FREE! WINTER 2015
QUEENSTOWN
T WANAKA T FIORDLAND
The ONLY family guide to the Southern Lakes EXCLUSIVE FAMILY DEALS! skiing with kids attractions and adventures budget ideas activity age guide family accommodation arrowtown milford sound child-friendly dining maps plus more!
$$ S AV E $ V E SI E X C LU T S ! UN DISCO P88
If you’re looking for some fun things to do with the kids we’ve got the perfect activities for you! QUEENSTOWN
Travel on our vintage steamship to Walter Peak, and if you like, join a farm tour
TE ANAU
Scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau for a magical glowworm adventure
MILFORD SOUND
See waterfalls, wildlife and spectacular Mitre Peak on our Scenic and Nature Cruises
DOUBTFUL SOUND
Travel across Lake Manapouri, coach over Wilmot Pass and experience true wilderness on a fiord cruise
STEWART ISLAND
Cross Foveaux Strait on a modern catamaran to NZ’s third Island
KIDS TRAVEL FREE DURING ALL NZ SCHOOL HOLIDAYS WITH FULL FARE PAYING ADULTS n (up to 18yrs) per adult. Selected departures. Maximum two school-aged childre Conditions apply. See website for details.
FREE
0800 65 65 01
www.realjourneys.co.nz/kidsgofree
Queenstown Wanaka Fiordland
Your one-stop family guide to New Zealand’s stunning Southern Lakes region. Queenstown and Arrowtown – you’ll never run out of things to do in Queenstown but you may run out of time! With breathtaking scenery, activities, festivals, shopping and wineries plus five fantastic ski fields nearby, this lakeside alpine resort justifiably rates as one of the world’s top destinations for all ages and seasons. Just 19 km away, the old-world ambience of Arrowtown, on the bank of the once gold-laden Arrow River, is also a must-visit, offering accommodation, restaurants, activities and fabulous family bike tracks.
Wanaka – Lake Wanaka, surrounded by magnificent mountains, valleys and glaciers, 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 and the famous Puzzling World, as well as family walking or biking tracks and three fantastic skifields between half an hour and one hour from town.
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 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.
27th 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
Finished your trip? If you don't wish to keep this magazine, please pass it on to another family. 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.
Visit KidzGo.co.nz for your family holiday web guide to the Southern Lakes and the whole of New Zealand.
Queenstown, Fernhill and Sunshine Bay
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Queenstown Bay
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....................Public Toilets ....(with babychanging) ......................Playground ....................QT Ice Arena ..................Connectabus ...............................Library ..............Medical Centre ..................Holiday Park .................Supermarket .....................Post Office ..........................Carpark ................Police Station ................Petrol Station .......................Skate Park ...................Frisbee Golf ..................Main Routes ............One Way Street ..........Walking Tracks (See page 53)
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Contents
Treble Cone Ski Area, Wanaka :: photo by Putney Student Travel
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THE SNOW SCENE: June–October Local ski areas and snow activities Ski schools / childcare facilities Mountain transport – Queenstown Hiring gear – Queenstown The Wanaka snow scene
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KIDZ GO QUEENSTOWN
ACTIVITIES AND TRIPS On a budget ideas Rainy day ideas Family attractions Discover Queenstown Adventure activities The Queenstown Trail and family bike rides Discover Cromwell Discover Arrowtown Walking tracks and playgrounds Annual and season activity passes Birthday party activities and ideas
22 23 24 33 42 46 48 50 53 56 56
KIDZ GO FIORDL AND
Te Anau activities Te Anau walking/biking tracks Te Anau useful contacts Eating out made easy Milford Sound Doubtful Sound
75 76 76 77 78 80
FAMILY ACCOMMODATION Queenstown 82 Wanaka 86 Te Anau 87
SOUTHERN L AKES MAPS
Queenstown, Fernhill and Sunshine Bay 4 Queenstown centre 6 Frankton and Kelvin Heights 6 Ski fields map 10 Cromwell 49 THE KIDS’ DIRECTORY Arrowtown 50 Childcare, clubs, party ideas, annual passes plus lots more information for parents 54 Wanaka 66 Te Anau 77 EATING OUT MADE EASY The road to Milford Sound 78 Family-friendly restaurants and cafés 58 Southern Lakes area 91 FAMILY SHOPPING and SERVICES Clothing, toys, books, haircuts supermarkets and more
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KIDZ GO WANAK A
The Wanaka snow scene Wanaka activities Wanaka walking/biking tracks Eating out made easy Family shopping and services The kids’ directory Wanaka useful contacts Wanaka birthday party ideas
21 67 70 71 72 72 73 73
OTHER STUFF Queenstown useful contacts 7 Getting around 7 The legend of our breathing lake 8 Winter events highlights 9 A nugget of Southern Lakes history 63 New Zealand's favourite bird 81 Family deals and savings 88 Index 90 Visit
KidzGo.co.nz
Central Queenstown
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1 Southern Discoveries 2 TSS Earnslaw 3 Public Kitchen and Bar 4 Finz Seafood and Grill 5 Minus 5° ICEBAR 6 Thunder Jet & Water Taxi 7 Segway on Q pick-up 8 Off Road Adventures 9 Odyssey Sensory Maze 10 Vortex 12D Theatre 10 Kidz Club Queenstown 11 360° Battleground 12 Fear Factory 13 Rockies Childrenswear 14 Minami Jujisei Japanese 15 Cardrona – town office 16 Sombreros Mexican 17 One Stop Snow Rental 18 Snowbiz Snow Rental 19 Green Toad Snow Rental 20 Ziptrek Info Centre 21 The Bead Shop 22 Kiwi Discovery 23 Hell Pizza 24 Winnies Gourmet Pizza 25 Ballarat Trading Co. 26 KJet & Underwater Obs. 27 Queenstown Paraflights 28 Dark Ride 29 Queenstown Ice Arena
Frankton and Kelvin Heights To Arrowtown, Wanaka and Cromwell
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SITE Trampoline
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PowderPak Parks
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Remarkables Park Town Centre
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Queenstown Useful Contacts
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Useful Contacts
Getting Around
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, Building 12, 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
SKI AREA TRANSPORT See page 16 for ski area transport departing Queenstown and page 21 for ski area transport departing Wanaka.
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 Unichem Wilkinson’s Pharmacy 4 The Mall, Queenstown
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 and skifield transfers. Call for a quote today! Child seats available on request. Phone: 03 450 3000 (24 hours) Freephone: 0800 QT TAXIS (0800 788 294) Bookings: bookings@queenstowntaxis.com
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 Qbook Kawarau Village 03 441 4107 Alpine Lakes Drive, Kawarau Village Southern Discoveries Info Centre 03 441 8038 St Omer Wharf, 110 Beach Street Southern Lakes Info Centre 03 442 7640 corner Shotover Street/Rees Street The Station corner Shotover/Camp Street 03 442 5252
DISCOUNT CAR 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. 4WD car hire just $75 per day (based on one-day hire) or from $49 per day for multi-day hire. Includes ski racks and snow chains. Phone: 03 442 6039 Mobile: 027 432 7621 Freephone: 0800 557 232 www.discountrentals.co.nz
Alpine Connexions 03 443 9120 Transport service between Queenstown and Wanaka (Four departures daily), plus connections to Dunedin and Cromwell and 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 03 441 1137 / 0800 264 536 Daily services to Te Anau, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Cromwell, Franz Josef, Fox Glacier, 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. Great rates, bikes carried. 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 and most hiking tracks. Yello! Cabs and Shuttles 0800 443 5555 Wanaka taxi service, Wanaka ski area transport, airport shuttle. www.KidzGo.co.nz
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The Legend of Our Breathing Lake
About our lake... Did you know that some parts of Lake Wakatipu are over 1km deep and that it's 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 5 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 Măori 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 www.KidzGo.co.nz
he’ll wake up. You’ll be killed!” she whispered. 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 known as Hidden Island, and known to some as the heart of Matau the giant...
Winter Events
Winter Events :: 2015 Highlights New Zealand School Holiday Dates 4th July to 19th July 26th Sept to 11th October. Scheduled skifield opening/closing dates (snow dependent) Cardrona Alpine Resort 13 June-11 October Coronet Peak 13 June-4 October The Remarkables 20 June-27 September Snow Farm NZ 20 June-20 September Treble Cone 25 June-7 September
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AUGUST 9 Streets Youth Mini Shred 2 @ The Remarkables 14 Fireman’s Challenge K2 and Chillfactor @ Coronet Peak Firefighting teams compete to do the most runs down the mountain between 8am and 10am; each team has to hold onto a hose! 16 Worldloppet Merino Muster Snow Farm's headline event. Includes a short distance race for children 10 years and under – you can even enter something if snowfarmnz.com it's your first day on snow! Register online.
JUNE 19-28 AMERICAN EXPRESS QUEENSTOWN WINTER FESTIVAL See feature below for great family fun events.
16-29 Ice Hockey action with Southern Stampede Watch the fastest game on earth and support Queenstown's home team, The Southern Stampede.
28 The Kids Big Snow Dig Dig deep to find the treasure (ice cream treats and other great prizes) in huge piles of snow. Pre-registration needed (10.30am – 11.30am on the day).
22-25 Wanaka Dog Sled Festival The Wanaka Dog Sled Festival is a great day out for the kids and it's always fun to see the dogs in action. There are a number of events so come up and have a look from the Snow Farm's great viewing deck. www.snowfarmnz.com
JULY 3 (Wanaka) + 10 (Queenstown) NZ Mountain Film Festival – Youth Programme Free inspirational talk and a set of films to inspire youth and promote adventure. www.mountainfilm.net.nz
21-30 Audi Quattro Winter Games NZ One of the top events on the international winter sports circuit. Free to watch, with ski field + downtown action.
11-12 Treble Cone Ice Carving Competition Subject to snow/weather and date changes.
22nd August, 7am-2pm 23rd August, 8am-5pm Queenstown Ice Arena, Queenstown Gardens Ph 03 441 8000
Venue: Remarkables Town Centre, from noon
www.treblecone.com
19 Kids’ Day Out Kids rule The Peak all day with plenty of activities, entertainment and games. Venue: Coronet Peak www.nzski.com 13 -17 Kids Week at Treble Cone including TC Cat's Birthday Daily fun activities and celebrations. www.treblecone.com 18 July + 9 August Streets Youth Mini Shred 1 @ The Remarkables Young skiers/riders show off their tricks in The Remarks ‘Beginner Park'. Prizes and giveaways to be won, free for kids to enter. Categories inc: Ski/Snowboard, Male/ Female, Under 12s/Under 14s.
american express queenstown winter festival - 2015 10 Days Of Non-Stop Live Entertainment In Queenstown! More Than 60 Events Including Street Parties, Fireworks, Ice hockey tournaments, Birdman Flying, Big Air Jumping, Glitzy Balls, Sports And Comedy.
Contact Queenstown Ice Arena for tickets/times. Ph 03 441 8000
Queenstown, Wanaka and ski fields www.wintergamesnz.kiwi
22 + 23 Queenstown Invitational Figure Skating Tournament
SEPTEMBER 6 Fathers Day Dads ski free at the Snow Farm! 5 + 6 PUMP Mini Mountain Child-specific ski / snowboard competition.
Plenty of prizes and lots of fun! www.treblecone.com 19 International ‘Talk Like a Pirate Day’ @ The Remarkables Dress like a pirate and come up to The Remarks for the day. Past events have included cardboard ship races and lolly scrambles. OCTOBER 26 Labour Day (public holiday) June 19-28 Family Highlights (see full program at www.winterfestival.co.nz) 19 American Express opening party and fireworks. Earnslaw Park, 5.30pm. Fireworks 7pm 20 American Express Festival Street Parade Downtown Queenstown from noon 21 iHeart Radio Day on the Bay – legendary Birdman competition, Jet Sprints, Jucy Undy 500 and more! Queenstown Bay, noon 24 Downtown Day – Drag Race, QRC Hospitality Race and more! Earnslaw Park, noon 25 DB Export Dog Derby Coronet Peak, noon 25 DB Export Dog Barking Earnslaw Park, 3pm 27 Mountain Mayhem – hilarious events on snow Coronet Peak from noon 28 The Kids Big Snow Dig Remarkables Town Centre, noon 28 Auckland Airport Community Carnival Earnslaw Park, 4pm
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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The Snow Scene :: Ski Areas and Snow Activities
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The Snow Scene With more than 25 scenic ski areas and lots of perfect, crisp, blue-sky days, New Zealand has the best ski and snowboard areas in the Southern Hemisphere. Base yourself in Queenstown or Wanaka and you’ll be as little as half an hour’s drive from five fantastic ski areas, with a world of snow to ski, snowboard, snowshoe, tube, toboggan and play in. Find out all you need to know for a family day on the snow in this chapter.
Ski Area Locations
Treble Cone Hawea
Distances
Unsealed Road
Wanaka Cardrona
Alpine Resort
Coronet Peak The Snow Farm Cardrona
Arrowtown
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Lake Hayes
Frankton
Crown Range Road
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Queenstown to Coronet Peak 18km / 20 mins The Remarkables 28km / 45 mins Cardrona 58km / 60 mins Treble Cone 100km / 90 mins Snow Farm 58km / 60 mins Arrowtown to Kinloch Glenorchy Coronet Peak 21km / 25 mins The Remarkables 34km / 50 mins Cardrona 37km / 45 mins Treble Cone 75km / 75 mins Snow Farm 37km / 45 mins Wanaka to Coronet Peak 80km / 70 mins The Remarkables 83km / 90 mins Cardrona 34km / 45 mins Treble Cone 30km / 35 mins Snow Farm 34km / 45 mins
The Remarkables
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The Snow Scene :: Ski Areas and Snow Activities TREBLE CONE Treble Cone is the South Island’s largest ski area offering the region's longest, most congestion-free slopes. Family-friendly – check out Treble Cone’s FREE beginner surface lifts and protected beginner area, conveniently located next to the Base Lodge and Café. As you progress, unlock new terrain and excitement as a family with the kids-specific trail map. Enjoy the superfriendly, daily groomed Easy Rider or the Jazz Kids' Fun Trail featuring ‘pint-sized’ jumps, bumps and thrills. Childcare and Lessons – play with TC Cat in full- or half-day group lessons for children of all abilities aged 3 years and up. With small group sizes, capped at just 5 children per beginner group, lessons at Treble Cone offer plenty of assistance and support. But for a little extra encouragement, kids also earn stickers and medals – marking off skills tried and skills mastered on their kids-specific trail map. Scenic Chairlift Rides – for those more interested in snow play, hop on a Scenic Chairlift Ride to the top of the Home Basin and enjoy lunch at the highest restaurant in Wanaka, taking in the million dollar views and action from the safety of your own shoes! Phone: 03 443 7443 Lifts: 6-seater Home Basin Express Chairlift, Saddle Basin Quad Chairlift, Nice ‘N’ Easy Platter and Magic Carpet Family discounted day passes: Family Lift Pass $273 (2 adults + 2 children, extra child $30). Multi-day discounts available. Family Scenic Chairlift Ride $50 Facilities: Two cafés, adults' and kids' snow sports school, childcare, retail shop, rental equipment and repairs, medical centre. Terrain: beginners 10%, intermediate 45%, advanced 45% www.treblecone.com/families Qualmark Visitor Activity & Enviro-Silver. Kids 5 years and under receive FREE day lift passes. CORONET PEAK This is the closest ski area to Queenstown (20 minutes easy drive). Modern facilities, extensive snow-making and grooming along with rolling off-piste terrain make Coronet Peak a truly world class ski area. There’s plenty of fun for kids, from licensed childcare in the Skiwiland Early Learning Centre, to the beginner slopes with 4 conveyor (magic carpet) lifts. Plus exciting and challenging runs for the more intrepid! If you’ve never skied after sundown don’t miss Night Skiing, Fridays and Saturdays from 4pm (mid-July to mid-September). Phone: 03 450 1970 Freephone: 0800 697 547 (The Snow Centre, Queenstown) Lifts: 1 high-speed six seater chair, 2 high-speed quad chairs, 1 T-bar, 4 surface conveyor lifts (magic carpet) Facilities: Licensed early learning centre (3mths-5yrs), kids ski and snowboard school (5-15 years). State-of-the-art facilities including five cafés/restaurants, snow shop, rental & repairs, ski/ snowboard school, first aid. Terrain: beginners 25%, intermediate 45%, advanced 30% www.nzski.com Qualmark Visitor Activity & Enviro-Gold. Kids 6 years and under receive FREE day lift passes.
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MEMORIES
Start at Treble Cone!
WINNER NZ’S BEST SKI RESORT 2013 & 2014
NEW ON-MOUNTAIN CAFE & INTERMEDIATE TRAILS
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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The Snow Scene :: Ski Areas and Snow Activities
CARDRONA ALPINE RESORT Cardrona is the largest ski area easily accessed from both Queenstown and Wanaka, and is New Zealand’s favourite family mountain! Kids love Cardrona, thanks to its crazy colourful base area, children’s programmes and mellow groomed runs. Cardrona is the perfect place for beginners and intermediates, with easy-to-use surface lifts, specialised beginner packages and plenty of wide open trails spread over three basins. Skiers and boarders of all ages and abilities will love the variety of exciting terrain, pristine groomers and world-class parks and pipes. Cardrona Early Childhood Centre and Ski School have options on and off the snow for kids from 3 months to early teens, offering care, activities, lessons and FUN in flexible full-day, half-day and multi-day options. Shorter lessons are available for families who'd like to spend more time skiing together. Phone: 03 443 8880 Freephone: 0800 440 800 Lifts: 4 quad chairlifts, 2 surface conveyor lifts (magic carpet), 1 platter tow Facilities: Nursery & kindy (3mths-4 years), ski kindy (3-4 years), kids' ski & snowboard school (5 years and over), high performance centre, five cafés, on-mountain accommodation, snow shop, rental and repairs, first aid, doctor. Terrain: beginners 25%, intermediate 50%, advanced 25% Email: info@cardrona.com www.cardrona.com Kids 5 years and under receive FREE day passes.
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THE REMARKABLES Just 45 minutes drive from Queenstown, The Remarkables is a favourite for beginners and families. Its alpine location, sunny slopes and dedicated learning facilities make it the place to go for a relaxed day on the snow. Join mascots Spike the Kiwi and Shred the Kea on the slopes or book the little ones into the Early Learning Centre. Extensive trail work makes the progression from beginner to intermediate enjoyable and for the experts there is plenty of advanced terrain to explore. Following on from the success of the new Curvey Basin six-seat chairlift last season, 2015 at The Remarkables will be an exciting year with its 30th birthday and a brand new base building to celebrate. Phone: 03 450 1970 Freephone: 0800 697 547 (The Snow Centre) Lifts: 1 high-speed six seater chair, 3 quad chairs, 3 surface conveyor lifts (magic carpet) Facilities: Licensed early learning centre (3mths-5yrs), kids ski and snowboard school (5-15 years) 3 progressive terrain parks, family restaurant, snow shop, rental and repairs, ski/snowboard school, first aid. Terrain: beginners 30%, intermediate 40%, advanced 30% www.nzski.com Qualmark Visitor Activity Kids 6 years and under receive FREE day lift passes.
CARDRONA. FUN GUARANTEED. Adventure, learning, snow skills & FUN
Four dedicated KIDS’ CENTRES (tiny to teens)* EASY drive or bus ride from Queenstown or Wanaka *including fully licensed Under 5’s centre for children 3mths+
Cnr Shotover/ Rees Sts, Queenstown / 18 Dunmore St, Wanaka p: 0800 440 800 e: info@cardrona.com WWW.CARDRONA.COM
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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The Snow Scene :: Ski Areas and Snow Activities
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SNOW FARM Experience New Zealand's premier cross-country and snow-shoe area. A perfect family activity, and it doesn’t matter if you are new to it! Enjoy picturesque and specially designed beginner trails only 5 minutes from the comfort of the lodge. Snow Fun Zone! Our new Snow Fun Zone is the perfect way for your family to experience the snow. We have an exciting tubing/sledding hill, snow caves to explore and plenty of spare snow to make snow men or women! A café/restaurant is onsite with comfy seating and a great viewing area. Spend a family day at the Snow Farm! Phone: 03 443 7542 Facilities: Café, comfy lounge, ski rental, ski school, accommodation, backcountry huts. Email: info@snowfarmnz.com www.snowfarmnz.com Bring along your Kidz Go magazine and receive one child's ski rental free of charge. SNOW FARM LODGE Unique on-snow accommodation at Snow Farm in the family-friendly Lodge! Snow Farm is in a flat location, ideal for kids to run around, yet with endless snowcapped mountain views. We provide family-friendly rooms, a restaurant serving breakfast and buffet dinner, café and cosy TV lounge stocked with books and games. Our accommodation packages can include cross country ski hire and lessons. Snow Farm, Cardrona Valley Road, Cardrona Phone: +64 3 443 0300 www.snowfarmlodge.com POWDERPAK PARKS Min age 5 years* 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 from first-time skiers/boarders to experienced riders looking to progress from low boxes to rails and jumps. An activity for all the family, watch from the mezzanine – or jump in and have some fun! Practice makes perfect and by being able to go again and again – with staff to guide you, and airbags to land on – in no time you will be able to perfect your style to take straight to the ski resorts! Red Oaks Drive, off Hawthorne Drive, Remarkables Park, Frankton Phone: Hours: 7 days, 9.30am-9.30pm Session duration: 1½ hours Price: Adult $35, Child/Student $25, season passes and multipasses available. Rental: board and bindings $25, boots $10, helmet $5, wrist guards $5 – whole package $32 Note: You can use your own gear Email: info@powderpaknz.com www.powderpaknz.com *Younger dependent on experience.
V isit
.co.nz
For New Zealand’s top family-friendly activities. Don’t forget to mention us when you book!
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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The Snow Scene :: Ski School and Childcare
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CARDRONA ALPINE RESORT
For bookings, prices andprices more and information visit www.cardrona.com or phone 03 443 8880 or 0800 440 800 For bookings, more information visit www.cardrona.com 03 443 7411 (Wanaka), 03 443 7341 (Mountain), 03 442early 4112childhood (Queenstown) NURSERYor (3phone months-under 2 years) & KINDY (2-4 years) Fully-licensed centre. Games, toys and FUN! Snacks and drinks are provided. Price includes lunch for kindy only. SKI KINDY (3-4 years) Fully-licensed early childhood centre offering activities, snacks, lunch (full day only) and ski lessons. 1) Under 5s private lesson: 1-on-1 experience with a professional instructor for 60 minutes. 2) Under 5s group lesson: 2 x two-hour lessons with 2-4 children of the same age and ability level. KIDS’ SKI AND SNOWBOARD SCHOOL (5 years and over) • First-timer package: 2 x two-hour lessons, rental equipment, learner conveyor pass: $100 • Full-day lessons, lunch and activities 8.30am-4pm: $128 • Flexible half-day options – morning activities & group lesson (8.30am-12.30pm) $76 morning activities, group lesson and lunch (8.30am-1.30pm) $88 Skiwees (ski from 5 years) and Lowriders (snowboard from 7 years) Four days (Mon-Thurs) of lessons with the same instructor and group. Includes lunch. HOBBITS/HOBBLETS (4+ years) Sunday workshops for little skiers and riders – lots of fun! CARDRONA RIDE TRIBE (10+ years) Four-day camps for kids wanting to improve their overall skills. Race, freeski, freeride, freestyle.
