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Home » Oceania » New Zealand » Queenstown

QUEENSTOWN Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

If you crave adventure and adrenaline-fuelled fun, then Queenstown is the place to go! The city is widely regarded as the adventure capital of the world and never ceases to impress.

Queenstown is located at the bottom end of South Island, New Zealand. Surrounded by rugged, snow-capped mountains and mirror-like lakes, the scenery is simply breathtaking! Of course, the world got to know much of this stunning backcountry from the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

The area is home to some of New Zealand’s premier ski resorts, and is actually the birth place of It was also the birthplace of bungee jumping.

If you’re planning a trip to Queenstown, check out our recommendations for making the most of your holiday. This is the perfect guide to the city, and will ensure an incredible 3 days in Queenstown!

The green-blue waters of the lake and the Remarkables mountain range beyond in Queenstown, New Zealand

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A Little Bit About this 3-Day Queenstown Itinerary

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Queenstown is full of history and incredible nature spots that are second to none in this world! It’s not called the Adventure Capital of New Zealand for no reason. It has something for every traveler, from sprawling parks to incredible museums and delectable food, there is so much fun to be had in Queenstown!

Whether you’re spending one day in Queenstown or you’re backpacking New Zealand with no plan, there are some phenomenal options jostling for a spot on your list! I’d personally suggest taking at least two-three full days in Queensland to explore the city. If you want to see all of the important landmarks you might be able to fit everything into 24 hours, but that’ll guarantee a lot of stress. So do yourself a favour and set more time aside.

In this itinerary, you’ll find three days packed with action, culture, history and adventure. But don’t worry, you won’t have to rush from A to B, trying to fit everything in. I’ve chosen the ideal daily structure, added times, routes to get there, and suggestions on how long you should spend at each spot.

Of course, you can add your own spots in, swap things around, or even skip some places. It’s your adventure in Queenstown after all! Use this itinerary as inspiration instead of a fixed plan to get the most out of your trip.

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3 Day Queenstown Itinerary Overview

Day One: Coronet Peak | Lake Wakatipu | Botanic Gardens | Kiwi Birdlife Park | Skyline | Onsen Hot Pools
Day Two: The Remarkables | Queenstown Hill | Lake Hayes | Arrowtown | Gibbston Valley Winery
Day Three: Moke Lake | Nevis Valley | Shotover River | Fergburger | Walter Peak High Country Farm | Ben Lomond Track | Queenstown Mall | Peregrine Wines | Lakes District Museum

Queenstown is a small vacation town on the banks of Lake Wakatipu. That said, it is still worth reading up on the different areas to stay in Queenstown before deciding on where to book your accommodation! For this reason, I would like to introduce you to two popular areas in town and help you choose your ideal spot on your vacation in Queenstown.

For a great stay in Queenstown with idyllic viewpoints of the lake, you may want to stay up on the hillside, at the base of Queenstown Hill. The accommodation around here tends to be a bit pricier, but the experience is well worth the money!

If you want to stay in the center of the action, then Downtown Queenstown is the place for you.

This area is abuzz with restaurants, shops, bars and cafes. Everything you need will be within walking distance, except the ski slopes, of course.

For a budget-conscious stay, I’d recommend checking out the hostels in Queenstown . Each of them offers a comfy bed and a safe place to rest your head. Hostels will be the easiest way to keep your travel costs low. If you are still on a budget but have a little more to spend, motels in Queenstown are super cosy and ideally located.

Best Hostel in Queenstown – Nomads Queenstown

A backpackers with one of the most amazing views in Queenstown, Nomads has a vibrant atmosphere and is a great choice for young travelers! From the balcony, you’ll be greeted with views of snow-capped mountains. The hostel is perfectly situated in the heart of Queenstown, just a short walk away from loads of shops. The staff here are super friendly and helpful too!

Best Budget Hotel in Queenstown – Melbourne Lodge

Melbourne Lodge is one of the most popular lodges in Queenstown , offering a pleasant stay at an affordable price. The rooms are large and have huge windows to let in lots of light, and offer a great view of the surrounding area. The outdoor deck overlooks Queenstown Bay and Gondola. Accommodation options include private rooms, budget rooms and self-contained studios and apartments!

Best Luxury Hotel in Queenstown – Heartland Hotel Queenstown

Heartland Hotel Queenstown offers luxury accommodation and breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains! The hotel boasts a brasserie that serves amazing breakfast buffet daily! Hotel staff members go out of their way to make guests feel like royalty. The hotel has a distinct alpine cabin feel to it with all the bells and whistles of a luxury hotel.

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Spending 2 days in Queenstown is just long enough time to experience a few highlights. The first day Queenstown itinerary has a little bit of everything in it, including outdoor activities, animal encounters, and a spa treatment!

9:00AM – Coronet Peak

Approximately 10 miles north of downtown Queenstown lies the picturesque ski and snowboard destination of Coronet Peak. Open during the winter months, this ski area features 32 slopes, two terrain parks, a tubing park and a ski school!

The slopes are geared to skiers and snowboarders of all levels, so beginners, intermediates and advanced visitors will all feel right at home. While the ski slopes are closed from October to May, visitors will still be able to drive to the top and take in the beautiful surroundings in summer.

To get to Coronet Peak, you can take a Snowline Express shuttle departing from central Queenstown’s Snow Centre.

Cost: Lift passes from $69 USD
Getting there: Shuttles leave between 8 and 11:30 am, return shuttles start at 1:30 pm, and cost around $13 USD.
How long should I spend there: at least 2-3 hours to enjoy some good skiing.

1:00PM – Lake Wakatipu

Lake Wakatipu is NZ’s third-largest lake. The lake bed sits below sea level, reaching a maximum depth of 1,243 ft! Legend has it that the lake’s shape is the burned outline of an evil giant that was burned sleeping with his feet drawn up.

The lake can be experienced in any number of ways. By boat, it can either be a leisurely steamboat ride or an exhilarating jet boat ride! Take in the marine life below deck in the underwater observatory or enjoy a paddle in a kayak.

The water is icy cold, so even on scorchingly hot days, you may not want to spend too long in the water! But if you fancy some sun, head down to Marine Parade to find the closest thing to a beach in Queenstown.

Getting there: Drive for 15 minutes on Glenorchy-Queenstown Rd.
How long should I spend there: Around 30 minutes should be enough to see the lake, unless you want to do water sports.

1:30PM – Botanic Queenstown Gardens

Queenstown Gardens is a perfect city escape on any Queenstown itinerary. This pretty park is found a small piece of land that sticks out into Lake Wakatipu.

There are a number of activities and landmarks inside the park, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and natural vegetation. In addition to some large exotic trees and a rose garden, the gardens feature an 18-‘hole’ disc golf course, an ice-skating rink, skate park, lawn-bowls club and tennis courts.

A gentle stroll around the peninsula and gardens takes about half an hour. Out near the point, there’s a memorial to Captain Robert Scott (1868–1912), leader of the doomed South Pole expedition, which includes an engraving of his moving final message.

Getting there: it’s in the centre of Queenstown
How long should I spend there: About an hour should be enough time

2:30PM – Kiwi Birdlife Park

If seeing the cute and mysterious kiwi bird is on your Queenstown itinerary bucket-list, then this is your best chance to do so! This family-friendly attraction is Queenstown’s premier destination for animal-spotting.

The Kiwi Birdlife Park is home to 10,000 native plants and birds! Inside, you’ll find over 30 species of animals, including tuataras and scores of birds like brown kiwis, black stilts, falcons and rainbow lorikeets.

One of the highlights has to be the darkened kiwi houses that are home to the national bird of New Zealand!

Insider tip: Try and catch the kiwi feeding show that happens five times daily!

Cost: $35 USD
Getting there: it’s a 10 minute walk from the last stop.

3:30PM – Skyline Queenstown

Located right next to Kiwi Birdlife Park is Skyline Queenstown, where you can take a gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak! The gondola takes you through pine forest and up to almost 1,400 ft above sea level. Once at the top you’ll be treated to panoramic views that will take your breath away!

There is a cafe and restaurant to grab a bite to eat at or enjoy a hot beverage when it’s chilly outside, a souvenir shop and an observation deck that you may not want to leave! For more exciting thrills there are also a number of activities you can take part in to get your adrenaline flowing.

There is an exhilarating downhill luge course, bungy jumping, zipline courses and a mountain bike track. Of course, if you just prefer to walk around, there are many good hiking routes too!

Insider tip: You can take the Tiki Trail to hike to the top, instead of taking the gondola. The hike takes around an hour for someone of average fitness level!

Cost: $28 USD
Getting there: It’s right next to the last stop.
How long should I spend there: Around 20 minutes to enjoy the view and take photos.

5:00PM – Onsen Hot Pools

After a long day of adventure visiting Queenstown attractions a good soaking in a hot tub will be just what the doctor ordered! For some relaxation with a view, make sure to add the Onsen Hot Pools to your Queenstown itinerary!

The soothing effects of the Onsen Hot Pools are just as good in summer as they are in winter. Onsen boasts several idyllic, cedar-lined hot pools overlooking the Shotover River, and massage rooms that provide an overall boutique day-spa experience, second to none!

While the daytime views are gorgeous, a nighttime soak when the stars light up the sky is an unforgettable experience! It is also a great place to experience a Queenstown sunset.

Insider tip: A free shuttle service from the corner of Camp and Shotover Street can be requested when booking!

Cost: From $41 USD
Getting there: it’s a 10 minute drive from the last stop along Gorge Rd
How long should I spend there: as long as you wish! Though after an hour your skin starts to wrinkle like a dried prune.

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The second day of our Queensland trip itinerary explores a little further beyond the city limits, but is guaranteed to knock your socks off! There is adventure, history and adrenaline-fuelled fun all in one.

9:00AM – The Remarkables

The huge mountain range you can see to the east of Queenstown is called The Remarkables. It’s a mountain summit with ski slopes and winter activities that lives up to its name!

A long, twisting road climbs up the mountains just outside of town and leads to an excellent ski resort! The drive is one of the most scenic drives you can take in Otago and can take up to an hour if you stop to take in the vistas.

In addition to the ski slopes that are great fun in winter, there is also a great little hike to Lake Alta that you can do in summer. It takes about 90 minutes there and back, and the trail is a lot quieter than Ben Lomond.

If skiing isn’t your preferred choice of activity, I highly recommend taking a scenic flight over the glaciers, fiordland national park and snow top peaks of The Remarkables by helicopter. It will be an experience you’ll never forget!

Cost: From $13 USD
Getting there: If you don’t have a car, you can catch the Snowline Express shuttle to The Remarkables from 8 – 11:30 am daily, and back from 1:30 pm, during the ski season
How long should I spend there: At least 2-3 hours to enjoy some skiing.

1:30PM – Queenstown Hill

The famous sculpture at the top of Queenstown Hill, Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown Hill, or Te Tapu-nui (mountain of intense sacredness) in the native Maori language, is a small hill overlooking the city. It is particularly popular for its Time Walk trail, one of the best free things to do in Queenstown !

The mile-long trail takes between 2-3 hours to complete. The walk was designed to showcase the past, present and future of Queenstown. As you make your way along the track, you’ll come across the popular ‘Basket of Dreams’ sculpture as well as six information plates that inform you about the different epochs of Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown.

The reward when reaching the summit is fantastic 360-degree views of the area, including Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables, Cecil Peak and Karawau River!

If you would like to stop for a snack before descending, you might enjoy a little picnic on the shore of the small mountain lake.

Insider tip: Take some snacks and stop for a scenic picnic beside the small mountain lake, before descending down again!

Getting there: it’s a 30 minute drive along Remarkables Ski Field Access Rd
How long should I spend there: Around 30 minutes to see the views.

2:00PM – Lake Hayes

For another incredibly scenic stop on your Queenstown itinerary, head to Lake Hayes. Located a few miles east of Queenstown, the lake is a perfect pitstop on the way to Arrowtown!

Lake Hayes is also known as the mirror lake, for the beautiful reflections that can be seen witnessed early in the morning. For this reason, it is one of New Zealand’s most photographed lakes. Of all the pictures you take during your 2 days in Queenstown, a picture of Hayes Lake is very likely to make your friends back home the most jealous!

Around the lake, there are plenty of tables and chairs, and large grassed areas available for picnics and recreational activities. There is also an 8km loop around the whole lake to enjoy the tranquil setting from all angles.

Getting there: it’s a 12 minute drive along State Hwy 6
How long should I spend there: Around 1 hour to see the views and have a picnic.

3:00PM – Arrowtown

A short 20-minute drive from Queenstown is the former gold-mining settlement of Arrowtown. This historic gold mining town is a charming and quirky town located on the banks of the Arrow River, is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is known for its breath-taking fall colors!

The main street is lined with well-preserved buildings from the late 19th century. Much of the place has an interesting story to tell, and is well worth a stop when touring Queenstown!

In addition to historical tales and loads of old-time character, the town also has pleasant walking trails, technical mountain biking routes, gorgeous picnic spots and quaint streets.

Getting there: It’s a 10-minute drive along Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Rd.
How long should I spend there: Around 2 hours should be enough time.

5:00PM – Gibbston Valley Winery

cheering white wine glasses at a vineyard in New Zealand

For a touch of class on your Queenstown itinerary, make a stop at one of the region’s finest wine farms! Gibbston Valley is the Central Otago Wine Region’s oldest commercial winery, and one of the closest to Queenstown. Established in the early 1980s, its vineyards are perched up the rugged schist mountains near Kawarau Gorge.

The high altitudes and diversified climatic conditions combine perfectly for the production of Pinot Noir, which Gibbston Valley achieves with great success! The winery is home to New Zealand’s largest wine cave and is well worth a look around.

For a chill day out, grab a few tastings and enjoy their wines and a cheese board in a pleasant setting. The winery also has mountain bikes that can be hired for the day and two fantastic cycling trails running through the property.

Insider tip: To ensure your whole group can enjoy themselves, take advantage of the shuttle service to and from Gibbston Valley!

Getting there: It’s a 10 minute drive to Central Otago Wine Region via McDonnell Rd and State Hwy 6

Nomads Queenstown

Linen Included

If you plan on spending more than 2 days in Queenstown, you’ll be happy to hear that there is still lots more to see and do! For your convenience,I have included extra activities to provide the perfect 3-day itinerary!

A picturesque lake with stunning views and photo opportunities
Walk around the perimeter of the lake on The Moke Lake Loop Track
A great place for some peace and quiet within 20 minutes from the city

On a beautiful day, there are few better places to visit around Queenstown than Moke Lake! Load up the rental car with food and drink, and head to the lake for a picnic. Moke Lake is yet another stunningly scenic spot, but you won’t believe how peaceful it can be even being so close to the city!

Like everywhere in Queenstown, it’s surrounded by gorgeous mountains inviting you to relax and enjoy yourself. The stunning lake is framed by mountains and is a popular spot for walking, cycling, camping and in warmer temperatures, even swimming.

The Moke Lake Loop Track is a popular short, undulating walk and mountain biking trail. The trail takes you right around the edge of picturesque Moke Lake, through grassland and surrounded by towering mountains. After a short climb, you will be rewarded with a stunning view overlooking the lake!

There are picture opportunities all the way around the lake that will make anyone envious. On a clear day, you will not find a place with water so still and air so silent!

In addition to walking and biking, you can also indulge in a bit of fishing, or enjoy a leisurely paddle across the lake in a canoe or kayak.

Nevis Valley

Home to the biggest rope swing and 3rd highest bungy jump in the world
Enjoy locally produced dishes in a fine dining setting at Rata Restaurant
Enjoy the largest rope swing in the world.

The Nevis Valley is one of Queenstown’s most iconic adventure sights! It is famous for being home to the biggest rope swing in the world!

This stop is an absolute must, and should feature on every adventure seeker’s 3-day itinerary in Queenstown! At 440 feet, the Nevis Bungy platform is also the third-highest in the world! The valley is slightly off the beaten track, and can only be accessed via a shuttle service.

Nevis Bungy is operated by AJ Hackett Bungy, the world pioneer of Bungy Jumping! The company actually originates from Queenstown and is now established as a world leader in the adventure activities tourism industry.

Insider tip: Take advantage of bungy jumping packages and bungy at 2 or 3 of the best bungee jumping locations in the world, right here in Queenstown!

Shotover River

The Shotover River is the best place in Queenstown to enjoy a jet boat ride or white water river rafting
Grab a tasty craft beer and dig into a delicious wood-fired pizza at Canyon Food & Brew Co, right next to the river
The best place for action water sports such as jet boating

The Shotover River is well known among thrill-seekers as one of the best rivers for jet boating and white-water river rafting! Even if you only spend one day in Queenstown, make sure you book an activity on this iconic river!

The Shotover River is 47 miles long flowing south from the Southern Alps through to the Kawarau River. It is a unique attraction that offers some of the most talked-about water sport activities in New Zealand!

Jet boats are fast and agile vessels that are capable of skimming over the water at breakneck speeds and can turn on a dime. While there are lots of other jet boat rides around Queenstown, the Shotover is by far the best and most iconic! A jet boat ride will leave you breathless after all the screaming and laughing you’ll be doing.

The drivers are super skilled, and comfortably take the jet boats through their paces, charging through the narrow canyon it feels like you are so close to the rocks you could reach out and touch them! For adrenaline junkies, this is the best way to end off 2 days in Queenstown.

This well-known burger joint makes the biggest burgers in Queenstown
If you are looking for quantity, pop in for a food adventure at great value for money
They are open from 8 am – 5 am daily

When it comes to food and drinks in Queenstown, there are plenty of good quality options. Eating out at restaurants can get costly, fast, so it’s best to take advantage of meal deals and happy hours where possible to save some cash!

However, if there’s one place you just have to try in Queenstown, it’s Fergburger. If you know some people that have visited Queenstown before chances are you’ve already heard about this iconic establishment.

Fergburger is known for making large, hunger-busting burgers! No matter what time of day or night you go, you’re likely to see people lining up to get a burger. The burgers are so big it’s best to go on an empty stomach!

Once you’ve got your order, head down to the waterfront where this is a great floating bar on an old boat that has good happy hour drink prices and a BYO food policy. Alternatively, Fergburger is open until late at night, making it the perfect pitstop on the way home after a full night of drinking.

Walter Peak High Country Farm

Walter Peak High Country Farm is a unique New Zealand experience for all ages
Perfect family adventure activities.
Has some incredible afternoon tea.

If you’re keen to slow things down with a short break from an adrenaline-filled Queenstown itinerary, then a stop at Walter Peak High Country Farm is what you need! At Walter Peak, you’ll get a close-up of the high country way of life.

Located across the water on Lake Wakatipu’s south-western shores, Walter Peak High Country Farm is an idyllic place to spend a relaxing few hours. The farm offers a unique farming experience with sheep-shearing demonstrations, encounters with Scottish Highland cattle and afternoon tea.

See the farm dogs round up sheep from the paddocks or stroll through the lakeside gardens. This is a stop where the whole family can enjoy a unique New Zealand experience!

Ben Lomond Track

Ben Lomond hike in Queenstown, new zealand

A tough day-hike that rewards you with amazing views at the summit
For this Queenstown point of interest it’s best to take your own snacks with you
Some incredible views from the top of the peak

The Ben Lomond track is a tough hiking trail for outdoor enthusiasts who’d prefer to keep their feet on the ground. It’s a full-day hike that can take fit and experienced hikers up to 8 hours round-trip!

For safety reasons, the trail is only open from the beginning of November through until the end of March. The trailhead starts at the top of the Skyline Gondola on Queenstown Hill, which can be accessed via gondola or by foot, starting on the Tiki Trail.

The hike presents amazing views of The Remarkables, Coronet Peak and across the lake, and they just keep getting better the higher you climb. The route takes you over varied terrain of alpine and wooded landscapes!

At the summit of Ben Lomond, at over 5,500 ft, you’ll be treated to unbeatable views of the surrounding landscape. A fitting reward for your efforts!

Queenstown Mall

Shop to your heart’s content along Queenstown’s leafy high street
You can find all the designer labels, small boutiques and sports gear you need
There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can recharge for your next round of shopping

Queenstown is home to a great variety of fashion boutiques, retail outlets and shopping centers. This cosmopolitan New Zealand resort town has become a shopper’s paradise of late, and has plenty to offer shopaholics and budget-conscious buyers alike!

It’s pretty common to find central shopping locations, or high streets, in New Zealand towns and cities. In New Zealand clusters of retail outlets lining the street are referred to by locals as malls.

Queenstown’s Mall Street is no different, and a walk along the paved walkways will uncover a pleasant showcase of designer boutiques, restaurants, souvenir shops, and international clothing labels. Big brands found on The Mall include yoga giant Lululemon Athletica, Australian retailers Country Road and Witchery, and local lingerie brand, Bendon.

With Queenstown being very compact and walkable, finding another shopping complex is never far away! Once you’re done browsing The Mall and still want more then head to O’Connells Shopping Centre.

O’Connells is found inside a multi-story building, right at the heart of Queenstown. Here you’ll find the iconic sportswear label Canterbury of New Zealand, and the more budget-friendly snow/street fashion outlet Alta.

Peregrine Wines

A wine farm with a beautiful setting and award-winning wines
Save some time for a pleasant wine tasting experience at their cellar door
Admire the architecture as you take a short break from all the adventurous activities on your Queenstown itinerary

Queenstown is a city surrounded by intimate wineries and beautiful vineyards. The area’s microclimate makes it perfect for cultivating a variety of grapes, but it is undoubtedly best known for its Pinot Noir.

A winery visit is a must-do when spending 2 days in Queenstown!

Located in the Gibbston Valley, Peregrine Wine Farm has a beautiful setting with rugged mountains providing a striking background. Peregrine prides itself on growing premium Pinot Noir and white varieties on the estate while using sustainable methods that are kind on the environment. The winery is also actively committed to the conservation of New Zealand’s native bird species.

It’s not just the wine that is stunning here, but the architecture too. The modern tasting room with its roof that resembles a rising wing has also been adorned with an accolade or two. Peregrine’s architecture, wines and hospitality will leave a lasting impression on your 3 days in Queenstown.

The cellar door is open daily from 10 am – 5 pm for wine tasting experiences.

The Lakes District Museum

This museum tells the story of early inhabitants and historical events in the region
The displays are very interesting and provide great insight into the town’s past
Browse the book shop or admire the artworks to round off your museum experience

The Lakes District Museum is appropriately located in the old mining town of Arrowtown. It is surprisingly extensive and is set around three historical buildings, one of which used to be the town’s original bank.

