Range Rover Sport (Diesel)
Smooth highway touring with excellent range and comfort
Ideal for long scenic drives and confident handling on mountain passes. Comfort and space for a full day behind the wheel.
Wanaka to Franz Josef drive
The drive from Wanaka to Franz Josef Glacier goes over the Haast Pass to the West Coast, then north to Franz Josef. It’s one of the longest and most scenic legs on the South Island. Here’s the distance, time, best stops, and tips.
- Christchurch pickup
- Premium & performance fleet
- Local knowledge
Quick facts
Distance
330 km (approx)
Drive time
4 hours 30 min (approx)
Best time to go
Year-round. Haast Pass can be affected by snow in winter.
Route character
Sealed. Via Haast Pass and the West Coast. Long drive; Haast Pass winding.
Suits couples, families, and anyone looking for a memorable South Island road trip.
Why this drive is special
The drive from Wanaka to Franz Josef Glacier goes over the Haast Pass to the West Coast, then north to Franz Josef. It’s one of the longest and most scenic legs on the South Island. Here’s the distance, time, best stops, and tips.
Highlights along the way:
- ✓Haast Pass and Mount Aspiring National Park
- ✓West Coast rainforest and coastline
- ✓Franz Josef and Fox Glacier views
Best cars for this drive
Our hand-picked fleet includes vehicles that suit long touring, alpine passes, and comfort on the road. Choose one that fits your style.
Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S
High-performance SUV perfect for scenic touring and alpine routes
Ideal for long scenic drives and confident handling on mountain passes. Comfort and space for a full day behind the wheel.
Range Rover Sport (V8 Supercharged)
Luxury comfort with real V8 power
Ideal for long scenic drives and confident handling on mountain passes. Comfort and space for a full day behind the wheel.
Best stops along the way
Wanaka
Fuel and supplies.
Best for: Fuel
Haast
Fuel, visitor centre, and coast.
Best for: Fuel, Break
Fox Glacier
Village and glacier views. Optional stop before Franz.
Best for: Glacier, Fuel
Franz Josef
Franz Josef Glacier, walks, and village.
Best for: Glacier, Walks, Accommodation
Driving tips
- • Fuel at Wanaka, Haast, and Franz Josef. Long stretch between Haast and Fox.
- • Allow a full day. Haast Pass can be slow in winter; check NZTA. Times vary with stops, weather and roadworks.
Times vary with stops, weather and roadworks. Check NZTA for road conditions.
Explore more with Dream Drives
Destinations, scenic drives, trip planning, and our premium fleet.
Plan your trip
Itineraries and planning guides.
Vehicles & booking
Premium car hire from Christchurch.
Christchurch pickup · Airport-friendly
Ready to drive Wanaka to Franz Josef?
Check availability, browse our fleet, or ask us which car we recommend for this route.