Private Guided Arrowtown and Surrounds Tour ex Queenstown
Overview
Embark on a captivating half-day guided ‘loop’ tour of Arrowtown and the surrounding region, where enchanting landscapes and rich history await. With your own private guide, explore the charming township of Arrowtown where the 1870s gold mining heritage still thrives.
Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of boutiques and cafes and discover the Chinese mining settlement and Arrow River along the way. Other iconic stops include a visit to the historic Edith Cavell Bridge and the breathtaking Coronet Peak Lookout. You'll have the chance to witness the birthplace of bungy jumping at the Kawarau Bungy Bridge. Immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes of Middle-earth at the Pillars of the Kings and capture the serenity of Lake Hayes.
Throughout the journey, our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and local insights, enriching your experience with their experience.
Gallery
What's Included
✓ Included
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- Air-conditioned vehicle
Itinerary
1
Stop 1
Step back in time with a visit to Arrowtown, a beautifully preserved gold rush village nestled beneath the mountains near Queenstown. Wander the tree-lined avenues filled with heritage buildings, boutique shops, and art galleries. Explore the restored Chinese miners’ settlement by the Arrow River, and enjoy panoramic alpine views year-round—stunning with autumn colours, spring blooms, or a winter dusting of snow. Your tour includes time to browse the local stores, visit charming cafés, and capture postcard-worthy photos in one of New Zealand’s most picturesque towns. Throughout the journey, our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and local insights, enriching your experience with their experience.
2
Stop 2
Discover the poignant story of the early Chinese gold miners at the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement. Tucked alongside the Arrow River, this heritage site features restored 19th-century huts that reveal the tough, isolated lives of Chinese immigrants during the Otago gold rush. Wander through preserved dwellings, learn about the hardships and resilience of these miners, and experience a deeply human side of New Zealand’s gold rush history. Surrounded by native bush and riverside beauty, this quiet enclave offers a reflective, authentic glimpse into the past.
3
Stop 3
Pause for breathtaking views at the historic Edith Cavell Bridge, spanning the dramatic Shotover River canyon. Built in 1919 and named after WWI nurse Edith Cavell, this elegant single-arch bridge is a local landmark. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas of rugged cliffs, alpine scenery, and, if timed right, the thrilling sight of Shotover Jet boats racing beneath. It’s a perfect photo stop and a scenic highlight just minutes from Queenstown and en route to Arrowtown or Coronet Peak.
4
Stop 4
Take in one of the South Island’s most spectacular panoramas from the Coronet Peak Lookout. Perched high above Queenstown, this scenic stop offers breathtaking views across the Wakatipu Basin, Lake Hayes, and The Remarkables mountain range. In winter, watch skiers carving the slopes; in summer, enjoy golden tussock hills and crisp alpine air. It’s a favourite spot for photographers and a must-see for visitors seeking Queenstown’s best vistas—all accessible just a short drive from town.
5
Stop 5
Visit the iconic Kawarau Suspension Bridge, birthplace of commercial bungy jumping and a must-see stop on any Queenstown tour. Spanning 43 metres above the turquoise Kawarau River, this historic 1880 bridge offers thrilling views and a front-row seat to bungy jumpers taking the plunge. Learn about the bridge’s gold rush history, enjoy scenic river views, and capture striking photos of the rugged gorge below. Whether you're watching the action or soaking in the scenery, it’s a memorable highlight just outside Queenstown.
6
Stop 6
Enjoy serene beauty at Lake Hayes, one of the most picturesque and photogenic spots in the Queenstown region. Nestled between rolling hills and the Remarkables mountain range, this tranquil lake offers glassy reflections, seasonal colours, and peaceful walking trails. A favourite for photographers, picnics, and quiet nature moments, Lake Hayes is stunning year-round—golden in autumn, lush in summer, and misty in winter. It’s a perfect scenic stop on the way to Arrowtown, Gibbston, or Wanaka.
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Good to Know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels