Frequently Asked Questions.

We use a high-quality audio system to share our history with you.

• Easy to use: We provide you with a headset that plugs into a simple in-built device with just four buttons (two for volume, two for channels).

• Hands-free: GPS triggers the stories automatically based on our location, so you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the stories.

• 13 channels available: Choose from 8 different languages, 3 music channels, or 2 channels of children’s stories.

• Unmatched detail: The Goldrush Tour delivers the most detailed history tour in the region. With nearly 10,000 words in the English version, no live guide could provide this level of depth while keeping it engaging.

• Factual accuracy: Because our stories were researched and written specifically for this tour by a single expert, the history stays consistent, factual, and accurate on every single trip.

• Maximum safety: The driver is completely free from the distraction of speaking into a microphone, allowing them to give 100% of their attention to the road ahead.

• Personal comfort: With your own headset and volume adjustment, you are in total control of your experience. There is no struggling to hear from the back of the bus.

Yes, absolutely.

You get the best of both worlds: deep audio stories on the move, and personal guiding at our stops.

• More photo stops: We include more photo stops in the canyon than any other tour.

• One-on-one guiding: At every stop, you are free to ask questions and chat about the local history or modern life with your driver/guide.

• Visual history: Your guide will also share fascinating historic photos of the region while you are at these stops.

• Time at the pub: Enjoy a sit-down break at a historic pub, where you can chat further with your guide and look through the historic photos at your leisure.

No, not at all.

While Skippers Bridge is currently closed to the public, The Goldrush Tour was never designed to cross it. Our full route runs 15km into the canyon, turning around at Māori Point. This means we still cover 100% of our intended regional history and include every single scenic photo stop.

We have 3 convenient locations for pickup:

Click any address below to view it on the map.

1. 43 Camp Street – outside Marmolada Cafe in the centre of town.

2. Creeksyde Holiday Park Bus Stop

3. Industrial Place Carpark Bus Stop

Please arrive early, parking can be tricky.

• Paid Parking

  • Recreation Ground Carpark

  • Boundary Street Carpark

  
  Free Parking
  This can be challenging in Queenstown, so we recommend avoiding the town centre.

  • Industrial Place Carpark – please arrive early as parking is limited and may fill up.

  • Along Hamilton Road – you will be close to our Creeksyde bus stop.

3 - 4 hours

The total trip duration can vary depending on the time of year and weather or road conditions.

Please allow a little extra time in case of unexpected delays.

We are heading off the beaten track onto some loose ground. Please come prepared:

• Sturdy shoes are recommended.

• Jacket for the colder months (we provide umbrellas).

• Water – there is nowhere to buy refreshments in the canyon.

• Bug spray – you may encounter sand flies on parts of the tour.

• Camera and sun cream – don't forget to capture the views and protect yourself from the sun!

We are committed to reducing waste and our environmental footprint.

Where possible, please bring reusable alternatives to single-use items and help us leave the canyon as we found it.

We recommend arriving early and using facilities in town before boarding the bus.

• There are no toilets available within Skippers Canyon.

• We will have access to toilets at the pub.

Yes, we have two stations dedicated to children's stories to keep the little ones entertained:

• Station 1: Stories recommended for ages 3–6.

• Station 2: Stories recommended for ages 7–10.

Please feel free to bring your own entertainment for your children if you feel this is unsuitable.

As part of the price, you can choose from the following options:

• Enjoy a hot drink for your morning or afternoon tea.

• Something a little stronger: Choose either a beer tasting (4 sample-size drinks) or a standard-size glass of wine.

Yes, absolutely.

We can accommodate private tours for up to 11 passengers.

Please get in touch with us directly to discuss your requirements and book your tour.