For bookings, prices and more information visit www.treblecone.com or phone 03 443 7443
CORONET PEAK AND THE REMARKABLES
TREBLE CONE
KITTY CAT CLUB (from 3-5 years*) Fully-supervised indoor area with a range of games, books, toys and craft materials. Maximum stay is two hours, or three hours when combined with a semi-private ski lesson. No food provided. *Children under 3 are welcome if accompanied by parent or guardian. KITTY CAT SEMI-PRIVATE LESSON Offered to 3 and 4 year olds in childcare to create a three-hour indoor / outdoor programme. Includes a one-hour lesson with a maximum of 3 children, ski and boot hire, beginner lift pass and two hours of childcare. A perfect way to discover skiing in a friendly and fun mini group! TC CAT KIDS’ CLUB (3-15 years) Full-day or half-day lessons. We guarantee your kids will learn loads and have plenty of fun in the TC CAT KIDS’ CLUB. There are full-day (including lunch) and half-day programmes available for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities aged 3-15 years (minimum snowboard age 6 years). Early drop-off available from 9am – $15.
For bookings, prices and more information visit www.nzski.com or phone 03 450 1970 SKIWILAND EARLY LEARNING CENTRES (3 months-5 years) Fully licensed on-mountain childcare from Qualified early learning educators; supervised indoor fun and playtime in the snow. Bookings essential. Mini Kids (3 months-under 2 years) Qualified staff ensure safe and fun activity-based childcare including playtime in the snow. Lunch is not included. Reservations essential. Kiwi Kids (2-5 years) If your child is not yet ready to ski, Kiwi Kids provides safe and fun childcare. A mix of supervised indoor fun and playtime in the snow. Full day option includes lunch. Reservations essential. Skiwi Kids (3-5 years) Enthusiastic instructors ensure early snow experiences are fun. Includes a ski lesson in small groups in our dedicated Skiwi Kids area, plus lots of fun indoor and outdoor activities. Full day option includes lunch. Ski, boot and helmet hire included. Reservations essential. KEA CLUB (Ski 5-15 years | Snowboard 8-15 years) Specifically designed for kids, encouraging maximum participation, safety and fun. We do not take advance bookings, but recommend early arrival to ensure participation. Lift pass included. Full day option includes lunch. Options including rental available. Other information School holiday programmes operate during the Australian and New Zealand school holidays. Programmes run for 3 days at The Remarkables and 5 days at Coronet Peak. Bookings essential, for more information phone the Snowsports school.
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The Snow Scene :: Ski School and Childcare
LOOK OUT FOR THE MOUNTAIN MASCOTS
PRICES Full-day nursery: $95 Full-day kindy: $90
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Care + private lesson $139/day Care + group lessons $162/day Includes gear and lift pass.
Skiwees (ski) & Lowriders (snowboard) Four days $415 (Packages available to include lift pass and rental.)
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Prices apply to Coronet Peak or The Remarkables
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Half-day: $69 Full-day: $89 Half-day: $69 Full-day: $99
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s 7 years+ $119 $155
It's a good idea to ensure your child has visited the toilet prior to lesson time and is adequately dressed. Layers are good, eye protection is a must and so is sunscreen – the sun gets reflected by the snow and can cause severe sunburn if you're not properly protected. Don't forget to pop a snack such as a muesli bar in their pocket. Also make sure they have your mobile number on them.
Treble Cone Morning lessons 10.20am-12.30pm Afternoon lessons 1.20pm-3.30pm Note: adult lessons commence 10 minutes AFTER child lessons.
Half-day: $50 Full-day: lessons + lunch $97 per day. Full-day: lessons, lunch, lift pass $141 Discounts for multi-day bookings.
6 years and under Half-day: $79 Full-day: $115
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All ski areas offer morning and afternoon lessons of approximately two hours duration, for both children and adults, and advance booking is not required. In all cases children will be in a separate group. It is recommended to get to the ski area at least half an hour prior to lessons commencing.
Cardrona Morning lessons 10.20am-12.20pm Afternoon lessons 2pm-4pm
$84 (includes skis and boots plus beginner lift pass).
Half-day: $95 Full-day: $145
Casual Lessons
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Six Sundays starting July 26th from $276. Add lunches $66 Four days $490 (Monday-Thursday) See www.cardrona.com/all-day-ski-lessons
One hour: $20 2 hours: $35 $12 per hour if accompanied. Three hours: $84 (includes a one-hour semi-private ski lesson).
OTHER STUFF
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Coronet Peak and The Remarkables Morning lessons 10am-12.30pm Afternoon lessons 1.30pm-4pm Note: these are CHILD lesson times – they start 20 minutes prior to adult lessons and finish after, giving you time to have your own lesson. Skiwiland Early Learning Centre sessions vary from these times slightly.
Skiing without children Our ski areas are all family-friendly, with great on-mountain facilities and children's programmes. However you can also choose to have a nanny come to your accommodation to look after your children, or even go skiing with them. Phone Around the Clock Childcare on 027 643 2298 for more information.
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The Snow Scene :: Mountain Transport
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Mountain Transport With the exception of Coronet Peak, the local ski area access roads are unsealed. While they are maintained regularly throughout winter, road conditions can vary on a daily basis. If you’re not comfortable with fitting chains or mountain driving in snow or icy conditions, you’ll be far better off letting someone else drive you to the slopes. Read on for our easy options to get you and your family quickly and conveniently to the snow.
Cardrona
If you’re driving, be aware of road/weather conditions. Carry chains (these can be hired from Green Toad), a shovel, first aid kit, extra food, water and blankets, Remember, weather can deteriorate quickly while you are skiing.
SKI AREA ACCESS ROADS (see map p10) CARDRONA The Crown Range is the shortest route between Queenstown and Wanaka, but the winding road requires great care in snow or icy conditions. It is sealed but very twisty and steep in parts. The 10km Cardrona ski area access road is unsealed. You may be able to park close to base if you arrive early. Otherwise courtesy car park shuttles run throughout the day. Distance and Driving times: ex Queenstown 58km/60 minutes ex Wanaka 34km/45 minutes CORONET PEAK The closest ski area to Queenstown, the start of the access road is an easy 10 minutes drive from town centre. It's 9km of good, sealed road. Car parks fill up quickly so be prepared for a 5-10 minute walk or catch the regular courtesy car park shuttle. Distance and Driving times: ex Queenstown 18km/20 minutes ex Wanaka 80km/70 minutes THE REMARKABLES The access road is 20 minutes drive from Queenstown or 10 minutes from Frankton. It's 13km with the first 4km newly sealed and the rest unsealed. Parking generally very close to base building. Distance and Driving times: ex Queenstown 28km/45 minutes ex Wanaka 83km/90 minutes TREBLE CONE The closest ski area to Wanaka, drive 22km along the Mt Aspiring Road to the Treble Cone turnoff. The access road is only 7km but steep and unsealed. Parking close to base building. Distance and Driving times: ex Queenstown 100km/95 minutes ex Wanaka 30km/35 minutes SNOW FARM Take the Crown Range road to the Cardrona Valley. If you're coming from Queenstown, the sealed road is twisty and steep but well-maintained. The access road is 13km, well-graded but unsealed. Distance and Driving times: ex Queenstown 58km/60 minutes ex Wanaka 34km/45 minutes
SKI AREA TRANSPORT (ex Queenstown)
DISCOUNT CAR RENTALS 03 442 6039 KIWI DISCOVERY SKI LINK INFO 03 442AND 7340SNOW 03 442 9708 QUEENSTOWN TAXIS 03 450 3000 KIWI DISCOVERY Note: price per vehicle, 03 442 7340 based on Queenstown departure.
GREEN CABS SERIOUS FUN 03 441 2085 SNOW SHUTTLES 03 442 5262
CORONET PEAK
THE REMARKABLES
CARDRONA ALPINE RESORT
TREBLE CONE
4WD car hire just $75 per day (based on one-day hire) or from $49 per day for multi-day hire. Includes ski racks and snow chains. Adult $29 Child $19
Adult $29 Child $19
Adult $47 Child $33
Adult $50 Child $38
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Above are Kiwi Discovery Adult and Child return
Car (seats 1-4) $80 one way Van (seats 5-11) $95 one way
Car (seats 1-4) $145 one way Van (seats 5-11) $175 one way
Car (1-4) $200 one way Van (5-11) $245 one way
Car (1-4) $300 one way Van (5-11) $345 one way
Car (1-4) $200 one way Van (5-11) $245 one way
Private Charter $300 (up to 11pax)
Private Charter $400 (up to 11 pax)
Private Charter $430 (up to 11 pax)
Private Charter $450 (up to 11 pax)
Private Charter $430 (up to 11pax)
Above are Serious Fun Snow Shuttles Adult and Child return prices
www.KidzGo.co.nz
SNOW FARM
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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. No need for buses or tours – we have cars (seat 1-4) or minivans (seat 1-11) for everything from sightseeing to airport transfers and of course, ski area transfers, all tailored to your needs. Call us for a quote today! Child seats available on request. Taxi Base: Level 1, 37 Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 450 3000 (24 hours) Freephone: 0800 QT TAXIS (0800 788 294) Bookings: bookings@queenstowntaxis.com Enquiries: enquiries@queenstowntaxis.com Note: Listed transfer prices based on pick up from within town centre. Fernhill and Millbrook prices on request. KIWI DISCOVERY SKI LINK Easy transport to ALL the local ski areas from over 25 locations and accommodations around town makes your family day hassle-free! Kiwi Discovery Ski Link are the only transport operator to service all resorts daily: Cardrona, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Treble Cone. Book one of our services before 7pm the night prior to departure and you’ll have a guaranteed seat right to the snow; no chain-fitting or carrying skis (and kids) to and from the car park. Just sit back, relax and enjoy your holiday. Located in central Queenstown and operating for over 25 years, all drivers are experienced and trained for the icy conditions and are friendly and passionate about Queenstown and the snow. Their motto is to 'make it easy' for you get the most out of your time in Queenstown. 37 Camp Street, Queenstown Hours: open 7 days, 7.00am-8.00pm Phone: 03 442 7340 Email: info@kiwidiscovery.com www.kiwidiscovery.com SERIOUS FUN SNOW SHUTTLES Friendly and personalised group transport to ALL the Queenstown and Wanaka Ski areas. Our door-to-door service will pick you up from Queenstown and surrounds and we operate like a taxi, so our transport is just for you and your family and friends. No waiting for others, and we pick up and return when YOU want! We even provide ‘on the ski field’ assistance and orientation so you can find your way around and make the most of your day. Our experienced drivers are focused on safety and comfort to ensure your day is Serious Fun! Phone: 03 442 5262 (Bookings essential) Freephone: 0800 SERIOUS (0800 737 468) Times: Queenstown pick-ups from 7am Price: from $300 RETURN for up to 11 people (see chart opposite.) Email: sales@snowshuttles.co.nz www.snowshuttles.co.nz
The Snow Scene :: Mountain Transport
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❄ Door-to-door service. ❄ We can take up to eleven passengers and gear. ❄ Safe and comfortable. ❄ No driving/parking hassles. ❄ We go where and when YOU want.
SKI AREA TRANSPORT
YOUR EASY FAMILY SNOW TRANSPORT freephone
0800 788 294
queenstowntaxis.com DISCOUNT CAR 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. 4WD car hire just $75 per day (based on one-day hire) or from $49 per day for multi-day hire. Includes ski racks and snow chains. Phone: 03 442 6039 Mobile: 027 432 7621 Freephone: 0800 557 232 Email: regsbikes@xtra.co.nz www.discountrentals.co.nz USEFUL SNOW INFORMATION Find out the latest weather and road conditions, which ski lifts are operating plus current snowfall information. Queenstown is 300m above sea level, so if snow’s forecast down to 300m, it’ll be white in town! FIND OUT ABOUT SNOW & ROAD CONDITIONS d Ask at reception (they receive a report each day) d Ask at Information Centres in town d Visit ski field websites for the day's snow report d Snow reports www.snowreports.co.nz d NZ snow scene www.snow.co.nz d Weather reports www.metservice.com d Road reports www.aaroadwatch.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
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The Snow Scene :: Hiring Gear
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Hiring Gear
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The chart shows you this season’s rental rates. Discount Rates: All listed stores offer family deals or excellent discount rates for multi-day hire. Prices quoted are based on one-day, standard equipment but in general the more you pay, the newer the gear. If you want to try the latest and best, ask for ‘executive’ or ‘performance’ rental prices. Listed outlets also rent clothing with ski trousers, jackets and suits for children and adults. Accessories such as gloves, hat, goggles and sunglasses are available in all listed stores for rental or purchase.
SKIS + BOOTS + POLES
BOARD + BOOTS
Adult Youth (17 & under) Child (under 10 yrs)
$48 $30 $21
$48 $24 $21
$39 $24 $16
$22 $16 $10
$35 $28 $21
Adult
$24 $18
$24 $18
$20 $16
$14 $10
$18 $14
KIWI DISCOVERY Adult 03 442 7340 Child (3-17 years)
$45 $28
$45 $28
$33 $24
$33 $24
$35 $26
ONE STOP Adult 03 441 2085 Child (15 & under) (w/ Kidz Go discount)
$25.60 $16
$25.60 $16
$20 $12.80
$12.80 $9.60
$20 $14.40
SNOWBIZ Adult 03 441 2085 Child (17 & under) (w/ Kidz Go discount)
$36 $22.40
$36 $22.40
$28 $18.40
$18.40 $12.80
$25.60 $20
WAI SKI HIRE 03 441 1195
$42 $28
$42 $28
$35 $25
$18 $18
$26 $26
HIRING GEAR BROWNS 03 442 4005 GREEN TOAD 03 442 5311
Child (15 & under)
Adult Child (17 & under)
ROCKIES 03 442 8153
Child (1-16 years)
Jacket/Pants/Overall $10
Head for the slopes with Rockies! Retail or Rental gear for ages1-16 years 03 442 8153 www.rockies.co.nz
Renta from l $10!
49 Beach St Queenstown www.KidzGo.co.nz
SKIS + POLES
BOOTS ONLY (SKI / SNOWBOARD)
Snowsuit $15
JACKET + PANTS
Jacket + Pants $15
ROCKIES Hoping to introduce your kids to the slopes of Queenstown this year? Rockies children’s boutique is not only an Aladdin’s Cave of fashion, we also specialise in ski and snowboard gear for children aged 1-16 years. With an array of the highest quality snow wear to buy or hire and a range of leading labels such as Spyder, Burton, North Face, Roxy, Quiksilver and Billabong, your child will be the warmest and most stylish on the mountain – a blur of winter excitement in our merino and musthave accessories; gloves, mittens, goggles, helmet, beanies, socks and snow boots, as they take over the slopes and Emu Ugg Boots for the well-deserved breaks. Rental: Visit Rockies for your child’s ski rental clothing with prices from just $10 a day. Toboggan hire also available. 49 Beach St, Queenstown Hours: daily, 9am-9pm Phone: 03 442 8153 Email: shopping@rockies.co.nz www.rockies.co.nz
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GREEN TOAD The Family Rental Specialists The Ski and Snowboard rental specialists offer great equipment at great prices for all gear including child rentals. Free wrist guards with snowboard hire and great, friendly, helpful staff. Jackets, pants, helmets and toboggans available for hire as well as all your winter accessories including hats, gloves and goggles. Discounts for multi-day hire. Chain hire now available. Child is 15 years and under. The Station Building, 48 Camp St (next to Red Rock bar) Phone: 03 442 5311 Hours: open 7 days, 7.30am-9.00pm www.greentoad.co.nz See p21 for Green Toad, Wanaka WAI SKI HIRE Absolutely hassle-free, crowd and queue-free ski and snowboard fitting and supply for the whole family! We bring our gear to you! So settle in to your ski holiday accommodation and we'll come to you and from scratch, have you geared up and ready to hit the slopes! In addition to our extensive and quality rental we have well-priced goggles, socks and gloves for sale with adults' and children's sizes. Our personal fitting and delivery service is NO EXTRA COST! Start now by booking online and we'll see you at your place in Queenstown! Delivery to Queenstown area Phone: 03 441 1195 Email: res@waiqueenstown.co.nz www.waiski.co.nz ONE STOP Ski and Snowboard Rental We specialize in top gear for the whole family at truly affordable rates! Get the kids sorted with a lesson programme and get skiing or boarding yourself. Great package deals. Includes equipment rental, lift pass, lesson and transport – products issued in-store with “mypass” ticketing. You’ll love the convenience of mountain transport departing from our front door. Our international team of experts is available to assist in all your ski, snowboard and winter clothing requirements. Gloves, goggles, helmet and wrist guard rental available. Child rates up to 15 years. Locally owned and operated. Personalised Service! The Station Building, Duke Street, Central Queenstown Phone: (03) 441 2085 Hours: 7.15am to 9.00pm, 7 days Email: info@onestopsnowshop.com www.onestopsnowshop.com For a great family deal present your Kidz Go 20% discount voucher in-store!
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The Snow Scene :: Hiring Gear
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Excellent prices
Wide range of Jackets & Pants for hire
Affordable ski & snowboard rental for the whole family
mypass
• Proceed ‘direct to lift’
– no more queuing! • Great package deals • Child rates up to 15 yrs • Glove, Goggle, Helmet
and Wristguard rental RENTAL RATES Skis Boots & Poles Snowboard & Boots Jacket & Pants Jacket OR Pants
ADULT CHILD
$32 $32 $25 $20
$20 $20 $18 $12
Station Building, Duke St, Queenstown Open: 7:15am to 9:00pm, 7 days Ph: (03) 441 2085 www.onestopsnowshop.com
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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20 The Snow Scene :: Hiring Gear prese
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SKI & SNOWBOARD RENTAL
t this to cla 20% im O ski, sn F F cloth owboard & ntal!
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mypass
* Proceed ‘direct to lift’ – no more queuing! * Great package deals * Winter clothing for the whole family * Child rates up to 17yrs! * Helmet rental * FREE hotel delivery
Station Building, Duke St, Queenstown 7:15am to 9:00pm, 7 days. Ph: (03) 441 2085
www.snowbiz.co.nz
SNOWBIZ Ski and Snowboard Rental All you need for a great day on the slopes – in one place! Great package deals for kids and adults – get the kids into a half or full day lesson program. Includes equipment rental, lift pass, lesson and transport – products issued in-store with “mypass” ticketing. Mountain transport departs from our front door. Make your ski/snowboard rental experience completely hassle-free! FREE hotel delivery. Brand new skis and snowboards, including a large range of Twin-Tip skis for children and adults. Try out the ‘latest and greatest’. Our ‘Sport’ and ‘Performance’ lines cater for all abilities. Child rates up to 17 years. Large range of accessories for sale. Locally owned and operated. Come in and see the experts! The Station Building, Duke St, Central Queenstown Phone: (03) 441 2085 Hours: 7.15am to 9.00pm, 7 days Email: info@snowbiz.co.nz www.snowbiz.co.nz For a great family deal, present your Kidz Go 20% discount voucher in-store – PLUS RECEIVE THE SIXTH CONSECUTIVE DAY TOTALLY FREE!
Snow Toys & Accessories
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BROWNS SKI SHOP You need us! Kids are our thing – most of us have our own and we know what it takes to make a family holiday work. We have what you need – great kids’ rental gear, a family discount of 15%*, FREE helmets for kids, FREE wrist guards with snowboards, FREE delivery and pick-up, FREE gear insurance, FREE baby-sitting – sorry, just kidding... Really though, all those extras add up to LOTS OF SAVINGS, check around and check us out. Child rates for under 10s plus special youth rates available for ages 10-17 years. Retail – exclusive range of kids’ (from 6 months) and adults’ snowwear and accessories from around the world. We import it ourselves so you won’t find it anywhere else in NZ! Browns Ski Rental: 4 Brecon Street, 03 442 4005 Browns Ski Shop Retail: 39 Shotover Street, 03 442 4003 Hours: daily, 7.30am-8pm (we close earlier early/late season) Email: info@brownsnz.com www.brownsnz.com *15% family discount – minimum 1 adult plus 1 youth or child. KIWI DISCOVERY RENTAL Located in central Queenstown and operating for over 25 years, Kiwi Discovery are the experts for your perfect ski holiday. The staff are passionate about snow and will kit you and the family out with gear as well as offer advice and information. Offering a large range of children's skis/snowboards, clothing from infants upwards and free delivery to all major accommodations, Kiwi Discovery also have the largest range of women-specific skis. For the experienced skier or rider, choose from an extensive range of performance equipment. Gloves, goggles and warm snow boots for “play in the snow” occasions are also available for hire or purchase. Kiwi Discovery operate a large fleet of buses to and from the ski fields and offer packages for learner packs, lift pass combos and bus transport. 37 Camp Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 7340 Hours: open 7 days, 7.00am-8.00pm Email: info@kiwidiscovery.com www.kiwidiscovery.com See page 17 for Kiwi Discovery Snow Transport.
TOBOGGANS & ACCESSORIES For back-to-basics fun on the snow you can’t get past a good old toboggan and all listed stores rent them out. Snowbiz, Kiwi Discovery and Browns also rent out snowboots – great for playing in the snow, and Browns Retail sell kids' harnesses and ‘Edgie-Wedgies’ – ideal for young skiers (around 3 years). GOGGLES AND GLOVES These can be rented from Green Toad, One Stop and Kiwi Discovery or all stores have a good range for purchase. HELMETS AND WRIST GUARDS These are available for hire or are often free with rental in ski rental stores listed.
