parent & Tot – 1 hour $14, 2 hours $20 Family Pass (4 people) – 1 hour $50 Multi-session discounts and season passes available. *Spectators can visit our upstairs lounge area with games and WiFi – all FREE! Book online, ring for session times, or just drop in and check out our facility. Birthday Parties – call now for our great packages. Email: wanaka@theairshed.co.nz www.theairshed.co.nz
GET ON THE LAKE WITH US Kayak The Mission! This trip is for families who want to give their kids the gift of exploring by kayak on one of the world's most beautiful lakes! We suggest 3-4 hours to easily complete your fully-supported, self-guided adventure, allowing time to stop for a snack or swim at one of the many beaches along the way. Guided tours also available. Kayak The Mission $85pp or Family 2A/2C $249
Beach Rentals Join us on Wanaka lakefront and choose from paddleboards, sit-on-top kayaks and sea kayaks. We have a designated safe zone for our one-hour rentals that gives you plenty of space to have fun and explore, yet is ideal with children or those wishing for an easy, casual kayak or paddleboard experience. Beach Rentals from $20pp under 13yrs half price.
Paddleboard Lessons Discover the fun of Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP). Anyone can do it and it's a great fun activity for children, either on their own (depending on age) or with you on your board. We provide freedom hire, fun one-hour lessons, guided SUP excursions or even paddleboard yoga classes! Paddleboard lessons Family 2A/2C $100 1.5hrs
Open Daily 9am - 6pm on the waterfront opposite corner of Ardmore St and Dungarvon St. Look for our logo on the van!
Ph 0800 926 925 www.paddlewanaka.co.nz
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Wanaka :: Activities
GUIDED FAMILY ROCK CLIMBING ADVENTURES KIDS FROM $99
s.co.nz adventure www.rock 2 / +64 27 306 5888 2 0800 227 3
What you lookin at?...
visit, explore, imagine... National Transport & Toy Museum Open Daily: 8.30am - 5pm Next to Wanaka Airport, State Highway 6 T: 64 3 443 8765, E: museum@lakewanaka.co.nz
www. nttmuseum .co.nz
Looking for something fun for all the family? Visit New Zealand’s finest collection of warbirds planes and over 30 classic cars. - Retail Shop – Sir Tim Wallis Story - Plus 1950’s Diner Wanaka Airport, 9km from Wanaka on SH6 Ph: (03) 443 7010 | www.warbirdsandwheels.com
www.KidzGo.co.nz
BASECAMP ROCK ADVENTURES Basecamp Rock Adventures is the best way to get the whole family rock climbing – tailored to your requirements and catering to your different skills and abilities. We'll introduce you to a fantastic climbing venue, perfect for families and non-climbing spectators, where our qualified staff will ensure you have a fun day on the rock! Whether you're all new to it or just want to introduce the kids to how much fun this sport can be, Basecamp Rock Adventures is the way up (or down – abseil adventures available also). 50 Cardrona Valley Road, Wanaka Phone: 0800 227 322 Price (half day): Adult $149, Child $99 Birthday (half day): 4 children $399, 6 children $599, 10 children $899 Email: bookings@rockadventures.co.nz www.rockadventures.co.nz NATIONAL TRANSPORT AND TOY MUSEUM Prepare to be amazed! The whole family will be surprised and delighted by this unique and fascinating collection of over 70,000 items – from children’s toys, including a huge range of Barbies and an exciting Star Wars collection to unusual motorcycles and rare cars, bikes, fire appliances and aircraft. Kids will love our interactive pedal cars, plane and anti-aircraft guns while the nearby picnic and playground area also features swings and play equipment. Don't miss our HUGE toy shop (see p67). SH6, Main Wanaka-Queenstown road (via Cromwell) (10 mins from town centre, beside Wanaka airport) Phone: 03 443 8765 Hours: daily, 8.30am-5pm Price: Adult $17, Senior 65+ $15, Child $5, under 5 years FREE Family $40 (2 adults + up to 4 children) Email: museum@lakewanaka.co.nz www.nttmuseum.co.nz WARBIRDS AND WHEELS Don’t miss this unique chance to discover a world-class collection of over 35 American classic cars and incredible vintage warbirds aircraft! Immaculate and beautifully presented, this famous Wanaka collection – alongside stories and photography of the daring escapades of wartime pilots – will enthral and impress everyone. Our warbirds-themed retail shop offers memorabilia, toys and souvenirs you and the kids will love and to top it off the child-friendly licensed diner at Warbirds & Wheels features a 1950s themed décor, great food, famous Warbirds pies and the best milkshakes in town! Lloyd Dunn Avenue, Wanaka (10 mins from town centre, at Wanaka airport) Phone: 03 443 7010 Hours: daily, 9am -5pm (diner open from 8am) Price: Adult $20, Child $5 (5-15 years), Family $45 (family is 2 adult + unlimited children of the same family) Under 5s go FREE. www.warbirdsandwheels.com
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY WITH LAKELAND ADVENTURES JET BOATING, BEACH & BIKE HIRE
WANAKA JET BOATING AT ITS BEST
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Lakeland Adventures Wanaka has plenty to offer, from jet boating the mighty Clutha River to kayaking on the lake or hitting the bike trails. Other options include lake cruises and fishing trips. Clutha River Jet Boating: Adult $119, Child $55 Beach Toys, Kayaks and Bikes: hire from $25 per family Phone 03 443 7495 Find us at the Log Cabin on the waterfront, 100 Ardmore St
www.lakelandadaventures.co.nz
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Wanaka :: Activities WANAKA POOL Swim, relax and play at the Wanaka Pool. Open all year round, our 25m, 6 lane, heated indoor pool is perfect for having a splash, lap swimming or aquafit classes! Visit Wanaka Pool for affordable, family fun. Learn-to- Swim classes are available for pre-school and school-aged children, with free swim assessments. Swimwear retail onsite. Large outdoor grassy picnic and BBQ area available for you to use and enjoy! 121 Plantation Road (beside Mount Aspiring College) Phone: 03 443 9334 Hours: Monday-Friday, 6am-8pm, Saturday and Sunday, 12pm-6pm Pool admission price: Adult $5, Child $3, Family $14 (2 adults + 2 children) Email: wanakapool@qldc.govt.nz http://sportrec.qldc.govt.nz/swim
SPOT THE ! E DIFFERENC
CARDRONA HORSE TREKKING Experience a high country horse ride on our spotted Appaloosas. Comfy western saddles are easy to hold on to! 26 years in the Cardrona Valley. find us on Trip Advisor
BACKCOUNTRY SADDLE EXPEDITIONS Adult $90, Child $70 Ph 03 443 8151 Freephone 0800 4 SADDLES backcountrysaddles.co.nz
PAINTBALL CENTRAL Min age 7 Ultimate action adventure that can be played with a minimum of two players. With three exciting courses and 14 different games you can tailor your mission to suit your family or group. Paintball is fun, fast and as action-packed as you want! Play on 10 acres of courses or make your way through Shantytown! Note: children under 18 years must be accompanied by adults at or on the field. We require a ratio of max four children aged 7-15 years to one adult, and younger children must be fully-supervised. Bannockburn, Cromwell Bookings essential: 027 448 5399 Open: daylight to dusk – game times arranged on booking Duration: 2 hours Price: $35 per person for basic game (includes 100 shots, gun, overalls and mask) Email: paintballcentral@xtra.co.nz www.paintballcentral.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
BACKCOUNTRY SADDLE EXPEDITIONS Min age 5 26 years in the Cardrona Valley Your horse trek adventure starts in the gorgeous Cardrona Valley – experienced riders or first-timers alike will love our friendly Appaloosa (spotted) horses fitted with comfortable western saddles (easy to hold on to!) and our rides that explore historic goldmining valleys, splash through streams, then climb up to the high country with towering mountains as your backdrop. Our horses’ calm natures have seen us carry children as young as five and we adjust each ride to the age, experience and ability of your family. NEW LOCATION – 2130 Cardrona Valley, Wanaka Directly opposite Snow Farm entrance Phone: 03 443 8151 (bookings essential) Freephone: 0800 4 SADDLES (0800 4 723 3537) Departs: 10am and 1.30pm year round (minimum 2 riders) Duration: 2 hours Price: Adult $90, Child $70 Email: nzbse@xtra.co.nz www.backcountrysaddles.co.nz KT TRANSPORT AND SIGHTSEEING TOURS Specializing in personalized sightseeing tours – with years of local experience. Our drivers know the local area's best kept secrets, and will ensure you have a tour that suits your family. We can take you to the most scenic walks, secret beaches, perfect photo spots, local attractions, vineyards for lunch... and more! Wherever your mood takes you, whenever you want to go, just sit back and let us guide you in our luxury, 6 seater vehicles that can go just about anywhere. From one hour to the whole day. See us for taxi service, airport transfers and walking/ biking track transfers. Phone: 03 443 9368 / 021 159 3085 Freephone: 0800 4 KT SIGHTS (0800 4 58 744487) Hours: 7 days Email: info@ktsightseeing.co.nz www.ktsightseeing.co.nz
Wanaka :: Birthday Parties and Shopping
BIRTHDAY PARTY IDEAS Airshed 027 261 2277 Exclusive use of bounce and bouldering facility plus laser tag game for one hour, plus one hour of party and mezzanine time – just $195 for up to 14 children. Basecamp Rock Adventures 0800 227 322 Half-day birthday climbing adventure for four, six or ten children. Please call for more information. Clip ‘N Climb 03 443 1110 Get your wee one and their mates active on their next birthday at Clip 'n Climb. Prices from $10 per head. Highlands 03 445 4052 Go-Karts, dirt buggies, balance bikes and the Highlands Adventure Park. Contact: functions@highlands.co.nz Paintball Central 027 448 5399 With 3 courses and 14 different games this is a brilliant and energetic birthday party group activity. Puzzling World 03 443 7489 Special rates for the birthday group, large party booth, snack packs and plenty of birthday fun! Download your party invites free from the Puzzling World website. Transport and Toy Museum 03 443 8765 Amazing deal for locals – a $40 family pass price will cover you for for up to 15 party people (children or adults). Plus you can bring your own food and cake!