The museum tells the story of early Maori tradition, the arrival of the European settlers and the gold rush era during the 19th century. Historic scenes and structures are accurately recreated, including a grog shanty, blacksmith workshop and a Victorian schoolhouse. There are many exhibits and displays that are interactive and informative, which appeal to both young and old.

There is also an art gallery attached to the museum that showcases old and modern art. Visitors interested in more in-depth stories from the area’s past will find loads of books on offer in the book shop.

A visit to the museum will definitely spark intrigue, so it’s quite handy that the Arrowtown information desk can be found there too. Don’t be shy to ask for tips for exploring the rest of the town or surrounding areas. You can even hire a pan and try your hand at finding gold flakes in the Arrow River!

The museum is open daily from 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.

The best time to visit Queenstown entirely depends on the reason for your visit.

Weather-wise, the best time to visit would be between December and February when the good weather promotes loads of outdoor activities. If you’re headed over to take advantage of fresh powder on the ski slopes, then a Queenstown trip would be best suited for June or July.

These two reasons – summer weather and the ski season – mean that there are two distinct high seasons in Queenstown.

If you’re looking for adventure and to escape the Northern Hemisphere winter, it’s one of the best places to visit in December for sure.

The view from a hill over to the town and mountains beyond near Queenstown, New Zealand

Spring is known to be the cheapest time of the year for Queenstown travel, as there are many outdoor activities to get busy with but without the peak crowds. Autumn brings the most unpredictable weather in Queenstown, with fluctuating temperatures and the high chance of rain. For this reason, it is best to choose a different time of year to see the city.

Check out the helpful guide below to decide for yourself when to visit Queenstown!

Getting around Queenstown is super easy, as there is a wealth of public transport options available here – depending on your destination, you’ll have your choice of public buses, taxis, shuttles, ferries and water taxies for your next ride.

However, as most of the attractions are outside the city center, I recommend hiring a car and driving, especially as you will need to drive up mountains and hills.

The center of Queenstown is a very walkable city, so if you are staying fairly central then most of the time you may not even opt for motorized transport at all! The most affordable mode of transport is the public buses, which also happens to have the most extensive coverage of Queenstown.

If you plan on staying a while or are predominantly going to take the bus to most of the stops on your Queenstown itinerary, then I suggest investing in a GoCard for public transit. The GoCard reduces every trip to just over $1 USD!

Taking a taxi in Queenstown is a good option when the bus services are no longer running, or if your destination is far from the bus route. Water taxis offer a more direct route across Lake Wakatipu from Steamer Wharf, with multiple jetties dotted around the lake.

Queenstown is a hub for adventure sports, and shuttles to and from some hard-to-reach hiking trails are available. To ensure you get the shuttle you require, it‘s advised to book in advance.

Overall, Queenstown is a safe city with very few things to worry about. However, it is still a good idea to take precautions to ensure your personal safety as many of the people in town are visitors too.

If you have a car, the one thing you may need to watch out for are car break-ins. Wherever you’re parked, it is advisable to lock your doors and don’t leave anything of value within eyeshot.

New Zealand is one of the safest countries for solo travelers, but women should still take the usual precautions for safety both in the city or out in the countryside.

When preparing for a great adventure outdoors it’s advisable to tell someone where you’ll be and what time you expect to be back. Take enough food supplies and pack emergency clothing for adverse weather conditions.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

Sometimes you think you just won’t need it… But if and when you do need it, travel insurance can really be a lifesaver.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Queenstown itinerary.

How many days do you need in Queenstown?

The perfect amount of time to spend in Queenstown, in my opinion, is three days.

What should I add to my Queenstown winter itinerary?

Coronet Peak is the ideal place to visit in the winter as it’s a famous skiing and snowboarding park.

What is a must-see attraction in Queenstown?

The Kiwi Birdlife Park is one of my favourite attractions in Queenstown and is perfect for animal lovers.

Is Queenstown worth visiting?

Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, so if you like adrenaline fueled holidays, it is definitely worth visiting.

By now you should have all the information you need to have a great vacation in Queenstown!

Queenstown is Otago’s most popular city to visit, and you’ll easily see why. The long list of adventure sports, shopping opportunities, scenic outdoor locations and wineries combine to make Queenstown a great holiday destination!

Queenstown is a fantastic base from which to see more of Otago. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take a day trip and go exploring the countryside if you have enough time! For many people, taking a vacation is the highlight of their year. I’m confident that with my help on what to do in Queenstown, it will be the trip of a lifetime for you too!

Traditional wooden frontier style shops near Queenstown, New Zealand

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Christchurch to Queenstown road trip – 25 best stops along the way

September 20, 2023
New Zealand , Oceania

A Christchurch to Queenstown road trip is a journey through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes. From dramatic mountains to the bluest lakes, charming towns, infinite fields and starry skies, this adventure has it all.

Having lived in both Christchurch and Queenstown, I’ve traversed this route countless times, and let me assure you, the beauty of it never ceases to amaze.

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In this guide, we’ll explore the best route, must-stop locations, top activities, as well as dining and accommodation recommendations to help you make the most of your Christchurch to Queenstown road trip.

So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a journey you won’t soon forget. No matter the season, this road trip is a visual feast, with each twist and turn unveiling new breathtaking views.

In a hurry? Book your Christchurch to Queenstown trip essentials

The best things to do on the way from Christchurch to Queenstown:

Christchurch to Queenstown One Way Rent a car Rent a motorhome Skydiving over Mount Cook National Park Cowan’s Observatory

How to get from Christchurch to Queenstown

While there are many quick and direct flights connecting Queenstown and Christchurch, the best way to get from Christchurch to Queenstown is by road.

This is one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand and you get to stop at Lake Tekapo, traverse gorgeous mountain passes and you can even do a detour to Mt. Cook National Park.

There are a ton of excellent one-way tours from Christchurch to Mt Cook and Queenstown that make exploring this region super easy. You’ll get to learn about the sights and locations from a local guide, stopping at the key points of interest, and you’ll be able to rest on the bus while enjoying the scenery.

If you wish to spend more time in Mt Cook Village and do a bunch of hikes I suggest you book two separate tours to break up the trip.

Book your transfer: Christchurch to Queenstown Day Tour via Tekapo & Mt Cook (One-Way) Christchurch to Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo Half-Day Tour (One-Way) Mt. Cook to Queenstown Small Group Tour (One-Way)

If you want more flexibility when traveling from Christchurch to Queenstown, then renting a car or campervan can be a good option. That being said, driving in New Zealand isn’t for everyone and if you’re not used to driving on the left, and on narrow, windy roads, this might not be your cup of tea.

Book your ride: Rent a car Rent a motorhome

Long-distance bus services, such as InterCity and Kiwi Experience run regularly between Christchurch and Queenstown. However, the stops along the way are limited and you won’t get much flexibility to explore.

Christchurch to Queenstown – Best route

When traveling, I like to take the scenic route rather than the fastest route, and I believe you should do the same.

The best and most scenic route from Christchurch to Queenstown will take you down the 77 (avoid the boring A1), past Rakaia Gorge and Mt. Hutt before merging onto the 79 through Geraldine and Fairly. Then continue down the 8 through Burkes Pass, Tekapo and Lake Pukaki.

I recommend you take the detour to Mt. Cook Village before continuing down the 8 through Twizel, Omarama and Lindis Pass.

Then you’ll be faced with a choice, do you want to drive to Queenstown through Wanaka and the Crown Range or via Cromwell and Kawaru Gorge? Both roads are incredibly scenic and worth driving but your choice should ultimately depend on the rest of your itinerary, so let’s break it down.

The route from Christchurch to Queenstown via Cromwell is much shorter than via Wanaka and is recommended for those in a time crunch. This is also the better option in winter since the Crown Range is at a higher elevation and it might be icy or even closed due to bad weather.

Driving through Cromwell and Kawaru Gorge is also the better option for you if you’re planning on visiting Wanaka from Queenstown or are continuing your way down Haast Pass to the West Coast.

Doing a detour to Wanaka, Lake Hawea, and the Crown Range makes sense if you’re otherwise not able to visit this area.

The drive from Christchurch to Queenstown is 481km long and the drive takes just under 6 h without accounting for stops.

You’ll most likely need to fuel up and at least stop for the loo if not food so it will take you closer to 6.5 h, depending on traffic. If you get stuck behind a tuck or slow camper on the steep windy roads you’re looking at 7h on the road.

However, I’d recommend you budget at least 2 days for this dive so that you can truly enjoy the beautiful Mackenzie Country and Mt. Cook National Park. With 3 days or more, you’ll be able to do some more hikes, a scenic flight and really enjoy the journey.

Things to do on the way from Christchurch to Queenstown

The road between Queenstown and Christchurch is incredibly scenic and you might be tempted to stop around every corner (I sure was!). However, you probably don’t have infinity at your disposal so below I walk you through the best stops along the way.

You can drive this and quickly peek at most points of interest in just one day but that would be an atrociously busy and tiring day. Instead, I recommend you spend 2-3 days for the trip, and 4 or more if you’re visiting Wanaka.

If you have two days for the road trip you’ll want to spend the night in Mt. Cook. You Can stay in Twizel if the accommodation is fully booked.

With three days I recommend spending the first night in either Tekapo or Mt Cook and the second night in Omarama or Wanaka.

If you have four days at your disposal, stay in either Tekapo or Mt Cook on your first night, the second night in Omarama, and the third in Wanaka or Hawea.

Start your road trip from the beautiful city of Christchurch, where you can explore its vibrant arts scene, stroll through the Botanic Gardens, or enjoy a leisurely punting tour along the Avon River. Don’t forget to check out the impressive street art and indulge in city’s various cafes and restaurants.

Before you leave Christchurch behind, make sure to fuel up and restock at the supermarket. While there are some smaller towns along the way you won’t find any proper supermarkets before Twizel and fuel at the small petrol stations along the way tends to be pricier.

Read next: Christchurch Itinerary Where to stay in Christchurch

The first stop on your road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown is Rakaia Gorge. The nature here is stunning but if you’re short on time, this is one of the least impressive stops along the way and the first one I’d skip.

Remember to take Highway 77 (not A1) for this scenic route!

Stretch your legs at Rakaia Gorge Walkway, a 10-kilometer (6.2 miles) return walking track that offers breathtaking views of the gorge. It takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete and takes you through native forests, historic ferryman’s tracks, and glacial terraces.

Don’t miss the chance to explore several coal mine tunnels and the remnants of mining extraction equipment along the way.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also go jet boating or take a refreshing swim in the river (though be warned, it can be quite cold!).

Next stop is Mt Hutt. Thrill seekers will love this destination, especially during winter when you can go skiing at Mt Hutt Ski Field. It was voted New Zealand’s best ski field for five consecutive years.

In the summer, the mountain transforms into a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts with downhill runs suitable for all skill levels.

In Methven, located near Mt Hutt, where you can enjoy a breathtaking balloon ride offering stunning views of the majestic Southern Alps.

Geraldine is a charming small town known for its boutique shops, beautiful gardens, and artisan food producers. This is the perfect lunch stop!

Visit Barker’s Foodstore and Eatery for delicious jams and condiments, explore the Talbot Forest Cheese shop, and take a stroll through the Geraldine Vintage Car and Machinery Museum.

Fairlie is another quaint town on your route, famous for its pies and as the gateway to the Mackenzie Basin. If you’re feeling peckish visit the famous Fairlie Bakehouse for their scrumptious pies.

Burkes Pass is a historic village with well-preserved buildings from the Gold Rush era. Take a short walk around town that looks like a time machine. I love the fuel station here more than anything.

Then get ready for some seriously breathtaking landscapes, as you enter Mackenzie Country the scenery is about to change big time!

The Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park and Mackenzie Basin, spanning 4100 square kilometers is the the world’s largest International Dark Sky Reserve.

These reserves are havens where the natural night sky remains untainted by artificial light. This enables local wildlife to adhere to their natural diurnal rhythms but most of all, here you can see the stars in all their ancient splendor.

With an almost complete absence of artificial light within the reserve, you’ll get an unparalleled stargazing experience.

Book your stargazing: Crater Experience at Cowan’s Observatory

If you think you know what blue is, wait until you see Lake Tekapo! This vibrant blue color is what’s called glacial flour that reflects blue and turquoise wavelengths while absorbing red and green light. This is even more prominent on a clear sunny day.

The Church of the Good Shepherd

On the shore of the lake stands the Church of the Good Shepherd all by itself. This small but picturesque church with the blue Lake Tepako and mountains in the back, it is the most photographed church in the world.

Lupin Fields

From November to December the lake is surrounded by Lupin fields blooming in all shades of pink and purple, making for an even more spectacular landscape.

Mackenzie Basin & Backcountry

Tekapo is the perfect starting point to explore more of the Mackenzie Basin with incredible views and beautiful lakes. This 4WD tour is the perfect way to explore the more remote areas. It will take you off the beaten path and you’ll explore deeper into Mackenzie Country.

Book your adventure: Mackenzie 4WD tour

Tekapo Springs

Tekapo Springs boast soothing hot pools filled with natural spring water, offering a relaxing and therapeutic experience amid stunning views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains.

Wellness services such as spas and massages are available for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. In winter you’ll also find a fun ice skating rink here and a roller skating rink in summer.

Mt. John or Cowan’s Observatory

Perched atop New Zealand’s majestic landscapes, within the Night Sky Reserve, Mt. John or Cowan’s observatories offer unparalleled opportunities to observe the night sky through powerful telescopes.

Join expert astronomers and learn about distant stars, galaxies, and nebulae. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a novice, these observatories provide an unforgettable adventure, connecting you to the mysteries of the universe in one of the world’s darkest and most pristine stargazing locations.

Dark Sky Experience

The Dark Sky Experience at the Dark Sky Project is a 45-minute tour taking you on a 13.8-billion-year cosmic odyssey.

During this interactive journey, you’ll gain insights into Māori astronomy, and its significant role in the Māori understanding of the cosmos. Using immersive visual displays, the experience delves into the scientific narrative of the origins of life and takes you on a cosmic voyage through the Milky Way.

Moreover, you’ll have the unique opportunity to get up close with the remarkable 125-year-old Brashear telescope, recently restored to its former glory.

Where to stay in Tekapo

Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

BEAUTIFUL ESCAPE

CHECK PRICES

Ranginui At Lake Tekapo

BREATHTAKING VIEWS

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Just a short drive further you’ll find another mesmerizing blue lake, Lake Pukaki. What sets it apart is its incredible view of Mount Cook or Aoraki, New Zealand’s highest peak, which stands majestically on the opposite shore, creating a picture-perfect vista.

And if you’re a LOTR fan on top of it, then definitely book this tour to Edoras. You’ll see the same landscapes, just through a Middle Earth lens.

Book your LOTR adventure: Journey to Edoras from Christchurch

The drive from Lake Pukaki Village to Mt. Cook Village continues on Mt. Cook Road along the shores of Lake Pukaki with more breathtaking views around each corner.

If you’re travelling by public transport you might want to take a guided tour from Tekapo to Mt Cook in order to make the most of this journey.

This Mt. Cook tour from Tekapo ticks all the boxes and allows for plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

The drive from Lake Pukaki village to Mt. Cook village is approximately 45 kilometers (about 28 miles), and it typically takes around 45 without stops. But you will want to stop, a lot!

The scenic lookouts along the way offer breathtaking views of the turquoise Lake Pukaki and the Southern Alps.

Peter’s Lookout , located just a short drive from Lake Pukaki village, offers one of the most iconic views of Lake Pukaki with Aoraki/Mt. Cook in the background.

Glencoe Reserve is perfect for a picnic stop and offers a lovely view of Lake Pukaki with the Southern Alps as a backdrop.

The entire drive along the winding Mt. Cook Road is picturesque, offering glimpses of Aoraki/Mt. Cook and other peaks, but the bit just before you enter the park is absolutely breathtaking!

Keep an eye out for pull-off areas where you can safely stop and take in the scenery.

Book your Mt. Cook adventure: Mt. Cook tour from Tekapo

At the end of the road, 330 km from Christchurch, you’ll find Mt. Cook Village surrounded by towering mountains that will make you feel smaller than an ant. Hotel Hermitage offers the perfect setting for lunch and you can visit the Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.

Hikes in Mt. Cook NP

The real appeal of Mt. Cook National Park are the hikes that offer even more breathtaking views! The Hooker Valley Track is still one of my favorite hikes in the world and it takes you to Hooker Lake filled with mini icebergs and the Hooker Glacier at the end. You can also do the shorter Kea Point Track or make your way up to Muller Hutt.

Where to stay in Mt. Cook. Village

YHA Mt Cook

MOST AFFORDABLE

This is your best budget option. Located in Mount Cook Village, they offer dorm beds and private rooms. The atmosphere is great, the staff super friendly, and the rooms and common areas are comfy and well equipped.

Check prices

Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge

COSY AND COMFY

Watch the sunset over the mountains from the comfort of your warm bed, or from in front of the fireplace in the cosy lounge. All the rooms in this beautiful mountain lodge have a private bathroom and gorgeous mountain views.

The Hermitage Hotel Mt Cook

LUXURY AND VIEWS

Big and elegant rooms, two restaurants, a café and a lounge with a log fire and magnificent views over Mount Cook. This place is pure luxury in the snow. A very good buffet breakfast is included, and the staff will do everything to make your stay the best stay possible.

Twizel, is a convenient pitstop for refueling, restocking on groceries, or grabbing a bite to eat. For a satisfying meal, consider Poppies Cafe on Benmore Place.

Some scenes from the Lord of the Rings movies, including the iconic Battle Of Pelennor Fields scene in The Return Of The King, were filmed at the nearby Ben Ohau Station which offers a glimpse into Middle-earth’s magic.

Twizel also serves as a convenient overnight option, especially during peak summer months when Mount Cook Village and Lake Tekapo accommodations are often fully booked. If you decide to stay here overnight make sure to check out Ruataniwha Lake.

Where to stay in Twizel

BigSky Bed and Breakfast

WELCOMING AND FRIENDLY

Sierra Motel and Apartments

CONVENIENT AND COMFORTABLE

Cosy 1960’s Kiwi Holiday House

BEST FOR GROUPS

Nestled against the stunning Southern Alps, High Country Salmon is the perfect stop for food enthusiasts eager to savor the freshest salmon around.

You can join an informative farm tour to discover the salmon’s life cycle and hand-feed these remarkable fish. There’s also a Floating Cafe on sight that serves a delectable array of salmon dishes, from sashimi to mouthwatering burgers. The Fish Shop has a large range of fresh, smoked and cured salmon products, as well as frozen ones.

Omarama is a charming town that offers a wide range of activities amidst breathtaking scenery. Plus, the serene ambiance and friendly local community add to the town’s charm, making it a perfect stop on your Christchurch to Queenstown journey.

The area around Omarama offers numerous hiking and biking trails, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Ahuriri Conservation Park nearby is a great place to explore the alpine landscapes and enjoy hiking adventures.

Omarama is also the gliding capital of New Zealand, boasting excellent conditions for gliding and soaring due to its unique geography and wind patterns. You can take a glider flight with a skilled pilot to experience the thrill of silent flight and aerial views of the region.

One of the town’s highlights is the Omarama Hot Tubs. These private, wood-fired hot tubs allow you to soak in soothing, natural mineral water while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Where to stay in Omarama

Just a short drive from Omarama lie the striking Omarama Clay Cliffs. This geological formation developed over millions of years through the erosion of glacial deposits left behind during the last ice age, resulting in towering pinnacles and ravines composed of layers of gravel and silt.

To reach the cliffs, you’ll need to drive to the parking area near the entrance, 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from Omarama town center. From there, it’s a short hike to the base of the cliffs. The terrain can be uneven, steep and crumbly in some places, so wear appropriate footwear.

If you don’t have the time do the detour and hike don’t worry, you’ll be able to see them in the distance as you drive towards Lindis Pass. Omarama Clay Cliffs have intricate patterns and textures in shades of gray and brown, creating an otherworldly and almost surreal setting visible from far and wide.

Lindis Pass, situated in New Zealand’s South Island within the Southern Alps, is a picturesque mountain pass along State Highway 8. Connecting the Mackenzie Basin and Upper Clutha Valley, it reaches an elevation of approximately 971 meters (3,186 feet) and spans about 63 kilometers (39 miles) in length.

Lindis Pass offers breathtaking vistas of surrounding mountain ranges, rolling hills, and iconic tussock-covered landscapes that come alive with vibrant colors during the changing seasons. The pass boasts a unique tussock grassland ecosystem typical of New Zealand’s high country, creating a striking contrast against the snow-capped peaks in the distance.

For outdoor enthusiasts, it’s a haven for hiking and birdwatching, with the nearby Lindis Conservation Area offering a range of tracks and trails.

Historically, it was a vital route for early European settlers, including gold rush travelers, who crossed from the east to the west coast of the South Island.

Soon after leaving Lindis Pass, as you get to the end of the valley you’ll have to choose whether you want to continue straight to Cromwell or take a detour and turn right towards Havea and Wanaka.

Cromwell is at the heart of Central Otago’s wine country, known for its excellent Pinot Noir, and part of the “Fruit Bowl of New Zealand,” known for its abundance of stone fruit orchards. You can’t miss the oversized fruit sculptures in the center of town.

Depending on the season, you can pick your own cherries, apricots, and other fruits at local orchards. You can also explore numerous vineyards and wineries in the region, offering wine tastings and tours. Some renowned wineries include Mt Difficulty, Carrick, and Felton Road.

If you’re visiting on a Sunday, don’t miss the Cromwell Farmers’ Market. It’s a great place to sample local produce, artisanal foods, and crafts. Or you can visit a local farm.

Highlands Motorsport Park offers an array of exciting experiences, including go-karting, the National Motorsport Museum, and the opportunity to ride a high-performance Ferrari or Porsche supercar on a world-class circuit.

If that’s too much horsepower for you, don’t dismiss this spot yet! If nothing else you should make a toilet stop here. Their Loo with a view is the most famous public toilet in New Zealand.

Each restroom features one-way glass windows offering breathtaking views of the race track and unique themes. The themed restrooms include the opulent “Royal Suite,” the motorsport-themed “Highlands History,” and the playful “Sound of Music” with urinals disguised as musical instruments and a humorous presidential urinal dedicated to Trump.

The drive through Kawarau Gorge is characterized by towering cliffs above you on one side and the meandering Kawarau River far below you on the other side. The route is particularly stunning during the changing seasons.

The gorge was a vital route during the Otago Gold Rush of the 1860s and settlers used this passageway to access goldfields, leaving behind a legacy of gold mining history that can still be explored in the area.

At Goldfields Mining Centre you can learn about the town’s gold mining history and try your hand at gold panning and gain insights into the area’s gold rush past. On top of that the gorge is fantastic for canyoning , jet boating and rafting .

