South Island route
Queenstown to Wanaka drive
Queenstown to Wanaka is about 1 hour (70 km) by car, via Crown Range lookout and Cardrona. Two options: the Crown Range (New Zealand’s highest sealed road, ~70km/1h, scenic but can be icy) or via Cromwell (~117km/1.5h, longer and gentler in winter).
- Distance
- 70 km
- Drive time
- 1 hour
- Best time
- Year-round
- Stops
- Crown Range lookout, Cardrona
Last updated 4 August 2026
The drive from Queenstown to Wanaka is short and spectacular. You can climb the Crown Range Road — New Zealand’s highest sealed pass — for the fast, scenic route, or take the longer, flatter road via Cromwell when the pass is icy. Here’s the distance, drive time, best stops, and tips for choosing your route.
- Christchurch handover
- Considered fleet
- Local knowledge
Quick facts
Distance
70 km (approx)
Drive time
1 hour (approx)
Best time to go
Year-round. The Crown Range can be icy or chained in winter; check NZTA and use the Cromwell route if unsure.
Route character: Two options: the Crown Range (New Zealand’s highest sealed road, ~70km/1h, scenic but can be icy) or via Cromwell (~117km/1.5h, longer and gentler in winter).
Suits couples, families, and anyone planning a proper South Island loop.
Why this drive is special
The drive from Queenstown to Wanaka is short and spectacular. You can climb the Crown Range Road — New Zealand’s highest sealed pass — for the fast, scenic route, or take the longer, flatter road via Cromwell when the pass is icy. Here’s the distance, drive time, best stops, and tips for choosing your route.
Highlights along the way
- Crown Range summit views over Queenstown and the Remarkables
- Historic Cardrona Hotel and the bra fence
- First views of Lake Wanaka on the descent
- The gentler Cromwell wine-country route as an alternative
Cars for this route
Long touring, passes, and comfort on the road — pick what fits your pace.
Range Rover Sport (Diesel)
Seats
5
Typical 3-day total: ~$990
Concierge delivery and collection, free (Christchurch)
Questions? Message on WhatsApp →
Best stops along the way
Queenstown
Fuel and supplies before you climb. The Crown Range turn-off is via Arrow Junction.
Best for: Fuel, Supplies, Start
Crown Range lookout
Views back over Queenstown, the Remarkables and the Wakatipu Basin from the highest sealed road in NZ.
Best for: Photos, Viewpoint
Cardrona
The historic Cardrona Hotel and the famous bra fence, on the Wanaka side of the pass.
Best for: Photos, Quirky stop, Lunch
Wanaka
Lakefront town, #ThatWanakaTree, and a relaxed base for the Southern Lakes.
Best for: Arrival, Lake, Accommodation
Driving tips
- Crown Range can require chains or close in winter; check NZTA. Alternative: Queenstown → Cromwell → Wanaka (about 1.5 hours).
- Fuel in Queenstown or Wanaka. Times vary with stops, weather and roadworks.
- The Crown Range is steep and winding — take it easy and use the lookouts to pull over for photos.
Times vary with stops, weather, and roadworks. Check NZTA for road conditions.
Nearby drives
Continue your South Island journey with a connecting leg.
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