BIRTHDAY PARTIES
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Family Shopping and Services WANAKA BABY Wanaka Baby can provide you with a quality selection of prams, front and back packs, cots, gender and age specific toys, highchairs and everything else in between. Phone: 03 443 9224 www.wanakababy.co.nz PUZZLING WORLD SHOP Puzzling World offers one of the largest puzzle gift shops in the country. With NZ-made wooden puzzles, string puzzles, brain teasers and metal creations plus the latest family games, all ages and stages are covered. A wide range of Illusion postcards, posters and books are available, along with tourist collectables, illusion t-shirts and oddities found only at Puzzling World! We offer a world-wide postage service and a large online gift shop for those with no room left in their suitcases. Main Highway, Wanaka, 3 minutes drive from town centre Phone: 03 443 7489 See ad page 61. Email: info@puzzlingworld.co.nz www.puzzlingworld.co.nz NATIONAL TRANSPORT AND TOY MUSEUM SHOP Find Wanaka’s biggest toy shop at the entrance to the Transport and Toy Museum. Stockists of a large selection of collectable car and tractor models, as well as a wide range of toys and souvenirs, diecast car models and the new “Our Generation” Dolls and accessories. Discover plastic model kit sets, Playmobil, a large Sylvanian Families range, Barbie, Thomas the Tank Engine, Siku, Tonka and Bruder toys – and quality birthday presents under $20. See ad page 64. SH6, Main Wanaka-Queenstown road (via Cromwell) (10 mins from town centre, beside Wanaka airport) Phone: 03 443 8765 Hours: 7 days, 8.30am-5pm www.nttmuseum.co.nz
Other Help For Parents
BOOK NOW: 027 261 2277 als! Party De of activities Experience loads & fun at Puzzling World!
Call us to discuss how d’s we can make your chil birthday extra special!
d.co.nz www.puzzlingworl naka Wa , 89 74 3 44 P: 03
Police / Fire / Ambulance Dial 111 Police Station 5 Ballantyne Rd 03 443 7272 Library Bullock Creek, Dunmore St 03 443 0410 Post Office Ardmore Street 03 443 8211 Wanaka Lakes Health Centre 23 Cardrona Valley Road 03 443 0432 Plunket 51 Ardmore Street 03 443 8799 Wanaka Kids' Club www.waspwanaka.co.nz After-school care, holiday adventures, activity transport. Ages 5-13 years. Holidays and teacher-only days, 8.30am-5.30pm Wanaka Toy Library Toys for 0-6 years. 027 777 4252 Hours: Tues 7.30pm-8.30pm & Fri + Sat 9.30am-11am 3 Reece Crescent Kahu Youth Providing programs, activities, events and a fun, safe, base for young people aged 11 to 24 years in Wanaka. After-school and school holiday sessions. www kahuyouth.org www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Wanaka :: Walks and Family Biking Wanaka Lakefront to Lake Hawea Wanaka Lakefront to Lake Outlet Easy – 2 hours return (walk) This flat and wide track skirts the marina and then follows around the back of the yacht club to Eely Point. Continue along the beach to Bremner Bay and you’ll see the start of the Clutha River – Lake Wanaka’s outlet. Finish up at the Outlet near the campground (where you can buy ice creams) – a great picnic spot. Lake Outlet to Albert Town Easy/Med – 2 hours return (walk) This is one of our favourite sections simply because the Clutha River is so gorgeous and such different scenery from the lake. Park right at the start of the track near the Lake Outlet Holiday Park along Anderson Road. The track is slightly more narrow and undulating but certainly fine for bikers of all ages. Albert Town to Lake Hawea Easy/Med – 4 hours return (walk) An easy, well-formed 10km track that follows the Hawea River to Lake Hawea. Slightly undulating but overall very easy walking and biking for all ages.
Wanaka Walks and Family Biking
WANAKA LAKESIDE TRACKS You can bike or walk all the way from Glendhu Bay to Lake Hawea or Luggate via Wanaka township, along gorgeous, well-formed and very scenic tracks. Choose a section of track (some are completely flat and others more challenging), take a family walk or bike ride, and dip down into one of the hundreds of beautiful coves and picnic spots along the way. Note: times are estimated walking times Family Bike with children.
Hire
LAKELAND ADVENTURES
MOUNT IRON TRACK Moderate – 1½ hour loop Mount Iron is a glacier-carved hill, visible from anywhere in Wanaka. Well worth the climb, the summit provides panoramic views. The access track is well signposted 2km from Wanaka, near Puzzling World, along State Highway 6. Not suitable for bikes.
Wanaka Lakefront to Log Cabin, Lakefront, Wanaka Glendhu Bay 03 443 7495 Millennium Track to Waterfall Creek LAKE OUTLET HOLIDAY PARK Carpark Outlet Road, Wanaka Easy – 2 hours return (walk) 03 443 7478 Starting from town, follow the walking LAKE HAWEA HOLIDAY PARK track with the lake on your right. This SH 6, Lake Hawea track is perfect with littlies, completely ROB ROY TRACK 03 443 1767 / 0800 525 322 flat and quite wide. Buggy-friendly. Moderate – 3-4 hours return Waterfall Creek Carpark to Start from the Raspberry Flat carpark, Glendhu Bay an hour’s drive from Wanaka on the Mount Aspiring Part I: Med – 2 hours return (walk) Road. Fifteen minute flat walk to a swing bridge then a Part II: Med/Hard – 3 hours return (walk) moderate climb to the head of the valley and see great The first section is more undulating as you follow the views of Rob Roy Glacier. Not suitable for bikes. lake round to a secluded bay. Mountain bikers will find this just slightly harder going but not technical and DIAMOND LAKE definitely still great for families. You reach a turn off ROCKY MOUNTAIN WALKING TRACK Hard – 1½-3 hrs where you can choose to dip down to the lake shore, 25 mins drive west of Wanaka, along the Mount Aspiring or follow the track to Glendhu Bay. From here the track Road. The entire track takes around 3 hours return and becomes more technical in places with several steep the views from the summit are stunning. For a shorter undulations. The views are stunning as you climb above walk take the return track to the Lake Wanaka viewpoint. the lake, then dip down to the shore. Not suitable for bikes. Note: the track is steep and uneven in parts – not suited to poor weather conditions. THE PLANTATION AND STICKY
FOR
EST Near Lake Outlet Motor Camp you’ll find a pine forest with a network of well-built and main single tracks. The tracks are grad tained ed and suitable for young teen s and up, with some experienc e. LISMORE JUMP PARK An awesome jump park with some hair-raising challenges – come and hang out and watc experts, or prac tice your bike h the tricks on some of the smaller jumps. Off Plantation Road.
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Wanaka :: Eating Out Made Easy
Warbirds and Wheels diner
Wanaka Eating Out
WARBIRDS AND WHEELS RETRO DINER A unique dining experience the whole family will love, with lots to keep them entertained! Step back in time when you enter our sunny licensed diner - with its 1950's themed decor, imported retro furniture, a Wurlitzer juke box and 1959 Harley Davidson Panhead motorbike. Explore in the Warbirds and Wheels museum or browse for a quirky gift in our shop. All that PLUS great food, great atmosphere and the best milkshakes in town! 11 Lloyd Dunn Avenue, Wanaka Airport, 10 mins drive from town centre. Phone: 03 443 7010 Hours: daily, 8am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and ANZAC Day). www.warbirdsandwheels.com
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CINEMA PARADISO CAFÉ Cinema, Café, Bar A perfect hang-out spot whether or not you’re off to the movies! Serving scrumptious cakes and slices, great coffee, irresistible ice cream (try our ‘fish and chips’ ice cream – really!), wedges, salads, gourmet burgers, seriously good pizza and lots more! Open every day and central enough to make a great meeting spot. Sit back and enjoy the Paradiso Café and Cinema experience. Fully-licensed, serving local beers and wines. 72 Brownston Street, Wanaka Phone: 03 443 1505 Hours: daily from 10am www.paradiso.net.nz PUZZLING WORLD CAFÉ Sandwiches, wraps, salad and other savoury or sweet treats along with puzzles galore are here to sustain and entertain you! Main Highway, Wanaka, 3 minutes drive from town centre Phone: 03 443 7489 www.puzzlingworld.co.nz RED STAR BURGER BAR Specialising in gourmet, handmade burgers and local craft beers. Over 25 awesome burgers to choose from plus creative daily specials and a kids' burger menu. Also serving delicious salads, shakes and real fruit smoothies. 26 Ardmore Street, Wanaka Phone: 03 443 9322 (phone orders welcome) Hours: daily from 11.30am See our menu and order online at: www.redstarburgers.co.nz
Step back in time with our 1950’s American Diner Atomic coffee / Freshly baked goodies / Pies / Full diner menu / Local wines and beers Wanaka Airport, 9km from Wanaka on SH6 Ph: (03) 443 7010 www.warbirdsandwheels.com
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park Named for the 14 fiords that carve into its western coastline and the three freshwater fiords of Lake Te Anau, Fiordland is the work of over 500 million years of constant sculpting by glaciers and water. Fiordland contains some of the most dramatic scenery in the world, including Milford and Doubtful Sound, and is home to the Milford, Routeburn and Kepler Great Walks. At 12,500 square kilometres, Fiordland is New Zealand’s largest National Park and has been designated a World Heritage Area for its unique landscapes.
Te Anau
The name Te Anau is of Mâori origin (Te Ana-au), meaning ‘rushing waters in a cave’. Te Anau’s actual caves were lost in Mâori legend until being rediscovered by a European explorer in the 1940s. At 12,000 years old, they are relatively young and are still being formed by water action. These days they’re famous for the glowworm grotto deep inside which you can explore with Real Journeys. Te Anau is a perfect place to ‘stay and play’ for a few days whilst exploring Fiordland National Park. Situated on the shore of Lake Te Anau only two hours’ drive from Queenstown, this pretty lakeside community bustles with cafés, shops and accommodation. Local activities include jet boating, fishing, visiting the magical world of the glowworm caves, taking a cruise on gorgeous Lake Te Anau and discovering the inland fiords, horseriding and exploring numerous family-friendly walking and biking tracks. If you want to trek further afield the 'Great Walks' – Milford, Kepler and Routeburn multi-day tracks depart from here, while the world-famous Milford and Doubtful Sounds are just a day trip away.