Kawarau Gorge is also as the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping . The famous Kawarau Bridge, which spans the gorge, offers the opportunity to take a thrilling leap off the bridge.

Book your adventure: Kawaru canyoning J et boating and rafting

Gibbston Valley is your last stop just 25 minutes before Queenstown. It offers picturesque landscapes and is known for exceptional wine, particularly the Otago golden child, Pinot Noir.

As one of the region’s pioneers, Gibbston Valley Winery is a must-visit. Known for its high-quality Pinot Noir, the winery offers tours, tastings, and a restaurant with scenic views. Other great wineries include Peregrine Wines and Amisfield Winery .

Follow the Gibbston Valley Wine Trail, which is well-marked and offers a route to several wineries, or visit Gibbston Valley on a wine tour from Queenstown so you don’t have to worry about driving after.

Book your wine tasting: Gibbston Valley Winery tour Wine tour from Queenstown

If you choose to take the detour via Wanaka then Lake Hawea will be your first stop after Lindis Pass.

This stunning glacial lake offers stunning scenery and a quieter escape compared to nearby Wanaka. Its pristine glacial waters mirror the majestic Southern Alps, with the prominent Mount Maude in the backdrop.

There are plenty of outdoor activities abound you can choose from, including hiking along the Lake Hawea Track, kayaking, fishing, and cycling.

Wanaka is Queenstown’s smaller sister and it’s just as scenic. Take a stroll through town and along the lakefront. Wanaka is also a great spot to do a wine tour and savor some of Otago’s best wines.

I highly recommend you also visit Mou Waho Island . This is an island in the middle of Wanaka Lake and there’s a lake in the middle of Mou Waho Island…. Ever watched inception?

If you like hiking you won’t want to miss Roys Peak and Diamond Lake Track. And if you like the views, but not the hiking part, you can even take a helicopter up to Roy’s Peak!

For the adventurers among you, try skydiving in Wanaka or do a via ferrata and climb up a waterfall!

Have you even been to Wanaka if you didn’t take a photo of ‘that Wanaka tree’ ? This willow tree stands alone in the water, about 15 meters from the shore. It has been photographed hundreds of thousands of times and it is Wanaka’s most popular tourist attraction. To be fair, it is a really picturesque shot with the Southern Alps in the backdrop.

Book your adventure: Mou Waho Island Skydiving in Wanaka Waterfall climb Wine tour & tasting Roy’s Peak heli tour

Where to stay in Wanaka

BEST BUDGET OPTION

This hostel is located smack in the middle of town. Wanaka is quite expensive, but this place is your best budget option, offering dorms and private rooms. They are situated right next to a green park that looks out over Lake Wanaka.

THE CUTEST ANIMALS

If you love animals, then this is the place for you. Other than the name suggests, you’re not actually sleeping in a hay barn, but in a modern and spacious apartment. It is located on a big farm with dogs, sheep and cows roaming around.

Kauri House Apartment

ABSOLUTELY STUNNING VIEW

On top of a hill, overlooking Wanaka and the lake, you’ll find this gorgeous villa. Within this villa, you get your own stylishly decorated apartment, with a delicious breakfast included.

The scenic drive from Wanaka to Queenstown is a quintessential South Island New Zealand experience, and a must-do stop along the way is the charming village of Cardrona. Nestled amidst rolling hills and framed by the stunning Crown Range Mountains, Cardrona is the perfect place for a Quad bike tour or Horse Riding.

Just before arriving to Cardrona, stop at the Bra Fence lovingly called Bradrona where bras of various sizes and colors are playfully hung on a fence. It started spontaneously in the late 1990s and has since evolved into a peculiar and unconventional attraction. Now accompanied by a pink sign and a donation box, Bradrona supports the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation. You can contribute to a great cause either in cash or in bras. to

The highlight of Cardrona is undoubtedly the historic Cardrona Hotel, an iconic 19th-century pub that exudes rustic charm. Stop here for a hearty meal, a refreshing drink, and a glimpse into the past. The town is also known for its stunning autumn foliage, which paints the landscape with vibrant hues, making it a photographer’s paradise during the fall season.

The Cardrona Alpine Resort offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and in the summer, it’s a great place for mountain biking and hiking.

As you ascend this winding mountain road, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes, with numerous viewpoints offering ideal photo opportunities. The entire drive is a spectacle in itself, with its twists and turns, but the dramatic landscapes and viewpoints.

One standout stop is the Crown Range Summit, which provides panoramic views of the rugged peaks and valleys. Along the way, consider hiking the Crown Range Scenic Trail that offers even more expansive views.

Arrowtown can be visited whether you choose to drive via Wanaka or via Cromwell since you’ll end up on the same road after Arrow Junction. However, if you’re planning on spending more time in Queenstown, Arrowtown is an easy day trip from Queenstown so you might choose to visit another day instead.

The quaint Arrowtown is a historic little village full of charm. It was established during the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860s, and you can still see many of its historic buildings, which have been beautifully preserved. There’s also a fascinating Chinese settlement area where you can learn about the contribution of Chinese miners to the region’s history and visit restored buildings.

The surrounding area offers a host of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking trails. You can easily hire an e-bike and explore the area.

The Arrow River Track and Tobin’s Track are popular choices for those who want to explore the beautiful natural surroundings. You can also try your hand at gold panning in the river and relive the Gold Rush era.

In the evening head out to Fork & Tap for drinks and dinner, here you’ll be able to join the fun at the Irish night every Wednesday. Or end the evening with a visit to Dorothy Browns Cinema. This is the cutest and quirkiest boutique cinema with miss-matched armchairs and pink chiffon curtains.

Hold your jaw, you’ve made it to your destination! Nestled on the shores of Wakatipu Lake, Queenstown is a sight to behold.

Queenstown is fun and bustling with life. It offers insanely scenic views, incredible nature, and a vast outdoor playground spread over forests, mountains, lakes, and valleys. It is also known as the adventure capital of New Zealand (for a good reason, or rather several good reasons!).

I was lucky enough to call Queenstown home and for this, it will always have a special place in my heart. But you don’t need to move here to fall in love with this beautiful town!

This Queenstown Itinerary includes everything from the best spots in town, a lake cruise, some adrenalin pumping activities, loads of incredible views, some hikes and a bunch of fabulous day trips – Queenstown really is a great hub to explore the lower part of the South Island from.

Where to stay in Queenstown

Scenic Suites Queenstown

GREAT VALUE & DELICIOUS BREAKFAST

Located at the edge of town this complex boosts breathtaking views and comfortable facilities at a great price. The food here is delicious too!

Kamana Lakehouse

MODERN, BEAUTIFUL & FANTASTIC VIEWS

With breathtaking views, floor to ceiling windows and its contemporary decor, this modern lake house might just be our favourite place to stay in Queenstown, not to mention the delicious buffet breakfast!

Shotover Penthouse & Spa

CENTRAL, OPULENT AND PERFECT

This Penthouse is something else. Located smack in the middle of town and boosting some incredible views and a massive terrace with a hot tub, this apartment can sleep 6 and is perfect for groups.

Read next: Queenstown Itinerary Best accommodation in Queenstown Queenstown in winter Scenic drive to Glenorchy Visit Milford Sound Best Milford Sound Tours West Coast Road Trip

Best time to drive from Christchurch to Queenstown

The drive from Christchurch to Queenstown is accessible year-round and every season brings a unique landscape and adventure.

Summer and fall are best if you’d like to go hiking and late spring is when you’ll be able to see lupin fields. Winter, with a thin blanket of white snow, brings its own mystique and charm too.

However, if you can, plan your road trip (and NZ visit really) so that you avoid Chinese New Year. This period sees a high influx of tourists and many are not used to driving on New Zealand roads resulting in more incidents and congestion than usual.

While New Zealand roads are generally well maintained, some caution is required when driving between Christchurch and Queenstown in winter.

Check the weather and road status before hitting the road. Every now and again they will close Lindis Pass or the Crown Range due to snowfall, rain, or ice. These closures are usually temporary and they clean the roads promptly.

Carry snow chains with you as they’re mandatory by law on some roads, including Lindis Pass and the Crown Range.

There’s nothing quite like the blue Tekapo and Pukaki lakes surrounded by a blanket of white snow and Queenstown in winter is absolutely fantastic too! So if you’re not confident driving, just book a transfer with stops on the way from Christchurch to Queenstown.

A road trip from Queenstown to Christchurch will take you down the exact same road, just in reverse. The same tips and stops along the way will apply to you, but you’ll see them in reverse.

That being said, I always preferred the drive back to Queenstown, partially because I like Queenstown better than Christchurch so it was always nice to get back. And partially because once you’re past Tekapo, the scenery gets slightly less impressive the closer to Christchurch you get and I always like to end on a high.

So if you’re considering driving one way and flying the other, I’d highly recommend you drive towards Queenstown rather than back from it.

New Zealand’s South Island is heaven on earth for nature and wildlife lovers. Follow this New Zealand South Island itinerary for the adventure of a lifetime. To help you plan your trip I’ve prepared a series of New Zealand travel guides .

NZ South Island: 2 & 3 week itineraries

Christchurch: Christchurch Itinerary – 1, 2, 3, 5 & 7 days Where to stay in Christchurch Best day trips from Christchurch

Queenstown : Queenstown itinerary – 3, 5 & 7 days Where to stay in Queenstown Queenstown to Glenorchy

West Coast: Best things to do on the West Coast Franz Josef Glacier heli hiking

Milford Sound: Your guide to Milford Sound Best Milford Sound cruises

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and we’ve learned that the hard way!

ACC in New Zealand covers you for accidents but if you get sick or lose your luggage you’ll need good insurance to cover it for you.

We always get insured before we leave and Travel Insurance Masters is our go to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations here.

Zi @Craving Adventure

Zi is the Founder and Editor in Chief behind Craving Adventure.

Winter evening at The Lodge Bar

How to explore queenstown by $2 public bus.

Our bus network makes it easy and affordable to explore scenic spots like Sunshine Bay, Frankton, Kelvin Heights, and Arrowtown.

You don't need a car to see the best of Queenstown. With bus routes between the town centre and most suburbs, including Frankton, Sunshine Bay, Arrowtown and Jack's Point, grab yourself a Bee Card and get exploring.

Get insider tips on the best places to walk, eat, and grab a coffee, with our guide to how to see Queenstown by bus.

What you need to know about catching the bus in Queenstown

Adult Queenstown bus fares are only $2 with a registered Bee Card – children under five ride free, and Youth fares are $1 or less depending on age. Bee Cards cost just $5, and the easiest places to pick up a Bee card are at Paper Plus within Queenstown Airport or the iSite Visitor Centre in central Queenstown. Otherwise, you can buy a Bee Card on board the bus (cash only).

Tip: if you’re travelling with a friend, you can use one Bee Card to tap on and pay for two people.

How to top up your Bee Card

Remember you must register your Bee card online before you can access the $2 concession fares. You can also top up your card online , at the airport Paper Plus or the Queenstown iSite, or with cash on the bus. There’s a minimum top-up of $5.00.

Plan your journey

To plan your Queenstown bus trip check out this bus journey planner , which also includes the ferry, or download the free Transit app from the App Store or Google Play for real-time tracking and handy journey planning tools.

You can view all of the Queenstown bus routes on this helpful map , and buses run to the same timetable every day of the year, except for Christmas Day.

Fun fact: Did you know you can also take your bike on the bus? Each bus has a bike rack on the front of the bus and there is room for two to three bikes per bus.

View of the Remarkables mountain range from a public bus window

Route #1 – Remarkables Shops to Sunshine Bay

You can use public transport from the start of your trip – the Route #1 bus goes from Queenstown Airport to central Queenstown via the Frankton bus hub on State Highway 6.

Frankton & The Remarkables Shopping Centre

Route #1 starts and ends in Frankton.

The Remarkables Park Shopping Centre is a popular hub for Queenstown locals. Shelter Bar & Kitchen is a great gastro pub, with local wines and craft beers on tap. Saigon Kingdom does zingy, fresh Vietnamese food with friendly service. Tham Nak Thai offers authentic curries and a delicious, feisty Tom Yum. French patisserie Ma Boulangerie Bakery serves up tempting breads, pastries and baguettes. Their pork, carrot and cumin pie makes for a tasty lunch on the go.

Stay a little longer in Frankton and do a class at Fierce Grace Hot Yoga or Align Pilates , two favourite places for Queenstown residents to re-energise, and enjoy a moment of calm. Or drop into the Te Atamira art and cultural events hub for exhibitions, performances, and events that will introduce you to the wealth of Queenstown creative talent.

Fernhill & Sunshine Bay

The last stops along Route #1 are in the local suburbs of Fernhill and Sunshine Bay. Fernhill is home to the Fernhill Bike Park , famous for its freeride jump park which has some of the largest public jumps in the world. Here you can also tackle The Fernhill Loop hike, a 7km loop, starting on a steep trail from Wynard Crescent and climbing to epic viewpoints.

Refuel afterwards at local fav, Chur Fish & Chips or treat yourself to fine dining with a panoramic view of the lake and mountains at Nest Kitchen at Kamana Lakehouse, one of Queenstown’s most spectacular restaurant views.

Catch the bus back to central Queenstown or detour on foot via the scenic Sunshine Bay Track. It’s around 3kms back to town.

Route #2 – Arthur’s Point to Arrowtown

Arthur’s point.

Arthur’s Point is a great place to stay for families, groups, and couples. It’s quieter and more secluded than central Queenstown and only a 10-minute bus ride into town.

Accommodation options include Swiss-Belresort and Top Ten Holiday Park .

If you’re feeling like something contemplative, book yourself in for a hot tub and a massage at the Onsen Hot Pools Retreat overlooking the Shotover River. Then sample locally distilled gins infused with Central Otago botanicals and fruit at the Gin Garden , cosy up by the fire at Gantley’s Tavern , or head to Rākau for woodfired pizza and gyros.

Route #2 takes you all the way from Arthur’s Point to Arrowtown via central Queenstown and Lake Hayes. Stop off at Lake Hayes along the way, and walk the Lake Hayes Loop with its views of the surrounding mountains, before grabbing a bite at Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen .

Take the bus from right outside Mora onwards to Arrowtown . This picturesque gold mining village in the Arrow River valley is a Tohu Whenua , a significant place that has shaped New Zealand’s story. Start your visit at the Lakes District Museum before exploring the historic Chinese gold miner’s settlement by the river, then wander the quaint streets lined with old miner's cottages.

Arrowtown isn’t only a heritage treasure. It’s also a trove of artists’ studios and galleries , boutiques stocking local artisans, food and wine , beautiful walks into the surrounding mountains, and cycle trails .

We recommend you plan to stay a few nights so you can enjoy all this beautiful little village has to offer.

Route #3 – Frankton Hub to Kelvin Heights

Catch Route #3 to Kelvin Heights from the Frankton bus hub. If you’re staying in central Queenstown Routes #1, #2, and #5 all take you to Frankton.

Walk the 3.5km Peninsula Trail for views across Lake Whakatipu to the Remarkables and admire the sculptures by New Zealand artists that line the track. The trail runs around the perimeter of the Queenstown Golf Club , a fun course for a casual round, with brilliant views of the lake on three sides.

It’s a 10-minute bus ride back towards the Hilton Hotel , where you can grab a bite to eat from Stacks Pub for pizzas and burgers on the sunny deck or enjoy seasonal lakeside dining at the Wakatipu Grill .

Afterwards, hire a bike from Better By Bike rentals at the Hilton and ride back to central Queenstown along the Frankton Track . Or use your Bee Card to catch the ferry back to Queenstown from the jetty right outside the Hilton. The fare is $10 per adult each way.

Couple walking in Kelvin Heights with the Remarkables mountain in the background

Route #4 – Frankton Hub to Jack’s Point

Route #4 takes you from the Frankton bus hub to Hanley’s Farm. This magnet for local families has an excellent playground and a great pump track designed for everyone from kids through to talented BMXers. Hop off right beside the Farmhouse Café which serves up locally roasted coffee and has a mug library, so you can take a coffee out with you to watch the kids play.

Get back on the bus and carry on to the end of the route at Jack’s Point. Here you can walk a section of the Lakeside Trail , or play a round of golf at the championship golf course . Jack’s Point Restaurant at the golf club offers seasonal, local produce cooked over charcoal in a setting surrounded by towering peaks.

If you’re feeling energetic on your way back, get off at the Frankton bus hub where it’s only a short stroll to Frankton Beach where you can soak up the views or go for a dip on a hot day. From here, it’s around 20 minutes on the bus back into central Queenstown.

Person on trail at sunset with lake and mountain views

Low emissions travel further afield

Exploring Queenstown by bus is a breeze – and choosing this lower emissions transport option makes for a trip that’s better for our community, your wellbeing, and your pocket.

If you’re going further afield, check out regional bus services Intercity and Ritchies for buses to other Otago and Southland destinations or consider hiring an EV .

EV driving to Moke Lake with mountains in the background

Whether you get around Queenstown by bus, bike, EV or on foot, share your adventures on social and tell us what your Queenstown highlights have been.

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Christchurch to queenstown road trip: best stops and itinerary.

Table of Contents

Christchurch and Queenstown are two of the most popular places in New Zealand’s South Island. Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island. With an international airport, it’s a popular location to start and end road trips.

Queenstown is one of the best places to visit in the South Island . Known as the ‘adventure capital of New Zealand’ (and the world), Queenstown is the perfect place to take on adrenaline filled activities. Surrounded by the Southern Alps, it’s also a great place to relax and take in the wondrous scenery.

Driving from Christchurch to Queenstown is one of the most scenic drives in the country. The route takes you through some of New Zealand’s most epic and beautiful scenery. From snow-capped mountains to giant turquoise glacial lakes, the drive from Christchurch to Queenstown really is magnificent.

The below guide is designed to help you build your perfect road trip itinerary in the amount of time you have. It includes where to stop between Christchurch and Queenstown and a suggested time to spend there.

You can also build the below into a bigger road trip of the South Island. If you’re coming down the West Coast from Picton, consider this road trip after spending time in Queenstown and visiting Milford Sound. If you started in Christchurch, consider heading up the West Coast after this.

If you’re planning to do the drive in a campervan, make sure to read my post on things to consider when hiring a campervan in New Zealand . If you’re staying in hostels or hotels, be sure to book your accommodation in Queenstown ahead of your arrival.

New Zealand is known to be an expensive destination, and Queenstown is no exception. If you’re on a budget, research how to visit Queenstown on a budget .

How long does it take to drive from Christchurch to Queenstown?

Queenstown and Christchurch are about 300 miles (480km) apart. Driving, this should take 6 to 7 hours.

However, there is lots to do on a drive between Christchurch and Queenstown. I’d recommend giving yourself at least 2 days or 3 days so you can make the most of this beautiful journey. If you have longer, you could easily spend a week exploring the mountains.

In the below guide, I’ve listed possible stops and how long to spend in each place so you can build your perfect itinerary.

Is driving from Christchurch to Queenstown difficult?

All the roads on this route are very well-maintained. You’ll be driving through the mountains including the Lindis Pass which means some steep inclines and windy roads. In the winter, you may be required to carry snow chains and drive in snow/ice.

Lindis Pass - Christchurch to Queenstown

This drive is fine for a solo traveller in New Zealand . I’m not the most confident of drivers, but I find this drive fine. Take your time on the trickier bits and pull over in a safe place to let traffic pass you.

What is the best time of year to drive from Christchurch to Queenstown?

Every season in New Zealand has its benefits. In the spring, you’ll be rewarded with the lupins and warmer weather. In winter, you’ll drive past snow-capped mountains as far as the eye can see.

Be aware in the winter you may need to carry snow chains and drive in icy conditions. There is also the possibility of road closures.

Whenever you choose to drive between Queenstown and Christchurch, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful scenery, turquoise lakes and incredible panoramic views.

Which route: Wanaka or Cromwell?

When making the drive from Christchurch to Queenstown, you have the choice to drive via Wanaka or Cromwell.

Cromwell is the easiest, shortest, and most convenient route. If you’re looking to get to Queenstown quickly, consider this route.

The route via Wanaka is a lot more scenic. Wanaka itself is also a great place to explore and spend some time. It’s also the home to the famous Roys Peak hike , a popular hike in the area.

If you’re planning to head up the West Coast or Glacier Country after your trip to Queenstown, you can visit Wanaka then. But if this is your only chance to visit Wanaka, I’d suggest trying to squeeze in a visit to Wanaka on your Christchurch to Queenstown road trip.

Stops for your road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown

How long to spend in Lyttelton : a few hours

Okay… so technically Lyttelton isn’t part of the road trip to Queenstown, BUT, if you have the time, taking a detour to Lyttleton is well worth the extra effort.

Lyttelton is a small harbour town on the Banks Peninsula, about 7 miles (11km) from Christchurch. It’s the largest harbour town in the South Island and is surrounded by beautiful scenery. There is a great beach here, some nice cafes, restaurants and a few gift shops.

Rakaia Gorge

How long to spend at Rakaia Gorge : a few hours

Now the real road trip begins. A trip to Rakaia Gorge is a must on any Christchurch to Queenstown road trip. It’s a beautiful spot where you’ll get to see pure aqua glacial water against luscious, green bush surrounded by stunning mountains.

Use this spot as a quick leg stretch or alternatively, hike the Rakaia Gorge Walkway. This track is 6.5 miles (10.4km) and takes you through the surrounding area.

Visiting the Rakaia Gorge will require you to take the scenic Route 77 rather than Route 1, but it’s well worth-it.

How long to spend in Timaru: a few hours in the evening (to see the penguins)

This is another detour from the main route to Queenstown, BUT, it’s your chance to see the world’s smallest penguin in the wild.

The Little Penguins (formally Little Blue Penguins), call the beaches of Timaru their home. At dusk, they return from their day at sea giving you the chance to see them. As the penguins are only viewable at dusk, you’ll need to stay overnight here. If you have a self-contained campervan, there is a freedom campsite right next to where you view the penguins.

Note : it would be tricky to do both Rakaia Gorge and Timaru without driving back on yourself, so I’d suggest choosing one or the other.

Fairlie (rest stop)

How long to spend in Fairlie : snack/meal stop

Fairlie is a little town less than an hour from Tekapo. The Fairlie Bakehouse is a famous bakery selling handmade pastries. I’ve only made it there once but can honestly say it was one of the best pies I’ve had in New Zealand.

