Project Skyline
All you need to know about our history, phases of construction and key dates.

We’re changing things UP!
Project Skyline unfolds in four key phases, spanning 2019 to 2028.
- In Phase 1 (2019 to April 2023), the foundations were set to kick off this exciting development.
- Phase 2 (April to June 2023) marked “The Big Changeover,” where we introduced a new Gondola and began work on upgrading both terminals.
- Phase 3 (July 2023 to March 2024) involves the re-opening of the complex with upgraded terminals and the completion of the multi-storey car park.
- Looking ahead, Phase 4 (August 2023 to December 2028) signifies “The Big Upgrade,” with the extension of the top restaurant complex, followed by the replacement of the existing to facilities redefine Skyline Queenstown’s visitor experience.
Phase 1
(2019 – April 2023)
Getting ready for THE BIG CHANGEOVER began in 2019 and continued through to April 2023. This initial phase focused on preparing the site for the major upgrades to come.
Key milestones of Phase 1:
- Tree removal in the Gondola corridor: Clearing the way for the new Gondola system and ensuring safety.
- Rock retention in the Gondola corridor: Stabilizing the terrain to provide a secure foundation for the new infrastructure.
- Base Terminal and car park building rock excavation: Creating space for the new Base Terminal and multi-storey car park.
- New Gondola tower foundations installed: Laying the groundwork for the modern 10-seat Gondola.
Phase 2
(April 2023 – June 2023)
THE BIG CHANGEOVER kicked off in April 2023 and continued through June 2023. This phase marked a significant turning point in Skyline Queenstown’s history, with the transition to the new Gondola system.
Key milestones of Phase 2:
- Removed existing Gondola terminals and towers: Making way for the new state-of-the-art facilities.
- Constructed Base Terminal machine hall and back of house: Building the essential infrastructure to support the new Gondola.
- Established a temporary ticketing building at the base terminal: Ensuring a smooth customer experience during the transition.
- Constructed top Gondola terminal building: Creating a modern and welcoming arrival point at the summit.




Phase 3
(July 2023 – April 2024)
Following the opening of the new 10-seat Gondola on June 28th 2023, we began finishing up THE BIG CHANGEOVER. This phase focuses on completing the Base Terminal and enhancing the surrounding area.
Key milestones of Phase 3:
- Completed the construction of the base terminal ticketing hall: Providing a spacious and efficient ticketing area for visitors.
- Completing car park construction: Finalizing the multi-storey car park to accommodate increased capacity.
- Brecon St land and streetscaping: Improving the surrounding landscape and creating a welcoming entrance to Skyline Queenstown.
- Grand opening of the base terminal and the carpark: Celebrating the completion of the new facilities.
Phase 4
(August 2023 – December 2028)
THE BIG UPGRADE commenced in August 2023 and will continue through to late 2028. This ambitious phase involves a comprehensive renovation of the entire Skyline Queenstown Top Complex.
The top complex development has two key elements: a building extension and a complete building replacement. First, we are extending the building, which will be complete in April 2026. Then, we’ll move all business operations into the extension (complete with the larger viewing deck and new food and beverage offerings). Finally, we’ll demolish the existing building and rebuild a new building from the ground up, stitch the two sections together, and the project will be complete.
Key Milestones:
- Top complex extension started in August 2023: Expanding the footprint and enhancing the facilities on Bob’s Peak.
- Top complex extension complete April 2026: Marking a significant milestone in the upgrade project.
- The phased demolition of the existing top complex starts in April 2026: Making way for the new and improved complex.
- The rebuild starts soon thereafter and is set to be complete in December 2028: Creating a world-class entertainment and leisure destination.