Manapouri
Originally called Roto-au (the rainy lake) by early Mâori and then Moturau (many islands), Lake Manapouri (Lake of the Sorrowing Heart) is the second deepest in New Zealand and the gateway to Doubtful Sound. Dotted with over 30 small islands, it also has the enviable reputation as New Zealand's prettiest lake. You will travel across Lake Manapouri on our Doubtful Sounds excursions (see p80). Manapouri township is a 20 minute drive from Te Anau.
Glowworm Caves, Lake Te Anau
Lake Te Anau
Key Summit, Milford Road
Pearl Harbour, Manapouri
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Fiordland and Te Anau
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A Sound or a Fiord? Fiord (also spelled fjord): a long, narrow inlet caused by glacial erosion. A fiord forms when, over millions of years, a glacier has carved a U-shaped valley through abrasion of surrounding bedrock. When the glacier melts, the resulting valley fills with seawater and a fiord is formed.
Milford Sound (is a fiord)
Sound: a large sea inlet, often formed by the sinking of a river valley below sealevel and subsequent flooding. This produces a long inlet with sloping sides, such as the Marlborough Sounds, in the north of the South Island. Freshwater Fiords of Lake Te Anau: sometimes a freshwater lake has formed in a glacially-carved valley, resulting in freshwater fiords. Our local examples are the inland fiords of Lake Te Anau (which can be explored with Cruise Te Anau). The naming of these is not very creative: North Fiord, Middle Fiord and South Fiord! They are NZ's only inland fiords – the other 14 are on the coast.
Marlborough Sounds
Interestingly, the freshwater fiords are the only correctly named ones – all the rest were named Sounds over 100 years ago in error. Although this has never been corrected, the region was named Fiordland to recognise the true nature of its amazing fiords.
South Fiord, Lake Te Anau
To Manapouri 22kms
Te Anau
LAKE TE ANAU
Bird Sanctuary
1 To the Glowworm Caves
Yacht Club
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DOC
Ivon Wilson Park
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Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre
Southern Discoveries Info Ctre Quintin Drive
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Te Anau Memorial Park
Miro St
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Fergus Square Quill Street
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Henry Street
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Lions Park Go Orange Cruises & Info Ctre
Moana Crescent
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3 Town Centre
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Lakefront Drive
Homer Street
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Pop Andrew Drive
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Howden Street Swimming Pool
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Govan Drive
To Milford Sound 120km (2 hours)
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Departures for Real Journey and Go Orange Doubtful Sound experiences.
Eglinton
Bligh Street
Melland
Pearl Harbour w Vie
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Manapouri
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Sutherland Street
Luxmore Drive
To Mossburn 60km Queenstown 170km
1 to Glowworm Caves 2 Cruise Te Anau departs 3 The Moose 4 Red Tussock Motel 5 Kepler Restaurant 6 Te Anau Top10 7 Alpine View Motel 8 Explorer Motel 9 The Ranch Restaurant 10 to Fiordland Horsetreks Visitor Information Te Anau Library Skateboard Park Public Toilets (with babychanging)
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Fiordland and Te Anau
Discover magnificent South Fiord, Lake Te Anau!
ADULT $90 CHILD $25 Departs lake waterfront: 10am,1pm,5pm 3 hour duration bookings 03 249 8005 www.cruiseteanau.co.nz GO ORANGE CYCLE TE ANAU Min age 10 Explore Te Anau by bike with us! It’s the perfect remedy for too much car time and a family adventure that will introduce you to our beautiful backyard while riding family-friendly bike trails. You’ll ride an idyllic lakeside bike track to our first stop – the Bird Sanctuary, where you get to meet the superrare Takahē in the flesh! Visit the stunning Ivon Wilson park with its purpose-built, easy mountain bike trails and on our longer ride venture towards Manapouri alongside the mighty Wairau River. Fully-guided with comfortable mountain bikes provided. Electric bikes also available (extra cost). 21 Town Centre, Te Anau Phone: 03 249 8585 Freephone: 0800 24 66 72 Trail Taster – 2 hours Departs: daily, 4pm Price: Adult $65, Child $35 (child is 10-14) Trail Blazer – 4 hours Departs: daily, 9am (includes picnic lunch) Price: Adult $95, Child $35 (child is 10-14) Email: info@GoOrange.nz www.goorange.co.nz LIONS PARK and LAKEFRONT Lions Park is where you go if you like swings and slides. It's also right on the lakefront and just round the corner from the main street. On nearby Mokonui St you'll find mini golf, quadricycle and bike hire, and If you keep going around the lakefront you get to the marina where there is another playground. www.KidzGo.co.nz
CRUISE TE ANAU – DISCOVERY CRUISE Discover South Fiord – Lake Te Anau! Leave the crowds behind, bring the family aboard and explore Lake Te Anau with your own knowledgeable guide and get truly close to nature. Your guide will take you to hidden corners of NZ’s second largest lake and exploring on a gentle bush / nature walk to the hidden lakes. There’s nothing quite like life on the water on this personalised tour (maximum 12 passengers) and when the lake is in stunning Fiordland the experience is unforgettable! Ask about our wilderness adventures with jet boat and float plane combinations. Phone: 03 249 8005 Departs: Lake Te Anau waterfront, main wharf Departure Times: 10am and 1pm year-round plus 5pm December to March (minimum passenger numbers may apply). Duration: 3 hours Price: Adult $90, Child $25 (child is 5-14 years) Email: info@cruiseteanau.co.nz www.cruiseteanau.co.nz MV Carousel is available for private charter for fishing, picnic, customised or overnight cruises. FIORDLAND HORSETREKS Westray Adventures Te Anau Take a guided ride with Te Anau’s most family-friendly stables, catering for beginners and under 5s to experienced adults. Beginners will feel safe and well looked-after on our friendly, tranquil horses while we offer horses with more spirit for the experienced. Enjoy the amazing scenery of the Te Anau basin, lakes, mountains and fiords from horseback. Snack included. For your added peace of mind our guides can take young children on the horse with them (at guide’s discretion). 55 Ramparts Rd, Te Anau (5 mins drive, free transport available) Phone: 03 249 9079 Departs: 9am, 1pm and 4.30pm Duration: up to 2 hours including safety briefing Price: $120 Email: info@fiordlandhorsetreks.com www.fiordlandhorsetreks.com TE ANAU GLOWWORM CAVES Visiting the Glowworm Caves on the isolated western shores of Lake Te Anau is a fascinating experience. Join our Nature Guide to explore a mysterious underground world of sculpted rock and rushing water, before drifting into a cavern of silence beneath the shimmering glowworms. Departs: daily from Lakefront Drive, Te Anau Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes Price: Adult from $81, Child $22 Phone: 0800 65 65 01 www.realjourneys.co.nz Ask about our KIDS GO FREE promotion during NZ School Holidays.
Fiordland and Te Anau
Walking & BikingTracks Note, times given are based on walking.
Te Anau – Control Gates via Te Anau Wildlife Centre Easy 1½ hour return Follow the lakefront path with the lake on your right to walk around to the start of the Kepler Track, passing the DOC centre and the Te Anau Wildlife Centre/Bird Sanctuary. Control Gates – Brod Bay Easy 3 hours return Experience an easy introduction to one of NZ's great walks on the start of the Kepler Track. The track from the Control Gates follows the lake shore through mountain and beech forest. You pass through Dock Bay first – a great summer swim spot with toilet facilities. No biking. Te Anau Lakefront Track Easy 2 hour loop Follow the lakeside path with the lake on your left. The path is wide and ideal for family biking (the above tracks have a lot of walkers so this one is better with the bikes). Fantastic views of the lake and mountains and endless beaches to stop and play at. The track loops round and back into town via the main highway.
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Ivon Wilson Park Easy walking Attractive 35 hectare park with lots of walking tracks and Lake Henry in the middle – the lake, stocked with brook trout, has been developed as a children’s fishery. Mountain Biking: a popular addition to the park are the 9km of dedicated mountain bike loop tracks. There are green (beginner), blue and black trails to follow, so this is ideal and fun for all levels of biker. Lake Gunn Nature Walk Easy 45 minutes return This easy loop walk is suitable with small children and is buggy-friendly. It takes you through dense, green, mossy red beech forest to the shore of Lake Gunn. Access is from the Cascade Creek campsite on the Milford Road. Mavora Lakes Park This hidden gem is about one hour's drive from Te Anau, off the Te Anau-Mossburn Highway. The area's highlights are the two lakes; North Mavora and South Mavora, situated amongst an impressive landscape of Fiordland National Park's rugged mountains. This is a favourite Kiwi campsite, with a DOC ranger in residence over the busy summer and there are also a couple of huts. The lakes make idyllic swimming or fishing spots and there are numerous short or full-day walks.
Rainbow Reach – Shallow Bay Moderate 3-4 hours return Gently undulating forest walk that takes you on part of the Manapouri end of the Kepler Track. Includes stunning river views and bridge crossings before coming out on the shore of Lake Manapouri where there are trampers' huts with toilet facilities. No biking. Key Summit Moderate 3-4 hours return Enjoy panoramic views across Fiordland on this spectacular Alpine nature walk. Starting from The Divide on the Te Anau-Milford Road it takes you onto the Routeburn Track for an hour before you turn off for the 20 minute climb to Key Summit.
