Day 1: Arrival in Queenstown · First Encounter with Lakes and Mountains
Morning:
– Land at Queenstown Airport, check into a lake-view hotel
(RecommendedHilton Queenstown, many Airbnb mountain villas are also suitable for self-driving families)
– Stroll around the town center, take photos at the Instagram-worthy lakeside pier
Afternoon:
– Picnic in Queenstown Gardens, enjoy the Tiffany blue waters of Lake Wakatipu
– Challenge the “world’s steepest gondola” Skyline Gondola
Evening:
– Must-try the internet-famous Fergburger!

Juicy beef + remember to apply sunscreen before queuing! Recommended is the classic 19.9 NZD beef burger!
– Order a glass of Sauvignon Blanc at a lakeside bar, listen to live music and fall asleep with a slight buzz

Day 2: Extreme Challenge Day · Adrenaline Rush
Morning:
– Bungee jumping off Kawarau Bridge (the birthplace of bungee jumping! Get your certificate of bravery)
– Shotover Jet boat ride, 360° spins in the canyon, scream your lungs out!
Afternoon:
– Self-drive or hire a car to “The Lord of the Rings filming location” Glenorchy (horse riding
or short hiking in Paradise), can choose a local half-day tour
Evening:
– Onsen Hot Pools on the mountain top, private hot spring + champagne with a view of snow-capped mountains at night, look up to see the Milky Way~

Day 3: Milford Sound · A Day in Fairyland
All day:
– Join a cruise through the “Eighth Wonder of the World”
– Pass under waterfalls/encounter cute seals on Seal Rock, deck photos have a cinematic feel
Tips: Prepare motion sickness medicine in advance, wear windproof jackets!
Evening:
– Seafood feast recommendedFinz Seafood, sashimi salmon + oysters are amazing
, salmon prices are similar to those in China!

Day 4: Slow Life · Fairy Tale Town and Starry Skies
Morning:
– TSS century-old steamship cruise + sheep shearing show at Walter Peak Farm
– Farm BBQ lunch, petting alpacas will melt your heart
Afternoon:
– Arrowtown autumn fairy tale forest (golden ginkgo from April to May)
– Try Patagonia ice cream, rum and raisin flavor is divine!
Evening:
– Night sky viewing (local tours with professional equipment to photograph the Milky Way, must wear down jackets!)

Day 5: Farewell Time · Shopping Guide
Morning:
– Visit the weekend market for handmade wool products
(Must buy propolis lip balm + Manuka honey)
– Freshly baked cookies from Cookie Time, high in calories but so delicious!
Noon:
– Lakeside restaurant: recommended tomahawk steak + finish with lava chocolate
Afternoon:
– Airport tax refund tips: 15% refund for purchases over $300 NZD, keep the receipts



This itinerary looks perfect for an adventure-packed trip! I especially love the idea of picnicking in Queenstown Gardens and trying the Skyline Gondola – those views sound amazing. Have you personally been to Fergburger? I’ve heard it’s a must-do but wonder if it lives up to the hype.
Thank you for your kind words! Yes, Fergburger is absolutely worth the hype – it’s one of the best burgers I’ve ever had, and the queue moves quickly despite the crowds. The experience feels quintessentially Queenstown, and it’s a great way to fuel up before exploring further. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to savor those amazing views!
This itinerary looks perfect for an adventure-filled getaway! I especially love the idea of picnicking in Queenstown Gardens and trying the famous Fergburger—must be a real treat after all that exploring.