What to do in Kingston

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Mel Fekto
Photo by Mel Fekto
Photo by Mel Fekto
Photo by Mel Fekto
Photo by Che Mcpherson
Photo by Che Mcpherson

Places to Visit in Kingston

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Kingston, Southland while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Kingston attractions from NZ$219, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Kingston tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 2 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Kingston. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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Top places to visit

1. The Remarkables Ski Area

Enjoy 543 acres (220 hectares) of slopes less than an hour’s drive from central Queenstown at the Remarkables. Test yourself at the terrain parks or watch the action from the warmth of a café while sipping a hot chocolate.
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The Remarkables Ski Area showing a gondola and snow as well as a small group of people

2. Skyline Queenstown

For nearly five decades, visitors have been ascending Bob’s Peak to enjoy the stunning views across Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. It's all thanks to the Skyline Gondola, which takes you across the Southern Hemisphere’s steepest cable car line. As well as its panoramic views, the car also connects you to the mountain biking and hiking trails as well as the paragliding spots on the mountain.
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Skyline Gondola which includes a bay or harbour and a coastal town

3. Queenstown Gardens

Dating all the way back to 1867, the Queenstown Gardens are a peaceful haven away from the thriving city. They are home to heritage-listed trees and boast captivating views of The Remarkables mountain range. Situated out on the outskirts of Queenstown on a small peninsula on the banks of Lake Wakatipu, the area the place to head to for an idyllic respite.
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Queenstown Gardens showing forest scenes

4. Lake Wakatipu

Lake Wakatipu is a lightning bolt-shaped lake set in the shadow of dramatic mountain peaks and alpine forests. The lake is the ideal setting for outdoor pursuits such as biking, fishing, kayaking and walking. Lake Wakatipu is 84 kilometres (52 miles) long and extends for 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) at its widest point. Māori legend states that the lake formed after a giant was burnt to death and thus scorched a huge hole by melting the ice of the nearby mountains.
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Lake Wakatipu featuring a lake or waterhole and mountains

5. TSS Earnslaw Steamship

First commissioned by New Zealand Railways in the early 20th century, this historic steamboat has been docked in Lake Wakatipu for over 100 years. The ship’s parts were built in Dunedin, then transported by train to the lake, where it was assembled. It has remained here ever since. Now you can join the passengers who use the boat to cross between Queenstown and Walter Peak High County Farm and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
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TSS Earnslaw Steamship showing picnicking, a bay or harbour and a sandy beach

6. Kiwi and Birdlife Park

In spite of the kiwi being a national symbol, being an endangered species, you’ll have to be very lucky to spot the shy and elusive kiwi out in the wild. The best way to get a glimpse of this are bird is by visiting Queenstown’s Kiwi Birdlife Park, where you will get the chance to see it up close and learn more about New Zealand’s national symbol, as well as more of the region’s avian life.
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Kiwi and Birdlife Park featuring zoo animals and bird life

Recommended things to do in Kingston

Number of things to do
2
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Private Self Drive Xtreme 30 and X Track Activity: NZ$219
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Kingston

Discover the most popular places to visit in Kingston

Kingston Golf Club

5/5(4 reviews)

Enjoy a round of golf in Kingston at Kingston Golf Club. Make some time to visit the shops while you're in the area.

Kingston Golf Club

Kingston Library

After visiting Kingston Library, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Kingston. Make some time to visit the shops while you're in the area.

Kingston Library

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Kingston

Walter Peak High Country Farm

Walter Peak

Photo by Maddie Hayes

Halfway Bay

Frequently asked questions

Is Kingston worth visiting?
With a blend of views and nature, there are plenty of things to do in Kingston. While you're here, visit Kingston Golf Club, a key attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Kingston?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Kingston Golf Club. Then, tour other parts of Kingston for a bite to eat and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kingston?
Kingston Golf Club is one of the top tourist attractions in Kingston and should feature high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Kingston?
If you only want to see the leading attractions, three days is a good amount of time for a break in Kingston. Stay for seven to ten days for the chance to really experience the local vibe, tour nearby highlights and explore a few hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Kingston with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a schedule filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Kingston with kids.
What to do in Kingston for adults?
Adults of all ages will have lots of things to do in Kingston. Whether you're into local cuisine, outdoor activities or just love discovering new destinations, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Kingston?
With lots of cheap things to do in Kingston, you can enjoy the area without opening your wallet. Soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or roam the local neighbourhoods.