Key Summit, Routeburn Track
Managed by DOC (Department of Conservation) there are 9 Great Walks in NZ and Fiordland is home to 3 of them – Milford, Routeburn and Kepler Tracks. They are wellmaintained multi-day walks through areas of outstanding natural beauty. KIDS STAY FREE! Children 17 years and under stay FREE in Great Walk huts! So no excuses, book your hut acccommodation, pull out the hiking boots and take the kids on a real Kiwi adventure! Booking is essential for both children and adults as hut accommodation fills up quickly. MILFORD TRACK Te Anau – Milford Sound Rugged mountain peaks, breathtaking sheer canyons and majestic waterfalls. Cross the Mackinnon Pass into spectacular Milford Sound. Duration: 4 days Distance: 53.5km
KEPLER TRACK Te Anau – Manapouri From the shore of Lake Te Anau climb to the exposed tussock lands near the summit of Mt Luxmore with spectacular alpine views, before descending to Lake Manapouri. Duration: 3-4 days Distance: 60km ROUTEBURN TRACK Te Anau – Glenorchy Traverse part of the Southern Alps, passing through ice-carved valleys, beech forest and alongside pristine rivers and alpine lakes. Duration: 2-4 days Distance: 32km www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Fiordland :: Eating Out Made Easy
THE MOOSE
Eating Out Made Easy
Family Restaurant and Bar
The ONLY restaurant/bar right on the lakefront!
Kepler Restaurant
The Ranch Bar and Grill Locals' favourite, operating for over 17 years – renowned for hearty meals and great value. Free WiFi onsite. Top End of Town Centre, Te Anau Phone: 03 249 8801
KIDS MENU $11.90 2 COURSES INCLUDES FREE KIDS ACTIVITY BAG Sunny lakeside garden. Spacious indoor dining. Exciting, varied menu! Also serving coffee and delicious desserts.
Lunch & dinner 7 days 84 Lakefront Drive Tel 03 249 7100
For menus visit
www.themoosebarteanau.com
The Moose Family Restaurant Lakeside dining, safe, fenced garden seating, varied and excellent value menu including great kids' choices and activity sheets. Free WiFi. Lakefront Drive, Te Anau Phone: 03 249 7100 Kepler Family Restaurant Delicious New Zealand food and flavours with a Chilean twist! Children's menu with all fresh ingredients, right in town centre and close to the lake. 23 Town Centre Phone: 03 249 7909
KEPLER
FAMILY RESTAURANT CHILDREN’S FAVOURITES Our heart goes into preparing fresh, delicious, children’s favourites! ‘best ever’ lasagne ‘divine’ crumbed chicken with creamy mash Te Anau’s best lamb roast fish & chips - a favourite! $12.50 (inc drink + ice cream.)
Fully licensed, open 7 days, serving breakfast and brunch from 7.30am -11am and dinner from 5pm ‘til late.
"Kepler Family Restaurant is a warm and friendly family restaurant in one of New Zealand's most stunning towns. The name Kepler is inspired by Fiordland's very own world famous walking track and the food is equally breathtaking! The fresh food and flavours are a combination of what New Zealand has to offer with a Chilean twist. We welcome you to a place we are proud to call our own. Specialising in all kinds of seafood, fresh Milford Sound crayfish and NZ’s finest ribeye, venison and lamb.”
23 Town Centre, Te Anau 03 249 7909 www.KidzGo.co.nz
Fiordland :: Eating Out Made Easy
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TOP END OF TOWN CENTRE, TE ANAU OPEN DAILY, 8am - LATE HAPPY HOUR 9PM-10PM EVERY NIGHT TEL 03 249 8801 e: theranch@xtra.co.nz
www.theranchbar.co.nz
Sample Menu Items * Sunday roast with trimmings just $15 (Monday – Saturday roast $19.50) * Breakfast $9-$26 * Chicken schnitzel $19.50 * Rump steak $25.00 * Steak, egg and chips $22.50 * Beef rib eye * Lamb shanks * Breast of chicken * Blue cod fillet * Salmon * Wild venison * Lamb steaks Homemade Desserts from $10.50
Superb family dining – delicious and hearty, good value Kiwi meals with our traditional Sunday roast a specialty at only $15. Friendly service and excellent atmosphere are complemented by a cosy open fire or sunny outdoor dining. FREE WIFI. Mention KIDZ GO for a free kids’ or adults’ drink with your main meal.
Children’s Menu (12 years & under) *meals include standard non-alcoholic drink and ice cream sundae
* Chicken tenders w fries $13 * Bangers and mash $13 * Battered fish with fries $13 * Kids’ roast $13 * Pork ribs with fries $15 * Ham/cheese toastie with fries $13 * Kids’ nachos with beef & beans $13 * Mini hotdogs $12.50
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You can't visit Fiordland without meeting one of the most intelligent and endangered birds in New Zealand. With bags of personality, meet the world's only alpine parrot, the kea!
Did you know?
Where to meet the kea... You can meet the kea – if you're lucky – when you get into New Zealand's alpine environment, throughout the South Island. In winter they love to visit The Remarkables or Treble Cone ski areas – they may be hanging around the car park or outdoor dining areas! In Fiordland your best viewing spots are at the Hollyfood Valley lookout, The Chasm, and the entrance to the Homer Tunnel as you drive into Milford Sound.
* The kea is a large parrot that's endemic to the Alpine areas of New Zealand's South Island. * They are a protected species and there are thought to be just 1000-5000 keas left. * The cheeky kea is social and inquisitive and is rated as one of the most intelligent birds in the world. * Why are they called kea? Because their raucous call is keee-aaaah! * Kea nest on the ground, and monitoring indicates up to 60% of nests can be attacked by predators during breeding. * Keas just love eating and destroying rubber – while they are beautiful birds that are fun to watch, given half the chance they will tuck into your car or bike and can cause a lot of damage. www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Fiordland :: Milford Sound
Tasman Sea
Milford Sound Cruises
The road to Milford Sound Milford Sound
The Chasm
Lower Hollyford
Homer Tunnel 1.25km Pop’s View Lookout
The Divide to
Routeburn Track
Milford Track 3–4 day walk
Lake Gunn
Knobs Flat Mirror Lakes
Te Anau to Milford Sound 120kms / 2.5 hrs
Te Anau Downs
Places of interest
Lake Te Anau
See Keas here
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Milford Road Information Kiosk (8.5km from Te Anau)
Cruises to Caves (35–45 mins)
Te Anau 95
To Queenstown 170kms 94
Places of Interest Mirror Lakes a 5-minute walk alongside these pools is worth it on a still day – the reflections are quite stunning. Pop's View Lookout a viewing platform looks down over the spectacular panorama of the Hollyford Valley. Homer Tunnel this incredible feat of workmanship cuts 1200 metres through the Darran Mountains. Both the entrance and exit to the tunnel provide awe-inspiring views. The Chasm it's a 20-minute return walk to see the chasm. With its huge volume of water pounding over incredible rock formations, it's truly mesmerising.
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’, Milford Sound is one of the jewels in the Fiordland crown. It’s actually a fiord – created by rivers of glacial ice and flanked on both sides by sheer rock face, rising up to awe-inspiring heights. An experience on the Sound is enhanced by the abundance of wildlife; fur seals, rare Fiordland crested penguins and bottlenose dolphins. Dolphins frequently lead the cruise boats, playing in the bow waves.
94 Cruise to start of Milford Track (1 hr)
Milford Sound
About Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) Milford Sound's first settler (Donald Sutherland) arrived in 1877 having sailed there from Dunedin. The original route to Milford weaved around the Darran Mountains and over the McKinnon Pass. This track is now known as the Milford Track (approx. 52km long) and it was the only way to get to Milford other than via the sea. Milford Sound is 16kms long and it rains approximately 180 days a year, with an average annual rainfall of over 6½ metres! Drive Times Queenstown to Milford Sound 4½ hours Te Anau to Milford Sound 2½ hours Wanaka to Milford Sound 5½ hours Coaching or driving both ways from Queenstown makes for a 12 hour day, so why not break up the journey with a stay in Te Anau? See p87 for accommodation options. Trip Options Coach-Cruise-Coach The road to Milford Sound is one of the most stunning in NZ. There is nothing quite as awe-inspiring as the approach to the Homer Tunnel! Fly-Cruise-Fly Take a 30 to 40 minute flight over glaciers, lakes and waterfalls. Weather dependent. Flights depart Queenstown, Wanaka and Te Anau. Fly-Cruise-Coach or Coach-Cruise-Fly The ultimate trip! Around 7½ hours return from Queenstown. Drive Yourself See map this page for this spectacular 120 km stretch of road. Cruises can be purchased before you leave, in Te Anau or at Milford Sound.
Milford sound
An unforgettable experience for the whole
Family
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Kids go free
During New Zealand school holidays with full fare-paying adults. *Conditions apply. See website for details.
Look out for dolphins playing with our ‘cats’ on our family-friendly Scenic and Nature Cruises Visit New Zealand’s only floating Underwater Observatory on our all-inclusive Discover More Cruise Get soaked under waterfalls and catch pure glacial water straight from Fairy Falls on our small boat Encounter Nature Cruise Duration
1 hr 45 mins — 4 hrs Regular daily departures
9.45 am — 2.45pm
Adult
$
62
Child
$
20
Children 4—14 years inclusive, 3 years and under are free.
Kayak through crystal clear waters on our Cruise & Kayak Milford Sound experience. Our double kayaks are perfect for families.
Encounter colourful sea creatures teeming just below the surface at the Milford Discovery Centre & Underwater Observatory.
