Record your memories

from up high

Half -day Gondola & sketching tour.

Join us up high as we explore Queenstown’s most stunning locations from a birds eye view.

This Half-Day Sketching Art Adventure takes us on a journey up into the mountains, with ease of access by the famous Queenstown Gondola. Here we will explore the short forest walk to our viewpoint away from the hustle and bustle, to immerse yourself in nature, capturing the essence of the surrounding landscapes through sketching & watercolours in your complimentary Art kit with Mole skin sketch book to keep. Guided by an experienced art tutor and Queenstown local, you’ll learn how to translate the beauty of the region into your own personal sketches and document what you experience through drawing, creating lasting memories to take home.

No prior art experience is needed—this adventure is designed for everyone, from beginners to seasoned artists. With professional guidance and top-quality materials, you’ll learn how to observe and interpret the landscape around you. Your personal tutor will share tips on composition, perspective, shading, and observation, ensuring that you develop your skills and leave with a beautiful series of sketches and memories.

This adventure up high, takes you outdoors for an authentic plein-air experience, where you’ll draw directly from nature. Feel the fresh mountain air, listen to the sounds of the surrounding wilderness, and let the light and contours of the landscape inspire your creativity. Whether it’s the distant valleys and waters of Lake Whakatipu, the rugged peaks of the Remarkables, or the serene beauty of the forest, the scenery will provide endless inspiration.

As we explore, we walk gently on the land—taking care to leave every place just as we found it. Our tours are designed to tread lightly, using reusable and low-waste materials, and taking all supplies and waste with us when we go. It’s part of our commitment to honouring this incredible environment and sharing the responsibility to protect it.

Along the way, you’ll also have many photography opportunities of the stunning vistas, helping you frame compositions for your sketches. Enjoy the camaraderie of a small group setting, where you can share your progress and ideas with like-minded participants. Guided discussions and personal support in your artistic journey will enrich your understanding of drawing from nature and enhance your creative process.

Your adventure includes boutique small-group travel from Queenstown to the Gondola and back, ensuring a comfortable and relaxed experience. We provide a morning tea and light refreshments to complete the experience .

By the end of the session, you’ll leave with not only the start of a series of sketches but also newfound confidence and inspiration to continue your artistic journey. This is more than just a day out—it’s a chance to reconnect with your creative self, appreciate the land, and experience Queenstown’s natural beauty in a truly meaningful way.

Your Adventure Includes:

  • Boutique small-group travel from Queenstown to location.

  • Half-day experience (4 hours) with 9:30am meet up time

  • Morning tea and light refreshments on the mountain.

  • Small groups for a personalised experience with professional art tuition.

  • Quality sketching materials and a complimentary Moleskin sketchbook.

  • Suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced artists.

  • Comfortable transport with commentary on local history.

  • Easy to reach - high mountain trips enjoy the view and sketching by the shade of the trees.

What to Bring:

  • Warm clothes in cooler weather

  • A camera

  • A jacket

  • Sunglasses & hat

  • Binoculars (optional)

  • Good walking shoes

Larger group bookings upto 14 pax are available upon request—please contact us directly for details.

If you have any questions please take a look at our FAQs page or contact us directly at hello@artadventures.co.nz.