Share this tour
Offered languages
- English
- English
Queenstown has a dramatic history of transformation. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll discover how a remote pastoral homestead on the shores of Lake Wakatipu became a chaotic gold rush camp, before evolving into a world-class resort. The tour starts at the Village Green, once the epicenter of the 1862 gold rush that transformed the landscape overnight. You’ll discover how the TSS Earnslaw steamship became the lifeline of remote lake communities and how A.J. Hackett’s first commercial bungy jump in 1988 sparked Queenstown’s reinvention as the “Adventure Capital of the World.” The tour ends at the historic Queenstown Cemetery on Brecon Street, offering panoramic views across the town Rees founded.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
This tour begins at The Village Green. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Kiwi Park & Gondola & Cemetery.
Itinerary
-
(Pass by)
You'll stand at the historic heart of Queenstown where thousands of prospectors camped during the 1862 gold rush that transformed this landscape overnight. Walk through this central gathering point and imagine the chaos of tents, claims offices, and fortune seekers that once filled this now-peaceful space.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Stroll through 15 hectares of magnificent gardens established in 1867 on William Gilbert Rees's former sheep farm, with towering trees and lakeside paths. Explore winding trails that showcase both native and exotic plantings while enjoying stunning views across Lake Wakatipu.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Admire this charming historic church with its impressive pipe organ dating from 1874, one of the town's most enduring landmarks. Step inside to discover the beautiful interior and learn how this community gathering place served gold rush settlers.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Pass one of Queenstown's oldest surviving buildings from the gold rush era, a humble stone cottage that weathered the devastating fires of the 1870s. Marvel at the sturdy construction that helped this simple dwelling outlast the chaotic boom-town days.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
See where the iconic 1912 steamship docks, the vintage vessel that became the lifeline for remote lake communities for over a century. Learn how this coal-fired steamer transported sheep, supplies, and settlers to isolated stations around Lake Wakatipu.
Admission ticket free -
Lake Wakatipu (Pass by)
Walk along the breathtaking shoreline of New Zealand's longest lake and discover why it appears to "breathe," rising and falling every 27 minutes. Enjoy panoramic views while hearing the ancient Māori legend of the sleeping giant whose heartbeat creates this mysterious rhythm.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Encounter a massive pounamu (greenstone) mauri stone beside this historic bridge, placed here as a spiritual guardian. Touch the smooth greenstone for good luck as locals and visitors have done for years.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
View this striking contemporary sculpture representing a traditional Māori canoe on the lakefront. Discover its unofficial role in Queenstown's spirited nightlife traditions during this stop.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Pass this elegant stone building dating from 1871, one of the few structures to survive the town's devastating fires. Admire the historic architecture of what remains Queenstown's most prestigious waterfront accommodation.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Stop at a special vantage point offering spectacular views of 'The Remarkables' jagged mountain peaks across the lake. Marvel at this dramatic alpine backdrop that has captivated visitors since the gold rush era.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Explore the historic cemetery on Brecon Street where Queenstown's pioneers rest, including founder William Gilbert Rees. Enjoy panoramic views across the town from this peaceful hillside location.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Learn how the world's first commercial bungy jump launched from the Kawarau Bridge in 1988 transformed Queenstown forever. Discover how this daring leap sparked the town's reinvention as the "Adventure Capital of the World.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Show 1 more
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Show more
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience
Popular Countries
Company
Get our app