FIND US AT ONE OF OUR VISITOR CENTRES Queenstown St Omer Wharf 110 Beach Street
Milford Sound State Highway 94
Te Anau 80 Lakefront Drive
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Milford Sound 0800 264 536 Queenstown State Highway 94 St Omer Wharf, southerndiscoveries.co.nz 110 Beach Street Te Anau info@southerndiscoveries.co.nz 80 Lakefront Drive
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Fiordland :: Milford Sound
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TE ANAU
Power, Paddle OR Pedal! It might be a tongue twister but now there’s even more ways to have fun in Fiordland – sit back & cruise, paddle into the wilderness or pedal around Te Anau. Go Orange!
www.GoOrange.nz
0800 24 66 72
REAL JOURNEYS MILFORD SOUND DAYTIME CRUISES In Milford Sound you’ll see wildlife, towering cliffs, waterfalls and the much photographed Mitre Peak. Once there, join a Scenic Cruise or go on a more leisurely and informative Nature Cruise. Delicious lunch options available. Departs: daily from Milford Visitor Terminal, Milford. Nature Cruise (2 hours 15 minutes) from Adult $91, Child $22 Scenic Cruise (1 hour 40 minutes) from Adult $74, Child $22 Coach connections from Queenstown and Te Anau. Scenic flight options from Queenstown available. Freephone: 0800 65 65 01 www.realjourneys.co.nz Ask about our KIDS GO FREE promotion during NZ School Holidays. Overnight in Milford Sound with REAL JOURNEYS Three course dinner and cooked breakfast included. In the evening enjoy kayaking, a short walk on the Milford Track or exploring the shoreline by small boat. Freephone: 0800 65 65 01 www.realjourneys.co.nz
GO ORANGE MILFORD SOUND CRUISE You'll get a Go Orange grin when you discover incredible Milford Sound with our friendly team looking after you! Our large vessel gives you plenty of space, seating, viewing areas – and the opportunity for you and your family to have a relaxed interaction with Milford Sound without being shoulder to shoulder with others! Not only that but we have frequent specials plus free food offers on ALL our departures – bacon rolls, fish n' chips, carrot cake or BBQ dinners, depending on time of day. 35 Shotover St, Queenstown / 21 Town Centre, Te Anau Phone: 03 249 8585 Freephone: 0800 24 66 72 Price: from $45! Coach connections from Queenstown available (extra cost). Departs: up to 4 departures daily from 9am Duration: 2 hours Email: info@GoOrange.nz www.GoOrange.co.nz Kids Go Free! School aged children travel free on selected departures during NZ school holidays. GO ORANGE MILFORD TRACK AND KAYAK TASTER You'll have Milford Sound virtually to yourselves as you explore by kayak (no experience necessary) in small groups with an experienced guide. Glide alongside impressive vertical cliffs, and below waterfalls, all the while keeping a keen eye out for wildlife. Then set foot on the famous Milford Track and explore on a short guided hike. Maximum 8 people per guide. This exciting combo has a minimum age of 14 years. 35 Shotover St, Queenstown / 21 Town Centre, Te Anau Phone: 03 249 8585 Freephone: 0800 24 66 72 Price: $118pp Departs: Milford Sound daily, 3pm Duration: 4 hours (2 hours kayaking) Email: info@GoOrange.nz www.GoOrange.co.nz CRUISE & KAYAK MILFORD SOUND Double the adventure in Milford Sound with our Cruise & Kayak Milford Sound experience. Kayak through crystal clear waters in one of the most majestic places in the world. The trip includes a Milford Sound cruise, FREE Picnic Lunch, entry to the Milford Discovery Centre & Underwater Observatory and one hour of kayaking around tranquil Harrison Cove. Experience Milford Sound above, on and below the surface. The trip is suitable for all experience levels and double kayaks are available so kids can paddle round with mum or dad. Minimum child age is 4 years. State Highway 94, Milford Sound Phone: 03 441 1137 Freephone: 0800 264 536 Departs: 9.00am, 9.45am, 10.30am, 11.00am, 12.15pm, 1.00pm, 1.30pm Price: Adult from $169, Child $119 (child is 4-14 yrs) southerndiscoveries.co.nz Double kayaks available – perfect for families.
www
Fiordland :: Milford Sound MITRE PEAK CRUISES Mitre Peak Cruises operate smaller vessels that will get you up close and personal with Milford Sound. Sheer rock faces, glacial hanging valleys, thick native forest and local wildlife such as fur seal colonies, Fiordland crested penguins or pods of dusky dolphins will delight you and the kids. Mitre Peak Cruises is the only cruise boat that goes past St Anne’s Lighthouse and ventures into the Tasman Sea so you can experience a return into the fiord just like the first sealers did. This cruise is fun, educational and enjoyable for the whole family. Phone: 03 249 8110 Freephone: 0800 744 633 Price: Adult from $70, Child from $17, Under 4s FREE (cruise-only). Add-on visit to the Underwater Observatory is available on most cruises. Please enquire for our tours departing Queenstown or Te Anau. Departures: throughout the day Duration: 2 hours Email: info@mitrepeak.com www.mitrepeak.com
F
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Experience Milford Sound Up Close and Personal A cruise for the whole family - join us and experience the natural beauty of Milford Sound.
SELF-DRIVE TRAVEL IN FIORDLAND IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER ✔ Fuel up in Te Anau – there are no shops or fuel stops between Te Anau and Milford Sound. ✔ The Milford Road and its scenic stops can get extremely congested during peak times. To avoid the crowds we recommend leaving Te Anau either before 8am or after 11am. ✔ The Te Anau-Milford Sound drive is 120km long but stops aside you can allow two hours for this drive along a windy road. If you want to enjoy the short walks and many scenic stops along the way (see map p76), allow four hours. ✔ Milford Road is a scenic highway; if you are holding up other drivers please be courteous by pulling over at safe sites and allowing traffic to pass.
Freephone 0800 744 633 mitrepeak.com The Homer Tu nnel
i Milford Sound was inaccessible by road until 1953 when the Homer Tunnel was completed. It pro vides a route throu gh the Darran Moun tain Range. i The tunnel is 94 5m above sea lev el. It is 1.2km long an d has a steep gradie nt down towards Mi lford Sound.
✔ Don't forget the sandfly repellent – you will need it! ✔ For road information see www.milfordroad.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Fiordland :: Doubtful Sound
Doubtful Sound
Captain Cook sighted Doubtful Sound on his first voyage to NZ in 1770. He called it Doubtful Harbour because he was doubtful about whether he would be able to turn around and exit back to sea. In fact Doubtful Sound is a staggering 10 times bigger than Milford Sound, and like Milford it is a fiord. It is home to fur seals, Fiordland crested penguins and dolphins. The journey to Doubtful Sound is an experience in itself, crossing Lake Manapouri to the West Arm and the amazing underground, hydro-electric powerstation, then over Wilmot Pass and finally down to the shores of Doubtful Sound. REAL JOURNEYS DOUBTFUL SOUND WILDERNESS CRUISES When you discover Doubtful Sound with us you will be struck by its silence, broken only by birdsong or the rushing of a distant waterfall. Home to abundant wildlife you may see dolphins and fur seals at play, or catch a glimpse of a rare penguin. Delicious picnic lunches available. Departs: daily from Manapouri. Queenstown and Te Anau coach connections available. Wilderness Cruises duration: 7 hours 15mins Price: from Adult $260, Child $65 Freephone: 0800 65 65 01 www.realjourneys.co.nz Ask about our KIDS GO FREE promotion during NZ School Holidays GO ORANGE DOUBTFUL SOUND CRUISE This awe-inspiring, isolated corner of Fiordland is only accessible through travel by boat across Lake Manapouri (reputedly NZ's prettiest lake), then transport over the super-scenic Wilmot Pass and down to the shore of Doubtful Sound. It's a staggering 10 times bigger than Milford Sound – less explored and less discovered. Go Orange day cruises offer the only small boat day cruise on this Sound that is so awesome you won't believe it! 35 Shotover St, Queenstown / 21 Town Centre, Te Anau Phone: 03 249 8585 Freephone: 0800 24 66 72 Price: from Adult $199, Child $99 Departs: Te Anau/Manapouri. Coach connections from Queenstown available (extra cost). Duration: 7 hours (3 hours cruising Doubtful Sound) Email: info@GoOrange.nz www.GoOrange.co.nz
Doubtful Sound First Arm
Dagg Sound
Te Anau
Bradshaw Sound
Mt Luxmore
Waiau River
Kepler Mountains
Crooked Arm
Deep Cove Hall Arm
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Photo courtesy of Real Journeys
Mt George
North Arm
Underground Power Station Wilmot Pass
Lake Manapouri Hope Arm
Te Anau to Manapouri 22km/20mins
Pearl Doubtful Sound Harbour departures
Accommodation :: Queenstown and Glenorchy Family Amenities Free WiFi (limits may apply)
Family Accommodation
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Playground onsite
Restaurant onsite
Swimming pool
Self-catering
Under 5 minutes walk to play area
Toys / games available
Under 5 minutes walk to town centre
This chapter lists accommodation options in and around Queenstown, Arrowtown, Glenorchy, Wanaka and Te Anau. All options welcome families and most offer a range of other services and goodies to make your family’s stay as pleasant and fun as possible. We advise you to personally contact establishments for up-to-date information to suit your family’s needs. Making your holiday easier: why not rent baby equipment from Tots on Tour and you can have it all set up and waiting for you on your arrival! See www.totsontour.co.nz. Email Fresh Choice your grocery order and have it delivered before you arrive or anytime during your stay! See page 58.
QUEENSTOWN & GLENORCHY FRANKTON MOTOR CAMP Situated right on a shallow, warm swimming beach and the Queenstown Bike Trail! Water fun, family biking and walking tracks start here! Tourist flats sleeping up to 5, with kitchenette, bathroom and TV, plus lakefront powered sites. Modern kitchens, laundry facilities and playground onsite. Close to shops, restaurants, golf course and bus route. We’re 5 minutes drive from Queenstown and a few seconds walk through the camp brings you onto the beach! IAC wireless onsite. Yewlett Crescent, Frankton Office Hours: 9am-9pm, 7 days Phone: +64 3 442 2079 Email: g.orourke@xtra.co.nz www.franktonmotorcamp.co.nz
QUEENSTOWN TOP10 HOLIDAY PARK More than your average holiday park! With a stunning alpine setting only 5 mins drive to central Queenstown, and offering self-contained motels plus cosy units and cabins. Amenities onsite include a playground with Queenstown’s only jumping pillow, bike hire, WiFi, kitchen/dining area with TV plus undercover BBQ area. Restaurants, the famous Shotover Jet, ten-pin bowling, and hot pools only a few minutes walk away and a free (scheduled) courtesy shuttle into town. 70 Arthurs Point Road, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 442 9306 Freephone: 0800 462 267 Email: info@qtowntop10.co.nz www.qtowntop10.co.nz Qualmark 4 star+ Holiday Park, Enviro Silver
HEARTLAND HOTEL QUEENSTOWN A welcoming property just 200m from town centre, offering interconnecting and family rooms. Its elevated position provides spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu. The on-site restaurant, The Hillside Brasserie, features a kids’ menu to tempt the fussiest of palates. Other amenities include SKY TV, guest laundry, complimentary parking, activities desk and luxury spa.