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Wanaka
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Hiring Gear
GREEN TOAD WANAKA The Family Rental Specialists The Ski and Snowboard rental specialists offer great equipment at great prices for all gear including child rentals. Free wrist guards with snowboard hire and great, friendly, helpful staff. Jackets, pants, helmets and toboggans available for hire as well as all your winter accessories including hats, gloves and goggles. Discounts for multi-day hire. Chain hire now available. Child is 15 and under. For more information see colour ad p19. 6 Pembroke Mall, behind the bakery, Wanaka Phone: 03 443 4315 Hours: open 7 days, 7.30am-9pm www.greentoad.co.nz BASE ULTIMATE RENTAL We guarantee you the ultimate rental experience with the largest range of 2015 skis and snowboards – whether it's new, up-to-date beginners’ equipment, or the latest in high-tech, top-end skis and snowboards. Base Ultimate Rental has three levels of equipment which means that no matter what your ability, from beginner to all-mountain ripper, children or women’s specific, we have the gear to suit your needs. With top quality service and a comfort boot-fit guarantee, Base Ultimate Rental is the best choice for ski & snowboard hire in Wanaka. Come and see us or book your gear online before you arrive! FREE hotel delivery and multiday discounts available. 12 Helwick Street, (inside BASE2) Wanaka Phone: 03 443 6620 Hours: daily, 7.30am-8pm Email: rentals@basenz.com www.BaseNZ.com
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The Snow Scene :: Wanaka
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ROCKET RENTAL Cheap ski hire? Cheap snowboard hire? We are Wanaka’s fun, family-friendly ski and snowboard rental option. Our experienced and friendly crew is dedicated to getting your family on the hill for less dollars in less time. We endeavour to get you on the snow for the best price and best value. That doesn’t mean compromising on service, and it doesn’t mean gear that won’t do the job. Located in the centre of Wanaka, our specialist store can kit you out in everything you need for a fun day on the snow. 39 Helwick Street, Wanaka Phone: 03 443 ROCK (7625) Hours: daily, 7.30am-7.30pm Email: info@rocketrental.co.nz www.rocketrental.co.nz
Mountain Transport YELLO! MOUNTAIN TRANSPORT WANAKA Locally owned and operated ski transport to and from Cardrona or Treble Cone Ski Areas. Offering collection from your accommodation or departures from Wanaka Township, Yello! take the hassle out of driving mountain roads or fitting chains. With both scheduled and chartered options available they offer day return rates, multi-day rates and family packages (2 adults/2 children) for either the day, weekend or if your stay is longer book a four or six day family package which includes return airport transfers. Book online at www.yello.co.nz Phone: 03 443 5555 Departures: from 7.35am Rates – day return: Ad $35, Ch $28, Family $120 (2 ad + 2 ch) Visit our website for great family packages including doorto-door return and airport transfers. www.yello.co.nz
SKIS + BOOTS + POLES
BOARD + BOOTS
$24 $18
$24 $18
$20 $16
$14 $10
$18 $14
ROCKET RENTAL INFO 03 443AND 7625SNOW Adult (better) 03 442 9708 Child (9 & under)
$22 $27 $15
$25 $30 $20
$19 $24 $12
$12 n/a $7
$20 n/a n/a
KIWI DISCOVERY Adult BASE 03 442 7340 ULTIMATE RENTAL Youth (12-16) 03 443 6620 Child (11 & under)
$39 $31 $26
$39 $31 $26
$34 $26 $21
$18 $18 $18
$29 $29 $29
HIRING GEAR GREEN TOAD 03 443 4315
Adult Child (15 & under) Adult (good)
GREEN CABS SKI AREA TRANSPORT 03 441 2085 (return per head) YELLO! MOUNTAIN TRANSPORT 03 443 5555
CARDRONA ALPINE RESORT Adult rtn $35 Child rtn $28 Family $120
SKIS + POLES
BOOTS ONLY (SKI / SNOWBOARD)
JACKET + PANTS
TREBLE CONE Adult rtn $35 Child rtn $28 Family $120
Five day Return Multipasses and Family Packages available. Family rate is 2ad+2ch www.KidzGo.co.nz
22 Activities :: On a Budget
Queenstown Activities On a budget Rainy day ideas Family attractions Discover Queenstown Adventure activities Family bike rides Discover Cromwell Discover Arrowtown Family walking tracks Playgrounds Annual & season passes Birthday party ideas
22 23 24 33 42 46 48 50 53 53 56 56
Skippers Canyon Jet
On a budget? bright ideas to entertain the family
FREE v Arrowtown historical houses walk v Botanical gardens, Queenstown v Explore one of Queenstown’s family-friendly bike tracks (p46) v Feed the ducks at the lakefront v Frisbee golf, Queenstown gardens (hire discs from QT Ice Arena) v Join the library (ratepayers and children are free) v Kawarau Bungy Centre v Playgrounds (see p53) v Saturday markets, Steamer Wharf v Skateboard halfpipe / skatepark v Tastings – lollies or fudge v Visit Chinese Settlement v Walks (see p53 and our maps) Note: prices based on cost for family of four at time of print.
$50 OR UNDER for family
$125 OR UNDER for family
v v v v v v
v Clip ‘N Climb, Wanaka v Connectabus – hop on and off for a self-guided tour of the area v Dark Ride, Queenstown v Fear Factory, Queenstown v Highlands Motorsport Park – Jurassic Safari Park Tour and Highlands Taxi Porsche Cayenne v Ice skating at QT Ice Arena v Kawarau Zipride 3-pack v Kiwi Birdlife Park v Odyssey Sensory Maze v Paintball Central, Cromwell v PowderPak Parks indoor dryslope v Rent bikes – Arrow Bike Hire v Site Trampoline ($25 per head) v Vortex 12D Motion Theatre v Xtreme Indoor Reball, Lasertag & Hero Blast
Design jewellery at The Bead Shop Frankton driving range Highlands Motorsport Museum Goldfields Mining Centre Goldpanning in Arrowtown Join the library (non-ratepayers $25, children free) v Lakes District Museum, Arrowtown v Mini golf v Minus 5° ICEBAR v Puzzling World, Wanaka v Queenstown Water Taxis v Reading Cinema family pass v Rent toboggans v Rockatipu Climbing Wall v Ride the Skyline Luge, Queenstown v Swimming at Alpine Aqualand v Transport & Toy Museum, Wanaka v Underwater Observatory – town pier v Video, DVD or games hire
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 23
Rainy Day Activities and Trips Day Trip to Milford Sound It may be fine at Milford Sound even if it’s rainy in town. Otherwise the waterfalls are spectacular in the rain. p78 Day Trip to Wanaka Stay dry and visit Puzzling World, National Transport and Toy Museum, Clip ‘N Climb and Cinema Paradiso or have a play at the Wanaka Pool. p66 Alpine Aqualand, Frankton Complete with leisure pool, lazy river, hydroslide, 25m lap pool, adult hot pool and learn-to-swim classes. p30 The Bead Shop, Queenstown Design your own wearable art.
p32
Dark Ride Interactive Motion Ride p25 Award-winning interactive motion ride – incredible, action-packed, multi-sensory experience! Escape Quest p24 Unravel the mystery and escape the room in one hour. Fear Factory p29 New Zealand's scariest haunted house! Spine-tingling surprises and lots of fun – if you're game enough! Goldfields Mining Centre Worth checking the weather – it’s often dry towards Cromwell when raining in town. Highlands Motorsport Park p48 The latest day-out destination, FASTlaps Porsche rides available for adults, motorsport museum, mini golf, go-karting and café. Near Cromwell.
Kawarau Bungy Centre Watch bungy jumpers and discover the history of bungy jumping!
p39
Kiwi Birdlife Park, Queenstown p34 Lots to see under cover, cosy café, umbrellas available. Kiwi Haka, Queenstown Mãori cultural performance at the Skyline Gondola. `
Lakes District Museum, Arrowtown p51 A lively museum full of colourful, 'hands-on' displays. Minus 5° ICEBAR, Queenstown p32 Come inside and marvel at a room where EVERYTHING is carved from ice. Odyssey Sensory Maze p28 Feel your way from one illusory room to another – each of the zones is different, exciting and unexpected. Paintball Central, Cromwell p48 Worth checking the weather – it’s often dry in Cromwell when raining in town.
PowderPak Parks – Indoor Dry Slope p13 New Zealand's first indoor dry slope ski and snowboard terrain park. Learn the basics or practice tricks! Puzzling World, Wanaka p67 Lots of indoor fun – illusion rooms and puzzles galore. Queenstown Ice Arena p31 A covered ice rink in Queenstown Gardens. Comfy skates, sleds and other kids' accessories, LED lighting. Reading Cinemas, Queenstown Three screens and all the latest releases.
p28
Rockatipu Indoor Climbing Wall, Events Centre Free instruction and hire equipment available.
p28
Site Trampoline Playground Have fun and build confidence – check out the trampoline snowboards!
p30
Skyline Queenstown p33 The trip in the iconic gondola is a Queenstown ‘must do’. There's lots to entertain the family. Te Anau Glowworm Caves p75 Boating and glowworms, all in an underground cave. TSS Earnslaw / Walter Peak High Country Farm p35 Combined with a farm tour, this is a great trip, rain or shine. Underwater Observatory, Queenstown p41 Life under the surface of the lake; see the trout, salmon and eels in their natural habitat. Vortex 12D Motion Theatre p26 State of the art motion theatre; a white-knuckle adventure with wind, smoke, rain, snow, speed and a few surprises! Xtreme Indoor Reball, Laser Tag and Hero Blast p26 Fun and adrenaline for the whole family. Ziptrek – Flying Fox Ecotours, Queenstown p43 Harness up and fly through the air while keeping dry under the canopy of the trees – a guided ecological adventure. OPEN 7 days 10am to 10pm for thrill seekers aged 5 to 75!
P: +64 3 441 8080 or 0800 DARKRIDE 7 Earl Street Queenstown darkride.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Q Q Activities :: Family Attractions Family Attractions
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Queenstown has never had as many fun, family attractions on offer as now! With lots of new indoor entertainment at great prices and with wide appeal to grown ups and children alike, you can take a break from the winter chill and challenge your senses, explore mazes, interact with multi-D motion pictures, dare to visit the Fear Factory, discover the ice bar, go trampolining and much more! Note: the map below shows family attractions in the centre of Queenstown only. See map p6 for location of SITE Trampoline, Powder Pak Park and Alpine Aqualand.
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Steamer Wharf
Queenstown Bay
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-10.00pm (last session starts at 8:30pm) Price: $38-$44 *We suggest the puzzles would be too hard for under 7year 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 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! See ad p41. Main Town Pier, Queenstown Phone: 03 409 0000 Hours: daily, 8.30am-dusk Price: Family $20, Adult $10, Child $5 www.KidzGo.co.nz
Dark Ride Queenstown Ice Arena
DARK RIDE Min age 5 Dark Ride is the world’s most exciting movie ride simulator, not only because your seats move in synchronized harmony with the picture and various effects, but you’re also fighting off zombie attacks, reptilian aliens or family-friendly robots with your very own laser gun! To top it off it’s competitive as each player runs up their own score. Dark Ride’s thrilling cousin, XD Theatre, sees your seat move up to 400 times per second and generate 2Gs of acceleration accompanied by similar special effects, creating 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 Freephone: 0800 DARKRIDE Hours: 7 days, 10am-10pm Price: Combo 1: 2 XD Theatre $30 Combo 2: 1x Dark Ride and 1x XD Theatre $40 Combo 3: 2x Dark Ride $50 Bonus!! Buy any combo and get $15 rides for the rest of the day!! Family Deal: when a family all book a combo, one rides FREE! (family is minimum 4 persons) Birthday parties and large groups please email for special discount pricing. Email: info@darkride.co.nz www.darkride.co.nz
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Chill Zone
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53 Shotover St, Queenstown, 9300. 10am to late
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VORTEX 12D MOTION THEATRE Journey to the edge of reality when you visit New Zealand‘s most thrilling 12D motion theatre. In our whiteknuckle adventure you will experience up to 12 different awesome effects such as snow, wind, rain, bubbles and plenty of surprises! With a choice of over 80 incredible rides from roller coasters to jet pack rides – high speed races to alien and dinosaur adventures, we have something to suit everyone! The experience is tailored to your group so buckle up for the ride of your lifetime! Price: Adult $29, Child $19. Includes 2 rides. Additional 2 rides $9 only (same day as first purchase).
Have your picture taken and we can throw you into a selection of our movie themed 3D backgrounds!
XTREME REBALL – FAST- ACTION- FUN! All the action of paintball without the mess – an allweather activity sure to get your heart pumping! Choose from several game scenarios and experience the excitement of strategic tactical combat. Our safe playing environment is filled with inflatable barriers, all games are refereed and we provide head and body armour. Price: $69pp with up to an hour in our arena, unlimited ammo and 5 different thrilling game scenarios. Minimum age 10 years. XTREME LASER TAG and HERO BLAST A thrilling high-impact experience designed for adrenaline pumping gaming! Our Tippmann 98 Combat guns and specialized ‘Hero’ gloves transport you into various battle scenarios that are transmitted straight to you for quick-changing game modes. Choose your weapon, form teams and zap your opponents today in the future of non-lethal tactical combat! Price: $49pp with up to an hour in our arena and 5 different awesome game scenarios. Minimum age 4 years. GREEN SCREEN FUN Take home your memories by posing in front of our giant Green Screen and letting our staff work their magic whilst you experience our action-packed activities! KIDZ CLUB – ages 4-13 years Treat the kids at our awesome Kidz Club while you enjoy Queenstown at your own pace! Whilst with us the kids get unlimited access to: * 12D motion rides at Vortex * Xtreme Lasertag, Heroblast or Xtreme Reball * Green Screen Fun * Nintendo Wii * Colouring and face-painting * Free popcorn and slushy! as well as fun games run by our enthusiastic staff! Bookings are recommended but walk-ins welcome. Sessions are hourly or for half/full days.
Everyone wins when you treat your kids at our Kidz Club. They love the fun and entertainment while you enjoy Queenstown at your own pace!
Open 7 days 10am to late
Ph: (03) 442 3417 xtremereball.co.nz
VORTEX
Ph: 0508 QT VORTEX vortexcinema.co.nz
KIDZ CLUB
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Ph: 0800 KIDZ CLUB kidzclubqueenstown.co.nz
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360˚BATTLEGROUND
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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) 2nd Go: $10.50 (must be taken on the same day as full price ticket purchased) Email: info@odysseysensorymaze.co.nz www.odysseysensorymaze.co.nz 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 9129 Price: Adult $12.50, Child $10 Hire Equipment: $5 Term classes available Instructor Supervised Sessions: Mon-Fri, 7pm-9pm Email: climb@qldc.govt.nz http://sportrec.qldc.govt.nz/climb
READING CINEMAS COMFORT STYLE & VALUE READINGCINEMAS.CO.NZ
11 THE MALL, QUEENSTOWN • MOVIE HOTLINE (03) 442 9990 www.KidzGo.co.nz
Activities :: Family Attractions
READING CINEMAS QUEENSTOWN Reading Cinemas Queenstown screens the latest blockbusters in spectacular 2D and 3D, our cinemas feature wall-to-wall screens, stadium seating, valuepacked candy bar deals and Timezone™ games centre. SPIT THE DUMMY WEDNESDAYS (not available during school holidays.) 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). 11-13 The Mall, Queenstown Movie Hotline: 03 442 9990 Price: Adult $16.20 (3D $19.30) Student $14.70 (3D $16.90) Senior (65+) $10.50 (3D $13.20) Child (up to 14 years) $10.50 (3D $13.20) Family Pass: $42 (3D $55) for a family of four P & PG rated movies only BOOK ONLINE: www.readingcinemas.co.nz or like us on Facebook for our weekly schedule and regular updates www.facebook.com/readingcinemasqueenstown
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FEAR FACTORY New Zealand's scariest haunted house is not for the faint-hearted! Will you join the ever-growing chicken list that CHICKEN OUT or will you make it through?! Follow the trail of red lights – that’s all you have to do, but watch out for spine-tingling surprises around every corner! This frightening but super-fun experience is best tackled in a group and children under 15 years MUST be accompanied by an adult. We think this is too scary for children under 10 and recommend you use your discretion. 54 Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 4428 666 Freephone: 0800 FEAR FACTORY Hours: daily, 11am-late Duration: allow 30 minutes Price: Adult $35, Child $18, Family $99 (2 adults + 2 children) (Child is under 15 years) Email: info@fearfactory.co.nz www.fearfactory.co.nz
For New Zealand’s top family-friendly activities and attractions. Don’t forget to mention Kidz Go when you book! www.KidzGo.co.nz
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FUN AND SAFE FOR ALL AGES
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
SITE TRAMPOLINE Min age 4 The ideal venue for training and fun for kids and adults of any age, fitness or skill level. Trampolining is the perfect training ground for snowboarders/skiers, or any other athletes wishing to stay fit, practice tricks and improve aerial awareness. For those of us just wanting to have fun and build confidence, who doesn't like to bounce?! We offer the world’s best trampolines, access to a foam pit and Trampoline Snowboards, as well as a dedicated team of coaches. Visit us on Facebook under ‘SITE Trampoline’ for weekly updates and pics. Bookings essential. 153B Glenda Drive, Frankton, Queenstown (until July’15) Off Hawthorne Drive, Remarkables Park, Frankton (after July ‘15) We are moving – please ring to confirm location and other details. Freephone: 0800 QT BOUNCE (0800 78 268623) Hours: 9.30am-9.30pm daily Price: Over 6 – $25 for 90 minute session Under 6 – $15 for 90 minute session Birthday Parties/Group bookings: $200 per group for 90 minute session (recommended 10-15 jumpers). After School Classes: one hour, phone for details. Email: info@sitetrampoline.co.nz www.sitetrampoline.co.nz QUEENSTOWN ICE ARENA A destination the whole family will enjoy! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first time skater we'll provide an unforgettable ice skating experience. Comfy skates, ice sleds, ride-on-seals, penguin pals and learn-to-skate lessons ensure the kids will have a blast. Off the ice you can relax by the fire in our alpine-style café and lounge with a view to the action on-ice. We have a full menu, free wifi, video games and a big screen tv. No bookings are necessary, spectators are free and there are no time limits – skate as long as you like! Queenstown Gardens. Free parking Phone: 03 441 8000 Hours*: Sunday to Thursday 10am-5pm, Friday 10am-9:30pm, Saturday 10am-5pm *Session times are subject to change, please check our website or call to avoid disappointment. Price: Adult $19, Student/Child $15, Preschool $7.50 Family $60 (2 adults + 2 children). Seasons Passes are available – see website for details. All prices include skate hire. 20 minute starter lesson: $20 Kids Parties: Contact the Arena for more information. www.queenstownicearena.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 $3, 1 Adult + 2 Toddlers (4 years & under) $6 15% discount for 5 or more people. Hydroslide Pass: $2 (Hydroslide open during certain hours – call for details.) Email: qec@qldc.govt.nz http://sportrec.qldc.govt.nz/swim
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LET’S SKATE FUN FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES. NO BOOKINGS NECESSARY.
SESSION TIMES AND PRICES Monday-Thursday: 10am-5pm | Friday: 10am-9:30pm Saturday: 10am-5pm | Sunday: 10am-5pm * times subject to change please check our calendar on our website Adult: $19 | Student/Child: $15 | Preschool: $7.50 | Family: $60 (2 Adults +2 Children) All prices include skate hire SEASON PASSES AVAILABLE! Queenstown Ice Arena Ph: 03 441 8000 e:info@queenstownicearena.co.nz www.queenstownicearena.co.nz
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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! Jackets, gloves and warm footwear provided. Bookings recommended. 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). Email: info@minus5icebar.com www.minus5icebar.com *KIDZ GO DEAL: One child goes FREE with each paying adult with colour ad on this page.
KIDS GO FRE
QUEENSTOWNS
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ANTARCTIC EXPERIENCE
WWW.MINUS5ICEBAR.COM 03 442 6050 • STEAMER WHARF • QUEENSTOWN LAKEFRONT
Create your own... or buy our unique, beautiful...
jewellery earrings phone dangles bracelets gifts key rings
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 jewellery unique! Birthday parties and groups welcome. 2b Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 441 8466 Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-6pm Prices: from as little as $5 Email: lee@beadshopnz.com www.QTgem.com
experienced local jeweller for gold and silver items
2b Shotover St p 03 441 8466
QTgem.com
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BIRTHDAY PARTIES
ideas and activities
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See page 56 for unbeatable birthday parties and venues to make your child’s birthday something special!
u
g Queenstown’s best activity and party ideas for kids of all ages.
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Activities :: Discover Queenstown
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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! Discover it for yourself on a familyfriendly 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!
FLUID15383
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 ($2 per ride for future Luge riders) • Children over 110cm can ride unaccompanied Red Track • Children over 135cm can ride unaccompanied Open 10am until dusk; check the website for daily closing times. Family deal: Gondola and 8 Luge rides to share $127 – family is 2 adults and up to 3 children. Phone: 03 441 0101 Email: queenstown@skyline.co.nz www.skyline.co.nz/Queenstown
TSS Earnslaw
SKYLINE STARGAZING Perched high above Queenstown, our location provides the perfect opportunity to access the hidden world 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 every night, weather dependent and start 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 $85, Child $45 (includes return Gondola ride) Phone: 03 441 0101 www.skyline.co.nz/Queenstown
Brecon Street, Queenstown, New Zealand queenstown@skyline.co.nz
skyline.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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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! 25 years in the Cardrona Valley. find us on Trip Advisor
BACKCOUNTRY SADDLE EXPEDITIONS Adult $85, Child $65 Ph 03 443 8151 Freephone 0800 4 SADDLES backcountrysaddles.co.nz
BACKCOUNTRY SADDLE EXPEDITIONS Min age 5 25 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. 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 $85, Child $65 Email: nzbse@xtra.co.nz www.backcountrysaddles.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. See map p4. Brecon St, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 8059 Conservation Show: 11am and 3pm, daily Kiwi Feeding Times: 10am, 12pm, 1.30pm and 4.30pm Price: Adult $43, Child $22* (Child is 5-14 yrs, under 5s FREE) Family $98 (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 freeflight Conservation Show and audio tour).
So much to do at Queenstown’s SKYLINE!
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Here’s our family favourites... Ride in the Gondola to the SKYLINE QUEENSTOWN Take a ride on the Luge - once is never enough! Spy on the milky way on a Stargazing Tour Enjoy Queenstown’s highest restaurant Fly off the hill & back into town with G Force Paragliding Whizz through the trees with Ziptrek Ecotours Bungy or Swing off AJ Hackett’s Ledge Mountain bike all the way down on a family-friendly track Hike to Ben Lomond or take a short walk to fab views
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. The 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 102-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 $55, Child $22 Cruise & Walter Peak Farm Tour Adult $75, Child $22 Cruise, Farm Tour & Gourmet BBQ Lunch Adult $95, Child $44 Cruise & Gourmet BBQ Dinner Adult $120, Child $60 TSS Earnslaw will undergo annual maintenance 11 May-03 July 2015. During this time a launch will substitute.
KIDS GO FREE! 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. www.KidzGo.co.nz
Real Journeys Visitor Centre Steamer Wharf, Queenstown
FREEPHONE: 0800 65 65 01
www.realjourneys.co.nz
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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 over a decade later the world’s first tourist jet boat operation commenced in Queenstown.
