Queenstown to Wanaka drive – The best day trip from Queenstown
The greatest thing about driving from Queenstown to Wanaka via Crown Range is that it is the highest main road in New Zealandand is loaded with exceptional views on the road to Wanaka. Though the drive from Queenstown to Wanaka can also be done via Cromwell route, it is not that scenic. Here we are sharing all that you need to know about driving from Queenstown to Wanaka via Crown Range and the places that you can visit on the way.
This road trip is quite popular with locals & tourists alike, irrespective of the fact whether you are starting it from Queenstown or Wanaka; though you can take the trip any day of the week, locals usually take the trip during the weekends for obvious reasons (locals work on weekdays, that is).Just like the locals you should plan the road trip with a car because a self drive trip is the only way to enjoy your time on the road thoroughly. It is best that you plan the drive with a rental car as that way you will be able to stop any time to enjoy the views. Queenstown Airport and Wanaka Airport are the popular car hire pickup locations in Queenstown and Wanaka respectively. Also note that Crown Range Road is not a restricted road, that is, rental cars are allowed.
Best time to do the drive Queenstown to Wanaka
Though the driving route through Crown Range Road is short, the drive time is more because of the winding road (and a few sharp cuts). All months of the year are good but one needs to take extra care in winters, during the months of May through September. In these months, you must have snow chains and know how to fit them
Places to see on the way from Queenstown to Wanaka
There is not much to see on the drive from Queenstown to Wanaka drive via Crown Range Road when it comes to attractions, cafes or restaurants, however, there are a few stops ,mainly lookouts where you will get the chance to enjoy some of the best views in the whole country.
When you start from Queenstown you will pass
Bridge Bungee
Kawarau Bridge Bungy is a suspension bridge in the Otago region of New Zealand’s south island. It runs over Kawarau River and is mainly used for Bungee jumping by AJ Hackett Bungy Company. It is interesting to note that this is the first bungee jumping site in the world. The views from the bridge is another reason to stop here.
They also offer climbing, in case you are interested. You can spend the whole morning here, however, the bungee jumping will just take 30 to 45 minutes. Do check their timings and do make the booking in advance.
Lake Hayes
After passing Bridge Bungee, you will come across Lake Hayes.
Though it is a relatively small lake, still you will need at least 2 to 3 hours to go around its walkway. Lake Hayes Circuit is part of Queenstown Trail and is quite popular with joggers and walkers.
It is situated in NZ South Island, Wakatipu Basin, Central Otago region. It is also quite close to Arrowtown, State Highway 6, and Slope Hill.
Arrowtown
You will see the roads leading to Arrowtown once you leave Lake Hayes. Arrowtown is a great stop if you have been there before. Located on the banks of River Arrow, this is a historic mining town that came into existence in the 1860s. There are still a few well preserved buildings that you will be able to see. Also there is Lakes District Museum and the historical Ah Lum’s store which is one of the many marvels that are part of Arrowtown’s historic Chinese Settlement.
People usually spend an hour here. There are restaurants like La Rumbla & The Fork And Tap where you can have lunch.
Crown Range Road & its multiple viewpoints
The very first viewpoint that you will come across is made of corrugated flag fence and gives a good view of Queenstown from a distance.
After that you will find a number of viewpoints, car park or chain bays on the way uphill. Note that you will have to walk up a small hill when you stop at the very first viewpoint going uphill . The last viewpoint is quite big; it is infact a car park, is located at the top of the hill and offers the best views!
While driving downhill, the first town you will come across is Cardrona which is quite famous for a hotel & Cardrona Skifield. You can still go to the skifield if you are visiting in summer; there are plenty of hiking and biking trails that you can explore.
Things to do in Wanaka
Wanaka is a lovely resort town in Queenstown’s Lake District and is known for its picturesque location with snow-capped mountains as the backdrop. Wanka is home to Southern Alps’ Mount Aspiring National Park which is rich in lakes, forests and glaciers. It is most famous for Treble Cone and Cardrona ski resorts, which are located just a few minutes from the park; another great attraction is the outdoor maze and sculpture gallery of Puzzling World.
Here are the most popular attractions of Wanaka that you should visit when you reach the beautiful town. Though there are thousand of things that you can do and see in Wanaka, we are just listing a few highly recommended experiences. Have a look.
- Sunrise at Lake Wanaka
Lake Wanaka is a great place to enjoy a perfect sunrise and if you are upto it, the walk around it makes for a great morning hike.
- Lake Wanaka
Lake Wanaka is a great place to enjoy a perfect sunrise or a sunset and if you are upto it, the walk around it makes for a great hike.
- Roys Peak
This is the best place in Wanaka for splendid view over the lake & tramping route
- Puzzling World
If you want to have some fun, visit Puzzling World for Maze, illusion rooms & a puzzle cafe.
- Treble Cone Ski Area
Ski lovers’ paradise location and the panoramic views are the added bonus
- #ThatWanakaTree
Nature lovers must visit this scenic crack willow tree
- Cardrona Alpine Resort
If possible plan your stay in this resort & enjoy its many outdoor pursuits
- Rippon Vineyard and Winery
Wine lovers must visit this historic winery with tastings & views
- Tititea / Mt Aspiring
Great destination for mountain climbing enthusiasts
Where to eat and stay in Wanaka?
Kai Whaka Pai and Fitzpatricks are Wanaka’s famous coffee shops and pubs we recommend.
Lakeview Motel & Altamont Lodge Lake Wanaka are one of the best stay options in Wanaka.