MRS WOOLLY'S CAMPGROUND GLENORCHY This might just be the most stunning campground setting on Earth! Bring the family and snuggle down in our stylish, funky and all-new “glamping” tents – fully-furnished and with all the home comforts – or set up at one of our tent or campervan sites. Spotless showers, toilets, kitchen and laundry onsite, plus children’s playground and Mrs Woolly’s General Store full of organic goodness, irresistible takeaway or picnic food, groceries, supplies and imaginative souvenirs. 64 Oban Street, Glenorchy Phone: 021 0889 4008 E: info@MrsWoollysCampground.co.nz www.MrsWoollysCampground.co.nz (open 24 Oct ‘16 – 26 April '17)
27 Stanley Street, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 442 7700 Freephone: 0800 80 77 00 E: queenstown@heartlandhotels.co.nz www.heartlandhotels.co.nz/ hotels/heartland-hotel-queenstown Qualmark 3 star+, Enviro Silver
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Accommodation :: Queenstown PLATINUM QUEENSTOWN Stunning three-bedroom villas; 135sq metres of designer living space with two bathrooms, designer kitchen, spacious lounge and dining areas with attractive schist stone gas fireplace, separate laundry, most with lock-up garage and Queenstown's world-famous lake views! You’ll love the ease of the kids having their own rooms to sleep or play in, and their own bathroom. Choose from lake or alpine view villas and unwind into paradise! 96 Fernhill Road, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 746 7700 Freephone: 0800 422 442 Email: reservations@ platinumqueenstown.co.nz www.platinumqueenstown.co.nz See ad this page and map page 2.
Relax in pure luxury and experience the best of our alpine and lake wonderland platinumqueenstown.co.nz
Eat, Sleep and Play with Heritage Queenstown
Kids Stay and Eat Free!*
Great family accommodation packages available Call us on 0800 424 988 or book online at
WWW.HERITAGEHOTELS.CO.NZ/BOOKING
*Conditions apply
You’re Somewhere Special TM
www.KidzGo.co.nz
HERITAGE QUEENSTOWN Our deluxe family rooms offer fantastic space to accommodate the whole family with a super king and 2 single beds plus ensuite bathroom with separate bath and shower. Studio suites and two-bedroom suites with kitchenette, laundry plus interconnecting rooms available. Enjoy our heated indoor/outdoor pool, spa, sauna and gym, restaurant and bar. Kids stay and eat free (conditions apply). 1000mb FREE WiFi daily. 91 Fernhill Road, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 450 1500 Freephone: 0800 424 988 E: reszqn@heritagehotels.co.nz www.heritagehotels.co.nz Qualmark 4 star+, Enviro Gold See ad this page and map page 2. LAKEFRONT APARTMENTS Absolute lakefront location with a stunning view of lake and mountains from every apartment and only a two-minute, flat stroll into Queenstown centre. We offer fully-equipped, immaculate and spacious two and three-bedroom apartments, SKY TV, internet access, laundry, balconies, BBQ, babysitting service and more! Undercover parking, relaxed and friendly family atmosphere. 18 Lake Esplanade, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 441 8800 Freephone: 0800 160 600 Email: lakefront@xtra.co.nz www.lakefrontqueenstown.co.nz
1st Choice for Families 8 Coronation Drive, Queenstown p 03 441 0438 info@bluepeaksapartments.co.nz * Spacious 2 and 3 bedroom apartments * Fully-equipped, designer kitchen * Full laundry – washer and dryer * Dishwasher * Large balcony/courtyard * Prepaid wireless * SKY TV and DVD player * Stereo with ipod dock * Underfloor heating in bathrooms * Under cover/off-street parking * Cots and highchairs on request * Babysitting arranged * 2 minute stroll to centre of Queenstown
www.bluepeaksapartments.co.nz
Your home from home 11 Sydney Street, Queenstown p 03 441 0437 info@bluepeaks.co.nz * Studio, 1 or 2 bedroom options * Bright, modern and welcoming * Rooms with full kitchens * Continental breakfast on request * Dry-cleaning service * Guest laundry onsite * Prepaid wireless * SKY TV and DVD player * Off-street parking * Cots and highchairs on request * Babysitting arranged * Friendly, quiet location, close to park * 5 minute stroll to centre of Queenstown
www.bluepeaks.co.nz
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Accommodation :: Queenstown and Arrowtown
“Accommodation Excellence”
Close to Arrowtown Local walks and family bike tracks from our door Toys & games available Tennis court & trampoline Swimming pool
Butel Park, Arrowtown +64 3 442 0012 stay@arrowfield.co.nz
www.Arrowfield.co.nz
❖
Minutes walk to town centre
❖ Spacious 1 & 2
b/r apartments
❖
Superb view or courtyard apartments
Top of Turner Street, off Shotover Street, Queenstown phone: +64 3 442 8383 Freephone: 0800 804 333 www.turnerheights.co.nz turnerh@queenstown.co.nz
APARTMENTS & PENTHOUSES
Spacious, 1–4 bedroom suites, just 2 minutes to Freephone 0800 484 345 town centre. www.theglebe.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
ARROWFIELD APARTMENTS Spacious one, two and three-bedroom apartments with ensuite bathrooms, designer kitchen, 42” plasma TV, SKY, DVD, CD, underfloor heating and laundry. Onsite are heated indoor pool, tennis court and gym, plus heaps of space for the kids to play. These outstanding apartments are 5 minutes walk from Arrowtown, across the road from Millbrook golf course and only 15 minutes from Queenstown. 115 Essex Avenue, Butel Park, Arrowtown Phone: +64 3 442 0012 Email: stay@arrowfield.co.nz www.arrowfield.co.nz Qualmark 4 star+, Enviro Bronze See ad this page and map page 42. TURNER HEIGHTS TOWNHOUSES Located a three-minute walk from Queenstown, the views overlook the town, lake, mountains and up to the Skyline Gondola. One or two-bedroom apartments – two-bedrooms with full kitchens, laundry, flat screen TV, DVD, bathroom with shower over bath, balconies and private carport. One-bedroom with kitchen, on-site laundry, flat screen TV, DVD, shower, off street parking. BBQ and communal spa available. 5GB WiFi per day FREE. Top of Turner Street (P.O.Box 435), Queenstown Phone: +64 3 442 8383 Freephone: 0800 804 333 E: turnerh@queenstown.co.nz www.turnerheights.co.nz See ad this page and map page 2. THE GLEBE APARTMENTS AND PENTHOUSE SUITES One, two, three and four-bedroom suites with lake, mountain or courtyard views. Spacious living areas, private balcony, underfloor heating, fully-equipped kitchen, laundry, SKY TV (50+ channels), CD, free WiFi, gym, sauna and underground parking. We have a toy cupboard and library of kids’ DVDs, plus a babysitting service is available (extra cost). We’re only two minutes walk to the buzzing centre of downtown Queenstown. Corner Stanley and Beetham Streets, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 441 0310 Freephone: 0800 484 345 Email: stay@theglebe.co.nz www.theglebe.co.nz See ad this page and map page 2.
Accommodation :: Queenstown CRANBURY COURT APARTMENTS Enjoy our spacious and warm 1, 2 and 3-bedroom self-contained apartments with full kitchen/laundry, living/dining area, SKY TV (Disney channel), DVD, stereo, free internet kiosk, free WiFi (download limits apply) and fabulous alpine views. The supermarket is located across the road and we’re an easy five minute walk to the town centre (400m), offering a superb holiday location. 19-23 Gorge Road, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 442 6483 Freephone: 0800 269 666 Email: info@cranbury.co.nz www.cranbury.co.nz NZ Tourism Gold Member, ENJO Chemical Free Cleaning See ad this page and map page 2. SCENIC SUITES QUEENSTOWN A desirable location 200m from the town centre, offering superior double rooms and one or two bedroom suites that can be interconnected. Kitchen and laundry facilities, SKY TV and on-site restaurant, The Hillside Brasserie, featuring a kids’ menu to tempt the fussiest of palates. Added features include 24-hour room service, complimentary covered parking and tourist information with booking service and luxury spa. 27 Stanley Street, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 442 4718 Freephone: 0800 80 77 00 E:queenstown@heartlandhotels.co.nz www.scenichotels.co.nz/hotels/ scenic-suites-queenstown Qualmark 4 star, Enviro Silver GARDEN COURT SUITES AND APARTMENTS Relaxing garden setting only 5 minutes stroll to town centre. Quality, self-contained one, two or three-bedroom apartments (sleeps 1–8) to suit your family’s needs and budget. Includes kitchen, laundry, spa bath, SKY TV, DVD, CD, free WiFi, courtyard/ balcony, and free parking. Games, internet and tour desk at reception, private spa and breakfast room serving continental breakfast. 41 Frankton Rd, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 442 9713 Freephone: 0800 GARDEN (427 336) Email: stay@gardencourt.co.nz www.gardencourt.co.nz Qualmark 4 star+, Mainstay See ad this page and map page 2.