THEN
TM
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, ‘Catch the Canyons’ with 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 Family Pass: 2 Adults + 2 Children $329, (saving $67) Rates valid to 30/09/2015 Email: reservations@shotoverjet.co.nz www.shotoverjet.com 50th anniversary this year! Since 1965 This winter be sure to take away our free Shotover Jet red buff to keep your ears and face warm. Available from 1 May until stocks are exhausted.
Activities :: Discover Queenstown SKIPPERS CANYON JET Min age 3 years 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 Canyon Road, carved out of 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 locations. Phone: 0800 CANYON (0800 226 966) Departs: 9am and 1pm (winter hours) Pick Up:‘The Station’ Information Centre, cnr Camp and Shotover St Duration: 3 hours return trip from Queenstown Price: Adult $139, Child $79, Family $278* *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 Visit skipperscanyonjet.co.nz for our other adventures: see even more on the Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour with goldpanning or enjoy our exciting half-day Scenic Tour + Jet Boat combo.
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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.
E
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EY E MONIN E + SAWVN’ AD G LE S SAVE TIM TO QUEENS COMBINE
ADVENTURE
ACTIVITIES
mbos.co.nz o c 6 3 8 3 2 4 ! 0800 bos Available Other Com
TO BOOK FREEPHONE 0800 CANYON www.skipperscanyonjet.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Activities :: Discover Queenstown
HOUR
THUNDER JET Jetting you through a theatre of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes, Thunder Jet Queenstown offers you an incredible one-hour experience on Lake Wakatipu and along the world-famous Kawarau River. Travel past towering cliffs, hugging the water’s edge and marvel at untouched scenery encapsulating New Zealand’s wild natural beauty, the spectacular views of the Remarkables Mountain Range, Cecil Peak and Kelvin Peninsula. If the famous 360° Hamilton spins don’t leave you breathless, the scenery will! A not-to-be-missed adventure for the family, operated by a professional company with an unblemished safety record. Thunder Jet Kiosk, Earnslaw Park, Beach Street, Queenstown Bay Phone: 0800 788 486 Duration: one hour Price: Adult $120, Child $60 (5-15 years) under 5 years FREE, Family $299 (2 adults + 2 children) Email: info@thunderjet.co.nz www.thunderjet.co.nz QUEENSTOWN WATER TAXIS Queenstown's only water taxi is a great way to travel and get out on the lake for just a few dollars! Most popular departures (every two hours) are between Queenstown Bay and Kawarau Village on Kelvin Heights Peninsula. Enjoy a ten-minute cruise then alight at Kawarau Village – the perfect venue for lunches or ice creams, picnic spots and one of Queenstown's most stunning and family-friendly biking/walking tracks. Hire bikes for the family at The Hilton or bring them on the water taxi with you ($5 per bike). Thunder Jet kiosk, Earnslaw Park, Beach Street, Queenstown Bay Phone: 03 441 1124 Departs: regular departures to and from Hilton Hotel/Kawarau Village throughout the day, from 12 noon. Duration:10 minutes (Queenstown Bay-Kawarau Village) Price (one way): Ad $10, Ch $5 (5-12 years), under 5 yrs FREE Email: info@queenstownwatertaxis.co.nz www.queenstownwatertaxis.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Activities :: Discover Queenstown
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RIVERS
TWO
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, Marine Parade, Queenstown Phone: 03 409 0000 Freephone: 0800 52 92 72 Departs: every hour on the hour from 9am-5pm, daily Duration: 1 hour Price*: Adult $125, Child $69 (child is 5-15 years) Under 5 years ride FREE *Rates valid until 30th September 2015 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!
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TWICE THE
EXCITEMENT! ASK ABOUT OUR
FAMILY PACKS
KAWARAU BUNGY CENTRE No Queenstown holiday would be complete without visiting ‘The World Home of Bungy’ – The Kawarau Bungy Centre. It’s free to watch our Bungy Jumping and you can even walk along the Bridge to see a Bungy up close and personal! Keen to take a leap of faith yourself? Bookings can be made on the day (subject to space) or call ahead to book. The family can also experience the Kawarau Zipride (see page 45), browse our Bungy Shop for a Kiwiana souvenir and ease those hunger pains at Café 88. SH6, Gibbston Valley, 20 minutes drive from Queenstown Freecall: 0800 BUNGY JUMP Phone: 03 450 1300 Hours: daily (except Christmas Day), 9:30am-4pm. Entry to the Kawarau Bungy Centre is FREE. Bungy Jump: Child $145*, NZ Student $165, Adult $195 Family Bungy Jump Discount: $535 (2 Adults + 2 Children) Email: enquiries@bungy.co.nz www.bungy.co.nz *Child is10-14 years inclusive and they must weigh at least 35kgs. Maximum weight is 235kgs. CHARGEABOUT QUEENSTOWN Electric Adventure Bikes Ride further and see Queenstown’s cycle trails on Electric Adventure Bikes – the ultimate way to keep everyone in the family happy and riding together. The smart pedalassist 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 tag-along and trailer options for your younger ones. Experience the top rated cycle activity in Queenstown! Departs: free delivery and pick up of your bikes from your accommodation or chosen track starting point. Phone: 03 442 6376 Freephone: 0800 324 536 Email: info@chargeabout.co.nz www.chargeabout.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Activities :: Discover Queenstown
Discover New Zealand’s heart An awe inspiring journey into the Te Wai Pounamu World Heritage Area. BOOK NOW! Visit our website or call 0800 327 853 www.dartriver.co.nz
Go with the flow, leave with the memories An awe inspiring journey into the Te Wai Pounamu World Heritage Area. BOOK NOW! Visit our website or call 0800 327 853 www.dartriver.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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 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 Price: Adult $219, Child $119, Family $557 (save $119) Family is 2 adults + 2 children (age 5-15yrs) Email: reservations@dartriverjet.co.nz www.dartriverjet.co.nz Rates valid until 30/09/15 DART RIVER FUNYAKS Min age 5 Min 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 involved with 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 Information Centre corner Camp & Shotover Streets Dart Visitor Centre Mull St, Glenorchy Freephone: 0800 DART JET (0800 327 853) Departs: 8am daily Duration: Queenstown return 9 hours / Glenorchy return 7 hours Price: Adult $319, Child $219, *Family $857 (save $219) *Family is 2 adults + 2 children (age 5-15yrs) Email: reservations@dartriverjet.co.nz www.dartriverjet.co.nz Rates valid until 30/09/15
Glenorchy
The Dart River flows into Lake Waka tipu at Glenorchy. If you're driving yourself on the stun ning, 45km road from Queenstown to the head of the lake for one of the above adventures, it's worth staying around and spending time in this tiny frontier township.
Activities :: Discover Queenstown MT NICHOLAS FARM EXPERIENCE SOUTHERN DISCOVERIES Cruise into untouched wilderness on our Spirit of Queenstown Scenic Cruise to Mt Nicholas High Country Farm. Discover spectacular scenery looking up the lake to Glenorchy and the Southern Alps. Join our Mt Nicholas Farm Experience and meet the local sheep, horses, pigs and Belle the sheepdog. Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this stunning area as you enjoy our traditional homemade baking with morning or afternoon tea, whilst we keep the kids entertained as they try their hand at virtual sheep shearing on the big screens. Kids colouring packs available. Phone: 03 441 1137 Freephone: 0800 264 536 Departs: daily 11.00am and 1.00pm Price: Adults $75, Children from $21 (Child is 4-14yrs, under 4's travel free) www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz FAMILY DEAL – Kids Go FREE during New Zealand school holidays (conditions apply) 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 55-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
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MT NICHOLAS
FARM EXPERIENCE
SEE OUR KIDS GO WINTER FREE SPECIALS
ONLINE
DURING NZ
SCHOOL
HOLIDAYS
*Conditions apply
0800 264 536 southerndiscoveries.co.nz #southerndiscoveries
QUEENSTOWN
LAKE CRUISE
$3 5
FREE & COFT E A FEE
KIDS GO
MAIN TOWN PIER MARINE PARADE
FREE DURING NZ SCHOOL
HOLIDAYS
*Conditions apply
0800 264 536
southerndiscoveries.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Activities :: Adventure Fun
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 Age 4
Jet boat*, Skyline Luge (Blue Track, accompanied). Xtreme Laser Tag and Hero Blast, SITE Trampoline*, Off Road Queenstown 4x4 Buggy (passenger), Queenstown Paraflights. Age 5 Dart River Fun Yaks (min height1m), PowderPak Parks*, Backcountry Saddle Horseriding, Dark Ride. Age 6 Skyline Luge (Blue Track, unaccompanied – min height 110cm), Ziptrek Eco Tours (min weight to ride solo 30kg), G Force Paragliding* (min weight 20kg), Highlands Go-karts (passenger) Age 7 Escape Quest, Off Road Queenstown Explorer Quad Bike Tour, Paintball Central*. Age 8 Kawarau Zipride (min weight 35kg). Age 10 Xtreme Indoor Reball, Shotover Canyon Swing, 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). Age 11 Skyline Luge (Red Track, min height 135cm). Age 13 AJ Hackett Bungy (Nevis Highwire – min weight 45kg).
ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES
m in im u m ag e gu id e
Ziptrek Ecotours
* 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.
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. Departs: Queenstown, complimentary Queenstown Shuttle. Ph: 03 442 8687 (TOUR) Freephone: 0800 734 386 (SEG FUN) Bay Ride – 1 hour Adult $85, Child $75, Family $275 Queenstown Tour – 2 hours Adult $129, Child $115, Family $425 Child is 15 years and under, family is 2 ad + 2 ch or 1 ad + 3 ch Ask for the KIDZ GO DEAL: adults ride for child price when accompanied by fare-paying child. Email: info@segwayonq.com www.segwayonq.co.nz Minimum weight 35kg. *Slightly younger/smaller children may be permitted at operator's discretion. POWDERPAK PARKS QUEENSTOWN Min age 5 * New Zealand's first indoor dryslope ski & 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 from first-time ski/boarders to experienced riders looking to progress from low boxes to rails and jumps. An activity for all the family, watch www.KidzGo.co.nz
Activities :: Adventure Fun from the mezzanine – or jump in and have some fun! Practice makes perfect, by being able to go, again and again – with staff to guide you, and airbags to land on – in no time you will be able to perfect your style to take straight to the ski resorts! Red Oaks Drive, off Hawthorne Drive, Remarkables Park, Frankton Phone: 022 432 9103 Hours: 7 days, 9.30am-9.30pm Session Duration: 1½ hours Price: Adult $35, Child/Student $25 Season or multi-passes available. Rental: Board and bindings $25, boots $10, helmet $5 Note: You can use your own gear Email: info@powderpaknz.com www.powderpaknz.com *Younger dependent on experience
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ZIPLINING
Great fun for the whole family!
ZTE15290
ZIPTREK ECOTOURS Min age 6 NZ’s #1 original zipline tour is an exhilarating & 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 with our guides. Take in spectacular views of Queenstown like you’ve never seen them as you ‘zip’ from tree to tree. Proud to celebrate 5 years of operation, Ziptrek is a safe, guided adventure for the whole family that’s unforgettable, rain or shine! Warm clothing and closedtoe footwear is essential (ski clothes preferred). 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: daily,10am ‘til 6pm Departs: The Ziptrek Treehouse, top of Skyline Gondola Duration: Allow 1.5 hours for Moa 4-Line Tour and 2.5 hours for Kea 6-Line Tour (not including Gondola travel) Price: Adult $135 (Moa 4-line tour) $185 (Kea 6-line tour) Child (6-14yrs) and Seniors (65+) $85 (Moa) $135 (Kea) Email: nzinfo@ziptrek.com www.ziptrek.co.nz Note: minimum 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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Activities :: Adventure Fun G FORCE PARAGLIDING Min weight 20kg* Exhilarating – Spectacular – Unforgettable Experience a safe, controlled Tandem Paraglide flight from the Skyline Gondola, flying over Queenstown and stunning Lake Wakatipu! We’ll make it an exciting, adrenalised trip or a relaxing scenic flight — it's your choice. Our friendly and experienced team will take care of everything. In-flight video and photos are available. Bring the whole family to watch; there is plenty for spectators to do! See display ad this page for huge savings with Kidz Go! Min weight 20kg (subject to weather conditions). Top of the Skyline Gondola Phone: 03 441 8581 Freephone: 0800 759 688 Departs: from 10am on demand Duration: 8-12 minutes flying, allow 1 hour Price: $209, or ‘Early Bird’ $179 (10am departure) Email: info@nzgforce.com www.nzgforce.com KIDZ GO DEAL: 20% off advertised price with colour ad/ voucher this page. (Direct bookings only).
20% dIscOUNT WItH THIs VOUCHeR!*
Safe and Controlled Enjoy the thrill of a flight over Queenstown Minimum weight 20kg
BOoK NOW...
0800 759 688 Tel 03 441 8581 www.nzgforce.com
*direct bookings only, not valid with any other offers.
a toy Gravity is E OUT
PLAY
COM AND
35 Shotover St Freephone 0800 2 SWING
freephone
0800 225 520
Come fly with us! Find us on the Main Pier Regular departures daily
fun for all from ages 4 years up! www.KidzGo.co.nz
SOLO, TANDEM OR TRIPLE
paraflights.co.nz
SHOTOVER CANYON SWING Min age 10 Jump from our immense 109m high platform, free fall alongside the cliff face for 60m then swing in the canyon for 200m. That’s what we call the world’s highest cliff jump. The Shotover Canyon Swing. With over 70 jump styles the choice is yours; how about a tandem jump with your mum or dad! Non-jumpers can watch the fun from our spectator platform.* Shop location: 35 Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 6990 Freephone: 0800 2 SWING (279 464) Price: $215 for first jump, $35 for extra jumps taken at same time. Email: bookings@canyonswing.co.nz www.canyonswing.co.nz Minimum age 10 years/35kg *One spectator FREE with each Canyon Swing purchased. Additional spectators $20. QUEENSTOWN PARAFLIGHTS Min age 4* Strap into your harness and get ready for the highlight of your holiday! Parasailing is an exhilarating experience of free flight – as the boat speed increases you’ll be slowly lifted up and away to soar above Queenstown up to 600ft in the air! Up to 4 of you can fly together plus non-flyers will love the cruise and watching the action, so it really is a family trip not to be missed! Our motto is 'Fly High, Stay Dry' so you won't get wet and no experience is required to enjoy this trip! Main Town Pier, Queenstown Lakefront Phone: 03 441 2242 Freephone: 0800 225 520 Departs: Every hour Duration: 10-15 minutes flying, boat ride up to an hour. Price: (Note: combined weight of tandem or triple flyers to be under 210kgs) Triple Adult $99, Child $79 / Tandem Adult $129, Child $99 Single Adult $159, Child $159 / Spectator Adult $29, Child $25 *minimum child weight of approx 20kg to fit harness. Email: info@paraflights.co.nz www.paraflights.co.nz
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KAWARAU ZIPRIDE Min age 8* This is a wicked family day out at the historic World Home of Bungy! 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. This exhilarating ride offers a variety of styles to Zipride: scenic sightseer, backwards, tandem, Superman-style or even Batman-style; the choice is yours! Up to 6 people can Zip at once, so why not round up the troops and race each other. SH6, Gibbston Valley, 20 minutes drive from Queenstown Freecall: 0800 BUNGYJUMP (286 495) Phone: 03 450 1300 Hours: daily (except Christmas Day), 9.30am-4pm Single Zipride: Adult $50, Child $40 Multi Zipride discount: 3 Pack $105, 5 Pack $150 (Ideal for families, friends and groups – Multi Zipride Packs can be shared amongst several people). Email: enquiries@bungy.co.nz www.bungy.co.nz *Children 8-10 years must ride tandem with an adult and all children must fit the harness correctly to Zipride. OFF ROAD QUEENSTOWN Choose from one of the adventures below or do a combo and receive 10% discount. EXPLORER QUAD BIKE TOUR Min age 7 Our kids’ quads are easy to use and our guides will ensure everyone has a fantastic time! The Explorer Tour is designed for beginners or youngsters on terrain tailored to riders’ ability amongst stunning scenery and fun-filled tracks over 11,000 acres. Departs: 9am and 1pm, daily Duration: allow 3 hours Price: $199 per person KIDZ GO OFFER: $50 off for children under 12 years on our 9am Explorer Tour with an accompanying adult. FREE ACTION PHOTOS
ZIPRIDE BOOKINGS CA
Terms & conditions
apply. Minimum age
LL: 0800 286 495
: 8 years old. Children
www.bungy.co.nz
aged 8 to 10 must ride
with an adult.
4X4 HIGHLIGHTS TOUR Ideal for all ages Splash through rivers, explore canyons and climb mountains on an exciting 4x4 family adventure through stunning scenery. Our trusty guides know how to navigate long-forgotten trails to amazing gold rush settlements and incredible scenery now forever captured in Lord of the Rings. Goldpanning and iPad multimedia presentations included. See ad page 38. Departs: on demand for a 3 adult minimum or equivalent. Duration: allow up to 2½ hours Price: $109 for adults HALF PRICE for kids under 12 years! Family Charters Available BUGGY TOURS Min age 4 (passenger only) Set on a spectacular property overlooking Queenstown and the Wakatipu valley these tours give you exclusive access to fun-filled off-road trails and stunning views. Experience the thrill with self-drive and guided buggy tours available. To self-drive, drivers must be 18+ with full driving licence. Minimum passenger age is 4 years. Encounter Tour Duration: 1 hour Price: $248 per vehicle Shop: 61A Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone/Book: 03 442 7858 Freephone: 0800 OFF ROAD (633 7623) Email: play@offroad.co.nz www.offroad.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Family Bike Rides
The Queenstown Trail
The Queenstown Trail unveils 100+kms of stunning new vistas and much of the river, lake and country trails are accessible to the public for the first time ever. You can explore the whole of the Wakatipu region, 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. You can pick up a trails map from information centres around town. Visit www.queenstowntrail.co.nz for more information.
Easy Rides
Intermediate 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 round the Frankton Arm. There are café stops at Frankton and Kelvin Heights (Kawarau Village). For a shorter ride (about 15km return), turn around at Frankton beach – a great place to picnic by the lake, otherwise catch a water taxi back from Kawarau Village. Highlights: Follows the lake shore with stunning views all the way, easy and social riding for all ages.
Arrowtown Return via Lake Hayes Departs: Arrowtown Distance: 19 km loop A beautiful ride from Arrowtown, through Millbrook Resort and down to picturesque Lake Hayes. It's an 8km circuit round the lake on gravel path/boardwalk, slightly undulating. Look out for the NZ native pukeko (Purple Swamphen). There's an excellent 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.
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.
Old Shotover Bridge to Morven Ferry Road Departs: Spence Rd, Frankton Distance: 20km 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 as the track climbs away from the river, but with great views. Grab a shuttle service from Morven Ferry Road, bike back the way you came or continue to Arrowtown (8km). Note: no cafés or toilets along this section of trail. Highlights: Biking alongside the aquamarine Kawarau River at the foot of The Remarkables mountain range.
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. This area of the trail does not get a lot of sun and can be extremely chilly on a cold winter morning!
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Advanced Rides 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 café and playground.
Family Bike Rides Three Rivers Ride Departs: Arrowtown Distance: 30km loop If you have the time and energy this is THE ride of the district, taking in a superb variety of views and terrain. Depart from Arrowtown through Millbrook Resort and to your first downhill, then through gorgeous farmland and 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. This is a reasonably demanding ride with plenty of ups and downs. Highlights: Riding alongside three rivers and the everchanging scenery. Crossing the Southern Discoveries suspension bridge.
Other local bike tracks Skyline Gondola Mountain Biking Pop your bikes on the Skyline Gondola and explore the Queenstown Bike Park's 30kms of downhill tracks. The 20+ 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 downhill beginners' run – wide single track with few obstacles and a more gradual descent. This is heaps of fun, recommended for 8 years and up. Rabbit Ridge Bike Resort Queenstown's family-friendly mountain bike park – Rabbit Ridge is a year-round resort with mountain bike tracks to cater for beginner and younger riders as well as those with more experience. The resort offers over 40km of varied bike trails. Lots of space to take a picnic and enjoy the views. Gibbston Highway, near Gibbston Valley Winery Enquiries: 0508 RIDE RABBIT (743 372) www.rabbitridge.co.nz
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Bike Hire and Shuttle Services ARROWTOWN BIKE HIRE In the centre of Arrowtown and on the section of bike trail that Kidz Go recommends most often. Kids and adults' bike hire plus shuttle service. See ad below. Freephone 0800 22 44 73 CHARGEABOUT ELECTRIC BIKE HIRE Go further, see more with an electric mountainbike. Delivery and pick-ups by arrangement. Free bike charge stations along the Queenstown Trail. Freephone 0800 324 536
Other Services QUEENSTOWN WATER TAXIS Boat transport for you and bikes across the lake from town centre to Kelvin Heights section of the Queenstown bike trail. $5 per bike Ph 03 441 1124 AROUND THE BASIN Family bike riding – half or full day tours and Queenstown Trail shuttle support. Freephone 0508 782 9253
BIKE HIRE FROM $15!
Arrowtown Bike Hire provides quality front suspension bikes for all ages, plus tag-a-longs, trailers and child seats. Our pick-up service means you only have to ride
l one way if you like ... we collect you and the bikes. We are based in Arrowtown next to the Queenstown Trail
l plus we have a dedicated bike yard with plenty of room l
for you to test ride your bikes in safety away from roads! Bike Tours from $79 including wine tours, gold panning, sight seeing and lots more! We pick up in Queenstown! 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 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 Motorsport Park, along with the super-fun Paintball Central.
