Queenstown: 1-Hour Zipline Tour with 2-Lines & 21-Meter Drop

Queenstown is known for its adrenaline-pumping adventures and breathtaking scenery, and this zipline tour offers a fantastic way to tick both off your list without spending hours on an activity. With just a little over an hour, you’ll get a taste of flight and forest fun, making it a perfect option for thrill-seekers and short-time travelers alike.

What really stands out about this experience is the combination of stunning views, professional guides, and the thrilling 21-meter drop. It’s clear that safety is prioritized, but the real thrill comes from soaring through the treetops and feeling that rush of wind on your face. The tour’s affordability—at $70 per person—also makes it accessible for many while providing a genuinely memorable experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that this activity requires a Skyline Gondola ticket, which is not included in the price. Also, it’s a fairly short adventure, so if you’re chasing a full-day adrenaline experience, this might be best combined with other activities. This tour is best suited for adventure lovers, families with older children, or anyone wanting a quick, fun, and scenic thrill.

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Key Points

Quick and exciting: Done in just over an hour, ideal for tight schedules.
Stunning scenery: Fly over lush forest and enjoy views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkable mountain range.
Professional guides: Friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, ensuring safety and fun.
All safety equipment included: Harnesses, helmets—ready for action.
Multiple thrill elements: Two zip lines plus a 21-meter drop for the ultimate adrenaline rush.
Additional costs: Gondola ticket not included; plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Queenstown Zipline Tour

Starting at the Ziptrek Treehouse near Bob’s Peak, your journey begins with a scenic ride up the Skyline Gondola—a separate expense—offering some of Queenstown’s best panoramic views. Once at the summit, you’ll check in with your experienced guides, who are often praised for their friendliness, humor, and attentiveness, adding a personal touch to the adventure.

The guides launch you onto two exhilarating zip lines that glide through the treetops, offering a unique perspective of the lush canopy below and the surrounding mountains. Many reviewers mention feeling safe and comfortable thanks to the professional equipment and expert supervision. Despite the thrill, safety protocols are clear and thoroughly explained, so even first-timers tend to feel confident.

The highlight for most is the 21-meter drop—an open-air, swooping descent that delivers an adrenaline surge, with some describing it as the “highlight of the tour”. The guides are quick to launch and receive you at each tree deck, which keeps the momentum high without long waits. After your zipline adventure, there’s a 10-minute uphill walk along the Tiki Trail, offering more scenic views and a chance to catch your breath.

Throughout the tour, guides share stories, myths, and ecological insights about the local area, which adds an educational element to the fun. As one reviewer noted, “I loved learning about New Zealand’s birds,” making the experience not just about thrills but also about appreciating the environment.

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The Experience in Detail

Meeting Point and Logistics

The activity kicks off at the Ziptrek Treehouse on Bob’s Peak, with check-in steps straightforward once you arrive. Remember, the gondola ticket is your responsibility—allow at least an hour to reach the summit from the base terminal during peak times.

Equipment and Safety Measures

All necessary safety gear—harnesses, helmets—is included, and the equipment is in excellent condition, as confirmed by many rave reviews. Guides ensure everyone is securely harnessed before each launch. The activity is suitable for anyone between 20 kg (44 lbs) and 125 kg (275 lbs), with children aged 6 and above able to participate if accompanied by an adult.

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The Zip Lines

The first zip line is generally a gentle but exhilarating start, giving you a taste of the forest canopy. The second zip line ramps up the excitement—longer and faster, with some loops of the canopy view. Reviewers frequently mention how the guides’ humor and care create a relaxed atmosphere, even for those with nerves.

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The 21-Meter Drop

This is the tour’s pièce de résistance—a controlled but thrilling free-fall that leaves many wanting more. The guides ensure safety while maintaining the fun, and even those initially hesitant often find themselves enjoying the swoop, as one reviewer put it: “The 21-meter drop was a highlight for sure!”

Scenic Walk and Views

After the zipline portion, the scenic uphill walk along the Tiki Trail offers more spectacular sights of Queenstown’s dramatic landscape. It’s a quick but worthwhile stretch, allowing a moment to relax and absorb the surroundings.

Value for Money

At $70 per person, this tour offers a fantastic blend of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and expert guidance. Reviewers note that the equipment and infrastructure are all well-maintained, and the guides’ genuine enthusiasm adds value to the experience. Considering the included adventure elements and the safety standards, it’s a good deal for those seeking a memorable 60-minute thrill.

If you compare this to full-day ziplining or adventure activities, it’s definitely on the shorter, more affordable end, but it punches well above its weight in excitement and scenery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is perfect for families with older children (minimum age 6), adventure beginners looking for a safe yet thrilling introduction, and scenic lovers who want a quick adrenaline hit with gorgeous views. It’s also suitable for solo travelers or small groups wanting a fun, guided experience that won’t break the bank or take up an entire day.

However, those who prefer longer or more intense adventures might want to look for options with multiple zip lines or multi-day tours. Pregnant women, children under 6, or individuals over 275 lbs should steer clear for safety reasons.

Final Thoughts

This Queenstown zipline tour offers a compact, adrenaline-filled experience that combines fun, scenery, and education. The guides’ professionalism and friendly attitude make it accessible, even for nervous first-timers. The views of Lake Wakatipu and the mountains are stunning and add a wow factor that amplifies the thrill.

If you’re short on time but still want a memorable adventure, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy a bit of height and speed and want an authentic taste of Queenstown’s adventure scene without committing a whole day.

This activity delivers on value, safety, and fun—a worthwhile addition to any Queenstown itinerary.

FAQ

Do I need my own gondola ticket?
Yes, the gondola ticket is not included in the price, so you’ll need to purchase it separately at the Skyline Gondola.

How long is the tour?
The entire zipline experience lasts just over an hour, making it perfect for those with limited time.

What should I wear?
Wear warm, comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or heels. An extra layer is recommended for cooler days.

Is there an age limit?
Children must be at least 6 years old to participate, and youth 14 and under need a paying adult. All minors must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver.

What’s the weight limit?
Participants should weigh between 20 kg (44 lbs) and 125 kg (275 lbs).

Are the guides friendly?
Absolutely. Reviews consistently praise the guides for their helpfulness, humor, and professionalism.

What’s the main thrill?
The 21-meter drop is the most adrenaline-pumping part, but the two zip lines are also a lot of fun, offering different perspectives of the forest.

Can I do this if I’m afraid of heights?
While some initial nerves are common, many say the guides’ support and safety measures help overcome fears.

Is this activity suitable for families?
Yes, children aged 6 and above can participate when accompanied by an adult.

Is it safe?
Yes, all safety equipment is included, and guides are experienced and attentive, ensuring a secure experience.

To sum it up, this Queenstown zipline tour offers a quick but exhilarating way to enjoy the stunning scenery and get your adrenaline fix. It’s well-suited for those wanting a fun, guided adventure that combines the thrill of flying with the beauty of New Zealand’s landscape. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned thrill-seeker, it’s an activity that promises lasting memories without a huge time commitment.