Convertible Picnic Tour Queenstown

Imagine cruising through Queenstown’s breathtaking landscapes in a sleek BMW convertible, wind in your hair, and every turn revealing a postcard-worthy view. That’s essentially what the Convertible Picnic Tour offers — a blend of comfort, style, and authentic New Zealand scenery with plenty of tasty stops along the way. It’s an experience that promises more than just sightseeing; it’s about savoring the moment, the views, and the local flavors.

We love how this tour combines the thrill of open-air driving with relaxed picnicking and cultural sightseeing at a gentle pace. The small group size and private nature mean it feels exclusive without being pretentious. Plus, the four carefully curated stops allow you to absorb Queenstown’s best without feeling rushed. But, as with all outdoor adventures, weather plays a role — clear skies make this experience shine, so it’s worth checking the forecast before booking. This tour is ideal for those who crave a stylish, relaxed way to explore, especially if you’re a lover of scenic drives, stunning vistas, and good food.

Good To Know

• Luxury in motion: Traveling in a BMW convertible adds a touch of class and fun to your sightseeing.
• Multiple scenic stops: The itinerary includes four highlights—Lake Hayes, Arrowtown, Edith Cavell Bridge, and Lake Wakatipu—each offering unique photo opportunities.
• Delicious picnic experience: Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared picnic of local foods, deserts, chocolates, and fresh fruit at Lake Hayes.
• Authentic Queenstown charm: Stroll through Arrowtown’s historic streets and soak in views from Edith Cavell Bridge.
• Flexible exploration: Some stops offer optional self-guided walks or photo sessions, making the experience customizable.
• Weather dependency: The tour’s outdoor nature means good weather enhances the experience, while rain could require rescheduling.

A Stylish Way to See Queenstown’s Natural Beauty

The Convertible Picnic Tour is designed for travelers who want to see Queenstown’s highlights in a relaxed, stylish manner. For around $117 per person, you get nearly two hours of scenic driving, four stops, and a carefully curated picnic. The experience starts at the InterCity Bus Stop, with pickup included, making logistics straightforward even if you’re not staying right in town.

What sets this tour apart is the balance between comfort and adventure. Imagine zipping through winding country roads in a pristine BMW, feeling the cool breeze as mountains and lakes unfold around you. The experience is private, so it feels intimate — perfect for couples or small groups wanting a personal touch without the crowds of larger tours.

The guide’s role is important here. While specific names aren’t mentioned, reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who make the journey engaging, sharing insights about the scenery and local history. They also help you capture those perfect photos at key viewpoints, like Lake Wakatipu, which is described as a “photographer’s paradise.”

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Stop 1: Lake Hayes — A Picturesque Picnic Spot

The tour kicks off at Lake Hayes, renowned for its mirror-like surface and mountain backdrop. Here, you’ll settle in for a leisurely 30-minute picnic featuring local delicacies, desserts, chocolates, and fresh fruit. This spot is perfect for unwinding after the drive and soaking in the tranquility of this serene lake. Reviewers mention the picnic “prepared with love” on a scenic spot by the water, making it more than just a snack break — it’s a highlight.

Expect a quiet, relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy the moment, perhaps take some photos or simply breathe in the fresh air.

Stop 2: Arrowtown — A Step Back in Time

Next, the journey takes you to Arrowtown, a charming gold-mining town with well-preserved buildings reflecting its history. This stop is about 35 minutes, allowing enough time to stroll through the streets, explore boutique shops, or learn about the area’s gold rush past. Reviewers appreciate the authenticity of Arrowtown, noting that the “European and Chinese immigrants’ history is visible in the architecture.”

If you’re interested in self-guided exploration, you can walk or explore on your own. The guide will facilitate a smooth transition here, offering insights into the town’s heritage, and helping you capture memorable photos.

