Queenstown: Segway Tour by Lake Wakatipu & Gardens

Summary

Lake Wakatipu segway ride through Queenstown gardens with local guide

You’ll glide along Lake Wakatipu on a Segway with a small group and local guide, weaving through Queenstown Gardens and catching those fresh pine scents. Expect easy laughs during your lesson, unexpected views around every bend, and even a surprise activity if you choose the longer option. This is one of those tours where you end up smiling at strangers — or maybe just at yourself.

What’s the experience like?

Hands gripping the Segway handlebars tighter than I’d like to admit — that’s how it started. Our guide, Jamie, had this patient grin as he showed us how to balance. Turns out, it’s easier than it looks, but my first few meters were wobbly (I’m not proud). The lake was right there, all blue and glassy, and every now and then you’d catch the sharp smell of pine drifting over from Queenstown Gardens. There was this older couple from Wellington in our group — the woman kept laughing every time her husband tried to take a selfie while moving. Made me feel less self-conscious about my own zig-zagging.

We cruised along Lake Wakatipu’s edge, wheels humming quietly over the path. Jamie pointed out these crazy-tall Douglas firs in the gardens — apparently planted ages ago by homesick Brits. I wouldn’t have noticed if he hadn’t said anything. On the longer tour, we got to hop off for a bit and try this other activity (I won’t spoil it), which turned out way more fun than expected. The sun kept darting behind clouds and back again, so sometimes you’d get that sudden warmth on your face after a chilly patch of shade. It felt good.

What surprised me was how peaceful Queenstown can be just a little away from the center — kids feeding ducks at the water’s edge, someone strumming guitar near the rose beds. Jamie knew half the people we passed; there were lots of nods and “g’days.” I still think about that stretch where everything went quiet except for our wheels and some distant gulls. Didn’t expect to feel so relaxed on something as odd as a Segway tour in Queenstown, but here we are.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Segway tour around Queenstown highlights

• Learn to operate Segway
• Cruise around Lake Wakatipu
• Explore Queenstown Gardens
• Enjoy views from garden perimeter
• Experience additional fun activity off Segway
• Visit further lakeside areas away from town

Top questions

How long is the Queenstown Segway tour?

You can choose between a 1-hour or 2-hour tour option.

Does the tour include use of a Segway?

Yes, use of a Segway is included in your booking.

Where does the Queenstown Segway tour start?

The meeting point is One Mile Powerhouse Car Park near 130 Lake Esplanade.

Is there hotel pickup for this tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at the designated car park location.

What attractions are visited on this Segway tour?

You’ll ride along Lake Wakatipu and through Queenstown Gardens.

Is there an age or weight limit for participants?

The minimum recommended age is 10 years; weight must be between 77lbs (35kg) and 265lbs (120kg).

What happens if it rains during my booking?

The tour operates in most weather conditions; call ahead if concerned about heavy rain to discuss options.

Are gloves or jackets provided on cold days?

Yes, jackets and gloves are available to use if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes a friendly local guide showing you how to ride your own Segway, all equipment provided (Segway plus helmet), time cruising along Lake Wakatipu’s shorelines and through Queenstown Gardens, plus jackets or gloves if it gets chilly out there.