Bannockburn
0508 HIGHLANDS info@highlands.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
LAMBORGHINI FAST DASH RACE GO-KARTS
SAFARI ADVENTURE
HIGHLANDS TAXI
NDS TAXI! FAMOUS HIGHLA HOME OF THE
BOOkING & INFO At... HIGHLANDS.CO.NZ
PAINTBALL CENTRAL Ultimate action adventure that can be played with minimum two players. With three exciting courses and 14 different games you can tailor your mission to suit your family. 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: 7 days WHEN YOU BOOK Duration: 2 hours Price: $30 per person for basic game (includes 100 shots, gun, overalls and mask) Email: paintballcentral@xtra.co.nz www.paintballcentral.co.nz HIGHLANDS MOTORSPORT PARK The ultimate destination for the whole family! Have a blast on the go-karts, discover the new Jurassic Safari Park. Choose from 6 high-speed adventures on the circuit, visit the sculpture park & motorsport museum, or have a go at mini-golf! Go-karts – choose single or tandem karts. 10-minute session: $35 (single), $45 (tandem). Single driver: min age 10 years Tandem: min age16 years Tandem passenger: min age 6 years (height restrictions apply). Jurassic Safari Park Tour – $59 (2 adults & up to 3 children) Highlands Taxi – explore the circuit in our Porsche Cayenne taxi – great for the whole family! $75 for one or two people, $95 for three or four. National Motorsport Museum – Family $45 (2 ad + 3 ch) ‘Friends of the Museum’ Family annual pass $79. Adrenalin activity on track – Choose from FASTLaps in a Porsche GT3, YOURLaps in a Suzuki Swift, U-drive in a Radical, Fast Dash in a Lamborghini or go with a friend in the V8 Supercar. Prices vary. Corner SH6 and Sandflat Road, Cromwell Phone: 0508 HIGHLANDS Email: info@highlands.co.nz www.highlands.co.nz Visit us on Facebook
Discover Cromwell ACTIVITIES * Paintball Central; games for 2+ players. See listing on opposite page. * Highlands Motorsport Park – 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 old hotel and sluicings, numerous walks in 'Wild West' scenery and of course 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'.
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Cromwell Old 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. In 1985 a selection of buildings due to be submerged were rescued and relocated to where they stand now, on the banks of the Kawarau and Clutha Rivers. Well worth a visit, the historic shopping precinct provides an insight into the past along with cool cafés and unique shops to browse. Read more at cromwellheritageprecinct.co.nz Picnic spots and riverside walk or bike tracks start from Old Cromwell Town and from here you can also see the spectacular confluence of the Clutha and Kawarau Rivers.
WALKS AND BIKE RIDES Cromwell Lakeside Track Start at the marina carpark close to Old Cromwell Town along Butchers Drive. From here, follow the Kawarau River to its confluence with the Clutha River, round to Lake Dunstan and past numerous swim and picnic spots.
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 spectacular result of 14 years of construction – and visit the cute riverside town of Clyde just beyond it.
Cromwell Old Town – Bannockburn Starting point as above but follow the track the other way for a few pleasant and easy kilometers to the historic Bannockburn Bridge. If you want to keep going you can walk or bike alongside the Kawarau River all the way to the Goldfields Mining Centre. Clyde – Alexandra Visit nearby Clyde and take a leisurely, riverside bike ride to Alexandra or explore the start of the Otago Central Rail Trail – 150km of off-road, easy bike trail that runs from Clyde to Middlemarch. www.otagocentralrailtrail.co.nz
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www.KidzGo.co.nz
Discover Arrowtown
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Discover Arrowtown Discover Arrowtown
Only 19km 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 in their quest for gold, good fortune and a better life.
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Discover Arrowtown 51 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. Meanwhile some of the region's best biking/walking tracks start here, with Arrowtown Bike Hire offering bike rental as well as Queenstown Trail shuttle service. You're also just a short drive from the famous 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 chocolate shops! GETTING HERE Arrowtown is 19km from Queenstown, either via Arthurs Point or Frankton. It's only 45 minutes from Wanaka and 30 minutes from Cromwell. Connectabus THEN NOW run regular services from Queenstown or Frankton.
LAKES DISTRICT MUSEUM AND INFO CENTRE A lively, ‘living museum’ filled with colourful, ‘hands-on’ displays, offering kids’ activity packs to entertain as you explore the exciting stories behind the goldrush 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 goldrush. You can even learn how to pan for gold, hire a pan, and go try in the Arrow River (seriously – gold is still discovered there!) See exhibits from the lives of the early Mãori and even artifacts from the extinct moa bird! An exciting shop, exhibition gallery that changes regularly, local walking and biking maps plus internet access and activity booking desk make this a must-visit! Buckingham Street, Arrowtown Phone: 03 442 1824 Hours: daily, 8.30am to 5pm Price: Adult $8, Child $2 (child is 17 years and under), Family $16 (2 adults + 2 children), group concessions Email: info@museumqueenstown.com www.museumqueenstown.com (museum site) www.handsonhistory.co.nz (education site) Hire goldpans for $3 and pick up goldpanning tips here.
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FUN and INTERACTIVE!
Visit the fun place to explore the past, browse our shop or grab a goldpan and hunt for gold! ❈ The ONLY local museum ❈ Discover the goldrush, pioneers, greenstone, moa and Maori ❈ Information & booking centre ❈ Child entry only $2 Buckingham St Arrowtown Phone 03 442 1824 museumqueenstown.com Adult $8, Child $2, Family $16
BIKE HIRE FROM $15!
Arrowtown Bike Hire provides quality front suspension bikes for all ages, plus tag-a-longs, trailers and child seats. Our pick-up service means you only have to ride
l one way if you like ... we collect you and the bikes. We are based in Arrowtown next to the Queenstown Trail
l plus we have a dedicated bike yard with plenty of room l
for you to test ride your bikes in safety away from roads! Bike Tours from $79 including wine tours, gold panning, sight seeing and lots more! We pick up in Queenstown! 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 www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Discover Arrowtown
LOTS FOR TOTS Your one-stop children’s store! We carry a unique combination of everything you need for your ‘Tots’ from premature to 12 years. Lots for Tots 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, snow wear, 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: lotsfortots@xtra.co.nz www.lotsfortots.co.nz Mention this KIdz Go ad and receive a FREE Gift when you shop at Lots for Tots.
The Chinese Settlement
The restored Chinese 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.
Arrowtown walking tracks
ARROWTOWN DISCOVERY ACTIVITY TOUR SOUTHERN EXPLORER Combine entertaining guides, splashing through streams in our sturdy 4WD vehicles (the kids love this bit!), panning for your own gold and discovering movie locations from Lord of the Rings! We make several river crossings to explore scenery that time forgot! The discovery of gold in the Arrow River sparked one of the richest gold rushes in the world, and there's still nuggets being discovered! Everyone gets gold pans and a chance to seek their fortune. This informative and fun trip includes refreshments. Phone: 03 441 1144 Freephone: 0800 493 975 Departs: 9am and 1.30pm (Queenstown) or 9.30am and 2pm (Arrowtown) Price: from $99 per head for 2½ hour tour Family rate from $350 for 2 adults and up to 3 children. www.southernexplorer.co.nz Minimum numbers required; booking essential. OLD FASHIONED COSTUME PHOTOGRAPHY Gorgeous old-time family or child portraits from talented photographer, Karen Reid. 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. Sittings by arrangement during winter months. Phone: 027 445 2569 Prices: from $40 www.oldfashionedcostumephotography.co.nz
See Arrowtown map p50 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 family swimming beach, picnic 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 hours return 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 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. Sawpit Gully Trail Med/Hard – 2-3 hour loop The easier way to walk is to follow the Arrow River Trail first in an anticlockwise direction. You sidle high above the river before you reach the turn off to Sawpit Gully. Parts of a water race are followed and piles of stone gold mining tailings are evident near the creek. Look out for the remains of an old stone hut on your right just before you begin to climb out of Sawpit Gully. Up the hill you meet the Big Hill Trail at Eichardt’s Flat and walk down towards Arrowtown with Lake Hayes in full view. Note: private farmland; strictly no dogs or mountain bikes. www.KidzGo.co.nz
Family Walks and Playgrounds
Family Walking Tracks Walk locations are shown on various maps. You’ll find the page number of the relevant map with the reference number of the walk alongside each description.
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w4 ..Bob’s Cove Scenic Reserve Med – 1 hour return 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. Beginner biking. Map p91
Note: Walks labelled ‘hard’ have been done so with a family in mind. The hard walks may be too much for children under 10 yrs. Times shown are indications for walking NOT biking.
w5 Sunshine Bay Track Easy – 1 hour return Lovely lakeside walk with waterfall and native bush. Intermediate biking. Map p4
w1
w6 Arawata Track, Sunshine Bay Easy – 1 hour return Stunning lake views. Path descends to main road at end; so it's recommended to return along the track. Intermediate+ biking. Map p4
Frankton Arm Track Easy – 2 hours return A pleasant lakeside track with views across the Frankton Arm. Finish at Frankton Marina or continue to the main beach at Frankton. Buggy-friendly. Beginner biking. Map p4 w2 Queenstown Gardens
Views right around the peninsula. Buggy-friendly. Beginner biking. Map p4
Easy – 30 minutes
w3 ..Frankton–Kelvin Heights
Easy – 90 mins return Follow the lakeside track in front of the Hilton Hotel and stroll along this very scenic, easy track to the Kelvin Heights Yacht Club. Continue on to the end of the peninsula for a longer walk. Buggy-friendly. Beginner biking, slight undulations. Map p6
Playgrounds
w7 Queenstown Hill Hard – 2 hours return Amazing views from the top of the hill. Not suitable for biking. Map p4 w8 Oxenbridge Tunnel Track Easy – 20 mins return Follow the track to the beach opposite Shotover Jet and keep going along the signed footpath. Watch the jet boats and look out for rafters coming out of the tunnel! The track finishes at a viewing platform with a stunning view down the Shotover Canyon. Not suitable for biking. Map p91
Below we have listed all local playgrounds and detailed our favourites – these are public playgrounds, although many of our accommodation options also have their own playground. See maps for locations.
Main Beach entrance to Queenstown Gardens Features: slide, swing, climbing frame, see-saw, dedicated toddler area Nearby: lake, beach, Queenstown Gardens, café, 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 Williams Street Sunshine Bay Features: slide, swing, climbing frame Nearby: picnic bench, tennis courts, BBQ Waterfront Frankton Features: slide, climbing frame, tennis court Nearby: toilet, BBQ, bike track 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. Hope Avenue Lake Hayes Estate Features: slide, swing, climbing frame, see-saw, climbing boulder, flying fox Nearby: toilet, gas BBQ, tennis court 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 Goldfields Road Goldfields Heights Features: slide, swing, see-saw, climbing boulders Other playgrounds Dublin Street Queenstown McChesney Road Arthurs Point Queenstown Gardens (skatepark) Chalmers Place Arrowtown (in school grounds so not useable during school hours) Elva Dawson Place Arrowtown Ramshaw Lane Arrowtown (skatepark) Adamson Drive Arrowtown Jacks Point near golf club www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Q
The Kids’ Directory
The Kids' Directory For locals You’ll find information for mums, dads and kids including childminding and nannies, early childhood education and contacts, 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 – 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
ating Oper ver10 o r o f in years town ns e e u Q
Around The Clock Childcare
aroundtheclock.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTRES Arrowtown Preschool Cotter Avenue 03 442 0172 Cotter Avenue, Arrowtown, 18mths-4 years Arrowtown Preschool Durham Street 03 442 1416 Corner Caernarvon & Durham Streets, 4-5 years ABC Arrowtown Montessori 03 442 0032 16 Wiltshire Street, Arrowtown, 0-5 years City Impact Church Childcare 03 442 3025 3 Hanson Road, Frankton, 3 months-5 years Frankton Playcentre 03 442 3354 51 Lake Avenue, 0-6 years Frankton Kindergarten 03 442 2744 13 Robertson Street, Frankton, 3-5 years Kingsview Early Learning Centre 03 451 1447 14 Yewlett Cres, Frankton, 6 months-5 years Little Rockets Educare 03 428 2116 Lake Hayes Estate, 4 months-5 years Plunket Playgroup 03 442 7380 8 Henry St, Queenstown ABC Queenstown 03 442 6822 18b Hamilton Road, Queenstown, 3 months-5 years Queenstown Pre-school and Nursery 03 442 9217 45 Brecon St, Queenstown, 3 months-5 years Queenstown Playcentre 03 442 9309 57 Stanley Street, Queenstown, birth-6 years Queenstown Montessori 03 442 6567 25 Robins Road, Queenstown, 1½-6 years Wakatipu Kindergarten 03 442 6236 Brecon Street, Queenstown, 2½-5 years Zig Zag Zoo Early Learning Centre 03 409 0441 Henry Street, Queenstown, 3 months-5 years Zig Zag Zoo 2 Early Learning Centre 03 409 0404 Copper Beech Ave, Remarkables Park, 3 months-5 years 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. Contact: Bridget Cameron Phone: 03 442 0409 Mobile: 027 643 2298 Email: aroundtheclock@xtra.co.nz www.aroundtheclock.co.nz KIDZ CLUB Hourly, half or full-day Kidz Club sessions include 12D motion rides at Vortex, Xtreme Lasertag, Heroblast or Reball, Green Screen fun, Nintendo Wii, colouring, facepainting and fun games with enthusiastic staff! Phone: 0800 KIDZ CLUB www.kidzclubqueenstown.co.nz
The Kids’ Directory
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CHILD FURNITURE AND EQUIPMENT HIRE ALL FOR KIDS All your child's toys, equipment, travel gear and essential items can be supplied to you on your arrival in Queenstown! See ad this page. Phone: 03 428 2886 / 021 883 755 www.allforkids.co.nz
EXPERTS IN BABY & CHILD EQUIPMENT HIRE and retail
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 Email: shopping@rockies.co.nz
03 428 2886 / 021 883 755 info@allforkids.co.nz www.allforkids.co.nz
PLUNKET Buggies, prams, portacots, highchairs, carseats. Phone: 03 442 7380 for rates. Booking essential. CLUBS AND HOBBIES Art Classes 6-12 years. 03 441 1458 Drawing, painting, printmaking, 3D work, mixed media. Aqualand Swim School 03 450 9005 For ages 6 months-16 years, plus adult classes. Arrowtown Cubs and Scouts Mark, 03 409 8823 Queenstown Scout Group Facebook: Queenstown Scouts Wakatipu Girl Guides Association Lauren, 027 445 2221 Climbing Classes 03 450 9005 Danceworks Toddler to adult 021 062 2939 Drama Queenstown pre-school -18years 021 178 1669 Speech, musical theatre and drama classes Football Factory 5 years+ High-quality football training 027 291 9884 Fitness Classes – Snap Fitness 021 0281 9724 Free scheduled exercise classes for kids when you workout. Fun French Club Natalie, 03 442 0075 Kidz Club Queenstown 0800 KIDZCLUB (543 925 82) We entertain the kids – while you go and play! www.kidzclubqueenstown.co.nz Little Yogis Arrowtown Niki Goile, 027 866 7681 Mainly Music Arrowtown Amanda, 03 441 4900 For pre-schoolers. Mainly Music Queenstown Janetta, 03 442 3194 For pre-schoolers. PowderPak Park 5 years to adult. 022 432 9103 An indoor ski/snowboard facility. Queenstown Gymnastics Club 4-16 years www.qtgymnastics.co.nz Queenstown Ice Skating Club Facebook: Queenstown Ice Skating Club Queenstown Ice Hockey www.queenstownicehockey.co.nz Queenstown Mountain Bike Club www.queenstownmtb.co.nz Singing Margaret O’Hanlon, 03 442 8696 SITE Trampoline 6 years-adult 0800 QT BOUNCE Practice skills in snowboarding, general aerial awareness, or just gain confidence and have fun! St John Youth Penguin Programme 03 441 4555 Tuesdays 5.30pm-7pm 6-8 years 10 Douglas St, Frankton
all your family needs...
All your essential baby/child items are available for hire at All For Kids. Our own qualified carseat technician is available to make sure your child travels safe. We pride ourselves on making your holiday a family-friendly experience with free delivery and collection at your desired location*. (*Conditions apply).
We have over 30 years experience working with children and families, and have access to professional, experienced childcare.
St John Youth Cadet Programme 03 441 4555 Tues 6.30pm-8.30pm, 8-18 years 10 Douglas St, Frankton Wakatipu Junior Golf Club Ben, 021 412 793 Wakatipu Ski Club www.wsc.co.nz Subsidized lessons for the whole family plus use of clubhouse facilities on the mountain. Polar Bear club for 4 years and under. HOLIDAY PROGRAMMES/AFTER SCHOOL CARE City Impact Church After School Care & Holiday Club 5-12 years 03 442 3025 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 Arrowtown Primary School. The Remarkables Primary School.
027 505 4503 021 143 6813
Queenstown After School Care 022 676 6700 5-12 yrs (3pm-5.30pm) Contact: Jane Schieb
Remarkables Town Centre Free programme during school holidays for 2-3 hours per day and one fun activity each day! 03 442 8115 The Youth Booth 11-24 years. Youth Centre operated by Wakatipu Youth Trust. After-school activities and holiday programmes. 66 Stanley Street www.theyouthbooth.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
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The Kids’ Directory
ANNUAL & SEASON PASSES
BIRTHDAY PARTY IDEAS
Skyline Gondola Annual Pass 03 441 0101 Unlimited gondola rides for you and one accompanying child, plus further discounts. Annual: Adult $79, Child $59 skyline.co.nz Kiwi Birdlife 'Friend of the Park' 03 442 8059 Enjoy unlimited annual visits to the Kiwi Birdlife Park. Annual: $49 (Local residents)–
Highlands Motorsport Museum 03 445 4052 'Friends of the Museum' Pass Annual: Family $79 (2 adults + 2 children, extra child $5) highlands.co.nz KJet 03 409 0000 Jet boat whenever you like, year round! Annual: Adult $50, Child $30. Proof of residency required. kjet.co.nz PowderPak Park 022 432 9103 Unlimited sessions for the 2015 winter season. Adult $525, Student and under 16s $375 powderpaknz.com Puzzling World Wanaka 03 443 7489 Unlimited access for 12 months. Annual: Adult $49, Child $34 (5-15 years) puzzlingworld.co.nz
53 Shotover Street 03 441 1159 vortexcinema.co.nz
Bead Shop Birthdays!
Queenstown Ice Arena 03 441 8000 Unlimited access to public sessions. Season: Adult $249, Student/Child $199, Family $499 queenstownicearena.co.nz Real Journeys Real Rewards Card 0800 65 65 01 Unlimited TSS Earnslaw steamship cruises and discounts across Real Journeys product range. Annual: Ad $125, Ch $65 (conditions apply). realjourneys.co.nz 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 Underwater Observatory 03 409 0000 'Friends of the Fish' annual membership: $40 per family group, valid for 12 months. Main Town Pier
* 2 hours entertainment * 2 high speed movies * ‘chill-out’ party room * organised activites * popcorn & slushies * free WiFi * food can be organised * just $25* per head! *minimum numbers apply, please call for bookings
Fun, social atmosphere, catering by arrangement. Create your own wearable art to take away. 2b Shotover St p 03 441 8466 QTgem.com
PARTY FUN WITH SEGWAYS For small or large groups – from 3-30!
0800 734 386 INCLUDES INSTRUCTION, PLAYTIME AND SEGWAY GAMES SUCH AS RELAY SLALOM, TIME TRIALS OR EVEN SEGWAY POLO!
WANAKA
Got a kid’s birthday coming up? 03 443 6901 www.KidzGo.co.nz
Choose from: FAIRY PARTY ICE PRINCESS SUPERMAN
The Kids’ Directory :: Birthday Parties Alpine Aqualand Pool Party 03 450 9005 Bring a birthday group and the birthday child swims free! Book ahead for exclusive use of learner’s pool for $50/hour. Party room from $37.50 /hour + cleaning. The Bead Shop 03 441 8466 Great for all ages; fun, social and engaging!
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CHILDREN’S COSTUME HIRE Themed party box hire Individual costumes Babies-10 years
The Cardrona Pony Parties 03 443 1228 Party activities include lead rope pony rides, pony games, brushing & braiding & feeding. Highlands Motorsport Park 03 445 4052 Go-karts, dirt buggies, balance bikes and the Highlands adventure park. For more on party options contact: functions@highlands.co.nz. Lonestar Wanaka 03 443 6901 $15 per child for groups of 10 or more. Choose one of our fun, themed children's parties – includes a dedicated party entertainer for 1½ hours, food and drink, invites, party bag and Lonestar t-shirt for the birthday child!
Enquiries 027 246 6012
Sparkles & Beaus d 2 hours entertainment d 1 hour of action-packed game time!
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 03 442 8687 Party fun for small or large groups. Instruction, playtime and Segway games such as relay slalom, time trials or even Segway Polo. Please ring for pricing.
Choose from Xtreme Reball, Lasertag or Heroblast
53 Shotover Street 03 442 3417 xtremereball.co.nz
d d d d d
5 different game scenarios ‘chill out’ party room free popcorn and slushies free wifi food can be organised
SITE Trampoline 0800 QT BOUNCE Groups of up to 15, suitable for toddlers to adults, separate party room. $200 – 90 mins. See ad this page. Sparkles and Beaus Costume Hire 027 246 6012 Irresistible and unique costumes for babies up to 10 year olds. Our themed party boxes will transform your child's party into a magical world! Vortex 12D Motion Theatre 03 441 1159 Movie packages for all ages plus a separate party room with games, popcorn and refreshments, organised activities and more! See ad opposite page.
sitetrampoline.co.nz
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. 360 Battle Ground - Fast Action Fun 03 442 3417 Xtreme Indoor Reball, Laser Tag and Hero Blast The arena will be exclusive to you and your friends, perfect for those looking for a birthday pumped full of adrenaline. Popcorn and refreshments included. www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Eating Out Made Easy
Eating Out made easy
Italian made brilliant... right in the heart of Queenstown
Public Kitchen & Bar
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.
pastas, risottos wood-fired pizzas italian cheeses delicious desserts
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 p6. Open Daytime
Open Evening
Toys/ Colouring
Takeaways Available
High Chair Available Outdoor Dining
OPEN FROM 5PM FOR DINNER 6 BRECON ST, QUEENSTOWN BOOKINGS PHONE 442 6762
BALLARAT TRADING CO.
We pride ourselves on our relaxed and fun dining experience, located in the heart of Queenstown. Cosy booths inside, ideal for winter dining, or if it's sunny diners can enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of The Mall at our al fresco tables. Fun and family-friendly with varied children's menu.
