Skippers Canyon Goldrush Small Group Tour

Overview

Available languages

Korean

Japanese

English

Chinese (China)

Spanish

3 hours 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Journey back to the 1860s on The Goldrush Tour as you traverse the stunning Skippers Canyon from Queenstown. Experience GPS-activated storytelling that brings the gold rush history to life (narrated by talented voice actors and available in Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish), as you navigate through breathtaking landscapes. The tour lasts between 3 and 4 hours, featuring multiple photo stops and a visit to Gantley’s Tavern for a complimentary hot drink or beer/wine. Perfect for families, the tour offers dedicated storytelling tracks for kids, ensuring an engaging experience for all ages.

- GPS-activated stories available in Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish

- Immerse yourself in Queenstown's rich gold rush history

- Small group size for a personalized experience (max 11 people)

- Enjoy scenic views and photo opportunities along the journey

- Complimentary drinks at Gantley’s Tavern included in the tour price

Additional Info

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour may not be suitable for people with serious back or neck issues

This tour may not be suitable for people uncomfortable with heights or winding roads.

This tour involves no necessary walking, all the views can be seen from the bus, however, some mobility is required for getting in and out of the vehicle.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Skippers Canyon Road historical points of interest

Popular filming locations (The Lord of the Rings, Mission: Impossible, A Remarkable Place to Die)

In-depth GPS activated stories available in Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish

Small groups with up to 11 people

Dedicated stations offering children's storytelling tracks or music

Convenient pickup points from central Queenstown

Barista coffee or beer/wine included in the price

Photo stops along one of New Zealand's most scenic roads

What To Expect

Skippers Canyon

Just as the early miners did in the 1860s, you’ll set off from Queenstown’s town centre, travel through the stunning Queenstown Gorge (Blow Ho Gully), and deep into the heart of Skippers Canyon. Along the way, our GPS-activated stories, (professionally narrated by voice actors and available in Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish), will bring the region’s goldrush history to life — giving you all the insights and stories you could want, while your expert Driver/Guide focuses on navigating the dramatic alpine road ahead. Travelling with children, or just in the mood to enjoy the views in peace? No problem — we offer multiple onboard audio channels, including three radio stations and two dedicated children’s storytelling tracks, so there’s something for everyone. The full experience lasts between 3 and 4 hours, with plenty of photo stops along the way.

2 hours 30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

We finish the tour at Gantley’s Tavern, a historic goldmining pub dating back over 160 years, where you can enjoy either a hot drink, or a beer/wine — all included in the price, before dropping you off back at your original pickup point.

30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Options

Skippers Canyon Goldrush Small Group Tour

Pickup included

Reviews

5.00

4 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Excellent
colinwO6025KP,
Oct 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Thanks Cal, Tracy and I had a fantastic afternoon. Loved the history and scenery not to mention your safe driving and puppy.... and beer tasting at the end. Would highly recommend this experience.
Explore Skippers canyon and retrace the old pioneers and goldminers footsteps
AnnaB15366,
Oct 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
An excellent tour with multi language translations. The commentary is interesting and describes the hardships and stories of the gold miners and early settlers. The road itself is a fantastic experience! Cal and his dog pal Asta were very welcoming. The final touch is the beer tasting and optional beverages at the historic Gantleys tavern. A wonderful afternoon, thank you!
Loved the trip. Highly recommend
carenf57,
Aug 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Loved the tour. Very informative and such beautiful scenery. Highly recommended. The glass of wine was appreciated and super cute tour operator side kick puppy was a gorgeous bonus
New Zealand Queen's City Surprises
Tourist649580,
Aug 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Nine and thirteen curves of the Grand Canyon of New Zealand. Through Hell's Gate, get out of Heaven's Gate, find the disappeared canyon village, Chinese recorded narrative, learn about the local historical background, and admire picturesque scenery. Cal, the owner of The Goldrush Tour, has done his best with his lovely puppy Aster as the leader. The terminal is a hundred-year-old café, the food is delicious and a surprise.