Rees Street (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Rees Street?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: Kids can grab gelato, reach the lakeside playground 2 minutes away, and watch street performers, but heavy traffic at the Camp Street end and few indoor play spots lower convenience.
Positives:
- Central Lakefront Access: Most activities are within a few minutes’ walk along Rees Street’s shore path.
- Varied Free Options: Playground and lakefront stroll cost nothing and balance paid attractions.
Challenges:
- Peak-season Crowds: Summer days see lines at the gondola and busy playground areas.
- Additional Transport: The steamship terminal is at Steamer Wharf, requiring a short walk from Rees Street.
What is Rees Street?
- A short waterfront street running parallel to Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown’s central district
- A mixed-use thoroughfare lined with boutique hotels, waterfront restaurants and contemporary apartment buildings
- Streetscape design integrating heritage stone façades with modern glass-and-steel architecture and landscaped promenades
What is so special about Rees Street for with kids?
- Playground fun right on the lakefront
- Kids’ races on safe luge tracks with mountain views
- Interactive underwater show on local wildlife
- Historic steamship cruise across Lake Whakatipu
- Nocturnal kiwi viewing and honey tasting
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the playground, gondola ride, and a short cruise without tiring the kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Rees Street
Queenstown Waterfront Playground:
Let the children climb slides, rope swings and musical features under willow trees by the lake.
Tip: Go early when the equipment is empty and bring a picnic to enjoy on the nearby benches.
Skyline Gondola & Luge:
Ride up to Bob’s Peak on the gondola, then race down safe, gravity-powered luge tracks.
Tip: Buy combo tickets online in advance and pair younger kids with an adult on the luge.
Time Tripper Underwater Experience:
Watch a live show on local geology and legends, then see fish and diving birds through the underwater observatory.
Tip: Book the family pass for NZD 50 to save on adult and child tickets.
TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise:
Cruise across Lake Whakatipu on the historic steamship and learn about high-country farming.
Tip: Choose the shorter cruise only if kids are restless; book online to get the best fare.
Kiwi Park Wildlife Sanctuary:
Visit the nocturnal house to see live kiwi and join a free conservation show.
Tip: Go at opening to spot active kiwi and enjoy the Honey Bee Centre tasting before it gets busy.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Rees Street
- Online Booking: Reserve gondola, luge and cruise tickets online to secure time slots and lower prices.
- Stagger Start Times: Begin at the playground then move to paid attractions when families arrive later.
When is the best time to visit Rees Street (Queenstown, New Zealand)?
In summer, wear sunblock and a hat for the playground. In winter, pack warm layers and waterproof jackets for the gondola station.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Skyline gondola & luge combo for 2 adults + 2 kids | NZD 232 |
| Time Tripper family pass | NZD 50 |
| TSS Earnslaw cruise for 2 adults + 2 kids | NZD 276 |
| Kiwi Park admission | NZD 152 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 710 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Rees Street
Address: Rees Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
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