Lake Tekapo

How long to spend in Tekapo: 1 or 2 nights

Tekapo is the first major stop on your Christchurch to Queenstown road trip. This picturesque town sits on the shores of the magnificent Lake Tekapo. It’s one of my favourite spots in New Zealand, it really doesn’t get more beautiful than this.

Depending on what you want to do, I’d suggest spending at least one, if not two, nights here.

Mount John Summit

Tekapo at Sunset

Tekapo is a Dark Sky Reserve meaning it’s one of the best places in New Zealand to stargaze. You can opt to join a tour to do this, including with the Dark Sky Project or with Chameleon .

One of the most famous spots to stargaze is the Mount John Observatory. This famous stargazing spot sits on the top of Mount John and is home to some powerful stargazing equipment. To use the stargazing equipment, you’ll need to join a tour .

Alternatively, grab a blanket and head down to the lake to do some of your own stargazing. A good place to stargaze for free in Tekapo is the Church of the Good Shepherd. There’s minimal light pollution and some photography opportunities.

There are plenty of other exciting things to do in Tekapo . I’ve written a more in-depth article on this, but here is a quick overview.

Hike up Mount John in the day for panoramic views.

Relax in the Tekapo hot pools .

Hire a bike and explore Lake Tekapo.

Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd .

Take a scenic flight to Mount Cook.

Lake Pukaki (viewpoints)

How long to spend at Lake Pukaki : there are various viewpoints on your way to Mount Cook

Next up is Lake Pukaki. A magnificent turquoise glacial lake near Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a lake quite as blue as here. There are viewpoints all the way along the read with incredible lake views. You’ll get your first glimpse of Lake Pukaki driving along State Highway 8. Turn off on to State Highway 80 on the Mount Cook Road for even more spectacular views.

If it’s a clear day, you may even get your first glimpse of Mount Cook in the distance.

Note: if you’re freedom camping, there are a couple of freedom campsites on the shores of Lake Pukaki (for FREE!).

Mount Cook National Park

How long to spend in Mount Cook : one full day

No trip to New Zealand’s South Island is complete without a visit to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. The home of New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Mount Cook National Park is breathtakingly beautiful. With its snowcapped mountains and glacial lakes, I’m not sure the scenery gets much better than this.

Mount Cook National Park is where you’ll find the Hooker Valley Track , the most popular hike in the South Island. The Hooker Valley walk is also arguably one of New Zealand’s best day hikes .

It’s a fantastic way to see New Zealand’s highest mountain amongst the beautiful scenery. The Hooker Valley Track is miles (10km) return but is relatively flat (aside from a few steps). I’m not sure there is another hike where you are rewarded with such incredible views for that little effort. The track ends at Hooker Lake where you’ll be able to see Mount Cook and the Hooker Glacier.

Despite being an alpine region, the park is very accessible. There is ample parking at Hooker Valley in the White Horse Hill Campground at the start of the track.

For more a more challenging hike in Mount Cook National Park, you could consider the Sealy Tarns or Mueller Hut.

A trip to Mount Cook Village is also a great option when driving between Christchurch and Queenstown. The village is home to an informative visitor center and the Sir Edmund Hillary Centre .

Read my guide on how to spend a day in Mount Cook National Park , including Mount Cook VIllage, for more ideas including boat trips, scenic flights and skydives.

Twizel (rest stop or overnight stop)

How long to spend in Twizel : a good rest stop or overnight stop after Mount Cook

The next stop is the town of Twizel, one of the larger towns in the area. If staying in Tekapo doesn’t appeal to you, this would be your next best option. It’s a great gateway stop for Mount Cook and the surrounding area.

For those wanting to stay overnight, there are various accommodation options here including a holiday park, hostels and hotels. There’s also some great cafes and bakeries to choose from if you’re just looking for some refreshments.

High Country Salmon Farm (stop)

How long to spend here : 2 hours

The High Country Salmon Farm is a unique stop on your drive from Christchurch to Queenstown. Honestly… I didn’t think I would find this activity very interesting, but it pleasantly surprised me.

Here, you can learn about the salmon farming process, try some salmon and even have a go at catching your own fish. If you’d like to give this a go, it’s recommended to book your activity in advance .

Omarama (rest stop)

How long to spend here : an hour or two

Omarama is a pleasant spot to break up your journey a bit. If you’re planning on rushing through, consider a stop at the Wrinkly Ram. This is a famous café serving some delicious (you guessed it…) pies! You can also buy authentic merino items here.

If you have longer to spend in Omarama, consider the Omarama Hot Tubs. They’re the perfect stop to relax and slow down. I prefer these to the Tekapo hot springs. They’re much more private and relaxing. Make sure you book in advance as they can sell out.

Omara Clay Cliffs

How long to spend at the Clay Cliffs : an hour

Just outside of Omarama are the Omara Clay Cliffs. This is a unique area of New Zealand that has exposed clay cliffs which are millions of years old. I was a little skeptical about visiting here, but they’re really unique and impressive. It almost feels like being transported to Utah.

Once you arrive, you’ll follow a path for a few minutes until you reach the cliffs. You can then spend as much time as you like exploring the area.

There is an honesty box which requests a $5 donation per vehicle (correct Sep 23).

Lindis Pass (viewpoint)

The Lindis Pass connects the Mackenzie Basin with the Central Otago Region. This increibly scenic drive takes you through the unique mountains of the area on your road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown.

There’s a viewpoint at the top of the Lindis Pass with a dedicated parking lot and area for pedestrians. It’s a great spot to stop and admire the views.

The Lindis Pass on a Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip

I’ve travelled all around New Zealand and this is one of my favourite viewpoints. The mountains here are so different to others even in the nearby Mount Cook. They almost have a Scottish Highlands feel to them.

Cromwell (rest stop)

How long to spend in Cromwell : 1 or 2 hours

If you’re opting to get to Queenstown quickly, you’ll likely want to drive through Cromwell. This route is the fastest and most convenient.

Cromwell is a small town near Lake Dunstan. It was once a mining town but is now known for growing some of the country’s best fruit. It’s a good spot to break up the last part of your drive from Christchurch to Queenstown. There’s a small retail park there which has a selection of bakeries and cafes – I’d highly recommend the Cromwell Bakery for their pies.

Extra stop: Gibbston Valley

How long to spend in Gibbston Valley : a couple of hours at a winery

Gibbston Valley is known as the ‘Valley of the Vines’ and is one of New Zealand’s most famous wine-growing areas. It’s the perfect stop between Christchurch and Queenstown to do some wine tasting (if you’re not driving, of course). This region in Central Otago is particularly famous for its Pinot Noir red wine.

A great option for wine tasting is Gibbston Valley Winery.

Wanaka (detour)

How long to spend in Wanaka : at least one day

After leaving Omarama, you have the choice of taking the scenic route to Queenstown via the stunning town of Wanaka.

Fondly known as Queenstown’s little sister, the small town sits in Mount Aspiring National Park on the shores of Lake Wanaka. It’s the home of the iconic Roys Peak hike and the famous Wanaka Tree.

There are lots of exciting things to do in Wanaka , but some of the best activities including the incredible Mount Iron hike for panoramic views and kayaking on Lake Wanaka.

If you’re a keen hiker, I’d also recommend the Isthmus Peak hike , a short drive from Wanaka. This hike competes with Roys Peak when it comes to incredible views, but it’s much less crowded. On the way up, you’ll have scenic views of Lake Hawea. At the peak, you’ll be able to see the magnificent Lake Wanaka.

As I mentioned above, if you’re planning to do a trip up the West Coast, you could tie in your trip to Wanaka with that. If not, then going via Wanaka on your Christchurch to Queenstown road trip is absolutely worth it.

For more information, here’s a great guide on things to do in Wanaka .

The Crown Range Road

If you go via Wanaka, your drive to Queenstown will be via the stunning Crown Range. This is one of the most amazing places to truly see the scale of the Southern Alps the stunning scenery.

This views never end along this incredible scenic drive. There’s ample viewpoints where you can stop and pullover.

The small village of Cardrona is also worth a stop if you have the time. The Cardrona Pub is a homely and cosy pub serving delicious food. It’s also the home of the famous “bra fence”. Each year, hundreds of women leave their bras on the fence to raise money for charity.

The small town of Arrowtown is about 30-minutes from Queenstown. This old-mining town is like nowhere else in New Zealand. It’s the perfect spot to stop for a couple of hours to learn about a completely different side to New Zealand’s history.

The main street of this quaint town is lined with cute boutiques, coffee shops and gift shops. It’s also in a beautiful setting and is one of the best places in New Zealand to see the autumn colours.

Here’s some amazing things to do in Arrowtown .

After Arrowtown, consider a stop at the beautiful Lake Hayes. There are a couple of hiking tracks around the scenic lake including short walks. There’s also some accomodation options if you want to spend a night there before arriving in Queenstown.

Viewpoint over Arrowtown to see the autumn colours

A Three-Day Road Trip Itinerary from Christchurch to Queenstown (via Cromwell)

Day one: christchurch to tekapo.

Driving distance: 150 miles (231km)

Driving time: About 3 or 4 hours

Start day one of your road trip by taking the scenic route and visiting Rakai Gorge. Stretch your legs here and take in the stunning scenery.

Jump back in the car and drive to Fairlie which is a great stop for some lunch. I’d suggest visiting the Fairlie Bakehouse for some delicious food including their famous pies.

Head to Tekapo and arrive before sunset. Walk along the lakeshore to see the Church of the Good Shepherd and relax in the Tekapo Hot Springs. If you have time, you could consider hiking Mount John or join a stargazing tour.

Day two: Tekapo to Twizel (via Mount Cook)

Driving distance : About 100 miles (160km – with drive to Mount Cook)

Driving time: Around 90 minutes from Tekapo to Mount Cook, then an hour back to Twizel (allow plenty of time for photo stops)

Today’s an exciting day as you’ll be exploring Mount Cook National Park which is home to one of the most popular hikes in the country – the Hooker Valley Track .

Hit the road early and make a stop at Lake Pukaki to take in the views. There are lots of options to fill your day in Mount Cook including hiking and a scenic flight over New Zealand’s highest mountain.

I’ve written a guide on how to spend a day in Mount Cook National Park here.

Day three: Twizel to Queenstown (via Cromwell)

Driving distance: 125 miles (200km)

Driving time: 2 – 3 hours

Today is the last day of your three-day Christchurch to Queenstown road trip.

Begin your day with a short drive to the High Country Salmon Farm . Here, learn about salmon farming in New Zealand, feed the fish and try some fresh salmon. Then, make your way to Omarama. Omarama is a small town where you can relax in the hot tubs or try a famous pie at the Wrinkly Ram.

Continue your drive and consider a detour to the Clay Cliffs , a unique spot in New Zealand that’s well worth a visit. The cliffs were formed millions of years ago and there is a walking path which allows you to explore the area. I’d suggest spending at least an hour here. It’s different to anywhere else I saw in New Zealand.

The final leg of your journey takes you via Cromwell. The town was once a gold mining town but is now one of the country’s top growing fruit regions. There’s not a lot of things to do in Cromwell, but it’s a great lunch spot with some nice cafes and bakeries.

After your rest stop in Cromwell, continue the drive to Queenstown. If you have time, consider stopping off at Gibbston Winery to try some of Otago’s finest wine.

A Four-Day Road Trip Itinerary from Christchurch to Queenstown (via Wanaka)

Day one: as above

Day two: as above

Day three: Twizel to Wanaka

Driving distance : About 90 miles (145km)

Driving time: 2 hours

After this, it’s time to head to Wanaka where you’ll spend the afternoon exploring the lake and beautiful area.

Day four: Wanaka to Queenstown

Driving distance : 43 miles (70km)

Driving time: 90 minutes

Today is the final day of the trip. If you want to hike the famous Roys Peak, now is your chance. Otherwise, it’s time to start the drive to Queenstown. I’d suggest giving yourself plenty of time to stop at some of the scenic viewpoints in the Crown Range. You could also consider a stop in Arrowtown on your way through to Queenstown.

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The Ultimate Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary

Summary: Discover the Best Stops on a Road Trip Itinerary from Christchurch to Queenstown

The drive from Christchurch to Queenstown is easily one of New Zealand’s most epic road trips.

While driving between Christchurch and Queenstown, you’ll encounter some of the South Island’s finest scenery: towering snow-capped mountain ranges, bluer-than-blue glacial lakes, braided rivers, thick beech forests, and golden tussock fields.

It probably goes without saying, but amongst all of this stunning scenery, you’ll also find some fantastic South Island hikes that are just perfect for stretching your legs along your road trip!

There are also plenty of stunning roadside stops for photo ops, great local food options, and wonderful spots to camp or stay overnight.

In short, don’t miss this road trip if you’re traveling around the South Island!

With so many amazing places to see, it can feel a bit overwhelming to plan out your perfect road trip.

Don’t worry, though—we’ve got you covered in this guide. We live in Queenstown and travel to Christchurch multiple times throughout the year. We’ve honestly done this drive so many times that we’ve lost count!

In this guide, we’re sharing all of the best places to stop along your road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown, based on our own experience of driving this exact route many times.

We’ve also included our top places to stay overnight—whether you’re planning to camp or prefer four walls around you at night.

So without further ado, read on to discover how to best road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown!

* Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the link provided, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. We really appreciate your support!

Table of Contents

Some FAQs for this Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary

Technically, you can drive from Christchurch to Queenstown in a day—but doing so would take all of the fun out of it! From point to point, the drive takes just under 6 hours nonstop and covers a distance of around 473kms (294 miles)—not including any side trips (like Wanaka). However, we recommend adding lots of fun stops and overnight stays, and tacking on some worthy detours. For the best experience, enjoy this drive over 7 days (or more!). One week will give you enough time to see and do a lot on your road trip without feeling rushed. In this guide, we’ve noted travel times between each stop along the way, so you can best plan your trip.

You can drive from Christchurch to Queenstown year-round, including in winter—but you’ll want to take some precautions in the winter months (May through September). If driving in winter, you should drive during daylight hours to avoid ice on the roads; in particular, let the sun come up in the morning for a while before you hit the road, as this will allow time for ice to melt. Also, you’ll usually need to carry snow chains with you (and know how to use them). If you’re renting a car or campervan, talk to your rental company about this before you embark on your road trip. This guide has some great tips for safe driving in winter in this part of NZ.

Perfect, this is the guide for you. We’ve included lots of South Island campsites and accommodation options for each destination along this drive.

No problem—simply follow this itinerary in reverse!

Hiring a Car or Campervan for the Drive from Christchurch to Queenstown

If you need to hire a set of wheels for your road trip, no problem: the Christchurch and Queenstown airports are both major hubs for vehicle rentals on the South Island.

Below are the resources we recommend using for car and campervan rentals in New Zealand.

🚙 Hiring a Car

We recommend using Rentalcars.com to quickly compare your car rental options in New Zealand.

Their comparison tool does all the homework for you so you don’t have to spend hours (and open 10+ tabs) to find the best deals on car rentals across the country.

➜ Check Car Prices Here!

🚐 Hiring a Campervan

Motorhome Republic is our go-to resource for finding the best campervan & motorhome rentals in New Zealand.

They offer an awesome selection of the top campervan and motorhome companies in New Zealand, and do all the legwork in comparing prices for you.

We do recommend booking your campervan as soon as you can, as they are in high demand and book out quickly!

→ Check Campervan Prices Here!

Tip: Hire a Car One-Way From Christchurch to Queenstown

If you have limited time for your road trip, the best option is to rent a one-way car or campervan from Christchurch, then drop it off at the Queenstown airport at the end of your trip.

You can then fly from Queenstown back to Christchurch (or elsewhere). There are plenty of car and campervan rental companies that allow for one-way rentals between Christchurch and Queenstown (or vice versa).

Again, we recommend using Rentalcars.com for car rentals and Motorhome Republic to find the best deals on campervan rentals.

To search for one-way car or campervan rentals, simply plug in the “Christchurch Airport” as your pickup location and the “Queenstown Airport” as your dropoff location.

While you may sometimes have to pay a small extra fee for a one-way rental, it is so worth it if you have limited time for your road trip!

On the other hand, if you’re planning to continue on with your South Island journey after this road trip, you could fly into Christchurch, pick up a car or campervan there, and then loop back to Christchurch at the end of the trip. At the end of this guide, we’ve given some ideas for routes you could add to this trip to make it more of a complete South Island loop.

The Best Time of Year to Drive from Christchurch to Queenstown

Honestly, this drive is beautiful year-round, and each season has its charms—you really can’t go wrong! The best time of year for you will depend on what you want to see and do. Here are some things to know about each season to help you plan your road trip:

Late Spring and Early Summer (November to January)

In late spring and early summer, you’ll spot lots of spring blooms along the roadside; lupins are in bloom from early November through December, and the lavender fields will be in full force around this time, too.

Springtime in New Zealand will often bring some rainy days, so make sure you’re prepared for that. This also means that the lakes, rivers, and waterfalls will be looking their finest, as they’ll be replenished from all of that spring rain. From Christmas through January, the roads and stops on this drive will be busy, as this is when most kiwis take their holidays (and schools are out for summer). If you’re planning to do this road trip between Christmas and January, make sure you have everything (your car or campervan, accommodation, etc.) booked well in advance.

Mid/Late Summer and Autumn (February to April)

The weather this time of year is often more settled, with lots of warm, clear days to soak up the sunshine. If you want to go for lake swims, this is the best time of year for that (although the lakes are pretty darn cold year-round, just warning you!). School holidays will be over from mid-February onwards, and you’ll find that the roads (and campgrounds, accommodation, everything really) will be much less crowded. In autumn the trees change color and are a truly gorgeous sight, especially around Arrowtown and Queenstown! April is usually a great month to experience autumn colors along this road trip.

Winter and Early Spring (May to October)

In winter and early spring, you’ll get stunning views of snow-capped mountains along much of this drive. If skiing is your goal once you reach Wanaka and/or Queenstown, the best months for this drive will be July and August. In winter, you may not be able to do all of the hikes mentioned in this guide, but there are definitely plenty you can still do. There are also lots of great day trips from Queenstown in winter . Make sure to have lots of warm and waterproof clothes, though, as it’s going to be cold (but beautiful) out there! If you’re planning to do this road trip in winter, you’ll need to be prepared for winter driving conditions—see our FAQ section above for more information on driving on the South Island in winter.

What to Expect in this Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary

In this guide, you’ll get an itinerary and tips from two locals who do this road trip regularly. This is the exact trip we’d do with friends and family visiting us from abroad (In fact, we have! And everyone always has a fantastic time). We’ve broken this road trip into four distinct sections, as follows:
Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park to Wanaka
Wanaka to Queenstown
Within each section, we’ll note fun stops along the drive itself, plus things to do and where to eat once you get to your destination. You’ll also find our camping and accommodation recommendations for each destination.
We think that besides road-tripping, the best way to experience New Zealand is on your own two feet! For that reason, you’ll find lots of hiking suggestions in this guide. This particular road trip is packed with some of New Zealand’s best day hikes.
In addition to suggestions for hiking, we’ve included lots of great local places to eat and drink (usually more casual-style places). If you enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities, and sampling local food & drinks in relaxed settings, then we think you’ll like this guide!
You’ll also find advice on where to stock up on fuel, food, and other supplies between destinations, if these amenities are far and few between.

Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary Map

The Ultimate Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Guide

Road trip part 1: christchurch to lake tekapo.

Driving time from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo : 3 hours / 222 km (138 miles)
Where & How Long to Stay: 1 night in Lake Tekapo

Important note: If you’ve just come from a long-haul international flight, we strongly recommend spending a night or two in Christchurch before hitting the road. Jet lag is a real thing, and driving when you’re tired is something you shouldn’t do in New Zealand . There are too many accidents on these South Island roads involving tired travelers who need a proper rest before driving—please don’t let that be you.

After picking up your car or campervan and grabbing groceries in Christchurch , it’s time to hit the road. (If you’d like to grab a bite to eat first, check out our guide to the best Christchurch cafes !).

Your destination today is Lake Tekapo, a crown jewel in New Zealand’s long list of beautiful lakes.

This is the longest stretch of the drive from Christchurch to Queenstown, and to be honest, the first part is a little bit boring.

You’ll basically drive past farmland on a straight highway for a couple of hours—but after you get this over with, the scenery becomes magnificent.

When you finally reach Lake Tekapo, prepare to be awestruck.

Lake Tekapo is a glacially-fed lake with an out-of-this-world blue color. In late spring and early summer, lupins surround the lake in a technicolor dream.

There’s a cute township at Lake Tekapo, with plenty to see and do. It’s an excellent first stop on your Christchurch to Queenstown road trip!

Stops on the Drive From Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

📍rakaia gorge walkway.

If you need a bit of a leg stretch to break up the drive, then stop at the Rakaia Gorge. This beautiful, super-blue river is an excellent stop for a walk and/or picnic. To hike the whole Rakaia Gorge Walkway , you’ll need around 3 hours—it’s 9.2kms (5.7 miles) and is moderately difficult. If you’re pressed for time and eager to continue driving, you’ll probably want to opt for a shorter hike : in that case, simply walk for 30-ish minutes (one-way) until you reach the sign for the “Lower Gorge Lookout,” then head back from there. This shorter hike option takes about one hour round-trip and covers 3.1kms (1.9 miles).

Note: If you aren’t keen on a hike today and prefer to just get straight to Lake Tekapo, then you can skip the Rakaia Gorge. Simply take Highway 1 from Christchurch rather than driving the Inland Scenic Route 72/State Highway 77.

📍Geraldine (for picnic supplies!)

Geraldine is a quaint town and while many travelers just drive right through it, we recommend stopping here for two reasons: 1) the Barker’s Foodstore and 2) the Geraldine Cheese Company !

Between these two places, you can pick up everything you need for some awesome road trip picnics. We recommend going to the Geraldine Cheese Company first, to sample and select from their variety of cheeses on offer.

Then pop over to the Barkers Foodstore. Barkers is a well-known food company in NZ, best known for their multitude of sauces, jams, and other delicious condiments. Their quince paste and capsicum/apricot chutney are particular favorites of ours, but be sure to sample a bunch of different things to help you choose your own favorites. If you’re feeling hungry, there’s a lovely cafe on-site, too.

📍 The Fairlie Bakehouse

A stop by this amazing bakery is an absolute must-do. The meat pies at the Fairlie Bakehouse are simply legendary.

For the ultimate road trip snack, try one of their pork belly pies: they’re filled with pork belly pieces and applesauce, and are topped with a crispy piece of pork crackle. So yum.

Things to do in Lake Tekapo

There is plenty to do in Lake Tekapo, but one night should be enough to enjoy this town’s highlights. Here’s what we recommend doing in Lake Tekapo:

✶ Stroll along the Lake Tekapo shoreline

Admire the stunning blue water—or take a swim if you’re feeling brave (the water is SO cold…ahem, refreshing).

