Loading...
Queenstown
4.2 km
2 hours
480 metres
If you’ve ever stood in the heart of Queenstown, looked up at the Skyline Gondola, and thought, "I bet I could walk that," then the Tiki Trail is calling your name. It is the quintessential Queenstown hike—a challenging, invigorating, and incredibly rewarding ascent that takes you from the bustling pavement of Brecon Street right into the thick of the alpine forest.
The journey is a 2.1-kilometre one-way climb (making for a 4.2km return trip) that packs a punch with 480 metres of elevation gain. This isn't just a casual stroll; it’s a proper workout that locals often use as their daily "stairmaster" and tourists tackle to earn those world-famous views. The trail begins at the base of the gondola, and almost immediately, the "zig-zags" begin. You’ll find yourself winding upward through a verdant canopy of native bush, which eventually gives way to towering pine forests.
The terrain is classic New Zealand backcountry—expect a mix of dirt paths, tangled tree roots, and occasional rocky, uneven sections. It’s often described as a "medium steep uphill walk," and your calves will certainly feel the burn within the first fifteen minutes. However, the forest provides a lovely dappled shade that keeps you cool even on a hot Otago summer day.
One of the most unique aspects of the Tiki Trail is the atmosphere. Because it runs beneath the gondola and near the Ziptrek Ecotours platforms, the silence of the bush is frequently punctuated by the exhilarating "whoosh" of zipliners flying overhead and the distant hum of the gondola cabins. You’ll also need to keep your wits about you, as the walking trail occasionally intersects with downhill mountain bike tracks. These riders come down fast, so stay alert at the crossings and always give way.
As you climb higher, the trees begin to thin, offering "sneak peek" glimpses of the blue expanse of Lake Wakatipu. These little teasers keep your motivation high until you finally emerge at the Skyline Queenstown complex on Bob’s Peak. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a family with energetic kids (yes, it’s kid-friendly if they don’t mind a bit of a climb!), reaching the top feels like a massive achievement.
The obvious "hero" of this trail is the panoramic view from the summit of Bob’s Peak. Once you reach the Skyline complex, the world opens up. You’re treated to a 180-degree vista that includes the shimmering Lake Wakatipu, the jagged, snow-capped peaks of The Remarkables, and the Cecil and Walter Peaks across the water. It is, without a doubt, one of the most photographed spots in the country for a reason.
Parking in central Queenstown can be challenging. The most convenient option is the Skyline Queenstown Multi-Storey Car Park, located behind the Gondola base terminal, which offers hundreds of spaces at affordable day rates. [3, 23, 24] Alternatively, free all-day roadside parking can sometimes be found on Man Street or along Lomond Crescent, though these are residential areas and spaces may be limited. [5, 12] Parking directly at the gondola base has been affected by ongoing construction. [5] Given its central location, walking to the trailhead from most downtown Queenstown accommodations is often the easiest and recommended approach. [3, 5, 6]
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
Anthornis melanura
Endemic songbird with bell-like calls. Males are olive-green with a purple head sheen; females are browner with a narrow white-yellow stripe across the cheek.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
600m away
A local favourite for classic Kiwi fish and chips, offering a gluten-free menu and the option to take your meal to the nearby lakefront. [10, 11, 13, 16]
Be the first to share a photo of this trail
Recent reports from hikers
No condition reports yet.
Be the first to report the current conditions!
See what other hikers are saying
--
No reviews yet
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
Out and back
Along the trail itself, keep an eye out for the beautifully carved wooden seats. These aren't just practical rest stops; they are works of art that reflect the natural spirit of the forest. They offer the perfect excuse to pause, catch your breath, and listen to the birdsong.
For those with a bit of extra energy, the end of the Tiki Trail is actually the beginning of something even bigger. It serves as the gateway to the Ben Lomond Track. If you have a full day and the right gear, you can continue past the gondola toward the summit of Ben Lomond for an even more dramatic alpine experience.
And let’s not forget the "reward" at the top. Most hikers celebrate their ascent by heading straight to the Skyline Luge. There’s something incredibly satisfying about hiking up the mountain and then racing down a concrete track on a cart before deciding whether to walk back down or take the easy way out via a gondola ride.
Finding the trailhead is easy, but parking can be a bit of a puzzle. The Tiki Trail starts at the very end of Brecon Street, right next to the base of the Skyline Gondola terminal.
If you are staying in central Queenstown, the best advice is to simply walk to the trailhead. Most downtown accommodation is within a 10-to-15-minute stroll. If you are driving, be aware that parking directly at the gondola base is currently limited due to ongoing construction.
Your best bet for parking is the Skyline Queenstown Multi-Storey Car Park located just behind the terminal. It offers hundreds of spaces and is quite affordable for a full day. Alternatively, you can look for free all-day roadside parking on Man Street or along Lomond Crescent. These are residential areas, however, so spaces fill up fast—especially during the peak summer months—and you’ll need to be mindful of residents' driveways.
The Tiki Trail is a fantastic place to encounter New Zealand’s native birdlife, particularly as you move through the lower sections of native bush.
The best time for birdwatching is early morning when the forest is waking up and the trail is at its quietest.
The Tiki Trail is a true four-season track, but each season brings a different flavour to the walk:
The area around Bob’s Peak and Lake Wakatipu is steeped in Māori legend. According to Ngāi Tahu tradition, the lake was formed when the giant ogre Mataura was burnt to death in his sleep after kidnapping a chief’s daughter. His heart is said to still beat at the bottom of the lake, which explains the seiche (the rhythmic rise and fall of the lake level).
The Remarkables mountain range, which dominates your view from the top, was named by early settlers who were struck by the fact that the range runs exactly North to South—a "remarkable" occurrence.
The Tiki Trail itself represents the intersection of Queenstown's history: from a quiet Māori transit route and later a gold-mining hub to the world’s "Adventure Capital." Walking this trail allows you to experience the same rugged terrain that early explorers faced, though with the luxury of a café waiting for you at the top!
Once you’ve made the descent (or hopped off the gondola), you’ll likely be ravenous. Fortunately, the trailhead is just minutes away from some of Queenstown’s best eats:
Whether you're a local looking for your weekly cardio or a visitor wanting to see Queenstown from a different perspective, the Tiki Trail is a must-do. It’s steep, it’s sweaty, and it’s absolutely spectacular.
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Anthus novaeseelandiae
The pīhoihoi is a ground-dwelling bird often seen in open, tussocky areas, distinguished by its habit of constantly bobbing its tail. [15]
Best time: Year-round
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
Best time: Year-round
Ninox novaeseelandiae
Native owl also known as Ruru. Named for its distinctive two-note call heard at night.
Best time: Year-round
Nestor notabilis
Intelligent alpine parrot endemic to the South Island. Known for curiosity and problem-solving abilities.
Best time: Year-round
600m away
World-famous gourmet burger joint, known for its massive and delicious burgers, often with long queues but fast service. A true Queenstown institution. [14, 24, 28, 29]
800m away
A friendly, unpretentious bar tucked behind Steamer Wharf, offering a wide selection of craft beers, hearty pub grub, and lake views, often welcoming dogs in its outdoor area. [19, 21, 26]
800m away
An iconic, award-winning cafe in central Queenstown known for its fresh, local, and organic food philosophy, excellent coffee, and vibrant atmosphere with lake views. [7, 9, 18, 20, 27]