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CRANBURY COURT APARTMENT ACCOMMODATION
"Excellent accommodation, exceptional hospitality" www.cranbury.co.nz
Garden Court
SUITES & APARTMEN TS
Private, family apartments, in the heart of Queenstown, superb views and garden setting. 41 Frankton Road, Queenstown Tel +64 3 442 9713 Bookings 0800 427 336 stay@gardencourt.co.nz
w w w. g a rd e n c o u r t . c o . n z www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Accommodation :: Wanaka and Lake Hawea
WANAKA AND LAKE HAWEA WANAKA TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK Just 3km from central Wanaka with easy bike tracks from the door and on the road to Mt Aspiring National Park. Swimming pool with threelane slide (summer only), spa pool, playground, sports field and bikes for hire. Accommodation includes camping, cabins, self-contained units and park motels with up to two bedrooms, sleeping up to seven. All motel units include kitchen, bathroom and lounge area with TV. WiFi and internet onsite. 217 Wanaka-Mount Aspiring Rd Phone: +64 3 443 7360 Freephone: 0508 WANAKA (0508 926 252) Email: info@wanakatop10.co.nz www.wanakatop10.co.nz Qualmark 4 star, Enviro Bronze LAKE OUTLET HOLIDAY PARK Secluded campsites set in native bush, right on the waterfront with amazing views, but still only a scenic bike ride/walk to Wanaka. Choose from two-bedroom self-contained cottages (sleeps up to six), bush cabins (sleeps up to four), caravan hire, campervan or tent sites. Kitchen, laundry, free BBQ and WiFi onsite. Great swimming beach, mountain bikes for hire and family friendly bike tracks start right here! 197 Outlet Road, off Aubrey Road, Wanaka Phone: +64 3 443 7478 Email: info@lakeoutlet.co.nz www.lakeoutlet.co.nz
HOLIDAY HOUSES – WANAKA WANAKA SELECTION Wanaka selection offer a carefully hand-picked portfolio of holiday homes around Wanaka, with many that are just perfect for families! See family options below and on our website. www.wanakaselection.co.nz APARTMENTS ON UPTON One, two, three or five-bedroom apartments. Modern and sophisticated, large outdoor area. Upton St, Wanaka Phone: +64 3 443 9224 www.wanakaselection.co.nz CORYAN COTTAGE Three-bedroom, two-bathroom, fully-equipped, quiet, immaculate, with fenced garden. Hedditch St, Wanaka Phone: +64 3 443 9224 www.wanakaselection.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
WANAKA KIWI HOLIDAY PARK & MOTELS Just 2km from town centre with acres of space to play. Free unlimited WiFi. Bike hire for the whole family; ‘tag along’, wee ride seat & child carriers. Two playgrounds with sun shades and a trampoline. Mountain buggy pram & backpack available to hire. Dedicated parents' room with change table. Free family spa pools & kids DVDs. Campervan sites, motel units and three bedroom house with full cooking facilities. 263 Studholme Road North, Wanaka Phone: +64 3 443 7766 Freephone: 0800 229 8439 E: stay@wanakakiwi.nz www.wanakakiwiholidaypark.nz Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence Qualmark 4 star+ Holiday Park Qualmark 3 star+ Motels LAKE HAWEA HOLIDAY PARK Great family camp located on the lakefront of stunning Lake Hawea. This gem of a campground offers affordable accommodation options including tent sites, powered sites, cabins and 2-3 brm self-contained cottages. There is lots of room for the kids to roam, fishing rods are available for guests' use, pedal carts and bikes to hire, great walking tracks and there is a fun playground and a fire to toast marshmallows in the evening. Not only do you get great views but classic family fun! State Highway 6, Lake Hawea Phone: +64 3 443 1767 Reservations: 0800 525 322 (0800 LAKE CAMP) E: stay@haweaholidaypark.co.nz www.haweaholidaypark.co.nz FAIRWAY MOTEL Comfortable, affordable family motel/apartments. Just a short walk from the lakefront, Fairway Motel is a great base offering two-bedroom apartments with fully-equipped kitchen and laundry, or self-contained studios with kitchenettes plus one or two-bedroom motel units. Facilities include bike/ski storage and outdoor swimming pool (1 Dec-31 March) and BBQ. Winner Trip Advisor 2015 – Certificate of Excellence. 2 MacPherson Street, Wanaka Phone: +64 3 443 7285 Freephone: 0800 324 792 Email: info@fairwaymotel.co.nz www.fairwaymotel.co.nz
Accommodation :: Te Anau, Fiordland
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TE ANAU, FIORDLAND TE ANAU TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK Centrally located next to the lake – modern, comfortable accommodation from campsites to family cabins and self-contained motels. Our kids’ facilities make this a first choice for families: kids games room stocked with arcade games, toddlers play area, jumping pillow, movie nights during school holidays, Go-Karts and bicycles for hire and extensive kids' playground. Our hot tubs overlooking Lake Te Anau are available for private use. 128 Te Anau Terrace, Te Anau Phone: +64 3 249 7462 Freephone: 0800 249 746 Email: stay@teanautop10.co.nz www.teanautop10.co.nz RED TUSSOCK MOTEL Situated beside Lake Te Anau our one, two, three or even five bedroom + two bathroom family units are ideal for your family or families travelling together, accommodating up to 14 guests under one roof! These spacious units include full kitchens and are set in a quiet garden. There's a playground and fenced trampoline onsite as well as outdoor seating and BBQ. We are a flat, 10 minute lakeside stroll to the town centre, family restaurants and shops. 10 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau Phone: +64 3 249 9110 Email: redtussock@xtra.co.nz www.redtussockmotels.co.nz
Spacious One & Two Bedroom Apartments playground, bbq, free WiFi, just 3 mins to town Book direct & quote KIDZ GO for a 10% discount off website advertised price!
0800 777 800 explorermotel.co.nz
ALPINE VIEW MOTEL Situated on a quiet ............ corner with spacious grounds, free guest BBQ and playground. One to three-bedroom fully-equipped units, close to lake, town centre, cinema and park. Freeview plus free WiFi. We are pet-friendly and can offer competitive rates with nightly specials and long stay discounts. Booking for all local tours. Safe guests' lock-up facility whilst away on overnight treks or tours. 15 Quintin Drive, Te Anau Phone: +64 3 249 7459 Freephone: 0800 116 123 Email: info@alpineviewmotel.co.nz www.alpineviewmotel.co.nz
Planning your next family holiday? Wherever you’re going in New Zealand visit Kidz Go New Zealand first! It’s your family’s one-stop online holiday guide so check out the best family accommodation and top family activities on Kidz Go New Zealand!
.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
88 Family Deals and Savings
FAMILY DISCOUNTS AND DEALS Most of the Kidz Go family deals below are redeemable whether you book directly or with an agent*. For more information please visit the booking desk at your accommodation or one of the information centres around town and mention your Kidz Go deal when booking. *Very occasionally you may need to book directly to receive the discount on this page.
DARK RIDE
FAMILY DEAL: when a family all book a combo, one rides FREE! (minimum 4 persons). See page 11
VORTEX 12D MOTION THEATRE & 360° VR
FREE popcorn, slushy, coffee or hot chocolate with each ticket purchase when you mention Kidz Go. See page 12
360° BATTLEGROUND / 360° DRIFT FREE popcorn, slushy, coffee or hot chocolate with each ticket purchase when you mention Kidz Go. See page 12
KIDZ CLUB
Get a FREE awesome Green screen photo plus fourth child goes FREE when you mention Kidz Go! See page 12
BELOW ZERO ICE BAR
Kids go FREE! One child (12 years and under) goes free with each paying adult with Kidz Go colour ad voucher on page14
MINUS 5° ICE BAR
Kids go FREE! One child goes free with each paying adult with Kidz Go colour ad voucher on page 14
UNDERWATER OBSERVATORY FAMILY DEAL: $20 (2 adults + 2 children, kids go FREE). See page 15
FEAR FACTORY
FAMILY DEAL: $99 (2 adults and 2 children). Child is under 15 years. See page 16
www.KidzGo.co.nz
HIGHLANDS JURASSIC SAFARI FAMILY DEAL: $79 for the family (two adults and up to three children). See page 19
SKYLINE QUEENSTOWN
FAMILY DEAL: Gondola & 2 Luge rides each – family of 4 $155, family of 5 $188, prices valid to March '17. See page 20
SOUTHERN DISCOVERIES FARM EXPERIENCE Kids go FREE during NZ school holidays. See page 21
SHOTOVER JET
FAMILY PASS: $365 (2 adults + 2 children) Save $75. See page 22
SKIPPERS CANYON JET
First child goes FREE with two paying adults! Save $85. See page 23
KJET
FAMILY DEAL: $307 for 2 adults + 2 children (save $89) plus FREE entry into Underwater Observatory. See p24
REAL JOURNEYS KIDS GO FREE
Kids travel FREE during NZ school holidays with full fare paying adult (max 2 per adult) on selected trips & departures. See p25 & back page
KIWI BIRDLIFE PARK
Kids go FREE! One child goes free with each paying adult when you mention Kidz Go. See page 26
GLENORCHY ANIMAL EXPERIENCE FAMILY PASS: $50 Two adults and up to three children. See page 28
DART RIVER WILDERNESS JET and DART RIVER FUNYAKS
Dart River Wilderness Jet or Dart River Funyaks and Jet: SAVE up to $239 on family deals. See page 29
SEGWAY ON Q
KIDZ GO DEAL: save up to $63 with our family pack! Child is 15 and under. See page 31
Family Deals and Savings
OFF ROAD ADVENTURES
Kids Under 12 Years >> $50 discount on our 9am Quad Bike Tour and ½ price on our 4x4 Highlights Tour! See page 32
SHOTOVER CANYON SWING and CANYON FOX
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AIRSHED
FAMILY DEAL: 4 people bounce for one hour – just $50! See page 62
PADDLE WANAKA
Mention Kidz Go for FREE spectator seat with every Swing or Fox purchased (worth $20). See page33
Kayak The Mission: Family 2A/2C $249 Beach Rentals from $20pp under 13yrs half price. Paddleboard lessons Family 2A/2C $100 1½hrs See p 63
HIGHLANDS HIGH SPEED TAXI
TRANSPORT & TOY MUSEUM
Family of up to four people ride 2 circuits together for one price of $120 in our High-Speed Taxi Porsche Cayenne. See page 34
KAWARAU ZIPRIDE
FAMILY DEAL: $40 for 2 adults and up to 4 children. Save up to $14. See page 64
WARBIRDS AND WHEELS
Kids zipride for $35 (normally $40). Includes FREE lunch of burger and fries! PLUS multi-zipride packs – 3 Pack $105, 5 Pack $150 to share amongst a family. See page 35
FAMILY DEAL: $45 for 2 adults and unlimited children from the same family. See page 64
ZIPTREK ECOTOURS
LAKELAND ADVENTURES
FAMILY DEALS! Check out our special family rates, available during school holidays. See page 35
Wanaka hire: beach toys, bikes and kayaks, from $25 for the whole family! See page 65
FLOW FUN CANOES & RAFTS
REAL JOURNEYS 20% MULTI SAVER
LAKES DISTRICT MUSEUM
THE MOOSE
FAMILY DEAL $417 for 2 adults + 2 children. Save $99 See page 37
FAMILY PASS: $20 (2 adults + 2 children, Kids Go FREE!) See page 43
KIDS LOOP ARROWTOWN
Mention Kidz Go and receive a FREE gift when you shop at Kids Loop Arrowtown. See page 44
ERIK'S FISH AND CHIPS FAMILY MEAL DEAL: $25 See page 54
THE BALLARAT TRADING CO.
