For a couple of days entertainment. This is a short list, that will interest the parents as well as the children (primarily those under 10 years old).

See the Deer Park Heights. You get to feed Fallow Deer, Himalayan Thar, Miniature Horses, Goats, Sheep, Lamas, Highland Cattle, and American Bison. At the same time you can be informed about the history of Deer farming in New Zealand. At the top of the park you will see the Korean Prison used in a movie, as well as several significant film locations for the Lord of The Rings. All of this can be seen from the top of the Kelvin Heights Peninsular close to the Queenstown Airport. This is within ½ and hour drive from central Queenstown. You will get breath taking views of the Wakatipu basin. 

Directly behind the township you will see the cableway going up to a Restaurant.

At the base of that cableway is the Kiwi Birdlife Park allow 2 - 2.5 hours, consider this as a must see activity. Ideally arrive a hour before the show times. The entry fee includes a 40 minute Te Maori cultural show. You will see all sorts of birds, lizards, and fish. Next option is to go up the Skyline Gondola take in the ride up to the skyline restaurant and enjoy the breath taking view. Experience the Skyline Luge. It is good for all ages. For those that parents that neeed a break. You have the opportunity up there, to view the other Maori cultural Kiwi Haka Show or just relax.The Aquatic Park at the Queenstown Event centre is new and worth considering in you list of things to do. 

At Steamer Wharf is the Earnslaw steam boat, which goes over to Walter Peak Station. Where the children can feed animals, watch sheep been shorn and working dogs muster sheep, Plus have a delicious free morning or afternoon tea! There is also the extra option of horse treks (8 years and over) and barbeque lunches.

Lastly at the bottom of the Queenstown Mall you will find the Queenstown Underwater World (beside Kawarau jetboat) lots of fish. You will also find The Queenstown Bike and Canoe hire.

Between 1st October to 30th April each year the Kingston Flyer steam train runs. Every Thomas the Tank Engine fan will enjoy a real steam train trip! Kingston is about 45 mins from Queenstown, at the bottom end of Lake Wakatipu.

If you venture across the valley to Arrowtown . The Lake District Museum will hold the slightly older child’s interest.

For a more comprehensive list of things to do, this website is very good: Kidz Go