$5
KIDS MEALS INCLUDING A FREE FIZZY DRINK
EVERY DAY BETWEEN 5pm and 6pm With any main meal purchased
No.7 The Mall, Queenstown, NZ. (03) 442 4222. www.ballarat.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Sample Menu Items - all from $24.95 * Grilled chicken salad, with avocado, red and yellow capsicums, mango, peanuts, mint and mixed greens. * Pork spare ribs slow cooked in a sticky BBQ sauce. * Hot smoked salmon with dill cucumber yoghurt, roast potatoes & seasonal vegetables. * Lamb rump with creamy mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables & pinot noir pan jus. * Bangers and mash - seasoned pork sausage, roasted peppers, onions, creamy mashed potatoes, peas & real gravy. * Slow smoked ribeye & jus - sliced to order, served medium rare with potato gratin roasted seasonal vegetables and wilted spinach. Children’s Menu $12.95 * Classic Kiwiana fish and chips * Burger with chips * Bangers and mash (or fries) * Chicken nuggets and fries * Sandwich of the day with fries * Vegetable lasagne (Side order of steamed vegetables $7.50) Children’s meals include a free fizzy drink. The Mall, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 4222 Hours: daily, 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 * duck bacon salad * 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 and 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 $29 * Steamed green-lipped mussels $30 * Chargrilled Stewart Island salmon $34 * Seafood platter for two $95 * Monkfish wrapped in bacon $32 * 400g prime Angus ribeye $38 * Slow roasted shoulder of NZ lamb $36 * Venison leg hotpot $30 * Parmesan gnocchi with pomodoro sauce $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
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Next to Shotover Jet, Arthurs Point Open 9am - 6pm daily P 03 442 8692
CAVELLS CAFÉ AND BAR 10% OFF YOUR BILL!* Your perfect pre or après-ski family café! Riverside location and ringside seats to Shotover Jet. We're also on your route to Coronet Peak ski field (one minute drive from the ski field access road). Serving all-day breakfasts, takeaway ski lunches (preorder recommended), takeaway coffees, daily lunch specials – $10, hot and hearty menu, awesome cabinet food, hot mulled wine and après-ski treats! We have comfy couches, roaring fire, highchairs, toys, colouringin sheets and baby change facilities. *10% off your total bill when you spend over $10. Not including specials and happy hour items. Offer valid on takeaway or eat-in orders. Arthurs Point, next to Shotover Jet, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 8692 Hours: daily from 9am-6pm (Note: early ski lunch pick up can be arranged when booking.) www.cavells.co.nz
Anytime Family Dining Ballarat Trading Co. The Mall, Ballarat Street Cosy booths, outdoor Mall dining, good kids’ menu, fun atmosphere. Highchair, colouring sheets. See ad page 58. Phone: 03 442 4222 Finz Seafood and Grill Steamer Wharf, Beach Street Fish and Chips, great seafood and steak menu plus lots of other options and healthy kids’ choices. Watch the TSS Earnslaw come and go on the lake while you dine. See ad page 59. Phone: 03 442 7405 Public Kitchen and Bar Steamer Wharf, Beach Street Absolute lakeside dining. Serving good, honest Kiwi fare that's designed to be shared. See ad page 59. Phone: 03 442 5969 Minami Jujisei Beach Street Award-winning Japanese restaurant with kids’ menu, sushi, sashimi and lots of other favourites. See listing page 61. Phone: 03 442 9854 Sombreros Mexican Beach Street Queenstown’s original Mexican – good kids’ menu, great food, value and atmosphere. Highchair, activity books for kids. See ad page 61. Phone: 03 442 8240 Winnies Gourmet Pizzas The Mall, Ballarat Street Varied menu, delicious gourmet pizzas, kids’ menu and fantastic atmosphere. See ad page 61. Phone: 03 442 8635 Hell Pizza Searle Lane Gourmet pizzas with unique and delicious toppings, plus a menu full of all the 'tried and tested' favourites. Dine-in, pick-up or delivery service. See ad this page. Phone: 0800 666 111
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Eating Out Made Easy
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MINAMI JUJISEI JAPANESE RESTAURANT
An award-winning restaurant, bringing the best of Japan to Queenstown for over 25 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 $10 * Teriyaki chicken $12 / $26 * Deep fried chicken drizzled with special sauce and served with Japanese mayonnaise $12 / $26 * Yakizakana – slices of NZ king salmon fillet grilled and served with salad $28.50 * Seared scallops, Japanese style $15 / $28.50 * Venison steak $28.50 * Lamb fillet and ginger $28.50 Children's Menu $10 Chicken sushi roll, egg omelette, salad, a choice of deep fried chicken or tempura fish or deep fried prawns.
KIDS SAMPLE MENU
KIDS PIZZA $10.95 KIDS PASTA $10.95 SPAGHETTI BOLOGNAISE $10.95 FISH & CHIPS $10.95 CHICKEN NUGGET & CHIPS $10.95 MINI HOTDOGS & CHIPS $10.95 BOWL OF STEAMED VEGETABLES $3.95 ICE CREAM SUNDAE $5.50
All kids’ meals include an orange, ice cream and soft drink. 45 Beach Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 9854 Hours: daily 11.30am til 2pm and 5.30pm til late www.minamijujisei.co.nz
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A offer EXICAN CANTIN SOMBREROS M activity bag. an th wi enu that comes m s’ kid y m m yu and a relaxed od, friendly staff Fresh healthy fo als plus de bo m eat co atmosphere. Gr uten-free meals. gl & n ga ve e, fre vegetarian, dairy s available. wine. Takeaway Licensed & BYO ms Sample Menu Ite al vegetables: on as se or ef be With chicken, illas ad es Qu * * Nachos choice of filling, ur yo th wi da * Enchila salsa & cheese smothered with of filling, with your choice * Burrito stuffed se chee veggies, salsa & tasty – roll your own as jit Fa ng zli Siz * ns combinatio amigos rs for 2 or more * Combo platte l deal ids) $12 set mea For the Niños (k os or tacos. ch na s, illa ad es qu g. * Choose from t and activity ba Includes desser
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Upstairs, Beech Tree Arcade, Beach Street Hours: daily from lunch til late Tel 03 442 8240 (bookings recommended) www.sombreros.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Eating Out Made Easy
Anytime Family Dining Queenstown Ice Arena Café Queenstown Gardens Freshly prepared hot and cold foods and great snacks along with fantastic coffee. The kids will enjoy our legendary hot chocolate! See ad this page. Ph: 03 441 8000
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Bella Cucina Brecon Street "Italian made brilliant" is the motto! Cosy, rustic Italian ambience with an ever-changing Italian menu. See ad page 58. Phone: 03 442 6762 Skyline Queenstown – Buffet Restaurant Bob's Peak Enjoy dinner at Queenstown's most spectacular location. The Skyline Restaurant serves up a mouthwatering Taste of New Zealand buffet of legendary proportions! Phone: 03 441 0101 Pub on Wharf Steamer Wharf, Beach Street With one of the best locations in Queenstown, kids' menu and all adult main meals under $20, this is a great choice for families! Situated right next to the lake. Phone: 03 441 2155
Sweet Treats
Cookie Time NZ’s favourite homemade, warm choc chip cookies. Camp Street Phone: 03 442 4891 Jelly Belly The gourmet Jelly Bean shop. Free samples! Skyline, Bob's Peak, Brecon Street Phone: 03 441 0101
KIDS MENU ALSO AVAILABLE LOCATED AT THE KAWARAU BRIDGE BUNGY CENTRE
Mövenpick Delectable Swiss ice cream and delicious desserts. Beach Street, Lakefront Phone: 03 441 2731 Patagonia All things chocolate, including desserts and ice creams. Beach Street, Lakefront Phone: 03 442 9066 The Remarkable Sweet Shop Largest selection of confectionery in New Zealand. Beach Street Phone: 03 409 2630
6.30am – late
SHOPPING CENTRE CAMP STREET, QUEENSTOWN www.KidzGo.co.nz
A Nugget of Southern Lakes History 63
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 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’d come 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, before there was one road, house or boat, two tired travellers emerged at a point high above the present day 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 a broad valley, rich high country, glistening lakes, fast flowing rivers and rugged mountains. Surely this must be paradise! What lay before them, on the edge of the impenetrable mountains and glaciers of what is now known as Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Parks, filled them with excitement. It was no easy matter getting themselves and their horses through the spiky speargrass and 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 large flock of sheep, some cows and other animals. Boats now provided transport and the population of Queenstown, the town that was considered fit for Queen Victoria, started slowly to grow.
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. Trying to keep this discovery of untold wealth between himself and a few mates proved difficult. Word was out that Fox was onto something. On one supply run, William realised he was being followed by fortune-seekers. 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. Soon though, the Queenstown district was flooded with goldseekers from all corners of the globe, come to pan the Arrow and Shotover Rivers and willing to risk life and limb for their share. Unbelievably, in the height of the rush, with 18,000 miners and supporting trades, the local population was similar to today and ghost towns like Macetown and Skippers, these days 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!
Hell's Gate, Skippers Road circa 1910 Photo courtesy of Lakes District Museum, Arrowtown, archive EL 209
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Family Shopping and Services
SPARKLES AND BEAUS COSTUME HIRE Irresistible and unique costumes suitable for teeny tiny babies to up to 10 year olds! Our themed Party Boxes will transform your children’s birthday party into a magical world – fairies, animals, pirates, mermaids, princesses, well-known super heroes, ‘Frozen’ characters’ …. Individual hire available too, plus multiple hire for local events, preschools, groups and clubs. Phone: 027 246 6012
CHILDREN’S COSTUME HIRE Themed party box hire Individual costumes Babies-10 years
Enquiries 027 246 6012
Sparkles & Beaus
HAIRCUTS FOR THE FAMILY LINDA’S HAIR DESIGN All senior internationally-trained stylists specialising in the latest colour and cut techniques and all aspects of hairdressing. We’ll keep the kids amused with books, toys and puzzles, plus treats with all children’s haircuts. OPI GelColour and CND Shellac manicures and pedicures also available. Stockists of Paul Mitchell, Nioxin, Matrix and Keratin Complex. FREE CAR PARKING (ask when booking). 68 Shotover Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 8881 Price: Child cuts from $24 Hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30am-late Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday by appointment Email: lindacross158@gmail.com www.lindashairdesign.co.nz Kidz Go Offer: Children under 10 years receive ½ price cut with every adult cut. OUTDOOR AND SNOW SHOPS Visit one of the following stores to kit you out and gear you up for the slopes this winter. See pages 18-20 for details. Browns Ski Shop 03 442 4005 Green Toad 03 442 5311 Kiwi Discovery 03 442 7340 One Stop 03 441 2085 Rockies Childrenswear 03 442 8153 Snowbiz 03 441 2085 Wai Ski Hire 03 441 1195
The only full range supermarket in town, for everything you need during your stay. • Email your order or come in and pick up yourself. • We can deliver to your room (fees apply).
Open 7am - Midnight, 7 days. 64 Gorge Rd, Queenstown. Phone (03) 441 1252. Email fc.queenstown@xtra.co.nz
QUEENSTOWN www.KidzGo.co.nz
FreshChoice.co.nz F Fre e FreshChoiceNZ Fre F
Owned and operated by locals
Family Shopping and Services OTHER FAMILY SHOPPING 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, Catimini, Roxy and Billabong – 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 snowwear 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, Dr Martens, Emu and Bobux. Check out the collection in store or shop online at www.rockies.co.nz 49 Beach St, Queenstown Hours: daily, 9am-9pm Phone: 03 442 8153 Email: shopping@rockies.co.nz www.rockies.co.nz Remarkables Park Town Centre Bigger and better than ever! Everything you need in one easy location! Excellent shopping, nice cafés and plenty of parking. See ad this page. Hawthorne Drive, Frankton
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HERE’S WHY WE LOVE SHOPPING AT REMARKABLES PARK TOWN CENTRE! Over 35 stores including * Fashion for kids & adults * Footwear & Homeware Easy parking, * Giftware & Stationary on the bus route, * Supermarket close to Frankton, * Medical Centre the airport and just 10 minutes from * Pharmaceutical * Electronics & Hardware Queenstown! * Optometry & Audiology * Cafés & Restaurants * Hair & Beauty * Banks & other services * Travel Agents * Department Stores and lots more!
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
LOTS FOR TOTS Your one-stop children’s store! We carry a unique combination of Whitcoulls everything you need for your ‘Tots’ from premature to Great range of children’s books, toys and games, school 12 years. Lots for Tots sources from leading designers stationary, diaries, arts and craft, stickers and more. and offers a selection of quality New Zealand-designed Beach Street, Queenstown Phone: 03 442 9739 products and European brands that you would rarely Remarkables Park Town Centre Phone: 03 901 0100 find anywhere under the same roof. Stocking buggies, carriers, portacots, swimwear, snow wear, rainwear, The Warehouse For kids’ books, arts and crafts, toys and games, clothing clothing, footwear and accessories, books, games, toys, teddies and so much more… and shoes, all under one roof. 50 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown Remarkables Park Town Centre, Frankton Phone: 03 442 0580 Hours: daily, 8.30am-8pm Hours: daily, 9.30am-5.30pm Phone: 03 441 4400 Email: lotsfortots@xtra.co.nz www.lotsfortots.co.nz Lakes District Museum Mention this KIdz Go ad and receive a FREE Gift when you Stocking a diverse book selection for adults and children, shop at Lots for Tots. from native New Zealand stories to cook books, activity books and more. Buckingham Street, Arrowtown THE BEAD SHOP Hours: daily, 8.30am-5pm Relax in our friendly, colourful shop. Have fun designing Phone: 03 442 1824 your own wearable art or choose from our own beautifully handcrafted jewellery selection. Hundreds of colours and O’Connells Shopping Centre This centrally-located complex includes fashion, styles of pieces to choose from to make your jewellery souvenirs, sports apparel, hair and beauty, homewares, unique! Birthday parties and groups welcome. wine, outdoor gear, pharmacy and services such as 2b Shotover Street, Queenstown internet, watch repairs, key cutting, shoe repairs and Phone: 03 441 8466 Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-6pm more…plus an international food court. Prices: from as little as $5 O’Connells Shopping Centre, cnr Camp and Beach Street Email: lee@beadshopnz.com www.QTgem.com Hours: daily, 9am 'til late www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Wanaka
Wanaka This perfect year-round destination is situated on the shores of Lake Wanaka (New Zealand’s fourth largest lake) with the magnificent mountains and glaciers of Mount Aspiring National Park on its doorstep. Take in the breathtaking views with a road tour – stop for a picnic or scenic walk and make a day of it! Activities include jet boating, kayaking, familyfriendly walking and bike tracks, horseriding, climbing, swimming pool, the Transport and Toy Museum and the famous Puzzling World. Add the local ski areas – Cardrona Alpine Resort, Treble Cone and Snow Farm and you have a winter family paradise!
SKI SCENE WANAKA :: page 10
Everything you need to know for your family ski holiday in and around Wanaka! * Ski areas p10 * Wanaka snow transport p21 * Wanaka ski and snowboard hire p21
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1 Lakeland Adventures 2 Green Toad Rental 3 Base Ultimate Rental 4 Rocket Rental 5 Cardrona town office 6 Treble Cone town office 7 Cinema Paradiso 8 Fairway Motel 9 to Transport and Toy 10 to Wanaka Top 10 11 to Edgewater 12 Lonestar and Rubys 12 Clip ‘N’ Climb
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Lake Wanaka, see www.lakewanaka.co.nz
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STUART LANDSBOROUGH’S PUZZLING WORLD Wanaka’s iconic attraction, Puzzling World is on-hand to offer skiers and other winter visitors a unique, affordable and fun day off the mountain. Crazy buildings, the Puzzle café, mind-boggling Illusion Rooms and the world's first "3-D" maze give all ages the chance to test their brains and challenge reality. Truly Wanaka’s wonderful world of weirdness! Main Highway, Wanaka, 3 minutes drive from town centre Phone: 03 443 7489 Hours: daily from 8.30am. Last admission 5.00pm 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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r u o y s ’ e r e Wh head at?
HAVE A SHOT SHOOTING & ACTIVITY VENUE Including Battlefield and Archery (minimum age 8), Cropool (minimum age 13), Smallbore Rifle Range (minimum age 14), Claybird Shooting (minimum age 17) plus locally-themed mini putt golf course for all ages. Mt Barker Rd, opp Wanaka Airport www.haveashot.co.nz CLIP ‘N CLIMB, BASECAMP WANAKA Min age 3 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 Phone: 03 443 1110 Hours: 12pm-8pm weekdays, 10am-6pm weekends 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 Email: climb@basecampwanaka.co.nz www.basecampwanaka.co.nz
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www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Wanaka :: Activities CLUTHA RIVER JET An unforgettable jet boat experience departing from Wanaka's waterfront, your one hour jet boat trip includes a spectacular ride on Lake Wanaka, leading you to the Clutha River. Discover the fun and exhilaration of riding in a jet boat, skim across mere inches of water, enjoy the thrill of the famous Hamilton spin and marvel at the region's incredible scenery. Phone: 03 443 7495 Freephone: 0508 525 352 Departs: The Log Cabin, Lakefront, Wanaka Duration: one hour Hours: daily departures, from 10am to 5pm Price: Adult $109, Child $55 (child is under15 years) www.lakelandadventures.co.nz
REGULAR DEPARTURES FROM LAKEFRONT Come down to the Log Cabin Wanaka Lakefront, for the town’s most popular jet boat experience!
FREEPHONE 0508 525 352
Adventure Activities
Minimum Age Guide
Age 3
Clutha River Jet*, Clip ‘N Climb
Age 4
Wanaka Parasailing
Age 5
Horse trekking – Backcountry Saddle Expeditions, Pioneer Rafting (summer only)
Age 6
Highlands Go-karts (tandem kart passenger)
Age 7
Paintball Central, Cromwell*
Age 8
Alpine Kayak Guides ‘Grandview’ relaxed float (summer only), Archery and Battlefield – Have a Shot
Age 10 Highlands Go-karts (single kart driver) Age 12 Frogz White Water Sledging*, Deep Canyon Experience* (depending on weight and confidence, summer only) Age 13 Cropool – Have a Shot Age 14 Rifle Range – Have a Shot * this activity 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.
www.KidzGo.co.nz
1 HOUR OF JET BOATING FUN!
LAKELAND ADVENTURES Lake Cruises – Kayak Rental – Bike Rental & Track Transport Visit the Log Cabin on Wanaka’s lakefront to rent a family-friendly kayak, aqua bike or water bee. Lake Cruises Explore the bays and islands of Lake Wanaka with a Lakeland Adventures cruise. Choose from our 2 hour or 3 hour excursions with island stop, short walk and amazing scenery. Water Taxi Spend a day or half-day on Ruby Island, or other secluded lake destination. So many perfect family picnic and play spots! We’ll drop you by water taxi and pick you up later. Ask for our recommended drop-off locations. Bike and Walking Tracks We provide a transport service for your family to access the local walking and biking tracks. Rent your bikes from us or bring your own. See us for family favourite recommendations. Phone: 03 443 7495 Freephone: 0508 525 352 Lake Cruise Times: 10am and 2pm Prices from: Adult $85, Child $55 (child is 5-14 years, under 4s free) Rental Hours: 9am-5pm Rental Hire: Kayaks and Aqua bikes from $15pp, Water Bees from $15 for two people. Mountain Bikes $15pp 1 hour / $30 half day / $50 full day www.lakelandadventures.co.nz See Lakeland Adventures, Log Cabin for Clutha River Jet departures. 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 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: daily from 10am Email: info@paradiso.net.nz www.paradiso.net.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 50,000 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 huge toyshop plus picnic and playground area featuring pedal tractors and trucks. Onsite café. SH 6, 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 WANAKA POOL Swim, relax and play at the Wanaka Pool. Open all year round, our 25m indoor pool is heated, 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. 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) E:wanakapool@qldc.govt.nz http://sportrec.qldc.govt.nz/swim BACKCOUNTRY SADDLE EXPEDITIONS Min age 5 25 years in the Cardrona Valley. Experienced riders or first timers alike will love our friendly horses fitted with comfortable western saddles and our rides that explore goldmining valleys, splash through streams, then climb up to the high country. 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. Cardrona Valley, Wanaka Phone: 03 443 8151 (Bookings essential) Freephone: 0800 4 SADDLES (0800 4 72335) Email: nzbse@xtra.co.nz www.backcountrysaddles.co.nz PAINTBALL CENTRAL Ultimate action adventure that can be played with minimum two players. With three exciting courses and 14 different games you can tailor your mission to suit your family. 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: 7 days WHEN YOU BOOK Duration: 2 hours Price: $30 per person for basic game (includes 100 shots, gun, overalls and mask) www.paintballcentral.co.nz
Wanaka :: Activities
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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
Have a splash at Wanaka Pool! Our indoor heated pool is perfect for family fun!
sportrec.qldc.govt.nz
121 Plantation Road, Wanaka T 03 443 9334 | E wanakapool@qldc.govt.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! 25 years in the Cardrona Valley. find us on Trip Advisor
BACKCOUNTRY SADDLE EXPEDITIONS Adult $85, Child $65 Ph 03 443 8151 Freephone 0800 4 SADDLES backcountrysaddles.co.nz
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Wanaka :: Activities
HIGHLANDS TAXI
LAMBORGHINI FAST DASH
SAFARI ADVENTURE
RACE GO-KARTS
NDS TAXI! FAMOUS HIGHLA HOME OF THE
BOOkING & INFO At...
0508 HIGHLANDS info@highlands.co.nz
HIGHLANDS.CO.NZ
Wanaka Walks and Family Biking
HIGHLANDS MOTORSPORT PARK The ultimate destination for the whole family! Have a blast on the go-karts, discover the new Jurassic Safari Park. Choose from 6 high-speed adventures on the circuit, visit the sculpture park & motorsport museum, or have a go at mini-golf! Go-karts – choose single or tandem karts. 10-minute session: $35 (single), $45 (tandem). Single driver: min age 10 years Tandem: min age16 years. Tandem passenger: min age 6 years (height restrictions apply). Jurassic Safari Park Tour – $59 (2 adults & up to 3 children). Highlands Taxi – explore the circuit in our Porsche Cayenne taxi – great for the whole family! $75 for one or two people, $95 for three or four. National Motorsport Museum – Family $45 (2 ad + 3 ch) ‘Friends of the Museum’ Family annual pass $79. Adrenalin activity on track – Choose from FASTLaps in a Porsche GT3, YOURLaps in a Suzuki Swift, U-drive in a Radical, Fast Dash in a Lamborghini or go with a friend in the V8 Supercar. Prices vary. Corner SH6 and Sandflat Road, Cromwell Just 40 minutes scenic drive from Wanaka. See more on a day in Cromwell on page 48. Phone: 0508 HIGHLANDS Email: info@highlands.co.nz www.highlands.co.nz Visit us on Facebook
Wanaka Lakefront to Lake Outlet Easy – 3 hours return This flat and wide track 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. Easy biking.
Millennium Track to Waterfall Creek Carpark Easy – 2 hours return Starting from town, follow the walking track with the lake on your right. This track is perfect with littlies, completely flat and quite wide. Buggy friendly.
Lake Outlet to Albert Town Easy/Med – 2 hours return This is one of our favourite sections simply because the Clutha river is so beautiful and such different scenery from the lake. You can park right at the start of the track near the Lake Outlet Holiday Park along Anderson Road. The track is slightly more narrow than the lakeside tracks but certainly fine for bikers of all ages. Albert Town to Lake Hawea Easy/Med – 4 hours return A well-formed 10km track that follows the Hawea River to Lake Hawea. Beautiful riverside riding and overall very easy walking and biking for all ages.