✶ Go lupin-spotting

If you’re visiting in late spring/early summer (Nov-Dec), you’ll get to see thousands of gorgeous lupins along the lake. Note : lupins are technically an invasive species in New Zealand. Steps are being taken to remove them from the lakeshore, as they cause erosion amongst other issues. We still like to enjoy their beauty, but it’s worth knowing that they’re not actually meant to be there!

✶ Photograph the Church of the Good Shepherd

This historic stone church is one of Tekapo’s most popular attractions, and it gets packed with people during the day. We recommend timing your visit around sunrise or sunset if you want to avoid some of the crowds (and get beautiful golden lighting, too!).

✶ Soak in the Tekapo Hot Pools

These wonderful hot pools overlook Lake Tekapo, and are such a treat after a long drive! We recommend doing this in the afternoon/evening after your drive from Christchurch—you’ll feel like vacation has truly begun.

✶ Marvel at the Night Sky

Lake Tekapo is located in part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Basically, there’s minimal light pollution in this region, which means that on clear nights you’ll get the most amazing views of the stars and night sky.

You can easily go stargazing on your own—find a nice spot by the lake, bring a towel or blanket to lay down on, and look up! This is what we normally do, if we’re being honest. To take things up a notch, download a free app on your phone— like the Night Sky App—to help you identify different constellations.

If you’re interested in booking a stargazing tour instead of DIY’ing things, there are multiple tours to choose from.

We highly recommend booking a tour with Chameleon Stargazing —choose from a shared or private tour, depending on your needs and budget. Whichever tour you choose, you can look forward to a hot chocolate and fire pit with marshmallows to roast (such welcome treats on a cold Tekapo night)!

Where to Eat & Drink in Lake Tekapo

Kohan Restaurant : This Japanese restaurant is a must-do for us whenever we’re in Tekapo. They make delicious sushi and sashimi using ultra-fresh, locally-procured alpine salmon, and they also have great tempura, teriyaki chicken, and lots more. Their bentos are amazing. Go for lunch or dinner (or both)!
The Greedy Cow Cafe : Head to this popular breakfast/brunch spot for coffee and a filling meal. They do all the classics like eggs benedict, omelets, and french toast, and also have specialty items like Turkish eggs and buddha bowls. If you’re in a hurry, you can grab a fresh sandwich or pastry from their cabinet.
Astro Cafe : Located at the scenic Mount John Observatory, the Astro Cafe serves up delicious coffees and incredible views. Grab a flat white to enjoy on their outdoor patio while you take in the most amazing views over Lake Tekapo. They have light food options, too, if you’re in need of a snack.

Where to Stay in Lake Tekapo

⛺️ Camping in Lake Tekapo

We love camping at the Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park . The holiday park is in a great lakeside location and is within walking distance to town and the Tekapo Hot Pools. They have good campervan sites and cute camping cabins (the latter is what we normally stay in!)

🛌 Accommodation in Lake Tekapo

Mid-range motel: The Lake Tekapo Village Motel couldn’t be in a better location—you’ll be within walking distance to pretty much everything in Tekapo. Their rooms are tidy and good-value, and some have decks with lake views.
Mid-range cottages : The Lake Tekapo Cottages offer self-contained units within walking distance to pretty much everything in Lake Tekapo. The property’s garden setting is really lovely, and the units have sunny decks for enjoying your morning coffee or evening wine. These units are an awesome option if you’d like a place with your own kitchen!
High-end hotel: The Galaxy Boutique Hotel has beautiful, modern rooms, all with lake views. The luxurious bathrooms have bathtubs (so good after being in the car!) and the rooms have skylights so you can stargaze while you’re all cozy in bed.

Road Trip Part 2: Lake Tekapo to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Driving time from Lake Tekapo to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park: 1 hour 10 minutes / 103.5 km (64 miles)
Where & how long to stay: 2 nights in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Today, you’ll make your way to the magnificent Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park.

Fuel yourself up for today’s adventures with a coffee and some breakfast in Lake Tekapo. If there were any Tekapo attractions you missed seeing yesterday, do those this morning.

Before you leave Lake Tekapo to head to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, make sure to stock up on groceries, petrol, and any other supplies you’ll need for the next couple of days. You won’t find many supplies along this next stretch of the road trip.

This will be one of the shortest driving days on the trip, but it’s packed with beautiful attractions—you’ll want to stop at lots of places along the way. Here are the places we think you shouldn’t miss!

Stops on the Drive from Lake Tekapo to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

📍 lake pukaki.

If you thought Lake Tekapo was blue, well…wait until you see Lake Pukaki. Lake Pukaki is another glacially-fed lake and on a sunny day, the water almost glows with blue-ness. It is absolutely stunning. You’ll get to drive alongside Lake Pukaki as you make your way towards Aoraki/Mount Cook—this stretch of the drive is truly one of the most beautiful roads in New Zealand!

📍 Mount Cook Alpine Salmon

Stop by the Lake Pukaki Visitor Center to pick up fresh salmon at the Mount Cook Alpine Salmon shop . The freshwater salmon sold here is raised in pure alpine water, and its SO good. Grab some salmon sashimi for a snack, or if you have a campervan fridge or chilly bin (cooler), pick up some salmon filets for tonight’s dinner.

📍 New Zealand Alpine Lavender Farm

A lavender farm couldn’t possibly be in a more beautiful location than this one! Situated right alongside the road to Mount Cook, you’ve got to stop at the New Zealand Alpine Lavender Farm if you’re a lavender fan. Stroll through the lavender fields, indulge in some lavender ice cream, or buy some lavender essential oil as a souvenir.

There’s an entry fee of $5 per person, which is waived if you spend more than $30 at the onsite shop.

📍 Peter’s Lookout

As you drive along the road to Mount Cook, keep your eyes peeled for the sign pointing to Peter’s Lookout. The lookout has a parking area so you can pull over and enjoy amazing views over Lake Pukaki, the winding road, and Aoraki/Mount Cook itself (if you’re lucky enough to get a clear day!).

Things to do in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a hiker’s dreamland.

For that reason, we think that the best thing to do here is to go hiking!

We’ve recommended staying in the national park for two nights. That way, you can choose a hike to do one day, and another (or a couple) the next.

✶ Day Hikes in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Hooker valley track.

10.6km (6.6 miles) | 2-3 hours | Easy-Moderate

Arguably the South Island’s finest day hike, the Hooker Valley Track is a must-do when you visit the national park.

On a clear day, you simply have to do this hike!

You’ll get to see glacial lakes, cross epic swingbridges, and walk over a beautiful meadow boardwalk—all under the watch of Aoraki/Mount Cook, which looms ahead of you in the distance as you hike.

If you have time and energy for only one hike when you’re in the national park, make it this one.

Sealy Tarns Track

5.8km (3.6 miles) | 3 hours | Moderate-Hard

sealy-tarns-hike-mount-cook-national-park

For a more strenuous day hike—but one with incredible, sweeping views—you’ll want to head up the Sealy Tarns Track.

Also known as the “Stairway to Heaven,” this track takes you up roughly 2,000 steps, with incredible views the whole way.

The most magnificent view is at the top of the track, which is also where you’ll find the alpine tarns that give the trail its name. On a clear and calm day, the tarns reflect the surrounding mountain peaks.

This is truly one of the best day hikes on the South Island, so if you’re up for it, we highly recommend that you give it a go!

Short, easy walks in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

If you’re after a short hike, then head to either Kea Point (2.7km/1.7 miles), the Blue Lakes & Tasman Glacier Viewpoint (1.85km/1.15 miles), and/or the Governor’s Bush walk (1.5km/.9 miles).

Where to Stay in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

⛺️ Camping in & around Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Camping in the national park: The White Horse Hill DOC Campground is an amazing place to camp—in fact, it’s one of our favorite campgrounds on the whole South Island. The campground is right at the trailheads for both the Hooker Valley and Sealy Tarns Tracks, so you honestly couldn’t be in a better location in the park!
Camping near the national park : If you’re willing to stay a bit outside of the national park itself, stay at Glentanner Holiday Park . Glentanner is just 18km outside of the park entrance. You’ll have options for camping (including powered campsites) and budget-friendly units here. This place is a bit of a hidden gem, let us tell you!

Related read : the best camping spots around Mount Cook National Park

🛌 Hotels in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Mid-range hotel: The Aoraki Alpine Lodge has good-value rooms right in the heart of Aoraki / Mount Cook Village. The facilities here are great—there’s a lounge room with epic views and a wood burner, plus a communal kitchen in case you’d like to cook for yourself.
High-end hotel: The Hermitage Hotel is the most luxurious place to stay in the park. The rooms all have amazing mountain views and the whole place just feels special. Note that the rooms are cozy and comfortable, but aren’t super modern (you’re in a national park, after all!)—it’s the location and views that make this hotel worth splurging on.

Where to Eat & Drink in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

There aren’t many places to grab food and drinks in the national park. We usually have picnics and/or cook for ourselves if we’re camping. Note that if you plan to do the same, you’ll need to bring all of your food and drinks into the park with you—there are no supermarkets in the national park.

Currently, the Hermitage Hotel will be your best option for dining in the park. They have a couple of onsite eateries at the hotel.

Road Trip Part 3: Mount Cook to Wanaka

Driving time from Mount Cook National Park to Wanaka : 2 hours 30 minutes / 205 km (127 miles)
Where & How Long to Stay: 2 (or more!) nights in Wanaka

It might be hard to peel yourself away from Aoraki, but further places await you. Today, you’ll be making your way to the lovely lakeside town of Wanaka!

Wanaka is a worthy destination. This beautiful resort town is situated on the southern end of pristine Lake Wanaka. You’ll be surrounded by snow-capped mountain views and relaxed holiday vibes.

There’s a ton to see and do around Wanaka, so we recommend staying at least two nights here.

Before we get to Wanaka, let’s go over the stops you should make along your drive there.

Need a Fuel Top-Up? If you need to top up petrol after leaving Aoraki/Mount Cook, do so in Twizel or Omarama.

Stops on the Drive From Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park to Wanaka

📍 twizel / mint folk & co cafe.

Once you leave Mount Cook National Park, you may be feeling hungry. If so, make sure to stop at Mint Folk & Co Cafe in Twizel for a fantastic breakfast or lunch. Their interior is quite instagrammable and the food here is creative and fresh. If you’re not keen on a full sit-down meal, they have a great range of grab-and-go cabinet food, too.

📍 High Country Salmon

Another freshwater salmon farm in the region, High Country Salmon is a good place to stop for breakfast or lunch. Grab a house-smoked salmon bagel or some freshly-made sushi.

📍 Omarama Clay Cliffs

Go for a wander among the Omarama Clay Cliffs , a badlands-esque area with pinnacle-shaped rock formations. It looks quite similar to the North Island’s Putangirua Pinnacles , which was the Lord of the Rings filming site for the Paths of the Dead.

The clay cliffs are quite unlike anything else you’ll see on the South Island, so if you have time and feel like stretching your legs a bit, then definitely stop here! The walk itself takes only about 30 minutes, but you can explore around for longer if you’re keen.

Bring cash with you to pay for the entrance fee to this spot—it’s just $5 per car.

📍 Hot Tubs Omarama

After all of the driving and hiking you’ve been doing, a soak in some hot water may be calling your name. If so, pay a visit to Hot Tubs Omarama !

These private wood-fired hot tubs are filled with soothing mineral winter from the nearby mountains. They all have beautiful views of the surrounding scenery and you’ll be hard-pressed to leave without feeling totally relaxed.

Prices start at $50 NZD per person for an hour soak session. We do recommend booking ahead as this is a really popular attraction along the drive from Christchurch to Queenstown.

📍 Lindis Pass

Beautiful Lindis Pass is the section of highway that connects the Mackenzie Basin (where you’re coming from) to the Central Otago Region (where you’re headed). The tussock-covered mountains along the pass give off a golden glow, and sparkle after they get a dusting of snow. Pull your car over at the signed lookout area to get a great view and photo op.

Things to Do in Wanaka

Wanaka has a super laid-back vibe, and a lot of activities are centered around the beautiful lake. You can go swimming in the lake (in summer), hire kayaks on the lake, walk around the lake, chill with a good book at the lake…you get the idea. We think it’s almost impossible to visit Wanaka and not leave feeling relaxed.

If you tire of lake activities, though, there’s a lot more to do in the area. Here are the things we recommend doing in Wanaka:

✶ Visit the Famous Wanaka Tree

Yes, it’s a cliche thing to do—but you can’t visit Wanaka and not go see its famous tree! This insta-famous willow-in-the-water has got its own hashtag and all (#thatwanakatree), and it’s a quick stop to see it, so why not?

✶ Go Hiking on Wanaka’s Epic Trails

Wanaka is a hiker’s heaven. You could spend weeks hiking around Wanaka and not run out of amazing trails to explore. That being said, here are our top two hiking trails around Wanaka:

Rob Roy Glacier Track

10km (6.2 miles) | 3-4 hours | Moderate-Hard

The Rob Roy Glacier track is our #1 favorite day hike in all of New Zealand—it’s so, so good.

The trail involves majestic beech forest, glacial-blue rivers, a scenic swingbridge, and an up-and-close glacier encounter you need to see to believe.

Hiking this trail is our top thing to do in Wanaka. If you’re an avid hiker, do not miss this one!

Getting to the trailhead is a bit of a mission, if we’re being honest—but it’s so worth it.

You’ll need to drive just over 50kms to reach the start of the trail, and a good chunk of the drive is on unpaved road (sometimes with fords to cross, depending on rainfall). Don’t let that deter you from visiting, though—plan for this hike as a day trip from Wanaka, and it’ll be a day to remember!

16km (9.9 miles) | 5-6 hours | Hard

The Roy’s Peak Track is Wanaka’s most famous hike—in fact, this is one of the most famous hikes in all of New Zealand. This is the viewpoint you’ve seen in all of those photos on Instagram, and the view is the main highlight of the track.

Roy’s Peak isn’t actually our favorite hike in the area (that title goes to the Rob Roy Glacier track mentioned above), but we know a lot of people have this one on their bucket list—so let’s give you a little lowdown on the hike!

This hike climbs up (and UP!) through farmland to tussock-covered mountain tops with some seriously incredible views over Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.

It takes roughly 2.5 hours to reach the famous viewpoint—and then the actual summit of the hike is another 30-45 minutes uphill from there. The summit sits at 1,578 meters above sea level.

Some tips for hiking Roy’s Peak:

You should know that because this is the most popular hike in the area, it’s going to be crowded. Try to start this hike early in the morning (like before sunrise if possible) to get a parking spot, and also to get a leg up on some of the crowds on the trail.

Bring layers of clothing, sunscreen, a hat, hiking snacks, and LOTS of water—this is an exposed trail with no shade or water along the way.

Also bring a picnic to enjoy at the summit, to fortify yourself for the hike down—it’s a killer on the knees, let us tell you!

Tip: If Roy’s Peak seems just too crowded for your liking, a good alternative in the area is the Isthmus Peak track .

✶ Drink Delicious Beers at Wanaka’s Craft Breweries

Despite its small size, Wanaka has a great selection of craft breweries to choose from. Head to a Wanaka brewery for a pint after hitting the hiking trails or ski slopes!

Here are some wonderful Wanaka breweries to try:

Rhyme x Reason Brewery : Grab a pint to enjoy in their lovely beer garden. This great spot is family (and dog!) friendly, and they have a happy hour from 4pm-6pm with $1 off pints and discounted wines & ciders. They sometimes host food trucks, but otherwise, BYO snacks.
Ground Up Brewery : With 22 beers on tap—including some small-batch brews only available in their taproom—this brewery has something for everyone. They have happy hour from 5pm-7pm Monday through Friday, and snacks from the Wanaka ‘Wich Project Wednesday through Sunday.
b.effect Brewery at b.social : This local-favorite brewery has a plethora of beers to choose from, plus ginger beer (SO good), ciders, and kombucha. Sit in the beer garden and order a great meal to go along with your beverage of choice—they have a full menu with burgers, snacks (including poutine!), and lots more. If you can’t choose a beer, go for a tasting flight to sample a few at once.

✶ Enjoy Great Food at Wanaka’s Eateries

There is seriously so much good food in Wanaka. It’s hard to narrow them down, but here are some places we recommend:

Tip : Burrito Craft is part of an outdoor food cart pod with lots of great options. If you’re traveling with other people, it’s an awesome place to go as everyone can choose from whichever type of food cart they want!
Red Star Burger Bar : Head here for a hearty, high-quality burger, or if you’re trying to be healthy, you can have any burger turned into a yummy salad.
Scroggin : This airy, modern cafe is just the ticket for a healthy but satisfying brunch. Whether you eat everything or are vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free, they’ve got you covered. Scroggin also does packed lunches if you want picnic supplies to take on your Wanaka adventures.
Big Fig : With a motto of “slow food, served fast,” the Big Fig is the place to go for a quick, healthy lunch in Wanaka. You’ll choose a “plate” size and then pick from a variety of slow-cooked meats and super-fresh salads, all with a Middle Eastern influence. This spot is such a good place to fuel up for a hike without feeling weighed down.
Fedeli : If you’re after a takeaway coffee, sandwich, or salad (or all of the above), get yourself on over to Fedeli! They use seasonal, local produce in their food, which is all freshly made and just wonderful. This is a great place to grab a sandwich to take on a hike.
Francesca’s Italian Kitchen : For a nice Italian dinner, go to Francesca’s. They have fantastic pizzas and pastas—including an amazing merino lamb ragu with pappardelle—and their polenta fries are to die for. We like treating ourselves to a dinner date here for special occasions (or after completing a hard hike like Roy’s Peak!).

✶ Watch a Movie at the Cinema Paradiso

The Cinema Paradiso is an iconic Wanaka landmark. This boutique movie theater has comfy old couches, a cafe and bar, and even warm cookies for sale at intermission! If it’s a rainy day in Wanaka, or if you want something relaxing to do after hiking or skiing, go see a movie here—you’ll love it!

✶ Get Weird at Wanaka’s Puzzling World

This famous Wanaka attraction has a maze, bizarre buildings, optical illusions, and puzzling rooms—it’s weird, and it’s wonderful! Visitors of all ages absolutely love this spot.

Carve out a couple of hours if you want to go to Puzzling World —you’ll want to spend some time there. Puzzling World is a unique “must-do” in Wanaka if you’re after an indoor activity.

✶ Frolic Through the Wanaka Lavender Farm

In summer (December through February), the Wanaka Lavender Farm has fields of lavender in full bloom. A wander through the flower fields is a delight for the senses, with purple all around and the most heavenly scent in the air!

While summertime is when the lavender is in full swing, you can visit the lavender farm year-round to enjoy a lavender ice cream and tea in the cafe, pick up some handmade lavender products (and honey!), and visit the adorable onsite farm animals.

Entry fees for the Wanaka lavender farm:

Dec-March: $15 per adult; $7.50 per child (free for children under 5 yrs)
April-Nov: $7 per adult; $3.50 per child (free for children under 5 yrs)

✶ Go Skiing or Snowboarding (winter only, of course!)

Wanaka is a world-class destination for skiers and snowboarders. The ski season usually runs from June through late September/early October, depending on the year.

The two main ski resorts near Wanaka are Cardrona and Treble Cone .

Cardrona is known for having the most reliable conditions and a family-friendly experience. Treble Cone is popular with intermediate to experienced skiers and snowboarders who like to go “off-piste” and enjoy challenging terrain.

A lift pass can be used at both Cardrona and Treble Cone, so you can try them both if you’re keen!

✶ Day Trip to the Blue Pools

Along the Makarora River lies the Blue Pools Track , one of the best short walks on the South Island.

These stunning pools have some of the clearest, bluest water you’ll ever see—especially on a sunny day. The glacial water is so crystal-clear that you’ll often be able to spot trout swimming in the depths.

The short walk through beech forest is lovely, too—and you’ll get to cross a couple of cool swingbridges. The Blue Pools themselves are quite cold to swim in since they’re glacier-fed, but on a hot summer’s day, you might be tempted!

Tip : If you’re heading to the Blue Pools, make a day out of it and go scope out nearby Fantail Falls and Thunder Creek Falls , too! Pack a picnic for the journey, as this will be almost a full day of adventuring.

Where to Stay in Wanaka

⛺️ camping in wanaka.

Camping in Wanaka: The best campground close to Wanaka is the Wanaka Top 10 Holiday Park . They have powered and unpowered campsites, and cabins—and a sauna, which is heaven after a day of hiking or skiing!
Camping near Wanaka: Another great camping option is the Camp at Lake Hawea . This spot is located right alongside peaceful Lake Hawea, a 15-minute drive from Wanaka. They have all sorts of options, including campsites, glamping tents, cute cottages, and luxurious geo-domes.

🛌 Accommodation in Wanaka

Mid-range motel: Perched on a hill above Wanaka township, the West Meadows Motel has beautiful mountain views, friendly staff, and stylish, modern rooms. We love this motel a whole lot. If you stay here, make sure to check out Ruby’s Cinema and Bar just across the road.
Mid-range motel: The Clearbrook Motel is a standout; it’s located in the most convenient spot within walking distance to all of the best Wanaka cafes and restaurants. A crystal-clear creek runs right through the property and the rooms have outdoor decks or patios—sit under the sun and enjoy the sounds of the water rushing by!
High-end apartments : Lakeside Apartments Wanaka offer beautiful apartment-style accommodation right in the heart of Wanaka. Choose from a range of different apartments, from one-bedroom to three-bedroom units. The apartments have stunning lake views, plus access to a heated pool and spa area.

Road Trip Part 4: Wanaka to Queenstown

Driving time from Wanaka to Queenstown : 1 hour / 68.5 km (43 miles)
Where & How Long to Stay : 2 (or more!) nights in Queenstown

Today, you’re off to the “Adventure Capital of the World”: Queenstown.

Queenstown is arguably the most touristy place in New Zealand, and for good reason: it’s magnificent. Situated on beautiful Lake Wakatipu; surrounded by mountain peaks and a world-class wine region; and bustling with adventure and outdoor activities, amazing food, and great nightlife—this town is a destination in and of itself.

Okay, maybe we’re a bit biased—we do live in Queenstown. But if you like beautiful places (and don’t we all?), we think you’ll love it too!

Even the drive from Wanaka to Queenstown is absolutely stunning the entire way. Here’s what you’ll want to see along the way:

Stops on the Drive from Wanaka to Queenstown:

📍 the cardrona distillery.

