Queenstown: ATV Quad Bike Tour with Views & Transfers

Summary

Queenstown quad biking adventure with local guides and wild scenery

You’ll feel the rush of Queenstown’s wild hills as you ride an ATV quad bike with a small group and local guide. Expect muddy boots, big views over Shotover River, laughter at your own expense (probably), plus all gear included and easy pickup from town. It’s not just about speed — it’s that strange mix of nerves and freedom you’ll remember.

What’s the experience like?

We were still laughing about our dodgy helmet hair when the engine first rumbled under me — that’s how the Queenstown ATV quad bike tour really starts, not in the car park but right there in your stomach. Our guide, Jamie, handed out gloves and goggles (mine steamed up instantly, which he said was “just nerves escaping”). After a quick run around the training area — where I stalled twice and nobody cared — we rolled out into this huge stretch of hills just outside Queenstown. The grass was damp and smelled sharp, like rain on metal. I didn’t expect to feel so small with all that space around.

The trails wound higher than I thought possible for a quad bike. Jamie kept checking on us, always grinning, sometimes pointing out where sheep had left muddy tracks or where you could see Coronet Peak if you squinted past the clouds. At one point we stopped above the Shotover River — wind whipping up grit, my hands buzzing from holding on too tight — and he told us a bit about how this land used to be mined for gold. I tried to picture it but mostly just stared at the water far below, trying to catch my breath (from nerves or excitement? Still not sure). Someone in our group tried to take a selfie; her glove slipped off and we all cracked up.

I think what surprised me most was how quickly I forgot about being careful and just started following the tracks, trusting the guide to know which turns were safe. There’s this weird quiet you get up there between engine bursts — only wind and distant birds. We finished muddy and grinning, swapping stories while Jamie snapped some photos for us (he caught me mid-laugh, which is probably better than any posed shot). The ride back down felt slower somehow, like nobody wanted it over yet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Queenstown ATV Quad Bike Adventure

• Meet your guide
• Attend safety briefing
• Receive gear and instructions
• Practice in training area
• Ride through 650-acre Adventure Park
• Enjoy panoramic views
• Receive complimentary photos

Top questions

Is pickup included for the Queenstown ATV quad bike tour?

Yes, return transfers from Queenstown town center are included.

Do I need previous experience to join this quad bike tour?

No experience needed; tours are tailored to your skill level after a training session.

What safety equipment is provided?

The tour includes helmets, gloves, goggles, and wet-weather clothing if needed.

How long does it take to reach the starting point from Queenstown?

The starting point is about 5 minutes outside downtown Queenstown.

Is lunch included in this tour?

No meals are mentioned as part of this ATV quad bike tour.

Are complimentary photos provided?

Yes, complimentary photos of your adventure are included at the end of the tour.

What age do you have to be for this ATV experience?

The minimum age is 14 years old for participants.

Is this suitable for people with health conditions?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnancy, or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes return transfers from Queenstown town center, full safety equipment like helmets and gloves (plus wet-weather gear if needed), small-group guiding tailored to your skill level throughout 650 acres of private trails, and complimentary adventure photos before heading back into town together.