Queenstown & Wānaka

Skyline gondola

Ride the Southern Hemisphere's steepest cable car for panoramic views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains.

About this place

The gondola carries you 450 metres above Queenstown to Bob's Peak, offering some of the most iconic views in the country. From the viewing decks, you can see the Remarkables mountain range, Cecil and Walter Peaks, and the town nestled by the lake. It's a classic Queenstown activity and the starting point for several other attractions.

At the top, you'll find more than just the view. There are walking tracks, a restaurant and café, and the starting point for the luge tracks. This makes it a destination for a few hours, whether you're seeking a scenic meal, a bit of a walk, or some family-friendly fun.

Fitting it into your itinerary

Allow a few hours to half a day for Skyline gondola, plus drive time from wherever you spend the night before. Distances in Queenstown & Wānaka look short on a map, but winding roads, roadworks and campervan speeds stretch them, so build this stop around an unhurried day rather than squeezing it between long drives. Best time to go: It's a fantastic year-round destination, with each season offering a different perspective. Check road conditions and seasonal ferry timetables before you lock in dates. It suits travellers who want to slow down and see Queenstown & Wānaka properly rather than tick it off. Send your plan to an Acrossnz advisor and we'll check the timing works.

Time needed

A few hours to half a day

Best time

It's a fantastic year-round destination, with each season offering a different perspective.

Practical tips

  • Wear layers of clothing as the weather on the peak can be much cooler and windier than in town.
  • Consider walking one of the trails from the top, like the Ben Lomond Saddle track, for even more expansive views.
  • The gondola is a popular activity, so visiting outside of peak midday hours can mean a quieter experience.
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