What to do in Queenstown over Waitangi Weekend

Central Otago is the world’s southernmost wine region world famous for producing some of the best wine in the world. The climate is perfect for producing Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Rosé grapes. If you’re looking to sample some world-class wines and delicious food in one of the most scenic settings, then you’ve come to the right place

Whether you’re joining us from out of town or looking forward to a staycation for the long weekend, there is plenty to keep you entertained.

Events & Entertainment

Peak Un-Plugged

If you’re into Mountain biking head up Coronet Peak and get a few laps in of Hot Rod, the trail of the season, or take the Gondola to the top for some sightseeing. On Friday nights, Coronet hosts Peak Un-Plugged. On the deck, local DJ Vernhill will be playing some chilled house music. Chef Eddie will have the BBQ cranking serving up a feast. For only $15 per plate, it’s great value with plenty to choose from. This is the perfect way to start your long weekend.

Live Music at Millbrook with Whisky Pilots

If you’re looking for something a bit more chilled, head out to Millbrook in Arrowtown. Soak up the atmosphere at Smithy’s Smoke House and enjoy a glass of Central Otago wine while enjoying live music from Whiskey Pilots. This is the perfect place to relax and unwind with family and friends after a long week in work.

Waitangi Day, Queenstown Celebration

Commemorate the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi/Te Tiriti o Waitangi at Earnslaw Park from 11.00am on Saturday 6 February. The day will start with official welcomes and waiata, performances and storytelling. There will be cultural performances throughout the day celebrating the diversity of Queenstown Lakes.

There will be entertainment for the kids/tamariki and plenty of delicious food/kai to choose from. There will be a weaving workshop lead by the weavers from the Creative Queenstown Arts and Crafts Market. Bring your picnic blanket and chair and enjoy a great day with friends and family.

Waitangi Day – Reggae in the Park

Another great event hosted annually in the Queenstown Gardens on Waitangi Day is Reggae in the Park. This is a family event with awesome live music from local and overseas DJ’s playing Reggae, Dub, and Dancehall music. Grab your friends, a picnic blanket, sunscreen, and a chilly bin full of snacks and enjoy a chilled vibe amongst the beautiful setting of Queenstown Gardens.

Margo’s bottomless brunch

One of our favourite restaurants in Queenstown, Margo’s has the best cure after a big Waitangi Day – a bottomless brunch. This is the perfect excuse to get the gang together and enjoy some delicious Mexican food and yummy margaritas. Tickets are $50 per person and you can purchase online.

Activities

Glenorchy Air

Our friends at Glenorchy Air have an amazing deal on over the long weekend. They have their amazing Earnslaw Burn & Glaciers flight on sale for only $199, this is a MASSIVE saving of $80. This deal is only available from 5-8 February. On this stunning scenic flight, you will enjoy some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking scenery from the air. This is one experience you don’t want to miss out on.

Spirit of Queenstown Scenic Cruise

Join us for the longest cruise on Lake Wakatipu. We cruise further so you can enjoy spectacular views towards Glenorchy and the Southern Alps. Over Waitangi weekend we will have an evening cruise, Thursday – Saturday at 5.15pm. This is in addition to our 2 daily departures at 1.15pm and 3.15pm, on Thursday – Monday. With local craft beer on tap, Akarua wine chilling and delicious Gibbston Valley Cheese boards on the menu, this is the perfect place to enjoy Queenstown from the water.

Kiwi Birdlife Park

The popular Kiwi Birdlife Park in Queenstown turns 35 this month. To celebrate, for the whole month of February, including Waitangi weekend, adult price into the park is reduced from $60 to $35. This is a great activity for the whole family, make sure you check out their website before you go so you don’t miss out on one of the kiwi encounters or conservation shows.

Jet boat with KJet

If you’re visiting Queenstown for the weekend then you can’t leave without jumping on an hour of power, on the world’s first commercial jet boat; KJet. These guys have been thrilling people on the Kawarau and Shotover River for over 60 years. They have some great deals at the moment, adult prices start from $89 and you also receive free digital photos with every jet boat ride.

Whatever you choose to do over the long weekend, we hope you have a wonderful time in our little piece of paradise.

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Southern Discoveries Cruises Queenstown Family trips