Stop 3: Edith Cavell Bridge — Spectacular Views & Action

The third stop is Edith Cavell Bridge, where you’ll get a quick but breathtaking peek at the Shotover Jets roaring past below. This spot offers 15 minutes to snap photos and take in the impressive scenery of Arthurs Point. You might find yourself mesmerized by the power of the jet boats rushing beneath the bridge, a sight that captures Queenstown’s adventurous spirit.

While the bridge itself isn’t an extensive sightseeing stop, the views over the river and mountains make it a worthwhile photo op. It’s a brief, but visually striking, moment of the tour.

Stop 4: Wakatipu Heights — The Ultimate Photo Op

The final stop is Lake Wakatipu, at the Wakatipu Heights viewpoint. This is described as a “photographer’s paradise” with pristine waters reflecting the surrounding peaks. You’ll have 15 minutes here to capture that perfect shot — whether you’re an amateur or a seasoned shutterbug.

Reviewers mention that this spot offers a great view of Queenstown and the surrounding landscapes, rounding off the tour with an unforgettable vista. It’s a fitting finale to a scenic day, giving you one last chance to appreciate Queenstown’s natural beauty.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration & Price: About 1 hour 40 minutes, costing $117.29 per person, which covers transportation, stops, and the picnic. Considering the scenic stops and personalized experience, this is quite reasonable.
• Transportation: The ride in a BMW convertible elevates the experience, making every moment feel special. The small group or private setting adds intimacy.
• Pickup & Meeting Point: Conveniently located at the InterCity Bus Stop in Queenstown, this makes it easy to join the tour even if you’re staying outside the town center.
• Timing & Availability: Operating from April 2025 through February 2027, with sessions Tuesday through Thursday, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM.
• Weather Considerations: Since the tour is outdoors, good weather is essential. Cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled, so keep an eye on the forecast.

What Reviewers Say

Although no official ratings are available yet, initial reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with interesting commentary and helpful suggestions for photos. The delicious picnic prepared locally is seen as a real treat, with many noting it’s “prepared with love,” adding a personal touch to the day.

Viewpoints like Wakatipu Heights are praised for their stunning landscapes, with one reviewer mentioning it as “the perfect AOTEROA picture,” capturing the essence of New Zealand’s grandeur.

Some travelers note that the self-guided walks or exploring at stops like Arrowtown add flexibility to the itinerary, making it suitable for different travel styles. The limited duration at each stop means you get a taste of each location without feeling rushed.

The Sum Up

The Convertible Picnic Tour Queenstown offers an elegant, relaxed way to enjoy some of New Zealand’s most beautiful scenery in comfort and style. Combining scenic drives, cultural stops, and a delicious picnic, it’s perfect for travelers who want a more intimate, less hurried experience.

This tour is especially suited for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to add a touch of luxury to their Queenstown visit. The small group or private setting, combined with expert guides and stunning vistas, makes it a memorable, Instagram-worthy outing.

While weather can influence the day’s enjoyment, the flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind. If you’re after a scenic, laid-back adventure in Queenstown that mixes natural beauty with a bit of luxury, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, pickup from the designated meeting point at Queenstown is offered, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 1 hour 40 minutes, including four scenic stops and a picnic.

What is the price per person? The tour costs $117.29 per person, which includes transportation, stops, and the picnic.

Are the stops along the route free to explore? Yes, most of the stops, such as Lake Hayes and Lake Wakatipu, are free to enjoy. Some stops, like Edith Cavell Bridge, don’t have admission fees.

Can I customize the experience? Since it’s a private tour, you can choose to explore or take photos at your own pace during stops, especially at Arrowtown and Wakatipu Heights.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothes for outdoor walking, camera or smartphone for photos, and perhaps a jacket if the weather is cool.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers? Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should check specifics as the stops involve some walking or exploring.

What if the weather isn’t good? The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

How many people will be in the tour? It’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized, intimate outing.

This scenic, stylish, and laid-back tour offers a wonderful way to see Queenstown’s highlights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day out, it’s a delightful experience worth considering.