The Cardrona Distillery produces some sip-worthy local spirits, including vodka, gin, whisky, and liqueurs. They make their products with Cardrona Valley alpine water and foraged ingredients, and it’s some truly top-notch stuff.

The distillery offers tours and tastings, but if you don’t have a DD with you, you could simply pick up a beautiful bottle as a souvenir.

When you drive into the Cardona Distillery, you’ll also get a glimpse of the famous “Bradrona,” a fence covered in hundreds of bras. This quirky (and controversial) attraction sits alongside the road and is hard not to miss—it’s a bra fence, after all! Snap a photo and consider making a donation to the New Zealand Breast Cancer Society; there’s a donation box along the fence for this purpose.

📍 The Cardrona Hotel

Sitting prettily between Wanaka and Queenstown en route to the Crown Range Road, the iconic Cardrona Hotel just may be the most-photographed building in New Zealand.

This rustic, charming hotel is steeped in history, and it’s also home to a wonderful restaurant and pub that’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Whether you’re after a meal or just a photo, don’t miss a stop at this legendary hotel!

📍 The Crown Range Road

The Crown Range Road is a super-steep, super-windy scenic road and the fastest route between Wanaka and Queenstown. It’s also the highest main road in New Zealand, traversing over an alpine pass that reaches an altitude of 1121 meters at its summit.

This road is absolutely stunning, and we recommend going this way if you can, but there is some need for caution. First, if you’re renting a campervan, make sure you’re allowed to take it on this road—some campervan companies prohibit driving over it. Second, if you’re driving the road in winter (between May and September), make sure you 1) have snow chains with you and 2) drive in daylight hours after the sun has melted any ice on the road.

Okay—so why should you drive this way after all of these cautionary warnings? Well, the Crown Range Road is absolutely stunning!

As you make your way up and over the road, you’ll skirt along tussock-covered mountains and be treated to beautiful views over Arrowtown, Queenstown, and the Remarkables Ranges. In early summer, wild lupins blanket the roadside, and in late summer, you’ll see gorgeous sunflower fields.

Alternate route: If your campervan company prohibits you from driving over the Crown Range Road, or if it just seems a bit too scary for your driving comfort levels, don’t worry—there’s another beautiful way to drive from Wanaka to Queenstown (and vice versa). You’ll simply want to take State Highway 6, which goes past Cromwell and through the beautiful, winery-rich Gibbston Valley.

📍 Arrowtown

After descending from the Crown Range Road, take the short detour to Arrowtown.

Arrowtown is an adorable historic gold mining town that’s just 15 minutes away from Queenstown. It makes for an excellent afternoon stop between Wanaka and Queenstown!

Here’s how to spend a perfect afternoon in Arrowtown…

Grab lunch (and a beer) at Slow Cuts . They make the most delicious burgers and have their own house-brewed Lake & Wood beer on tap. For other food and drink options, we recommend Provisions (great baked goods), Chop Shop (amazing brunch), or the Fork & Tap Alehouse for a pint and snack.
Explore the adorable Arrowtown township by walking along Buckingham Street, which is just packed with cute buildings and lovely boutique shops.
Wander down to the Arrowtown River to walk off lunch. Visit the historic Chinese settlement , or take the Arrowtown River trail for a longer walk. You may stumble upon some secret swimming holes along the way…
If you like to cook/shop for local food, don’t miss a visit to the Royalburn Farm Shop . They have a fantastic selection of locally-sourced produce and meat, plus lots of other gourmet items like pasta, preserves, and good sourdough bread. Grab supplies to make a campervan dinner or cook at your accommodation, and it’ll be a homemade meal to remember!
For a longer walk, head to beautiful Lake Hayes and follow the trail that circles the lake. It’s particularly stunning in autumn, when the leaves start to change color on all of the surrounding trees.

Tip : if you’d rather just go straight from Wanaka to Queenstown today without stopping, you could always day trip to Arrowtown from Queenstown later on in your trip.

How to Get From Arrowtown to Queenstown

After exploring Arrowtown, it’s time to make your way to Queenstown. It’ll take you about 20 minutes to drive from Arrowtown to Queenstown. There are two ways to drive from Arrowtown to Queenstown, as follows:

Option 1 : If you’re ready to just get to Queenstown, we recommend taking the route via Malaghan’s Road, which goes past Millbrook Resort and then Arthur’s Point before descending into the main Queenstown township. Going this way will help you avoid most of Queenstown’s traffic.

Option 2 : If you need to get groceries or other supplies—or if you’re staying in the Frankton area—then take the Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Road to connect to State Highway 6. This route will take you right past the best supermarkets in Queenstown (we’re partial to Pak n Save) so you can stock up on whatever you need before checking into your accommodation or campground.

Things to Do in Queenstown

So you’ve made it to Queenstown, yay! After checking in to your accommodation or campground, it’s time to explore (or just relax in) this beautiful town.

Queenstown is known as the “adventure capital of the world,” as it’s packed with a mind-boggling array of adventure activities—you can go bungy jumping, skydiving, paragliding, and jet boating, just to name a few.

While it’s best known for these adventure activities, there are actually so many other things to do in Queenstown. In full disclosure: we’re Queenstown locals, and we never do any of the adventure activities we’ve just mentioned…basically, even if you’re not into adrenaline-rushing activities, don’t skip Queenstown!

Queenstown is located right near a stunning wine region and world-class hiking and mountain biking trails. This beautiful little resort town also punches well above its weight when it comes to cafes, restaurants, and bars—there are so many amazing eateries and watering holes within Queenstown’s relatively small sphere!

There is so much to see and do in Queenstown, so you’ll definitely want to stay a few days here to make the most of it. Below are our recommendations for the best things to do in Queenstown!

✶ Hang at Queenstown Bay Beach (& Maybe Go Kayaking!)

In summer, Queenstown Bay Beach is a great place to lay down a picnic blanket and hang out for a while.

It’s also a great spot to enjoy a takeaway meal al fresco—Fergburger and Erik’s Fish & Chips are two very popular choices to bring down to the beach!

While the water is super cold pretty much year-round, it’s refreshing to go for an icy swim on a hot day.

If you’d like to partake in some watersports, there are seasonal rentals right at the beach for paddleboards and kayaks.

✶ Enjoy the Queenstown Gardens

The Queenstown Gardens are just a stone’s throw away from Queenstown Bay and the town center, and they’re well worth a visit.

It’s completely free to walk through the gardens, which are filled with beautiful leafy trees and colorful flowers in the warmer months.

The rose gardens here are particularly gorgeous in summer—if you have a good book to read, there’s no better place to hang out on a bench for a while.

You can also play frisbee (disc) golf in the gardens—this is one of our favorite free activities in Queenstown! The disc golf course is free to play, and you can hire discs from the Queenstown Ice Arena (also in the gardens) for $6 a disc, or Small Planet Sports in town for $5 a disc.

✶ Hike Up the Queenstown Hill Walkway

The Queenstown Hill Walkway starts just a few minutes from town and takes you up to one of Queenstown’s best viewpoints.

The hike involves a 400-meter (1,312 ft) climb through a pine forest to reach the summit of Te Tapu-nui (mountain of intense sacredness).

All in all, this hike takes about 1.5 hours round-trip, although you might want to linger longer up top to really enjoy the views!

To start the hike, you’ll want to drive up to the trailhead parking area on Belfast Terrace. Alternatively, you can walk up to the trailhead from town, but do note that this will add quite a bit of elevation gain to your walk.

Along the trail, make sure to check out the Basket of Dreams sculpture, which is just 10 minutes from the summit of the hike. There are informative panels along the walk to provide facts and stories about Queenstown’s history.

This trail is one of the best free things to do in Queenstown—the views from the summit are truly some of the best in town.

✶ Tackle More Queenstown Hikes

Around Queenstown, you’ll find some of the best hikes on the South Island. You’ll seriously be spoilt for choice when it comes to hiking trails!

To help narrow things down for you, here are some of our absolute favorite hikes in Queenstown:

Lake Alta Track

3.4km (2.1 miles) | 1.5 hours | Moderate

Located up on the Remarkables ski field, this hike climbs to a stunning glacial lake. This hike is a locals’ gem that’s often missed in travel guides to the area, but we can’t recommend it enough!

This hike is best done between November to May, as in the winter months the entire place will be covered in snow (it is on a ski field, after all!).

Mt. Crichton Loop Track

7.6km (4.7 miles) | 2.5 hours | Moderate

Another locals’ favorite hike, highlights of this track include lush beech forest, a beautiful river, a waterfall, and a historic backcountry hut.

This hike is a great one for all ages—and when you’re in the area, don’t miss visiting Bob’s Cove, either! (See more details on Bob’s Cove in the next entry).

Routeburn Track Day Hike – Routeburn Falls

18.2km (11.3 miles) | 6 hours | Hard

The Routeburn Track is one of New Zealand’s famous Great Walks, which are multi-day hikes (“tramps” in Kiwi lingo) that traverse some of the country’s most magnificent landscapes.

When it comes to the Routeburn Track, you don’t actually have to complete the whole thing to enjoy this hike’s epic scenery. Instead, we recommend doing a day hike on the Routeburn track!

If you’re staying in Queenstown, you can easily day trip to the start of the Routeburn Track, which is just outside of Glenorchy. From the Routeburn Track trailhead, you can then hike to Routeburn Falls as an out-and-back hike.

This will be a full-day hiking excursion, but it is SO worth the effort—this is, by far, one of the absolutely best day hikes on the South Island!

✶ Visit Bob’s Cove

Bob’s Cove is a Queenstown gem, with beautiful walking trails and swimmable beach coves.

To get to Bob’s Cove, you’ll need to drive, but it takes just 20 minutes from the Queenstown town center.

We recommend parking at the main Bob’s Cove carpark, and from there you can hike for about 20 minutes to the Picnic Point lookout. The lookout has incredible views over Bob’s Cove and Lake Wakatipu.

After admiring the views from Picnic Point, head back down to Bob’s Cove beach to go for a swim. We also love bringing a picnic lunch to Bob’s Cove—trust us, once you get there, you won’t want to leave!

✶ Drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy

The scenic drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy shouldn’t be missed on your visit to Queenstown!

The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy technically takes just 45 minutes, but it’s so incredibly beautiful that you’ll want to stop at lots of places and take your time.

Two “must-do” stops on the drive include Bob’s Cove (see more in the entry above) and the Bennett’s Bluff lookout .

When you get to Glenorchy, don’t miss a visit to the adorable red boat shed , and stop by Mrs. Woolley’s General Store for a treat! If you’re up for an easy walk, the Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway is beautiful; on a clear, calm day, you’ll see reflections of the surrounding mountains in the water.

While many people visit Glenorchy as a day trip from Queenstown, you could also consider spending a night or two around Glenorchy. If you plan to go camping in the area, check out our guide to the best Glenorchy camping grounds !

✶ Take the Gondola and Ride the Luge

Ride the beautiful Skyline Gondola up to the top of Bob’s Peak, where you’ll get epic views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and all of the surrounding mountains.

Once at the top, you might want to try the luge—it’s really fun. You’ll get to drive your own little luge cart down a thrilling track in one of the most scenic places on earth.

Tip : If you want to get up to Bob’s Peak to enjoy the views, but don’t have a gondola ride in your budget, you can hike up the Tiki Trail instead!

✶ Go Wine (or Beer) Tasting in Gibbston Valley

The Gibbston Valley is a picturesque wine region right at Queenstown’s doorstep, and it would be a shame to visit the area without sampling some of the local drops! Pinot Noir is the specialty in this region.

There are heaps of wonderful wineries to visit—we recommend Gibbston Valley (also home to a wonderful cheesery!), Chard Farm , and/or Cargo Brewery (where you can sip on craft beer or local wines in a gorgeous relaxed setting).

If you don’t have a DD and want a car-free wine tasting option, you can book a seat on a Hop on Hop Off bus , which stops at lots of great wineries and breweries.

Budget tip : If a wine or beer tasting isn’t in the cards, you could pick up some local wine or craft beer to enjoy at your accommodation or campground—most of the supermarkets in Queenstown have a good local wine and beer selection!

✶ Catch Some Thrills on a Jet Boat

There is an astounding array of adrenaline-rushing adventure activities in Queenstown, but the one we’d recommend to most people is a jet boat ride.

You’ll have a lot of different jet boat options available to you, and it can be hard to choose. To help you out: check out the Skippers Canyon jet boat !

On this excursion, you’ll get to go on a tour of Skippers Canyon with a knowledgable driver, then hop on a jet boat to zip around the beautiful Shotover River. It’s an exhilarating experience; you get a mix of beautiful scenery and some serious excitement all in one package.

✶ Take a Cruise on the TSS Earnslaw

For a relaxing cruise on Lake Wakatipu, take the leisurely 90-minute boat ride on the TSS Earnslaw , a historic steamship from 1912. The boat cruises over to the Walter Peak High Country Farm, a beautiful merino sheep station.

The TSS Earnslaw is one of the most popular attractions in Queenstown, and it’s fun for all ages. Onboard the boat, there’s a cafe selling coffee, beer, or wine if you want to really feel like you’re on vacation.

When booking your cruise, we highly (HIGHLY!) recommend choosing the gourmet BBQ lunch option. This buffet lunch is served in the beautiful dining room at the Walter Peak High Country Farm. The food is next-level delicious and features fresh local produce and meat—it’s not your typical buffet food. Make sure you arrive hungry, as you’ll want to try a bit of everything at this gourmet feast.

✶ Go Skiing or Snowboarding in Winter

Queenstown, like Wanaka, is home to some fantastic skiing and snowboarding.

You have two options for skiing/snowboarding in Queenstown: the Remarkables Ski Area and Coronet Peak . Both are beautiful ski fields (aka “ski resorts” as we North Americans call them). You’ll have a blast at either one.

Coronet Peak is the closest mountain to town. In addition to day skiing, they have night skiing on Wednesdays and Fridays (and sometimes Saturdays, too) which is really fun to experience. This ski field also has epic views right over Queenstown.

The Remarkables Ski Area is the bigger Queenstown ski field, with more runs to choose from. The snow tends to be less icy at the Remarkables vs. Coronet Peak. Like Coronet Peak, the Remarkables ski field also features stunning views.

Both are great places to hit the slopes.

When you buy a lift pass to either mountain, you’ll actually get access to both mountains—so, why not try them both out over a few days, and see which one you like best?

✶ Soak in the Onsen Hot Pools

For a relaxing Queenstown activity, go for a soak in one of the Onsen Hot Pool’s cedar-lined tubs. These private hot tubs overlook the Shotover River canyon—it’s a stunning place for a bit of pampering, especially after a day of hiking or skiing!

Where to Eat and Drink in Queenstown

There are so many awesome places to eat and drink in Queenstown, so it’ll be impossible to list them all here. That being said, here are some places we recommend!

Places to Eat in Queenstown

Cafes & casual dining in queenstown:.

Bespoke Kitchen : This wonderful cafe serves up beautiful food and caters to pretty much every dietary requirement. From smoothie bowls to eggs benedict to fancy avocado toast (and everything in between), Bespoke Kitchen has your brunch needs sorted!
Vudu Cafe & Larder : Enjoy a coffee and breakfast at this great cafe, which couldn’t be in a better location—it’s situated right on the Queenstown waterfront, with lots of outdoor seating. Vudu has a seasonal menu and supports local producers, so head here for a fresh, locally-sourced meal in a prime locale.
The Boatshed : Located in the picturesque Frankton Marina, the Boatshed is a great spot for brunch. You can enjoy your meal inside, or outside on their lovely lakefront patio. Whatever you decide to order, don’t miss getting a side of their crispy potatoes with chipotle aioli…they are SO good. To walk off brunch, take a stroll along the Frankton Track towards Frankton Beach.
Fergbaker : Fergburger’s lesser-known sister, Fergbaker, is a must-do in Queenstown, in our opinion. Grab a pastry, pie, or sandwich for takeaway. Their pork and apple pie is particularly delicious, as is a sandwich on one of their freshly-made baguettes.
Fergburger : This is the most famous place to eat in Queenstown, so we can’t not include it here. Grab a burger and take it to the beach! Just be prepared to wait in a long line to order your food…this place is seriously popular. Tip : you can call in your order ahead of time if you don’t want to wait in line.

Dinner spots in Queenstown:

Blue Kanu : For a fantastic dinner in Queenstown, head to Blue Kanu. They do a blend of Pacifica and Asian cuisines in a fusion they’ve deemed “Polynasia”—and it’s all delicious. We recommend getting a few different items for the table so you can sample multiple flavors—or do their “Trust the Wok” four-course set menu if you’re feeling adventurous! Their duck nachos and Fijian fish Kokoda are highly recommended.
@ Thai Cusine : We’re big fans of Thai Food, and @ Thai does some of the best in New Zealand. It’s also a great takeaway choice in Queenstown if you don’t feel like dining in a restaurant.
Farellis Trattoria : Farellis is a go-to in Queenstown for a fantastic Italian meal. They have great food and service—and even a fully vegan menu. Their pizzas and pastas are all so yum, and don’t forget to order some garlic bread!

Places to Get Drinks in Queenstown

Perkys Floating Bar : This is quite possibly the most unique bar in Queenstown—it’s on a permanently-moored boat on Lake Wakatipu! They have great drinks (make sure to try the mulled wine if you’re visiting in winter) and a casual atmosphere. They don’t do food, but you’re allowed to bring your own, or you can order a meal from Devil Burger to be delivered right to you!
Atlas Beer Cafe : If it’s a craft beer you’re after, go to Atlas Beer Cafe. They have heaps of NZ craft beers on tap and an awesome outdoor seating area right by the waterfront.
Sundeck : This rooftop bar is a vibe, with awesome views, great drinks, and DJs playing good music. It’s a nice place to soak up the sun in summer, and in winter they have fire pits and a retractable roof so you can cozy up with your beverage of choice.
Little Blackwood : Head here to sip on a fantastic cocktail while you take in the gorgeous lake views from their heated deck or cozy up inside by the roaring fire. They do awesome charcuterie boards, too!
Ferg’s Bar : Of the same “Ferg” legacy as the famous burgers and bakery, Ferg’s done it again with one of Queenstown’s best bars. While looks may be deceiving, this isn’t your typical bar—they serve some of the best food and drinks in town. Splash out on a fun cocktail and pair your drink with one of the outstanding menu items on offer. Or just get the crispy potato skins—they are next-level delicious.

Where to Stay in Queenstown

⛺️ Camping in Queenstown

The absolute best campground in Queenstown is the Driftaway Holiday Park . This campground is top-notch in every way! With a lakefront location on the sunny Frankton Arm, a spotless modern amenities block, and onsite hot tubs for hire, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a nicer campground! From camp, it’s a 10-minute drive or a quick bus ride or water taxi trip into town.
For camping right in town, try the Creeksyde Holiday Park . This quirky campground has an awesome location within walking distance to pretty much everything.
DOC campsites close to Queenstown are the 12-Mile Delta Campsite and Moke Lake .

► Further reading: check out our guide to the best campsites in Queenstown !

🛌 Accommodation in Queenstown

There are heaps of great accommodation options in Queenstown—the best choice for you just depends on your budget and preferences!

Here are some accommodation options we recommend, from personal experience:

Mid-range hotel : The Sherwood is an eco-friendly boutique hotel that’s perfect for travelers who want something a bit more charming than your average hotel. It has a rustic wood-cabin vibe, a fantastic onsite restaurant, yoga classes, and great gigs from visiting musicians. It’s an easy 10-minute bus ride into town from the Sherwood.
High-end hotel : The Rees is a beautiful property perched above the Frankton Track, with elevated views over Lake Wakatipu. They have luxurious lake-view rooms, their own private jetty and beach, and a highly-rated restaurant. While the hotel is just a 5-minute drive into town, they also offer a complimentary shuttle for guests—or take the water taxi from their jetty into town! For guests who like to walk, you can walk to town in about 40 minutes via the scenic Frankton Track.
High-end apartment : The Marina Apartments by Element Escapes are located in the Frankton Marina, just a 10-minute bus ride or a quick drive into town. These apartments are a great option for travelers who want their own kitchen and laundry facilities—they’re set up really well! You can walk along the beautiful Frankton Track right from your doorstep, and wander over to the Boatshed Cafe and Altitude Brewery for great food and drinks.

And there you have it—the ultimate itinerary for driving from Christchurch to Queenstown! While we think this itinerary is pretty much perfect as-is, you might need to adjust some things depending on how much time you have for your trip. Below are some ideas for ways to change up this itinerary.

Alternate Itineraries for a Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip

If you need to shorten your Christchurch to Queenstown road trip itinerary:

To shorten the itinerary we’ve given, we recommend simply stopping by Lake Tekapo on the way to Mount Cook, rather than staying in Tekapo overnight.

If you need to condense the itinerary even more, you may have to do some one-night stays in Mount Cook, Wanaka and/or Queenstown.

If you have 2-3 more days to add to your Christchurch to Queenstown road trip itinerary:

After Queenstown, head down to Te Anau and take the scenic drive to Milford Sound .

While many people will recommend that you visit Milford Sound as a day trip from Queenstown, we don’t recommend this at all! The drive is too long, and there’s so much to see. Instead, stay in Te Anau for two nights and explore Milford Sound and the surrounding area from there.

When you’re done in Te Anau/Milford Sound, drive back to Queenstown for your return flight.

If you have another week (or more) to add to your Christchurch to Queenstown road trip itinerary:

If you have two whole weeks or more on the South Island, why not make a loop out of your road trip?

After Queenstown, we recommend adding on the Southern Scenic Route , which takes you to Te Anau, Milford Sound, the Catlins, and Dunedin.

Then drive along the East Coast (visiting Moeraki & Oamaru on the way) to loop back to Christchurch.

And for a completely different route…

If you prefer coastal scenery, then consider this plan: drive from Christchurch to Kaikōura, then head up to Blenheim or Picton. From there, follow this Picton to Queenstown road trip via the West Coast!

Want more New Zealand itineraries?

Then check out our other NZ road trip itineraries!

> 3-week South Island campervan itinerary > 10 days on New Zealand’s North Island itinerary or 7 days on New Zealand’s North Island itinerary > Ultimate itinerary for driving from Auckland to Queenstown !

Thanks for Reading our Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary!

We hope this guide has helped you plan the ultimate road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown.

If you have any questions about this road trip, please feel free to contact us or leave a comment, and we’ll be happy to try and help 🙂

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32 Comments

Just wanted to say what a great itinerary you have shared! It is flawless and I am tempted to just print this out and follow it every step of the way! Thank you so much!

Thanks very much for your comment, Arden! I’m so glad you’ve found the itinerary helpful. Hope you have a wonderful road trip!