Waterfall Creek Carpark to Glendhu Bay Part I: Med – 2 hours return Part II: Med/Hard – 3 hours return The first section is more undulating and mountain bikers will find this slightly harder going but not technical and definitely still great for families. You reach a turn-off where you can choose to dip down to the bay, or follow the track to Glendhu Bay. From here the track becomes more technical for bikers with some steep ups and downs.
MOUNT IRON TRACK Moderate – 1½ hour loop Mount Iron is a glacier-carved hill, visible from anywhere in Wanaka. 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.
Note: times are based on walking WANAKA LAKESIDE TRACKS You can bike or walk all the way from Glendhu Bay to Lake Hawea or Luggate via Wanaka township, along well-formed and very scenic tracks.
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Wanaka :: Eating Out Made Easy
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Eating Out made easy CINEMA PARADISO CAFÉ Cinema, Café, Bar Paradiso Café is 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! Our spacious café is open every day and is 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 Reservations/Enquiries: 03 443 1505 Hours: daily from 10am Email: info@paradiso.net.nz www.paradiso.net.nz TREBLE CONE - the highest lunch in town! Treble Cone Ski Area introduces the new Allpress at Altitude open-air café at the top of the Home Basin, serving barista-made Allpress coffee, delicious pizzas to order, plenty of freshly-baked treats, and winter’s most spectacular location with views across the lake and the snow-capped Southern Alps. It doesn't matter if you're not skiing or boarding; come on up to experience a scenic chairlift ride, the incredible views from Treble Cone and a delicious lunch! 30 minutes drive from Wanaka. For Treble Cone info see p11. Shuttle bus or taxi service available – see page 21. Treble Cone Ski Area Phone: 03 443 7443 www.treblecone.com
all day family dining
lawns down to lakefront
kids’ menu & snacks
wineglass cafe
Sargood Drive, Wanaka 03 443 0011 www.edgewater.co.nz
PUZZLING WORLD CAFÉ Toasties, soup and other warm treats put together with puzzles galore are here to sustain and entertain you! Main Highway, Wanaka, 3 minutes drive from town centre Phone: 03 443 7489
GREAT VALUE MEALS plus FAMILY COMBO DEALS FROM $38!
spend over $20 for free delivery in Wanaka
UNCLE JOHN PIZZERIA
Open lunch and dinner. Dine in or takeaway
pizza
pasta
20 HELWICK STREET 03 443 9166 fish ‘n’ chips
chinese www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Wanaka :: Family Shopping and Kids' Directory
Wanaka Shopping TOYS AND PUZZLES 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 67. 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 remote control cars, boats and helicopters. Discover plastic model kit sets, Playmobil, a large Sylvanian Families range, Barbie, Thomas the Tank Engine, Siku and Bruder toys, and lots of fun items from just $1. Something for everyone. Onsite café. See ad page 69. Phone: 03 443 8765 SH 6, Main Wanaka-Queenstown road (via Cromwell) (10 mins from town centre, beside Wanaka airport) Hours: 8.30am-5pm, 7 days www.nttmuseum.co.nz SKI / SNOWBOARD RENTAL AND RETAIL See page 21 for detailed information. Base Ultimate 03 443 6620 12 Helwick Street Green Toad 03 443 4315 6 Pembroke Mall, behind the Bakery Rocket Rental 03 443 7625 39 Helwick St
Kids' Directory 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. Contact: Bridget Cameron Phone: 027 643 2298 LAKE WANAKA BABYSITTING SERVICE We provide daytime, evening and overnight care for all ages, from babies to ageing grandparents. Contact: Hayley 03 443 4903 / 027 291 3138 www.lakewanakababysitting.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
SWIMMING POOL Wanaka Pool 03 443 9334 Heated indoor pool – learn-to-swim and school holiday programmes. Hours: Monday to Friday 6am-8pm Saturday and Sunday 12pm-6pm CHILD FURNITURE / ACCESSORIES HIRE Wanaka Baby 03 443 9224 Your one-stop hire shop for quality baby hire equipment. A huge selection of toys, backpacks, prams, car seats, portacots, baby monitor, high chairs and more. Plunket car seats Plunket baby equipment hire
03 443 8799 03 443 7030
OTHER HELP FOR PARENTS Plunket 51 Ardmore Street 03 443 8799 Wanaka Library 03 443 0410 Regular pre-schooler sessions Bullock Creek, Dunmore St 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 CLUBS AND HOBBIES Aspiring Gym Sports www.aspiringgymsports.co.nz Gymnastics classes for children from 4 years. Aspiring Trampolining www.sportsground.co.nz/aspiringtrampolining Bike Wanaka Jamie, 021 539 931 Mtb coached cross-country group rides – 11-16 years. Climbing Classes 03 443 1110 Dance Out Loud Rachel Erichsen, 021 915 573 Dance Wanaka Anna Thomas, 021 575 569 Disc Golf Wanaka Martin Galley, 027 226 5343 Drama Gillian Pugh, 03 443 9226 Junior Football Club For 5 years+ www.wanakafootball.org.nz Karate Club Trevor, 03 443 2993 Kindermusik Liz Ritchie, 021 209 1355 Small classes, big smiles. Mainly Music Pauline, 03 443 8044 For pre-schoolers and their caregivers. Mini Muscles Play gym (0-4) & gymnastics. Rae Paterson, 027 414 9562 Pony Club Hawea/Wanaka Facebook: Hawea Wanaka pony club Waterfall Equestrian 027 210 9098 Weekly lessons, quick ‘taster’ lessons also offered and riding for the disabled. Wanaka Golf Club 03 443 7888 Free lessons with initial membership. Wanaka Scouts, Cubs, Keas Huw, 03 443 4033 Wanaka Skateboard Club Eddie, 027 472 9908 Facebook: Wanaka skate club Wanaka Ski and Snowsports Club www.wanakasnowsports.co.nz
Wanaka :: Useful Contacts and Birthday Party Ideas
Wanaka Useful Contacts
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PLAYGROUNDS ✽ Aeolus Place ✽ Achilles Place ✽ Wanaka Waterfront ✽ Cherry Court ✽ Wanaka Station Park ✽ Rimu Lane ✽ Scurr Heights Reserve off Travathan Lane ✽ Lake Hawea recreation ground
Aspiring Medical Centre (24 hrs) 03 443 1226 Wanaka Lakes Health Centre, 23 Cardrona Valley Rd Wanaka Medical Centre (24 hrs) 03 443 0710 Wanaka Lakes Health Centre, 23 Cardrona Valley Rd Aspiring Dental Services 03 443 7705 64 Brownston Street
USEFUL CONTACTS Police / Fire / Ambulance Police Station Helwick St Library Bullock Creek, Dunmore St Post Office Ardmore Street
INFORMATION CENTRES Department of Conservation (DOC) Cnr Ardmore Street/Ballantyne Rd Lake Wanaka i-Site 103 Ardmore Street, Wanaka
Dial 111 03 443 7272 03 443 0410 03 443 8211
HEALTH Aspiring Pharmacy 03 443 7986 29 Helwick Street Wanaka Pharmacy 03 443 8000 41 Helwick Street Wanacare Pharmacy 03 443 5290 Wanaka Lakes Health Centre, 23 Cardrona Valley Rd
03 443 7660 03 443 1233
PUBLIC TOILETS ✽ Wanaka Lakefront ✽ Eely Point ✽ Wanaka Marina ✽ Wanaka Station Park ✽ Wanaka Lakefront Playground GETTING AROUND Yello! Wanaka Cabs 03 443 5555 See ‘Getting Around’ p7 for other transport information.
BIRTHDAY PARTY IDEAS Bounce Wanaka 021 0828 3281 Huge range of fun inflatables, bouncy castles and inflatable activities! Free delivery and set-up in Wanaka and surrounds. Aspiring Trampolining www.sportsground.co.nz/aspiringtrampolining Cakes of Wanaka www.cakesofwanaka.co.nz The Cardrona Pony Parties 03 443 1228 Party activities include rides, games, brushing & braiding. Cheeky Chops facepainting
021 201 7967
Clip ‘N Climb 03 443 1110 Highlands Motorsport Park 03 445 4052 Go-karts, dirt buggies, balance bikes and Jurassic Safari at the Highlands adventure park. For information about party options contact: functions@highlands.co.nz. Lonestar Wanaka 03 443 6901 $15 per child for groups of 10 or more. Choose one of our fun, themed children's parties – includes dedicated entertainer for 1½ hours, food and drink, invites, party bag and Lonestar t-shirt for the birthday child! Mini Muscles birthdays www.mini-muscles.co.nz Paintball Central 027 448 5399 With 3 courses and 14 different games this is a brilliant and energetic birthday party group activity. Wanaka Pool
WANAKA
Got a kid’s birthday coming up? 03 443 6901
Choose from: FAIRY PARTY ICE PRINCESS SUPERMAN
* Pony fun and games * In and outdoor venue * Bring the food – we’ll take care of the rest!
03 443 9334
See page 56 for birthday party venues in Queenstown. www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Fiordland
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Fiordland 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 12,000 square kilometres, Fiordland is New Zealand’s largest National Park and has been designated a World Heritage Area for its unique landscapes.
Photo: Martin Sliva www.newzealandphoto.info
South Fiord, Lake Te Anau
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 you'll find 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
Glowworm Caves, Lake Te Anau
Lake Te Anau
Key Summit, near Te Anau
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. Manapouri township is a 20 minute drive from Te Anau. Pearl Harbour, Manapouri
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Te Anau :: Activities
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A Sound or a Fiord?
Milford Sound (is 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. 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.
Marlborough Sounds
South Fiord, Lake Te Anau
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. 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.
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, next to i-Site Visitor Centre Departure Times: 10am and 1pm (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. TAKITIMU TIKI TOURS Discover the secret spots of Te Anau with a fun, friendly tour, and if there are kids on board we make sure they won't be bored! This exciting 2 hour trip takes in sights of Te Anau that many have never discovered and provides insider knowledge of scenic hot spots, local history and how the landscape came to be. Best of all everyone gets the best seat in the house as our comfortable van seats a maximum of only 10 guests. Freephone: 0800 342 342 Departs:10am and 2pm daily Duration: approx 2 hours Price: Adult $20, Child $15 E:takitimutikitours@gmail.com www.takitimutikitours.co.nz
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 $75, Child $22 Phone: 0800 65 65 01 www.realjourneys.co.nz Ask about our KIDS GO FREE promotion during NZ School Holidays
KEPLER HORSE TREKS
* Scenic Trail Rides * Pony + Farm Tour Kepler Oaks offers stunning scenic rides along Lake Te Anau, pony and farm visits and riding lessons. Call today 03 249 9346
WWW.TEANAUNZ.COM www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Fiordland :: Walking and Biking
Walking & BikingTracks
Note, times given are based on walking.
Te Anau – Control Gates Easy 1½ hours 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. Approx 40 minutes easy walk each way. 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 beech forest. You pass through Dock Bay first – great summer swim spot with toilet facilities. No biking. Rainbow Reach – Shallow Bay Moderate 3-4 hours return Gently undulating forest walk that takes you on part of the Kepler Track. Includes stunning river views and bridge crossings, and you come out on the shores of Lake Manapouri where there are trampers' huts with toilet facilities.
Key Summit Hard 3-4 hours return A more strenuous outing, this walk departs from the Te Anau-Milford Road and takes you onto the Routeburn Track.
Key Summit
Te Anau Lakefront Track Easy 3 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 passes the boat harbour at Bluegum Point and the mouth of the Upukerora River. From here you can return the same way or loop back into town via a gravel road leading to the Te Anau – Milford highway. Ivon Wilson Park Easy 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: there is a dedicated mountain bike park with around 8.5kms of loop tracks. There are green (beginner), blue and black trails to follow, so this is ideal and fun for all levels of biker.
Rainbow Reach
Te Anau Useful Contacts EMERGENCY AND MEDICAL Police/Fire/Ambulance Police Station 196 Milford Road Fiordland Dental Centre 52 Town Centre Fiordland Community Pharmacy 70b Town Centre Fiordland Health Centre 25 Luxmore Drive SERVICES Southland District Council Library Manapouri Community Library Post Office 100 Town Centre (in Paper Plus)
111 03 249 7600 03 249 8580 03 249 9268 03 249 7007
0800 732 542 03 249 6642 03 249 7348
CONTACTS FOR PARENTS Southern Stars Early Learning Centre 03 249 7858 0-5 years, for locals and visitors. Plunket 03 249 9539 Car Seat Hire 03 249 9553 Baby Furniture Hire 03 249 8229 Te Anau Toy Library 03 249 8366 The Key Playcentre 03 249 9488 Manapouri Playgroup 03 249 4197 www.KidzGo.co.nz
INFORMATION CENTRES Adventure Fiordland 72 Town Centre, next to Mobil Fiordland iSite Visitor Centre 03 249 8900 Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre 03 249 7924 Southern Discoveries Info Centre 03 249 7516 GETTING AROUND See page 7 for track transport along with transport between Te Anau and other South Island destinations. FAMILY ACCOMMODATION See page 87 for Te Anau family accommodation options.
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te anau
Shop local for the food you love.
Open daily, 5 Milford Crescent, Te Anau
Fiordland :: Te Anau Eating Out
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TOP END OF TOWN CENTRE, TE ANAU OPEN DAILY, NOON - LATE HAPPY HOUR 9PM-10PM EVERY NIGHT TEL 03 249 8801 e: theranch@xtra.co.nz
www.theranchbar.co.nz
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.
Sample Menu Items * Sunday roast with trimmings just $15 (Monday – Saturday roast $19.50) * All day breakfast $20 * Chicken schnitzel $19.50 * Rump steak $19.50 * Steak, egg and chips $19.50 * Beef rib eye * Lamb shanks * Breast of chicken * Blue cod fillet * Salmon * Wild venison * Lamb steaks Homemade Desserts from $10.50 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
To Manapouri 22kms
Lake Te Anau
Wildlife Centre
8 9
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1 To the Glowworm Caves
Yacht Club
Ivon Wilson Park
2 4
Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre
Southern Discoveries Info Centre Quintin Drive
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Henry Street
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Duncan St
Fergus Square Quill Street
Dusky Street
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Town Centre
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Te Anau
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Lakefront Drive
Homer Street
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Eglinton
Bo wen Street
Manapouri
Pop Andrew Drive
Gunn Street
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McKinnon Loop
Howden Street Swimming Pool
1 to Glowworm Caves 2 Cruise Te Anau departs 3 Te Anau Top10 4 Red Tussock Motel 5 Alpine View Motel 6 Explorer Motel 7 The Ranch Restaurant 8 to Kepler Horse Treks 9 to Blue Mountain Cottages Visitor Information Te Anau Library Skateboard Park Public Toilets (with babychanging)
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To Te Anau
Govan Drive
To Milford Sound 120km
Pompolona Street
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Departures for Real Journeys Doubtful Sound experiences.
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Pearl Harbour
Worsley
Bligh Street
Matai Street
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Sutherland Street
Luxmore Drive
To Mossburn 60km Queenstown 170km
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
❄
Pop’s View Lookout
The Divide to
Routeburn Track
Milford Track 3–4 day walk
Milford Sound 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.
Lake Gunn
Knobs Flat Mirror Lakes
94 Cruise to start of Milford Track (1 hr)
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)
Drive Times Queenstown to Milford Sound 4½ hours Te Anau to Milford Sound 2½ hours Wanaka to Milford Sound 5½ hours Note: 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.
Te Anau 95
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!
To Queenstown 170kms 94
Places of Interest Mirror Lakes A five-minute walk alongside these pools is well 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 was completed in 1953 and cuts 1200 metres through the Darran Mountains. Both the entrance and exit to the tunnel provide awe-inspiring views. The Chasm A 20-minute return bush walk; the chasm itself, with its huge volume of water pounding over incredible rock formations, is mesmerising.
www.KidzGo.co.nz
Fly-Cruise-Coach or Coach-Cruise-Fly The ultimate trip! Around 7½ hours return from Queenstown. Drive Yourself See our map for this spectacular 121km stretch of road. Cruises can be purchased before you leave, in Te Anau or at Milford Sound. Important things to remember: ✔ Fuel up in Te Anau before you head to Milford Sound as this is the last fuel stop. ✔ Milford Road is a scenic highway; driving speeds vary as people take in the views. Please be courteous to other drivers by pulling over at safe sites and allowing traffic to pass. ✔ WARNING! The road to Milford Sound is an Alpine Route. It is compulsory to carry snow chains on this route in winter. For road information see www.milfordroad.co.nz
Fiordland :: Milford Sound
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DISCOVER MORE OF
MILFORD SOUND
MILFORD SOUND – SOUTHERN DISCOVERIES Jump aboard one of our warm, spacious boats for a fun and interactive cruise. Join the skipper in the open bridge, get soaked under waterfalls and look for dolphins, penguins and seals. The kids will love catching pure glacial water straight from Fairy Falls on our small boat Encounter Nature Cruise, watching the dolphins play with our 'cats' on our family-friendly Scenic Cruise or visiting the unique Milford Discovery Centre & Underwater Observatory on our all-inclusive Discover More Cruise. Whichever you choose, it's going to be a great experience for all the family to enjoy! Phone: 03 441 1137 Freephone: 0800 264 536 Departs: regular departures 9.45am-3.10pm Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes-3 hours Price: Adults from $70, Children from $16 (Child is 4-14 years, under 4's travel free) www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz FAMILY DEAL – Kids Go FREE during New Zealand school holidays (conditions apply). MILFORD DISCOVERY CENTRE & UNDERWATER OBSERVATORY The Milford Discovery Centre is the perfect addition to your Milford Sound cruise. Learn about the environment of Milford Sound with striking displays and original memorabilia. Descend 10 metres underwater into a spacious viewing chamber and be spellbound by the panorama unveiled; encounter the extraordinary rare black coral and colourful sea creatures teeming just below the surface. The Milford Discovery Centre certainly has the wow factor, whatever your age – an exciting experience not to be missed! Phone: 03 441 1137 Freephone: 0800 264 536 Duration: 45-60 minutes Price: Adult $36, Child $18 (Child is 4-14 yrs, under 4's travel free) www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz FAMILY DEAL – Kids Go FREE during New Zealand school holidays (conditions apply).
KIDS GO
ULTIMATE
FREE DURING NZ
SEE OUR WINTER
DAY OUT
HOLIDAYS
ONLINE
THE
FAMILY
SCHOOL
*Conditions apply
SPECIALS
0800 264 536 southerndiscoveries.co.nz #southerndiscoveries
www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Fiordland :: Milford Sound MITRE PEAK CRUISES Mitre Peak Cruises operate smaller vessels that will get you up close and personal to 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 5s FREE (cruiseonly). 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 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 Cruises: (2 hours) from Adult $88, Child $22 Scenic Cruises: (1hour 40mins) from Adult $72, Child $22 Coach connections from Queenstown and Te Anau. Scenic flight options from Queenstown available. Phone: 0800 65 65 01 www.realjourneys.co.nz Ask about our Hot Deals and KIDS GO FREE promotion during NZ School Holidays.
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 the beautiful, islandstudded Lake Manapouri to the West Arm then over Wilmot Pass and finally down to the shores of Doubtful Sound. www.KidzGo.co.nz
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 (7 hours 30mins) from Adult $245, Child $65 Freephone: 0800 65 65 01 www.realjourneys.co.nz Ask about our KIDS GO FREE promotion during NZ School Holidays
New Zealand's Favourite Bird
How the Kiwi Lost His Wings
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"but I don't like to get my feet wet".
The New Zealand Mãori Legend One day Tanemahuta, God of the forests, noticed that the trees were starting to droop. The bugs from the forest floor were eating them and with nothing to scare them off the trees were sickening fast. He talked to his brother, Tanehokahoka, God of the birds. If the trees died then the birds would have no home. Tanehokahoka gathered all the birds together. "Something is eating the trees", he said, "I need one of you to come down and live on the forest floor so that the trees can be saved and you can have a home. Who will come?" Not a bird spoke. Not a feather rustled. Tanehokahoka turned to Tui saying, "Tui, will you come down?" Tui looked up at the bright sunlight filtering through treetops then down at the cold, dark earth of the Southern Tokoeka forest floor. He shuddered. "I would", he replied, "but I'm afraid of the dark." Tanehokahoka turned next to Pukeko saying, "Pukeko, will you come down from the forest roof?" Pukeko looked at the bright sunlight filtering through the treetops then down at the cold, damp earth. He shuddered. "I would", he replied,
Tanehokahoka turned to Kiwi. "E Kiwi" he said, "will you come down from the forest roof?" Kiwi looked down at that cold, forbidding forest floor. "I will" he spoke. The brother Gods were filled with joy and hope, but they felt they should warn the brave kiwi what would happen. "E Kiwi, do you realise that if you do this you will have to grow thick, strong legs so that you can rip apart the logs on the ground and that your beautiful, coloured feathers and wings will drop off so that you will never be able to return to the tree tops. You will never see the light of day again. Will you still come?" Kiwi took one last look at his brothers and at the brilliant sunlight "I will". Then Tanehokahoka turned to the other birds and said, "Tui, because you were too scared to come down from the forest roof, you will wear two white feathers at your throat as the mark of a coward. Pukeko, because you didn't want to get your feet wet, you will live forever in the swamp. But you, Kiwi, because of your great sacrifice, you will become the most well-known and loved bird of them all."
Did you know?
Protecting the Kiwi and other Natives
* 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 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. Upcoming conservation highlights at the park include releasing an adult male, Tamanui, into Maungataniwha Sanctuary and they will be transferring their chick from this season, Ngaio, up to Napier to be paired with another captive born male. Once they are a bonded pair and at breeding age, they will be released into the wild. 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.
* 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. * All species, apart from the little spotted, are in gradual or critical decline. * 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.