Buy 2 or more different experiences at the same time at full retail rate & SAVE 20% off all lower priced tours. Conditions apply, see www.realjourneys.co.nz
Kids' Menu: $11.90 Includes FREE kids' activity bag See page 74
THE RANCH BAR AND GRILL
FREE kids' or adults' drink with your main meal when you mention Kidz Go. See page 75
SOUTHERN DISCOVERIES
MILFORD SOUND: Kids go FREE on selected Southern Discoveries Cruises and Milford Discovery Centre during NZ school holidays. Conditions apply. See page 77
GO ORANGE MILFORD SOUND
$5 kids' meal (inc. fizzy drink) between 5pm and 6.30pm with any main meal purchased. Conditions apply. See page 54
MILFORD SOUND: Kids go FREE on selected Go Orange Cruises during NZ school holidays. Conditions apply. See page 78
PUZZLING WORLD
GO ORANGE MILFORD SOUND
Illusion Rooms + Great Maze Family Pass: $61 (2 adults + 2 children, child is 5-15 years) See page 61
FREE FOOD with your cruise and other special offers! Check our website. Conditions apply. See page 78
www.KidzGo.co.nz
90 Kidz Go Index ACTIVITIES Queenstown AJ Hackett – Kawarau Bungy Centre and Zipride Alpine Aqualand Arrowtown Bike Hire Backcountry Saddle Expeditions Bead Shop Below Zero Ice Bar Ben Lomond Horse Treks Canyoning Queenstown Chargeabout Electric Bikes Climbing Queenstown Dark Ride Dart River FunYaks and Wilderness Jet Escape Quest Family Adventures Rafting Fear Factory Flow Fun Canoes and Rafts Game Over Queenstown Glenorchy Animal Experience Highlands Jurassic Safaris and Buggy Adventure Highlands Go Karts Kids Spy Network KJet Kiwi Birdlife Park Lakes District Museum and Information Centre Minus 5° ICE BAR Mrs Woolly's General Store Mt Nicholas Farm Experience - Southern Discoveries Odyssey Sensory Maze Off Road Adventures – 4WD and Quad Bike Tours Old Fashioned Costume Photography Paintball Central Queenstown Combos Queenstown Taxis : Family Discovery Day Reading Cinemas Riverboarding Segway on Q Shotover Canyon Swing and Canyon Fox Shotover Jet SITE Trampoline Skippers Canyon Jet Skyline Queenstown Luge Skyline Queenstown Stargazing Thrill Zone - a world of thrills! TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak High Country Farm Underwater Observatory Via Ferrata Vortex 12D Motion Theatre and 360° VR Xtreme Reball, Laser Tag and Hero Blast + 360° Drift Ziptrek Ecotours Wanaka Airshed Backcountry Saddle Expeditions Basecamp Rock Adventures Cinema Paradiso Clip ‘N Climb, Basecamp, Wanaka KT Transport and Sightseeing Tours Lakeland Adventures and Clutha River Jet National Transport and Toy Museum Paddle Wanaka Puzzling World Wanaka Pool Warbirds and Wheels
34 18 38 23 14 14 30 37 39 32 10 29 10 36 16 37 16 28 19 34 19 24 26 43 14 28 21 15 32 43 49 30 26 16 36 31 33 22 18 23 20 20 12 25 15 33 12 12 35 62 66 64 61 61 66 65 64 63 61 66 64
Fiordland Cycle Te Anau Cruise Te Anau Fiordland Horsetreks Go Orange - Milford Sound Go Orange - Doubtful Sound Mitre Peak Cruises Real Journeys Doubtful Sound Cruises Real Journeys Milford Sound Cruises Real Journeys Te Anau Glowworm Caves Southern Discoveries and Milford Discovery Centre ACCOMMODATION Queenstown / Arrowtown Arrowfield Apartments Blue Peaks Apartments Blue Peaks Lodge Cranbury Court Apartments Frankton Motor Camp Garden Court Apartments The Glebe Apartments and Penthouse Suites Heartland Hotel Heritage Queenstown Lakefront Apartments Mrs Woolly's Campground Platinum Queenstown Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park Scenic Suites Queenstown Turner Heights Townhouses Wanaka Fairway Motel Lake Hawea Holiday Park Lake Outlet Holiday Park Wanaka Kiwi Holiday Park and Motels Wanaka Top 10 Holiday Park Fiordland and Te Anau Alpine View Motel Red Tussock Motels Te Anau Top 10 Holiday Park CAFÉS / RESTAURANTS Queenstown / Arrowtown Ballarat Trading Co. Erik's Fish n Chips FINZ Hell Pizza Minami Jujisei Pedro's House of Lamb Public Kitchen and Bar Winnies Gourmet Pizza Bar Wanaka Red Star Burger Bar Warbirds and Wheels Retro Family Diner Te Anau The Moose Family Restaurant and Bar Kepler Family Restaurant The Ranch Bar and Grill
72 72 72 78 80 79 80 78 72 77
84 83 83 85 81 85 84 81 82 82 81 82 81 85 84 86 86 86 86 86 87 87 87
54 54 55 57 56 57 55 56 69 69 74 74 75
THE KIDS’ DIRECTORY Around the Clock Childcare Kidz Club Mamas Childcare
50 50 50
FAMILY SHOPPING AND SERVICES All For Kids Fresh Choice Supermarket Kids Loop Arrowtown Remarkables Park Shopping Centre Rockies Childrenswear
58 58 58 58 59
The Southern Lakes Area
Tasman Sea
Milford Track 3-4 day walk
Te Anau Downs
See p76
Homer Tunnel
Milford Sound
94
To Milford Sound (120 km / 2 hours)
Caples Track
Routeburn Track
Hollyford Track
Greenstone Track
Mavora Lakes
Lake Sylvan
Dart Track To Mt Aspiring (3033 metres)
See p4
Treble Cone Ski Area
Skippers Canyon Road (4WD only)
Glendhu Bay
6
Puzzling World
The Snow Farm
6
Lake
8a
To Hawea Lake The West Coast Wanaka Hawea 6
See p60
Wanaka
Cardrona Alpine Resort
Backcountry Saddle Horseriding
Cardrona Valley
8
8
To Mt Cook and Christchurch
Cromwell See p49
Paintball Central
Clyde
Clyde Dam
Alexandra
To Dunedin
Roxburgh
Bannockburn
Gibbston Valley
Crown Range Road Highlands Go Karts and Jurassic Safaris Kawarau Bungy Centre
The Remarkables
Queenstown Airport
See p42
Arrowtown
P6 Lake Hayes
Family Adventures
P9
P5
6
Garston
Kingston
P4
Jacks Point
Frankton
Coronet Peak Ski Area
Athol
Kelvin Heights
Queenstown
W10
Shotover Jet
Skippers Canyon Jet
Ben Lomond (1748 metres)
P8
6
Walter Peak High Country Farm
Bobs Cove W9 P7
P3 Moke Lake
Ben Lomond Horse Treks
Rees Track
Glenorchy See p28
Dart River Wilderness Jet & Funyaks
Kinloch
Lake Wakatipu
Mt. Nicholas High Country Station
In Kilometres From Queenstown to... Arrowtown.................................... 19 Christchurch................................. 486 Cromwell........................................ 57 Dunedin......................................... 283 Fox Glacier..................................... 380 Franz Josef.................................... 365 Glenorchy...................................... 45 Invercargill.................................... 187 Kingston......................................... 50 Milford Sound.............................. 291 Mount Cook.................................. 328 Te Anau........................................... 170 Wanaka (via Route 6).................. 117 Wanaka (via Crown Range)....... 75 Unsealed Road Five Rivers
To Invercargill
tan
Mitre Peak (1692 metres)
Lake Te Anau Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Cruises to caves (35 - 40 mins)
Te Anau
To Queenstown (170 km / 2 hrs 15 mins)
See p71
Manapouri
22km / 20 mins from Te Anau
Doubtful Sound departures Mossburn
ns
Du
ke
La
during all New Zealand school holidays*
Experience the best of the South Island with Real Journeys... Real Journeys has been sharing its backyard since 1954, providing remarkable tourism experiences in this exceptional corner of the world.
QUEENSTOWN: Travel on our vintage steamship to Walter Peak, and if you like, join a farm tour. TE ANAU: Take a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau for a magical glowworm cave adventure. MILFORD SOUND: See waterfalls, wildlife and the spectacular Mitre Peak on our Scenic and Nature Cruises. DOUBTFUL SOUND: Travel across Lake Manapouri, coach over the remote Wilmot Pass and experience true wilderness while cruising through this dramatic fiord. STEWART ISLAND: Cross Foveaux Strait on a modern catamaran to NZ’s forgotten third Island. *Offer valid on selected departures, maximum two school aged children (up to 18 yrs) per full fare paying adult. For full terms & conditions visit our website.
FREEPHONE 0800 65 65 01 www.real journeys.co.nz/kidsgofree