Hi Jac, I agree with Arden that this guide was extremely helpful. I feel that it truly captured an authentic roadtrip with less touristy stops, and more wonders of the area. The pictures were also extremely helpful and I like that it was a mix of food recommendations and stops to get moving. Very appreciative as we travel through New Zealand for the first time 🙂

Comments like this make my day – thanks so much, Taylor! I’m happy you’ve found the guide helpful. Enjoy your time in New Zealand and feel free to get in touch any time if you need help with your trip plans 🙂

Hello. I was about to spend a lot of time doing research for my NZ trip, but because I found your guide I made my itineraries in 2 hours. Thank you so much :-)) But then I also found out that all the hotels or apartments that you recommended were already sold out for this December …. Thanks again so much you make my planning so much easier :-))

Hi Jane! Thanks so much for your comment. That’s great to hear you found the itinerary helpful!

Sorry to hear the accommodation is all booked up – unfortunately, December is a busy time along this route.

There are lots of great places to stay so even if the spots I recommended are all booked, I hope you can still find accommodation.

I’d look at booking.com for accommodation and then cross-reference reviews on there with reviews on google.

Good luck, and hope you have a great trip!

Hi Jac, it’s me again

If we want to really enjoy the road trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound and visited all the stops that you recommended without any rush, how many days that you would suggest? Thanks so much in advance

Hi Jane! I would take 2 days for the road trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound, and stay 2 nights in Te Anau.

On day one, drive from Queenstown to Te Anau and spend time around Te Anau. You could visit the bird sanctuary, book a glow worm cave tour, do a walk (I love the walk to Brod Bay), and grab dinner somewhere (Redcliff Cafe or Ditto are both great).

On day two, drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound and spend the whole day enjoying sightseeing, walks, and a Milford Sound cruise before returning to Te Anau for the night.

Hope that helps, and if you have any other questions, just let me know!

Thank you so much, you are really wonderful :))

Thank you so much for this guide! It is very well written and organized. I am planning to travel from Queenstown to Christchurch so I will be using your guide in reverse. But I was wondering if you could stay overnight in two places on the road trip from Queenstown to Christchurch, where would you stay? I know the guide said that if you have less time, then to skip Lake Tekapo but the drive from Mount Cook to Christchurch is nearly four hours and that seems quite long.

Hi Ann! Thanks for your message and I’m so glad you found the guide helpful.

After Queenstown, you could stay in Wanaka (1-2 nights) and then Lake Tekapo (1 night), with a detour to Mount Cook along the drive between Wanaka and Lake Tekapo.

Just make sure to give yourself a full day for the drive from Wanaka to Lake Tekapo, as there’s a lot to see and do along the way.

From Lake Tekapo, it would then be about a 3 hour drive to Christchurch.

Cheers, Jac

Hi, again Jac,

I originally made an itinerary from Christchurch-Lake Tekapo-Mt Aoraki-Wanaka then Queenstown-TeAnau-Milford Sound-Queenstown. But then I think why don’t I go straight from Wanaka to Te Anau instead of going to Queenstown first? What do you think? Your advice is highly appreciated 🙂 Thanks so much Jane

I think the second option is a great one: Christchurch > Lake Tekapo > Aoraki > Wanaka > Te Anau > Queenstown. That will be an excellent itinerary!

Thank you so much Jac 🙂

Nice itinerary… would you suggest this east coast route or the west coast via hammer Springs? We have about 20 days.. I love all your hiking tips

Hi Josh, thanks for your comment!

With 20 days, you could actually do a little of both coasts along with inland scenery. That’s a great amount of time to have.

Will you have all 20 days on the South Island? In addition to hiking, what are your interests (i.e. beaches? wine tasting? wildlife?). And where are you flying in and out of?

With 20 days, I’d definitely see some of the West Coast and also visit Abel Tasman National Park.

If you’re up for sharing your itinerary so far, I’d be happy to have a look at it and offer suggestions!

Hi Jac, Enjoying reading your itinerary, wondering about your thoughts as we have to land in Queenstown on a Friday and then thinking of flying out off Christchurch the following Sunday. Have something on in Queenstown on the Saturday and also want to go to Te Anau to Milford Sound and to see the glow worms, so would have to allow for that. Any ideas on what to cut out to make it to Christchurch by the Saturday to fly out Sunday. Appreciate any ideas.

Thanks for reading – so glad you’ve been enjoying the itinerary!

You have a good amount of time for a Queenstown to Christchurch trip. Here’s what I’d do:

* Friday – Queenstown * Saturday – Queenstown * Sunday – Queenstown * Monday – Te Anau (glow worm tour in afternoon/evening) * Tuesday – Te Anau (day trip to Milford Sound) * Wednesday – Wanaka * Thursday – Wanaka * Friday – Aoraki Mount Cook National Park * Saturday – Christchurch (with a stop at Lake Tekapo) * Sunday – Fly out

Hope that helps (and hope I understood your dates correctly!). If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out 🙂

Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful itinerary, it is an awesome one!

Since reading your post, we’ve fine-tuned our Campervan road itinerary to below. It would be appreciated if you could shed some lights into what else can we consider modifying and/or activities to add? (We are a family of 2 adults and 2 kids, which are both primary school ages. We want to make this a relaxing trip but don’t want the kids to be bored either.)

* Thursday – Arrives at Christchurch -> Rakaia * Friday – Lake Tekapo * Saturday – Tekapo – Aoraki Mount Cook National Park * Sunday – Aoraki Mount Cook National Park * Monday – Wanaka * Tuesday – Wanaka * Wednesday – Wanaka – Arrowtown * Thursday – Arrowtown – Glenrochy * Friday – Glenrochy – Queenstown * Saturday – Queenstown – Te Anau * Sunday – Milford Sound – Te Anau * Monday – Queenstown (Returns our campervan + Rent an AirBnb) * Tuesday – Queenstown * Wednesday – Queenstown * Thursday – Fly out from Queenstown

Any of your thoughts and suggestions are much appreciated.

Have a nice one & look forward to hearing from you!

Thanks for reading and for getting in touch—so glad the itinerary was helpful! I think your itinerary looks absolutely perfect and wouldn’t change a thing about it 🙂

There’ll be lots of activities along the way to keep the kids entertained. Here are some ideas that they might like:

-the hot pools in Methven and/or Lake Tekapo -fishing for salmon at High County Salmon (Twizel) or Hook (Wanakā) -visiting farm animals at the Wanakā lavender farm, the Glenorchy animal experience, or at Deer Park Heights in Queenstown -the luge, ziplining, and/or Shotover Jet in Queenstown -panning for gold in Arrowtown -hiring bikes in Wanakā, Queenstown or Te Anau to bike along the flat lakeside trails. Or in Arrowtown along the Arrow River. -playing at playgrounds in Tekapo, Twizel, Wanakā, Queenstown, and Te Anau -swimming in Lake Wanakā, at Frankton Beach or Kelvin Beach in Queenstown, or at Bob’s Cove on the drive to Glenorchy -if your family likes disc golf, pack your discs because there are great (free) disc golf courses in Tekapo, Twizel, Wanakā, Queenstown & Te Anau!

Hope that helps, and have an awesome time on your campervan trip!

Thank you for this wonderful thorough itinerary. We are planning to follow this in March. Would just like to ask which among the two lavender farms would you recommend if we only have time for one?

Big thanks!

Thanks for your comment – I’m so glad you’ve found the itinerary helpful!

As for choosing between lavender farms, I would go with the Wanaka Lavender Farm.

Lavender will be at its tail-end in March (if not gone entirely), but the Wanaka Lavender Farm has a lot of other things to offer, including beautiful seasonal gardens, a great lavender shop, and cute farm animals. It’s a lovely place even if the lavender isn’t in full-swing.

Hope you have a great time on your trip! March is one of my favourite months for this itinerary, as it’s far less crowded than it is currently during peak summer 🙂

Hi Jac! Thank you for sharing your itinerary! This is so helpful! We’re a group of adults aged 20yo to 58yo, flying to Christchurch on May 24 and flying back from Queenstown on June 6. Total of 14 days. We’re planning of doing a campervan trip from Christchurch to Queenstown. Return campervan, book accomodation and explore Queenstown before flying out. What itinerary would you suggest?

Hi Eleen! Thanks for your comment – I’m so happy to hear you found the blog helpful!

When doing a one-way road trip between Christchurch and Queenstown, it’s always a tricky decision between the West Coast or Lake Tekapo/Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.

Here are two ideas to consider:

1) West Coast option:

24 May – Christchurch 25 May – Kaikoura 26 May – Kaikoura 27 May- Hanmer Springs or Maruia Hot Springs 28 May – Punakaiki 29 May – Franz Josef 30 May – Franz Josef (glacier tour) 31 May – Wanaka 1 June – Wanaka 2 June – Te Anau 3 June – Te Anau – day trip to Milford Sound 4 June – Queenstown 5 June – Queenstown 6 June – Queenstown

2) Lake Tekapo & Mount Cook option:

24 May – Christchurch 25 May – Kaikoura 26 May – Nelson/Abel Tasman National Park 27 May- Nelson/Abel Tasman National Park 28 May – Hanmer Springs 29 May – Lake Tekapo 30 May – Mount Cook National Park 31 May – Wanaka 1 June – Wanaka 2 June – Te Anau 3 June – Te Anau – day trip to Milford Sound 4 June – Queenstown 5 June – Queenstown 6 June – Queenstown

I hope that helps! And if you have specific interests (i.e wildlife-spotting, hiking, wine tasting…) let me know and I can offer more suggestions 🙂

Hi Jac, we are thinking of flying into Christchurch and the next day catching the transalpine train to Greymouth, which gets in around 1.00pm. We would then hire a car and eventually end up in Queenstown. Do you have any ideas for the route on the way down to Queenstown? We would love to do Milford Sound for a day. All up we have seven days, I guess of which two days are taken up with flying (will be flying out from Queenstown). Thanks you so much, Kim.

I’d do something like this, which would involve booking a day tour from Queenstown to Milford Sound (it’s too far to drive yourself as a day trip from Queenstown) –

Day 1 – Christchurch (1N Christchurch) Day 2 – Transalpine train to Greymouth; drive to Franz Josef (1N Franz Josef) Day 3 – Franz Josef to Wanaka (2N Wanaka) Day 4 – Wanaka Day 5 – Wanaka to Queenstown (2N Queenstown) Day 6 – Queenstown (day tour to Milford Sound) Day 7 – Queenstown – depart

Alternatively, if you’d prefer to drive yourself to Milford Sound, you could spend 2 nights in Te Anau. It’ll just mean 1-night stays everywhere else which isn’t always ideal!

Day 1 – Christchurch (1N Christchurch) Day 2 – Transalpine train to Greymouth; drive to Franz Josef (1N Franz Josef) Day 3 – Franz Josef to Wanaka (1N Wanaka) Day 4 – Wanaka to Te Anau (2N Te Anau) Day 5 – Te Anau (day trip to Milford Sound) Day 6 – Te Anau to Queenstown (1N Queenstown) Day 7 – Queenstown – depart

Hope that helps! 🙂

This was hugely helpful in my planning my recent trip to NZ. Thank you!

Hi, Sue! Thanks so much for your comment—that makes me really happy to hear. Hope you had a great time in NZ!

This itinerary looks great, definitely will be using it for our camper trip over Christmas! We were hoping to do Frank Josef as well as Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo – would you recommend one route over the other or beIieve doing it all is possible over a 2 week period?

Thanks in advance!

Thanks for your comment, stoked the itinerary has helped with your trip plans!

With 2 weeks on the South Island, you actually have the perfect amount of time to see all of those places and more. I’d do it as a loop from Christchurch to Christchurch, something like this:

Day 1: Christchurch Day 2: Punakaiki (with stops in Arthur’s Pass on the way) – you could also stay in Hokitika, but I love Punakaiki! Days 3 & 4: Franz Josef (detour to Hokitika Gorge on the way) Days 5 & 6: Wanaka Days 7 & 8: Te Anau & Milford Sound Days 9 & 10: Queenstown & Glenorchy Days 11 & 12: Mount Cook National Park Day 13: Lake Tekapo Day 14: Back to Christchurch

Since you’re visiting over Christmas, I’d get some of your camping spots booked soon in popular places like Queenstown, Wanaka & Te Anau, just to make sure you don’t miss out.

Hope that helps, and if you need any other itinerary feedback, just let me know! 🙂

Hey Jac, thank you so much for the feedback and tip on booking the camping spots! We’ve made the mistake booking flights before mapping an itinerary so are flying into Christchurch and out of Queenstown. Would doing all of the above still be feasible? Thanks, again!

Yes, that should work great! You’ll have to do some backtracking to return to Queenstown to fly out, but the scenery is gorgeous so it isn’t a bad thing (in fact, it’s much prettier than the drive from Lake Tekapo to Christchurch) 🙂

You could make a few small tweaks to the itinerary to look something like this:

If any other questions pop up, reach out any time and I’m happy to help!

Queenstown to Christchurch Road Trip: The Ultimate Itinerary

If you’re heading to the South Island and planning a Queenstown to Christchurch road trip, this itinerary will give you all the best sights to see, things to do and places to stay.

New Zealand’s South Island is basically made for road trips, boasting some of the most beautiful drives on the planet.

Driving from Queenstown to Christchurch gives you a couple of different road trip options to choose from, and no matter which way you end up taking, I guarantee you’ll be blown away by the views.

Whether you’re doing the drive as part of a larger South Island road trip , or if you’re only visiting the South Island for a quick holiday and want to tick off some of the major hot spots, this itinerary will help you plan an unforgettable adventure between Queenstown and Christchurch.

Scroll down for my suggestions for an epic Queenstown to Christchurch road trip!

Car hire or campervan hire

Queenstown and Christchurch are the two busiest airports in the South Island, so most rental car and campervan companies have pick up and drop off options in both cities.

TRAVEL TIP: Snap Rentals are my go-to rental car company in Queenstown, they offer fantastic value and equally good service. Their depot is right opposite Pak’n’Save, the budget supermarket chain in New Zealand, be sure to make a stop to top up on snacks before kicking off your Queenstown to Christchurch road trip.

If you’re going for a car, you can cross-check prices on Klook , which will show you options from many suppliers like Snap, Alamo, GO Rentals, Enterprise and more in price order.

Avoid Ezu Rentals, we hired with them on a previous trip and had multiple issues, like the fact the car they gave us actually had an expiring warrant of fitness during the trip 🙃 which would have voided our insurance if there were any issues. Luckily we realised and made a detour to swap the car!

In terms of campervans, I’d recommend checking out Sunrise Holidays if a luxury motorhome is what you’re looking for, or Jucy for a cheap and cheerful campervan.

When is the best time to do a Queenstown to Christchurch road trip?

The routes for this road trip are pretty stunning year-round, so it’ll depend on what you’re into.

Summer (December to February) will be the busiest time of the year, so expect more people on the road and busier activities and accommodation. You’ll need to book hotels and campgrounds in advance, and keep in mind that many freedom camping spots are limited and will be full by the early evening.

March to May will bring autumn colours and amazing landscape photography opportunities, and on the other side of winter you’ve got September to November springtime with shoulder season prices and slightly warmer weather.

June to August/September is likely to see snow and icy roads at higher elevation, so make sure you have a 4WD and/or chains.

If you happen to be heading from Queenstown to Christchurch in late November/early December you’ll coincide with the seasonal lupins, bright pink and purple wildflowers that cover the roadside of the Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook area. DOC has sprayed a lot of the lupin hot spots so they apparently aren’t as good as they used to be, but I visited for the first time last year (2020) and they were still pretty impressive!

The route options for driving from Queenstown to Christchurch

There are two main routes to get from Queenstown to Christchurch to choose from: driving up the middle of the South Island past Aoraki Mount Cook and through Tekapo, or driving up the West Coast and Glacier Country before heading across Arthur’s Pass.

You can obviously do the same trip the other way round too if you’re wanting to do a Christchurch to Queenstown road trip, just start at the bottom of the blog and scroll up!

I’ve got some helpful info for both routes below.

Queenstown to Christchurch road trip itinerary option #1: Southern Alps & Lakes

Arrive in queenstown.

This photogenic lakeside town is the perfect place to start your South Island road trip.

Landing at Queenstown Airport is a highlight in itself, with epic views across snowy mountains and the stunning Lake Wakatipu.

Once you settle into your Queenstown accommodation, there’s an endless selection of activities and experiences on offer depending on what type of adventure you’re looking for.

There’s some suggestions of things to do in Queenstown below but for a more detailed guide, check out my 5 day Queenstown itinerary blog.

Things to do

Get your heart racing.

Queenstown is New Zealand’s premiere adventure tourism destination, with high-octane experiences on offer for all types of thrill seekers.

Zoom through a canyon on a jetboat , take on white water rapids with a rafting trip down the Shotover , bungy jump off a bridge or go all out with a skydive .

For slightly less terrifying options, check out Ziptrek Ecotours for ziplining , go paragliding off Coronet Peak or try indoor skydiving at iFly .

Do a lake cruise

For something outdoorsy without the increase in cortisol, the TSS Earnslaw is a family-friendly lake cruise on an epic old steamboat with loads of history.

You can just choose a lake cruise or opt to get off on the other side of the lake to explore Walter Peak Farm and jump on to one of these activities:

An eco tour to learn about the farm’s sustainability strategy, see their impressive veggie garden, plant a native tree and meet the local pigs and donkeys
A horse trek through the farm’s rolling hills
A gourmet BBQ experience with hearty local cuisine

Pamper yourself

And after all that adrenaline pumping around your body, you deserve a rest.

The Onsen Hot Pools are Insta-famous for good reason, with cedar-lined hot tubs overlooking the dramatic Shotover River, as well as a day spa that offers massage and soak combos. These book up well in advance so be sure to lock in your hot tub session earlier rather than later.

Another Queenstown hot tub option is Kamana Lakehouse , a boutique hotel in Fernhill with exclusive hot pools only available for guests to use. The hot pools cost $119 for an hour for up to three people, compared to Onsen’s Original Soak $165 for two people or $215 for three.

If Onsen is booked or if you’d like to have a hot tub experience coupled with a fancy hotel stay, Kamana Lakehouse is a brilliant option that offers great value.

There’s a bunch of incredible day hikes around Queenstown to soak up some fresh air and get your steps up.

The Ben Lomond Summit Track is one of the best-known for experienced hikers, and you’ll be treated to panoramic views across Lake Wakatipu and over to the Remarkables mountain range.

If you’d like something a bit shorter, you could take the Tiki Trail up to the top of the gondola, Sawpit Gully in Arrowtown or head to Lake Hayes for a beautiful 2-3 hour loop walk around the lake.

Enjoy the view

If your spending money allows it, Queenstown is one of the best places in the South Island for a scenic flight.

The cheapest flight in town is a $150 20 minute heli flight including a glacier landing, or you could opt for a longer Queenstown flight or even a scenic flight to Milford Sound .

My top pick for the best scenic flight from Queenstown is the Milford Sound scenic flyover with Glenorchy Air, a 1h 20m flight that will blow your mind every time you look out the window. If you have more time and want to add on a Milford Sound cruise, check out their Fly-Cruise-Fly option .

You can see all the different Queenstown scenic flight options on GetYourGuide .

Eat your way around town

The food scene in Queenstown is impressive, with brunch, lunch, dinner and snack options available for all budgets.

Yonder, Bespoke Kitchen and Vudu are my favourite brunch spots, and the Cookie Time Café has $1 coffees every morning from 8am-9am.

For a heartier meal head to the world-renowned Fergburger or their bakery next door, Searle Lane for cheap eats, and The Grille or Botswana Butchery for a bit of a splurge.

TOP TIP: You can find dining deals in Queenstown on Bookme.co.nz , they often have discounts of up to 50% off the best restaurants in town!

And if you fancy yourself as a wine enthusiast, or if you just want to see a different side of Queenstown, don’t miss the award-winning Wine Sampler by Altitude Tours . These guys just won the coveted TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award as the top wine experience in the world ! Want to know more? Read my review of the best Queenstown wine tour .

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: The Perfect 5 Day Queenstown Itinerary

Where to stay in Queenstown

Kamana Lakehouse is my favourite hotel in Queenstown, with modern rooms, a world-class restaurant and private hot tubs overlooking the lake available exclusively for guests to book. It’s the highest hotel in Queenstown and offers the most incredible view while benefitting from the peace and quiet of the Fernhill neighbourhood. Absolutely dreamy!

Other Queenstown accommodation options:

Camping | Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park is the best-rated campground in Queenstown.

Budget | Nomads Hostel and Adventure Hostel are ideal for solo travellers or travellers on a budget, or for a brilliant value private room consider the recently opened Holiday Inn Remarkables Park , my new go-to for a cheap Queenstown getaway!

Mid-range | Kamana Lakehouse is in the mid-range category and is definitely my top pick, or Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel is another option with comfy rooms for a great price.

Somewhere fancy | The Rees Hotel and Eichardt’s are two of the best luxury hotels in Queenstown

Queenstown to Wanaka

Queenstown’s lesser-visited neighbour holds its own as a tourism destination, with easy access to outdoor adventures year-round, as well as a thriving food and drink scene.

There are plenty of things to do in Wanaka to keep you occupied!

Driving time from Queenstown

1 hour via Crown Range Rd (steep road with sharp turns), or 1h 20m via Cromwell

Where to stop on the way

lf you’re coming over via Crown Range Rd make sure you stop at Cardrona Pub for a mulled wine or a beer
If you’re driving via Cromwell, there’s a bunch of wineries in the Gibbston/Bannockburn area for a lunch stop or a wine tour

cardrona hotel is one of the best things to do in wanaka

Climb a waterfall

Wildwire Wanaka was one of the top highlights from my South Island road trip last year. They offer three levels of cable climbs (also known as via ferrata) up the Twin Falls near Treble Cone!

This adventure is so epic and I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for unique things to do in Wanaka . We did the intermediate option which involved about three hours of climbing up iron staples and over suspension bridges while enjoying incredible views.

You don’t need any climbing experience but you’ll need decent fitness for the intermediate option, and be able to hold your bodyweight with your arms for the advanced option.

Click here to learn more about Wildwire Wanaka

girl climbing waterfall at wildwire wanaka things to do

Do one of the famous hikes

Roy’s Peak is most popular hike in Wanaka, offering 360° views over Lake Wanaka and into Mount Aspiring National Park. Set aside 5-6 hours allowing for photo stops.