Kiwi Conservation As the park is self-funded, public visits and contributions have been vital to their efforts over the last 28 years, to ensure that our rare and beautiful native birds aren't lost forever. See more on visiting the Kiwi Birdlife Park on page 34. www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Accommodation :: Queenstown and Arrowtown
Family Accommodation
This chapter lists accommodation options in and around Queenstown, Arrowtown, 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. Email Fresh Choice your order and have it delivered before you arrive or anytime during your stay! See page 64. Family Amenities Free WiFi (limits may apply)
QUEENSTOWN & ARROWTOWN 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
BEST WESTERN CRANBURY COURT APARTMENTS Spacious and warm, 1, 2 and 3-bedroom selfcontained apartments, full kitchen/laundry, living/ dining area, SKY TV (Disney channel), DVD, stereo, free internet kiosk, free wireless internet (download limits apply). Supermarket located across the road and we’re an easy five minute walk to the town centre, 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 Best Western Quality Assured, MANZ RYDGES LAKELAND RESORT HOTEL Rydges has lots to offer families including outdoor heated swimming pool and location right opposite the lakefront and playground! Cots, rollaways, highchairs, kids’ menu, hot pool, sauna, FREE Wi-Fi, parking, babysitting and laundry facilities. Affordable Family Packages. Mountain and lake views from most rooms. Children stay & eat FREE! (terms & conditions apply). 38 Lake Esplanade, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 442 7600 Freephone: 0800 478 847 Email: reservations_queenstown@ rydges.com www.rydges.com Qualmark 3 star+, Enviro Silver www.KidzGo.co.nz
ARROWTOWN HOLIDAY PARK Spacious, friendly Kiwi holiday park in beautiful Arrowtown, close to Queenstown. 12 Centennial Avenue, Arrowtown Phone: +64 3 442 1876 www.arrowtownholidaypark.co.nz QUEENSTOWN LAKEVIEW HOLIDAY PARK Easy walking distance to Queenstown centre, with variety of accommodation options. Upper Brecon Street, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 442 7252 www.holidaypark.net.nz FRANKTON MOTOR CAMP Situated on a shallow swimming beach, 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 on-site. Close to shops, restaurants, golf course and bus route. We’re 5 minutes drive from Queenstown and closest accommodation to The Remarkables family ski field. IAC wireless onsite. Yewlett Crescent, Frankton, Queenstown Office Hours: 9am-9pm, 7 days Phone: +64 3 442 2079 Email: g.orourke@xtra.co.nz www.franktonmotorcamp.co.nz LAKEFRONT APARTMENTS Absolute lakefront location with a stunning view of lake and mountains from every apartment and only a two-minute, flat stroll from the heart of Queenstown. We offer fullyequipped, 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 on-site * 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 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 display ad this page.
Relax in pure luxury and experience the best of our alpine and lake wonderland platinumqueenstown.co.nz
91 Fernhill Road, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 450 1500 Freephone: 0800 424 988 Email: reszqn@heritagehotels.co.nz www.heritagehotels.co.nz Qualmark 4 star+, Enviro Gold See display ad this page.
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.HERITAGEHOTELCO.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 two single beds plus ensuite bathroom with separate bath and shower. Studio suites and two-bedroom suites with kitchenette, plus interconnecting rooms available. Enjoy our heated indoor/outdoor pool, spa, sauna and gym, restaurant and bar. Kids stay and eat free (conditions apply).
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 onsite restaurant, The Hillside Brasserie features a kids’ menu to tempt the fussiest of palates. Other amenities include SKY TV, guest laundry, complimentary parking and an information and activity booking desk. 27 Stanley Street, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 442 7700 Freephone: 0800 80 77 00 Email: zqn@heartlandhotels.co.nz www.heartlandhotels.co.nz/ hotels/heartland-hotel-queenstown Qualmark 3 star+, Enviro Silver
Accommodation :: Queenstown and Arrowtown
85
KINROSS COTTAGES GIBBSTON VALLEY You'll be close enough to the activities of Queenstown whilst enjoying life amongst the vineyards with the famous Queenstown Bike Trail on your doorstep! Skiers can get to Coronet Peak in half an hour and Cardrona in 45 minutes. Our brand new cottages, with fully-equipped kitchens, have interconnecting doors so you can join them to make a cosy family home. Facilities include free WiFi, general store and a BBQ and play area. Phone or email for our special family rates! 2300 Gibbston Highway, Queenstown Freephone: 0800 131 101 Email: info@kinrosscottages.co.nz www.KinrossCottages.co.nz See display ad this page. 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, WiFi (first 200mb free), gym, sauna and underground parking. We have a toy cupboard and library of kids’ DVDs, plus a babysitting service is available (extra cost). 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 display ad this page. 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 kitchens, laundry, flat screen TV, DVD, bathroom with shower over bath, balconies and private carport. Some have own BBQ. Communal spa available. 5GB free WiFi per day. Top of Turner Street (P.O.Box 435), Queenstown Phone: +64 3 442 8383 Freephone: 0800 804 333 Email: turnerh@queenstown.co.nz www.turnerheights.co.nz See display ad this page.
apartments & penthouses
Stay a few days .... you may never want to leave! Freephone 0800 484 345 stay@theglebe.co.nz www.theglebe.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 www.KidzGo.co.nz
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Accommodation :: Queenstown and Wanaka
SCENIC SUITES QUEENSTOWN A desirable location 200m from the town centre, offering superior double rooms and one and two bedroom suites that can be interconnected. Kitchen and laundry facilities, SKY TV and onsite restaurant, The Hillside Brasserie, featuring a kids’ menu to tempt the fussiest of palates. Added features include 24hour room service, complimentary covered parking and tourist information with booking service. 27 Stanley Street, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 442 4718 Freephone: 0800 80 77 00 Email: zqn@scenichotels.co.nz www.scenichotels.co.nz/hotels/ scenic-suites-queenstown Qualmark 4 star, Enviro Silver
HOLIDAY HOUSES – QUEENSTOWN THE FERRY HOLIDAY HOME Three-bedroom historic house above the Shotover River and close to Queenstown. Spacious garden, cosy, fully self-contained. Spence Road, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 442 2194 Freephone: 0800 111 804 www.ferry.co.nz WAKATIPU HEIGHTS One, two, three, four or five bedroom holiday villas. Self-contained and practical, with fully-equipped kitchens, laundry facilities and including all linen. Vacation Villas, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 442 7211 www.vacationvillas.co.nz WAKATIPU LODGE Large, four-bedroom lakefront home only ten minutes flat walk into town. Outdoor hot tub and large deck. Park Street, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 441 1510 www.relaxitsdone.co.nz JEWEL ON SPEARGRASS Charming country home sleeping 7 guests. Plenty of space for children to play and lots of family amenities. Speargrass Flat, Dalefield Phone: +64 3 441 1510 www.relaxitsdone.co.nz QUEENSCLIFF Fabulous, four-bedroom, three+ bathroom home with spa and stunning views. Two separate lounges and three outdoor living spaces. Belfast Terrace, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 441 1510 www.relaxitsdone.co.nz BEL LAGO Luxurious, four-bedroom, four+ bathroom home with spa, sauna and stunning views from every room. Olivers Place, Queenstown Phone: +64 3 441 1510 www.relaxitsdone.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
WANAKA ACCOMMODATION WANAKA TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK Just 3km from central Wanaka with easy bike tracks from the door and on the road to Treble Cone ski area. Swimming pool with three-lane 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 YHA WANAKA A friendly hostel set in sunny spacious grounds just 5 minutes from the shores of Lake Wanaka. The YHA Wanaka hostel offers multi-share and double/twin rooms as well as family rooms with double bed and bunks. There are plenty of open areas to spread out and we also offer a large range of videos and DVDs for rainy days. Grab yourself a free tea and coffee from our wellequipped kitchen and speak to our knowledgeable staff about activities in the area. Large, sunny gardens are ideal for the kids to let off steam. 94 Brownston Street, Wanaka Phone: +64 3 443 1880 Email: yha.wanaka@yha.co.nz www.yha.co.nz Qualmark 4 star, Enviro Gold HOLIDAY HOUSES – WANAKA 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 MCDOUGALLS HOLIDAY HOME Two-bedroom, modern, in and outdoor living; toys, trampoline, bikes and kayaks. Terranova Place, Wanaka Phone: +64 3 443 4678 www.wanakaholidays.com NEST @WANAKA Amazing 4 bed, 2.5 bath family home with free WiFi. Brimming with awesome family gear plus tennis court, hot tub, gym and café onsite. www.bookabach.co.nz/27233
Accommodation :: Wanaka and Te Anau SNOW FARM LODGE Unique on-snow accommodation! With a kids' snow play zone, kids' tubing and the fun of cross-country ski trails from your door there's family entertainment all day! Snow Farm is in a flat location, ideal for kids to run around, yet with endless snow-capped mountain views. We provide familyfriendly rooms, a restaurant serving breakfast and buffet dinner, café and cosy TV lounge stocked with books and games. Our accommodation packages can include cross country ski hire and lessons. Snow Farm, Cardrona Valley Road, Cardrona Phone: +64 3 443 0300 Email: info@snowfarmlodge.com www.snowfarmlodge.com FAIRWAY MOTEL Comfortable,.affordable family motel/apartments. A short walk from 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, ski drying room, waxing bench, swimming pool (1 Dec-31 March) and BBQ. Your friendly hosts, Eve and Rob welcome you! Winner Trip Advisor 2014 – 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
EDGEWATER This superb family resort is situated on the shore of beautiful Lake Wanaka, only 3 minutes drive from the town centre. Spread across 10 acres the property has hotel rooms and one- and two-bedroom suites with kitchenettes and laundry facilities. All have lake views and open onto terraces or balconies. Facilities include playground, sauna & spa, tennis courts, putting green, mountain bike & kayak hire, health spa, free Wi-Fi, and kids’ menus are offered in their all day café. 54 Sargood Drive, Wanaka Phone: +64 3 443 0011 Freephone: 0800 108 311 E: reservations@edgewater.co.nz www.edgewater.co.nz Qualmark 4 star, Enviro Silver
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TE ANAU ACCOMMODATION KEPLER OAKS CHALET This two-bedroom self-contained chalet offers panoramic views from every window. Your family can enjoy horse riding, feeding chickens and cuddling pets or you can fish in the Waiau River only 200m away. The chalet is on 13 acres of rural land and with cosy accommodation, helpful hosts and a list of activities this place will make for a memorable family holiday. 207 William Stephen Road, Te Anau Phone: +64 3 249 9346 Mobile: 027 314 6191 Email: kepler.oaks@teanaunz.com www.teanaunz.com
ALPINE VIEW MOTEL Spacious grounds, BBQ area and awesome playground, One- to three-bedroom fully-equipped units. Close to lake and town centre. 15 Quintin Drive, Te Anau Phone: +64 3 249 7459 Freephone: 0800 116 123 Email: info@alpineviewmotel.co.nz www.alpineviewmotel.co.nz TE ANAU TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK Central location, powered campsites, family cabins and self-contained motel units. 128 Te Anau Terrace, Te Anau Phone: +64 3 249 7462 Freephone: 0800 249 746 Email: fivestar@TeanauTop10.co.nz www.teanautop10.co.nz RED TUSSOCK MOTEL Spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom family units, quiet garden, playground. Opposite Lake Te Anau and close to town centre. 10 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau Phone: +64 3 249 9110 Email: redtussock@xtra.co.nz www.redtussockmotels.co.nz BLUE MOUNTAIN COTTAGES Idyllic and private family cottages on a small working farm. Spotless and modern, rural and mountain views. 745 Te Anau-Manapouri Highway, Te Anau Mobile: 021 175 7046 Phone: +64 3 249 9030 Email: info@bluemountaincottages.co.nz www.bluemountaincottages.co.nz EXPLORER MOTEL AND APARTMENTS Studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments sleeping up to six. Playground and trampoline. Free WiFi, DVD library, three-minute stroll to lakefront and town centre. 6 Cleddau Street, Te Anau Phone: 03 249 7156 Freephone: 0800 777 800 Email: stay@explorermotel.co.nz www.explorermotel.co.nz www.KidzGo.co.nz
88 Family Deals and Savings Treble Cone Ski Field
360째 Battleground
FAMILY DISCOUNT DAY PASS $273 (2 adults + 2 children, extra children just $30) Kids 5 years & under ski FREE! See page 11
Free popcorn, slushy, coffee or hot chocolate with each ticket purchase when you mention Kidz Go. See page 26
Coronet Peak & The Remarkables
Fear Factory
Kids 6 years and under receive FREE day lift passes. See pages 11 and 12
FAMILY DEAL: $99 (2 adults and 2 children) Child is under 15 years. See page 29
Cardrona Alpine Resort
Queenstown Ice Arena
Kids 5 years and under receive FREE day lift passes. See page 12
FAMILY DEAL: $60 (2 adults and 2 children) Includes skate hire. See page 30
Snow Farm
Minus 5째 ICEBAR
Receive 1 child's ski rental FREE when you show a copy of this magazine. See page 13
Kids go FREE! One child goes free with each paying adult with colour ad voucher. See page 32
One Stop Ski & Snowboard Rental
Skyline Queenstown
20% discount off ski, snowboard and clothing rental with voucher. See page 19
FAMILY DEAL: Gondola + 8 luge rides to share amongst the family $127 Family is 2 adults and up to 3 children. See page 33
Snowbiz Ski & Snowboard Rental
Kiwi Birdlife Park
20% discount off ski, snowboard and clothing rental. Plus 6th consecutive day's hire FREE. Present voucher, page 20
Kids go FREE! One child goes free with each paying adult when you mention Kidz Go. See page 34.
Browns Ski Shop
Real Journeys KIDS GO FREE
FAMILY DISCOUNT 15% when you mention Kidz Go magazine (min 1 adult + 1 child). See page 20
Kids travel FREE during NZ school holidays with full fare paying adult (max 2 per adult) on selected trips & departures. See page 2 and 35
Dark Ride
Skippers Canyon Jet
Family Deal: when a family all book a combo, one rides FREE! (minimum 4 persons). See page 24
First child goes FREE with two paying adults! See page 37
Vortex 12D Cinema
Thunder Jet
Free popcorn, slushy, coffee or hot chocolate with each ticket purchase when you mention Kidz Go. See page 26 www.KidzGo.co.nz
Save $60 with our Family Deal: $299 (2 adults + 2 children). See page 38
Family Deals and Savings KJet
SAVE $$$ on our Family Special: 2 adults and 2 children $307 includes FREE entry for all into Underwater Observatory. See page 39
Dart River Wilderness Jet & Fun Yaks
Lots for Tots Arrowtown
Mention Kidz Go to receive a FREE gift when you shop at Lots for Tots! See page 52
Real Journeys 20% Multi Saver
FAMILY SPECIAL (2 adults + 2 children) SAVE $119 on Dart River Wilderness Jet and $219 on Dart River Fun Yaks. See page 40
Buy 2 or more different experiences at the same time at full retail rate & SAVE 20% off all lower priced. Conditions apply, see www.realjourneys.co.nz
Southern Discoveries - Mt Nicholas Farm Experience or Lake Cruise
Ballarat Trading Co. Skyline Queenstown
Kids go FREE during NZ school holidays + FREE entry into Underwater Observatory. See p41
$5 kids' meal (inc. fizzy drink) between 5pm FAMILY DEAL: Gondola + 1 meal luge ride each $104 and 6pm with any main purchased. for 2 adults and up to See page 583 children. See page 30
Segway on Q
Cavells CafĂŠ and Bar
Adults ride for Child's price when accompanied by a fare-paying child. See page 42
10% off your total bill when you spend more than $10, with Kidz Go coupon inside. Conditions apply. See page 60
G Force Paragliding
Linda's Hair Design
20% off advertised price on presentation of voucher. See page 44
Children under 10 years receive HALF PRICE cut with any adult cut. See page 64
Shotover Canyon Swing
Transport and Toy Museum
Mention Kidz Go for FREE spectator seat with every swing purchased (worth $20). See page 44
FAMILY DEAL: $40 for 2 adults and up to 4 children. See page 69
Kawarau Zipride
The Ranch Bar and Grill
Our 3- or 5-pack Multi-Ride Discounts may be shared amongst a family. See page 45
FREE kids' or adults' drink with your main meal when you mention Kidz Go. See page 77
Off Road Queenstown
Southern Discoveries Milford Sound
$50 off for kids under 12 years on our 9am Explorer Quad Bike Tour with an accompanying adult. See page 45
89
Kids go FREE on selected Southern Discoveries Cruises & Milford Discovery Centre during NZ school holidays.Conditions apply. See page 79
Off Road Queenstown
Heritage Queenstown
HALF PRICE for kids under 12 years on our 4x4 Highlights Tour with an accompanying adult. See page 45
Children stay and eat FREE plus great family packages. Conditions apply. See page 84 www.KidzGo.co.nz
90 Kidz Go Index SNOW INFORMATION Ski Fields Cardrona Alpine Resort Coronet Peak The Remarkables Snow Farm Treble Cone Snow Transport Discount Car Rentals Queenstown Taxis Kiwi Discovery: Ski Link Serious Fun Snow Shuttles Yello! Wanaka Mountain Transport Hiring Gear Base Ultimate Rental Browns Ski Shop Green Toad – Queenstown Green Toad – Wanaka Kiwi Discovery One Stop Ski & Snowboard Rental Rocket Rental Rockies Childrenswear Snowbiz Ski & Snowboard Rental Wai Ski Hire
ACTIVITIES Queenstown Alpine Aqualand Arrowtown Bike Hire Backcountry Saddle Expeditions The Bead Shop Chargeabout Electric Bikes Dark Ride Dart River FunYaks Dart River Wilderness Jet Escape Quest Fear Factory G Force Paragliding Highlands Motorsport Park Kawarau Bungy Centre Kawarau Zipride KJet Kiwi Birdlife Park Lakes District Museum and Information Centre Minus 5° ICEBAR Mt Nicholas Farm Experience - Southern Discoveries Odyssey Sensory Maze Off Road Adventures – 4WD and Quad Bike Tours Paintball Central PowderPak Parks Queenstown Combos Queenstown Ice Arena Queenstown Paraflights Queenstown Water Taxis Segway on Q Shotover Canyon Swing Shotover Jet Site Trampoline Skippers Canyon Jet Skyline Queenstown Luge Skyline Queenstown Stargazing Thunder Jet TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak High Country Farm Underwater Observatory Vortex Cinema Xtreme Reball, Laser Tag and Hero Blast Ziptrek Ecotours
12 11 12 13 11 17 17 17 17 21 21 20 19 21 20 19 21 18 20 19
30 47 34 32 39 24 40 40 24 29 44 48 39 45 39 34 51 32 41 28 45 48 13 37 31 44 38 42 44 36 30 37 33 33 38 35 41 26 26 43
Wanaka Backcountry Saddle Expeditions Cinema Paradiso Clip ‘N Climb, Basecamp, Wanaka Lakeland Adventures and Clutha River Jet National Transport and Toy Museum Puzzling World Wanaka Pool
69 68 67 68 69 67 69
Fiordland Cruise Te Anau Kepler Horse Treks 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 Takitimu Tiki Tours
75 75 80 80 80 75 79 75
ACCOMMODATION Queenstown / Arrowtown Best Western Cranbury Court Apartments 82 Blue Peaks Apartments 83 Blue Peaks Lodge 83 Frankton Motor Camp 82 The Glebe Apartments and Penthouse Suites 85 Heartland Hotel 84 Heritage Queenstown 84 Kinross Cottages, Gibbston Valley 85 Lakefront Apartments 82 Platinum Queenstown 84 Rydges Lakeland Resort Hotel 82 Scenic Suites Queenstown 86 Turner Heights Townhouses 85 Wanaka Edgewater 87 Fairway Motel 87 Snow Farm Lodge 87 Wanaka Top10 Holiday Park 86 CAFÉS / RESTAURANTS Queenstown / Arrowtown Ballarat Trading Co. 58 Cavells 60 FINZ 59 Hell Pizza 60 Minami Jujisei 61 Public Kitchen and Bar 59 Sombreros Mexican Cantina 61 Winnies Gourmet Pizza Bar 61 Wanaka Edgewater – Wineglass Café 71 Lonestar 71 Te Anau The Ranch 77 THE KIDS’ DIRECTORY Around the Clock Childcare All For Kids Kidz Club
54 55 54
FAMILY SHOPPING AND SERVICES Bounce Wanaka Fresh Choice Supermarket Linda’s Hair Design Lots for Tots Arrowtown Rockies Childrenswear Remarkables Park Town Centre Sparkles and Beaus Costume Hire
73 64 64 52 65 65 64
The Southern Lakes
Tasman Sea
Milford Track 3-4 day walk
Te Anau Downs
Milford Sound Homer Tunnel
❄
See p78
94
To Milford Sound (120 km / 2 hours)
❄
Mavora Lakes
Lake Sylvan
Glenorchy
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
Treble Cone Ski Area
Glendhu Bay
Cardrona Alpine Resort
Arrowtown
See p66
Wanaka
❄
Cardrona Valley
To
6
Puzzling World
The Snow Farm
Lake
6
8
8a
Hawea Lake The West Coast Hawea Wanaka 6
Backcountry Saddle Horseriding
Crown Range Road
8
To Mt Cook and Christchurch
Cromwell See p49
Paintball Central
Clyde
Clyde Dam
Alexandra
To Dunedin
Roxburgh
Bannockburn
Gibbston Valley
Highlands Kawarau Motorsport Park Bungy Centre
The Remarkables Ski Area
❄
Queenstown Airport
See p50
Garston
Kingston
6
Lake Hayes
Skippers Canyon Road (4WD only)
Athol
Frankton
Coronet Peak Ski Area
W8
See p4
6
Walter Peak High Country Farm
Five Rivers
Kelvin Heights
Queenstown
Moke Lake
Shotover Jet and Cavells
Skippers Canyon Jet
To Mt Aspiring (3033 metres)
W4
Ben Lomond (1748 metres)
Alpine Route: ❄ Expect ice and snow in winter.
To Invercargill
tan
Mitre Peak (1692 metres)
Lake Te Anau Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Cruises to caves (35 - 40 mins)
To Queenstown (170 km / 2 hrs 15 mins)
See p77
Te Anau 95
Manapouri
22km / 20 mins from Te Anau
Doubtful Sound departures
Mossburn
ns
Du
ke
La
skiing with kidS
WINTER 2015
see page 14 for more information
Cardrona Alpine Resort NURSERY / KINDY * Licensed Early Childhood Centre * Age 3 mths-4 years SKI KINDY * Age 3-4 years * Childcare, activities and ski lessons SKI/SNOWBOARD SCHOOL * Age 5 years+ * Full-day lessons + lunch * Flexi half-day options
BOOKINGS AND INFORMATION 03 443 8880
Treble Cone KITTY CAT CLUB * Age 3-5 years * Under 3 years with parental supervision * Ski lesson optional for over 3 years TC CAT KIDS’ CLUB * Age 3-15 years * Full-day lessons + lunch * Half-day options
BOOKINGS AND INFORMATION 03 443 7443
Coronet Peak SKIWILAND EARLY LEARNING CENTRES * Age 3 mths-5 years * Half or full day supervised, licensed childcare *Optional ski lesson from 3 years KEA CLUB * Age 5-15 years * Full-day lessons + lunch * Half-day options
BOOKINGS AND INFORMATION 03 450 1970
The Remarkables SKIWILAND EARLY LEARNING CENTRES * Age 3 mths-5 years * Half or full day supervised, licensed childcare *Optional ski lesson from 3 years KEA CLUB * Age 5-15 years * Full-day lessons + lunch * Half-day options
BOOKINGS AND INFORMATION 03 450 1970