The walk crosses farmland and is closed for lambing season from 1 October to 10 November, but the alternative option is Isthmus Peak . DOC recommends 5-7 hours for Isthmus but it is a slightly more advanced track than Roy’s Peak.

coromandel peak mt roys peak wanaka bucket list

Go for a lake cruise

Explore Lake Wanaka by boat with a cruise. If you’d like to relax you could choose this happy hour sunset cruise , or for a more active adventure take a cruise to Mou Waho Island and then enjoy a guided walk through the conservation area.

Hit the slopes

If you’re visiting Wanaka in winter, make sure you head up to one of the mountains for a day on the snow.

Treble Cone and Cardrona are both within 40 minutes of Wanaka.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: 25 Epic Things to Do in Wanaka

Where to stay in Wanaka

Camping | Glendhu Bay Motor Camp has decent facilities and stunning views right on the lake

Budget | YHA Wanaka is ideally located close to town, with both private and dorm rooms available

Mid-range | Clearbrook Motel is the best-rated motel in town, with studio rooms and apartments right in town

Somewhere fancy | Lakeside Serviced Apartments are a brilliant option for self-catering, or the Edgewater Hotel is a lush spot for a romantic getaway

Wanaka to Aoraki/Mount Cook Village

Aoraki/Mount Cook Village is small and basic, with accommodation options but not much else. However it’s absolutely worth adding to your Queenstown to Christchurch road trip for the views alone!

Note that there’s no shops in the village so make sure you stock up on food and anything else you might need in Queenstown , Wanaka or Cromwell before you make the drive.

Driving time from Wanaka

About 2 hours 30 minutes

Omarama to see the Clay Cliffs ($5 cash needed for entry) and for a soak at the Omarama Hot Tubs
Twizel to visit High Country Salmon, who have the best salmon paté I’ve ever had in my life
If you have time to add on an overnight detour on your Queenstown to Christchurch itinerary I highly recommend the magical Valley Views glamping spot in Waitaki Valley, 45 minutes east of Omarama, or Nest Treehouse , on the other side of the river in Hakataramea Valley

Things to do in Aoraki/Mount Cook Village

Take a scenic flight.

Experience the glory of Aoraki from the sky with an epic scenic flight around the mountain!

There are a number of scenic flights to choose from, you can see all the scenic flight options on GetYourGuide here .

See the Tasman Glacier

Get up close and personal with the blue caves and crazy ice formations of the Tasman Glacier by taking a quick helicopter flight up and then a two hour hike on the glacier itself.

For a cheaper way to see the glacier, check out the Glacier Explorer boat trip run by the Hermitage Hotel.

Aoraki Mount Cook is one of New Zealand’s hiking hot spots, with a variety of walks for different timeframes and experience levels.

The shortest hike is the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint, a quick 40 min return walk up a hill to a viewpoint looking over the Tasman Glacier Lake. A 20 min side trip takes you down to the lake itself.

Another popular option is Hooker Valley, a reasonably flat 2-3 hour return walk to Hooker Lake where you’ll be able to spot icebergs and enjoy a panoramic view of the Southern Alps.

For a more adventurous trek you could head up to Mueller Hut, a 3-4 hour one way hike to the iconic red hut surrounded by mountains. In winter you’ll need alpine gear for this one, so make sure you’re prepared.

Where to stay

Camping | White Horse Hill Campground is a DOC campsite with non-powered sites for $15 a night per person

Budget | YHA Aoraki is sustainably run with solar power, offering private and dorm rooms plus a full kitchen

Mid-range | I stayed at the Aoraki Court Motel on my last trip to Aoraki Village and it was faultless. Comfortable beds, a decent kitchen and a patio with mountain views for a great price.

Somewhere fancy | The Hermitage Hotel is the most well-known hotel in the village, with incredible views from their rooms and a fancy restaurant. For somewhere even fancier, check out the Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat at the other end of Lake Pukaki, just before you reach the main road.

driving from queenstown to christchurch via mount cook

Aoraki Village to Lake Tekapo

Tekapo is one of my favourite places to visit in the South Island , I just love the vibe of this charming little tourist town. Cross your fingers for cloudless weather to experience the magic of Tekapo’s night sky.

Driving time from Aoraki Village

An hour and 10 minutes without stops

See the stars

Tekapo is part of the International Dark Sky Reserve in the Mackenzie Region, meaning that there’s minimal light pollution at night so some amazing opportunities for stargazing.

We loved the Tekapo Stargazing hot pools experience , which includes seeing stars and planets through the telescope, learning about astronomy, and then soaking in the hot pools under the stars while hearing about local Maori legends.

Another option is the Dark Sky Project who offer a Summit Experience at the Mt John Observatory each night, or see their indoor multi-media Dark Sky Experience at their base in the Tekapo township.

Photographers might also be interested in an astrophotography lesson with local photographers at Silver River Stargazing .

Explore the backcountry

Experience the finest of Tekapo’s rural backcountry with a scenic 4WD tour over private high country farms.

Book a tour with Tekapo Adventures here

Soak in the hot pools

Tekapo Springs is the perfect spot for a mid-road-trip relaxation day. There are three hot pools with mountain and lake views, as well as a day spa for extra pampering.

Book your trip to Tekapo Springs here

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: The Best Things to Do in Tekapo

Camping | Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park are in the perfect spot, only a few minutes’ walk from the Springs and a short walk or drive to the township

Budget | YHA Tekapo is unbeatable for travellers on a budget, it’s a brand new hostel right on the lakefront in the middle of town

Mid-range | Three Rivers Lodge offer modern rooms and stunning views for a great value price

Somewhere fancy | On my second trip to Tekapo I stayed at the stylish Cairns Alpine Resort in one of their two-bedroom lodges. They’re beautifully decorated with a high country vibe, equipped with a full kitchen and laundry facilities, and the bed was the most comfortable bed I slept in on our whole trip!

Tekapo to Christchurch

I’ll admit that I kind of passed off Christchurch as a transit city, a place to arrive or depart from after experiencing the magical South Island. But on my most recent visit I actually managed to explore some of the activities on offer and I was seriously impressed!

If you’re flying out of Christchurch I’d still recommend setting aside at least two or three days to experience the city before you head off.

Driving time from Lake Tekapo

About 2 hours 40 minutes

Burkes Pass for a quick photo stop at Three Creeks, packed with Route 66-style memorabilia
Fairlie for a pie stop at the famous Fairlie Bakehouse. I recommend the Pork Belly & Apple Sauce pie, absolutely delish.
Geraldine for the Barkers Foodstore, an incredible eatery that showcases the iconic Barkers products like sauces, chutneys and cordials
Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula are up near Christchurch and would add on about an hour and a half to your total road trip, but they’re well worth a day trip or overnight stay if you have extra time to spare

Things to do in Christchurch

Learn about the dark history and current rebuilding efforts of christchurch.

Christchurch was hit by two major earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, the former causing huge damage and the latter killing 185 people and destroying many more buildings.

In the past ten years the city has essentially been rebuilt, with a new town centre, some incredible art installations and innovative solutions to fixing a city that was decimated in a matter of minutes.

To get a real insight into the history I’d recommend a city tour or a Christchurch Tram tour .

Go ziplining

A 10 min drive from the city centre is the Christchurch Adventure Park , an outdoor haven in the Port Hills with mountain bike tracks, walking trails and an epic four-zipline course including the longest and highest ziplines in New Zealand.

ziplining on my queenstown to christchurch road trip itinerary

Riverside Market

Riverside Market is an indoor market packed with stalls and shops selling everything from fresh fruit and veges to gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches to fancy cocktails and everything in between.

The laneway leading into the market is worth a stop too, with some gorgeous boutiques selling locally-made products and artwork.

Other eateries

The Christchurch food scene actually blew my mind, I feel like I need to visit for a month to try all the restaurants and cafés on my list!

I’d recommend Miro (the smoked salmon and parmesan waffles are what dreams are made of), Amazonita or the Caffeine Laboratory for brunch, and add Twenty Seven Steps, Earl and Jaba Grill to your dinner options.

Camping | Christchurch TOP 10 Holiday Park has modern facilities and is a short drive from the main city centre

Budget | YHA Christchurch offer basic but good value accommodation in the middle of the city

Mid-range | The Tack Rooms are self-contained studio units with modern furnishings and beautiful decor just a short walk from the entertainment district

Somewhere fancy | The Britten Stables is one of the best places to stay in New Zealand, with rooms ranging from studio to one-bedroom self-catered apartment to a full guest house. Guests have access to a shared billiard lounge and a stunning conservatory with a Moroccan-tiled pool.

Queenstown to Christchurch road trip itinerary option #2: The Wild West Coast

The second Queenstown to Christchurch road trip option starts off with the same suggestions for Queenstown and Wanaka, then instead of heading up the middle, you’ll drive out west and take the coastal route through Glacier Country.

Wanaka to Franz Josef Glacier/Fox Glacier

About 3h 20m-3h 40m

The Blue Pools Track, 1h return flat walk to stunning alpine pools
Fantail Falls, beautiful waterfall easily accessed with a two minute walk from the carpark
Thunder Creek Falls, a super tall waterfall with a viewing platform a short walk from the carpark

Things to do in Franz Josef Glacier/Fox Glacier

Do a heli hike.

Get kitted out with warm clothes, boots and crampons, jump in a heli for a quick (and epic) flight up to the Franz Josef Glacier or Fox Glacier, and head out onto the ice for a 2-3 hour walk around the otherworldly icy landscape.

Book a Franz Josef Glacier heli-hike here >>

Book a Fox Glacier heli-hike here >>

girl walking out of helicopter on franz josef glacier

The West Coast Wildlife Centre has resident rowi kiwi and Haast tokoeka kiwi as well as the prehistoric tuatara, giving you the chance to see New Zealand endangered icons up close in a breeding and raring facility.

You can visit with a self-guided ticket or book a backstage pass to learn from the wildlife rangers.

For a chance at seeing a kiwi in the wild, head to nearby Okarito and get in contact with Okarito Kiwi Tours.

Skydiving with views of two glaciers, the rugged coast and the Southern Alps is one for the bucket list.

There are options for 9000, 13500 or 16500ft jumps , or if you fancy yourself as a true daredevil, try the Kea Jump . At an insane 20,000ft it’s the highest skydive in New Zealand !

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: 15 of the Best Things to Do in Franz Josef Glacier

mountains from franz josef glacier things to do

Where to stay in Franz Josef or Fox Glacier

Fox Glacier TOP 10 is a brilliant option for budget travellers, with campsites, cabins and fancier studios + excellent facilities and mountain views
Rainforest’s holiday park in Franz Josef is more expensive but has loads of powered campsites nestled amongst native bush with mountain views, and there are dorm rooms and private rooms available with access to shared kitchen and other facilities
Rainforest Retreat’s deluxe treehouses look like a dream!

treehouse at rainforest retreat franz josef glacier

Franz Josef Glacier to Hokitika

Driving time from franz josef glacier.

About 1h 40m

Okarito Lagoon for kayaking or a scenic cruise
Ross Beach for an insane sunset
Lake Mahinapua for picture-perfect mountain reflections

Things to do in Hokitika

Walk the hokitika gorge.

This easy one hour loop walk has a bunch of incredible photo spots to capture the bright blue glacial water. It’s a 25 minute drive (about 31km) from Hokitika town centre.

Carve your own pounamu

Experience the Māori tradition of carving at Bonz ‘n’ Stonz , with skilled local craftspeople teaching you how to carve your own jade (pounamu), paua or bone. This is the perfect Hokitika activity for a rainy day!

Watch the sunset

West Coast sunsets have to be seen to be believed. Grab some fish and chips, head down to the black sand beach and watch the sky turn red, orange and yellow as you say goodnight to the sun.

Camping | Ross Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park is one of my favourite campgrounds in New Zealand, 20 mins before you reach Hokitika

Budget | Amberlea B&B is highly-rated and offers cheap rooms and included breakfast

Mid-range | Awatuna Sunset Lodge is rated as the best value option in town, with modern rooms and incredible ocean views

Somewhere fancy | This newly-converted fire station apartment in the middle of town looks epic!

Arthur’s Pass

Driving time from hokitika to christchurch via arthur’s pass.

3 hours 10 minutes

Places to stop while driving Arthur’s Pass

Lake Brunner & Moana for nature walks, bird life and trout fishing
Arthur’s Pass Walking Track, 2h 40min return 6.8km walk past waterfalls and alpine wetlands up to the summit
Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall, a 1h return easy walking track
Sheffield Pie Shop to refuel yourself with award-winning pies

Where to stay in Arthur’s Pass

Camping | Jackson’s Retreat Alpine Holiday Park has been rated NZ’s best holiday park in the past, with a full kitchen, communal lounge and dining, and free bike hire

Mid-range | Arthur’s Pass Motel & Lodge has modern and cosy motel rooms and apartments

Alternative option from the West Coast to Christchurch

If you want to soak up the Arthur’s Pass views without having to drive, there’s a world famous train journey that runs daily from Greymouth to Christchurch, called the TranzAlpine . It was included as #4 on the New York Times ’52 Places to Go in 2024′ !

I took my mum to do this recently and we absolutely loved it, such incredible landscapes, a comfortable ride and something different from your usual South Island road trip . Highly recommend the TranzAlpine train trip.

You’ve got a couple of options to do the TranzAlpine trip:

Get a rental car from Queenstown to Greymouth, catch the TranzAlpine to Christchurch (or vice versa)
Drive to Greymouth, do the TranzAlpine return trip (to Christchurch and back again), pick up your car and drive to Christchurch via Lewis Pass for some different scenery
Drive all the way to Christchurch and just do the TranzAlpine as a return day trip
Check TransferCar to see if you can get a car relocation for cheap

What the heck is TransferCar?

TransferCar is a rental relocations company that offers crazy cheap car rentals for short periods when rental companies need to reorganise their fleet to meet customer demand. You can often find cars to relocate between Greymouth and Queenstown or Greymouth and Christchurch because so many people do the one way TranzAlpine trip and either leave or pick up cars from there.

TransferCar offers free or cheap (like $1 cheap!) rental cars to get from A to B on certain dates. They generally offer a number of days free and sometimes have an option to add on extra days for a low price. If you want to do a one way TranzAlpine trip from Greymouth to Christchurch, you could check and see if there are any TransferCars available that need to be moved from Queenstown to Greymouth.

If so, you might be able to snap up a super cheap rental deal to cover your travel for two or three days, then just pay for a one way train instead of return. The perfect way to wrap up your Queenstown to Christchurch itinerary!

And then you’ll reach Christchurch!

I hope this Queenstown to Christchurch road trip itinerary has given you some helpful tips & suggestions for your upcoming South Island trip.

MORE NEW ZEALAND TRAVEL GUIDES:

The Ultimate New Zealand Bucket List
The Perfect 5 Day Queenstown Itinerary
All the Best Places to Visit in the South Island
An Epic South Island Road Trip Itinerary
25 Epic Things to Do in Wanaka
15 Fun Things to do in Franz Josef Glacier

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A serene view from Fisherman's Bastion in Budapest, Hungary, with a contemplative observer gazing out towards the Parliament building, an ideal start to a three months in europe journey.

June 26, 2022 at 10:31 pm

How do I incorporate route 1 and 2 in the same trip fr QT to CHC?

June 28, 2022 at 2:15 am

The best way would be to do it as a loop otherwise you will be doubling back on yourself! The Southern Alps run through the middle of the South Island and there are very few ways to cross through them from the east coast to the west coast, so you either stay on the east side of them (Tekapo & Aoraki) or you cross through Haast Pass to get to the West Coast (Franz Josef etc.) or and then cross back through Arthur’s Pass.

If you had time (I would recommend an absolute minimum of three weeks but 4/5 would be good) you could do Christchurch > Arthur’s Pass to the West Coast > Haast Pass to Wanaka > Up to Tekapo/Aoraki > down through Oamaru and Dunedin > back across to Queenstown 🙂

January 1, 2023 at 1:49 pm

If I have to pick one route out of the two, which one would you recommend. More keen on sightseeing as travelling with young family, Will be travelling from Queenstown to Christchurch.

January 4, 2023 at 12:11 am

How much time do you have for the trip? Both options are incredible for sightseeing but I’d say the Tekapo route is probably more kid-friendly than the West Coast route, with some fun things to do like hot pools + short walks + less windy roads!

August 21, 2023 at 1:24 am

Heyya, love this. I wanna head back to Queenstown after route 1. Any recommendations? I only have 2 weeks. Thanks

September 4, 2023 at 7:06 pm

I’d recommend heading back via route #2 in that case, so you can see the West Coast as well!

April 16, 2024 at 3:40 pm

Hi i only have 4 days in queenstown, staying in a hotel, then pick up a campervan for a week, from queenstown and return to queenstown. It’s my son’s 18th birthday and we just want to spend the time together looking at some amazing scenery and quaint little spots. Hiking, kayaking, nice winery tour etc. not really thrill seekers but love our fitness and Lake Takepo is definitely high on the list. Could you recommend an itinery around that? We were just going to drive to Christchurch and back, but only have a week with the van.

April 17, 2024 at 1:01 am

Hey Tom! With a week with a campervan and your interests I’d recommend the first option in this itinerary, Wanaka > Aoraki Mount Cook > Tekapo > Christchurch, and just spend two nights in a couple of those places so you’ve got enough time for the hikes you want to do.

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Lyttelton harbor from the Cavendish mountain, Christchurch, South island of New Zealand

Road Trip from Queenstown to Christchurch

Discover New Zealand's South Island on this breathtaking road trip that takes you from Queensland all the way to the cultural hub of Christchurch. You'll travel through crystal clear alpine lakes, towering mountains and rolling Canterbury Plains, with the chance to spot familiar landscapes from the Lord of the Rings films.

The 560 km road trip from Queenstown to Christchurch takes 7 hours 30 minutes to drive. You'll visit Lake Hayes, Wanaka, Lindis Pass and Mount Hutt, or hug the coast to pass through Glacier Country, Mount Cook, Haast and Arthur's Pass Village.

Spanning the length of the emerald and glacier-filled South Island, this road trip shows New Zealand's stunning landscapes to their full advantage. We've listed out the best route options, highlight stops and overnight stays to help plan your adventure.

How far is Christchurch from Queenstown, and how long will the road trip take?

There are two different routes to make the journey from Queenstown to Christchurch, both of which have plenty to offer.

The Inland Scenic Route is the shorter option at 560 kilometres, which takes 7 hours 30 minutes of direct driving time. This faster route plots an inland and nature-filled journey - it doesn't include any coastal driving, but there is always the option to make a detour less than two hours to reach the beach.

The Glacier Country Route spans a longer distance of 740 kilometres, which takes 9 hours 30 minutes to cover. This more leisurely drive winds through Glacier Country and along the New Zealand coast, though it misses out the Lord of the Rings tours.

Neither of the driving times allows for stops along the routes, so we'd recommend giving yourself 6 to 7 days to enjoy a night or two amongst the natural wonders and characterful towns along the way.

Best road trip route from Queenstown to Christchurch

The Inland Scenic Route is the more direct of the two but doesn't skimp on beautiful sites. You'll pass countless crystal-clear lakes, including Lake Hayes, Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo, against the backdrop of the towering mountain ranges of Mount Hutt and Lindis Pass.

Crystal clear waters with mountains in the background at Lake Tekapo New Zealand

You'll drive through rolling lush green passages, with tons of opportunities to take in the stunning nature that makes New Zealand such a unique travel destination.

If you're a fan of the Lord of the Rings franchise, you'll enjoy the many shooting locations along or near this route, including Mount Sunday, the Kawarau Gorge, and Twizel, where you can participate in Lord of the Rings reenactments!

The Glacier Country Route travels through New Zealand's Glacier Country, which boasts a variety of stunning natural wonders including New Zealand's tallest mountain (Mount Cook), the country's largest glaciers, gorgeous rainforests and pristine beaches.

You'll stumble across some amazing beaches, and get to stop in Haast, a small town in the Westland district boasting dramatic landscapes that have been recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. Your final stop before Christchurch is Arthur's Pass Village, a quaint township nestled within South Island's mountain range.

The Inland Scenic Route

Starting in Queenstown on the banks of Lake Wakatipu, follow State Highway 6 to Lake Hayes. From here, it's only a short hop up Cardrona Valley Road to the third stunning lake of the trip, Lake Wanaka. The town on its banks is full of outdoor adventures, with both summer and winter offerings.

Take State Highway 6 and State Highway 8A down Clutha River to join State Highway 8 and reach the mountainous heights of Lindis Pass. The town of Omarama is nestled in between mountain ranges and is a great base from which to explore Lindis Pass.

Continue on State Highway 8 to arrive in Twizel, the gateway to exploring Mount Cook. You'll arrive shortly at Lake Pukaki, and the best view on offer is from the Lake Pukaki Viewpoint.

Piercing light blue waters against the rocks with mountains in the background at lake Pukaki

Follow State Highway 8 up to Lake Tekapo, a township famous for its turquoise lake and mountain backdrops. From State Highway 8, continue onto State Highway 79, then follow signs for Mount Hutt. If you're here in the winter, this is a fabulous ski resort for all abilities.

Get on State Highway 77, then turn onto Leaches Road and follow signs for Christchurch.

The Glacier Country Route

Follow State Highway 6 to Crown Range Road and head north through Wanaka to hug the shores of Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka. This road winds through the stunning mountain and valley landscapes created by Mount Victor and Mount Aspiring.

You'll reach the coastal town of Haast, where you can relax on trails and beaches against the dramatic landscapes of Mount Aspiring National Park. Continue up the coast on State Highway 6, which passes through Franz Josef - a hotspot for skydiving and snow-shoeing on Fox Glacier.

Follow the coast until Jumara Junction, then take State Highway 73 up into the mountains to reach Arthur's Pass Village. This is the highest pass through the Southern Alps, and makes for a stunning hike.

Head south on State Highway 73 through Torlesse Tussocklands Park, then turn right onto Old West Coast Road to arrive in Christchurch.

Best places to stop between Queenstown and Christchurch

There are a whole host of friendly towns and mountain villages along both routes, which means there are plenty of options when choosing where to park up and take a break.

We've selected some great overnight stops that are worth giving some serious time to get to know.

Go lake-hopping in Twizel

Located halfway along the Inland Scenic Route, Twizel is a great base for exploring the surrounding area and participating in a variety of outdoor sports, set against a backdrop of New Zealand's beautiful landscapes.

This small town grants access to the McKenzie Basin, Lake Pukaki, Lindis Pass and the surrounding mountains of Mt. Cook National Park. It was also a shooting location for the Lord of the Rings movies, and so you can take a tour of the many spots here that made movie history!

Make sure you check out Mount Cook National Park, located just 45 minutes from Twizel. This gorgeous park is home to Aoraki/Mount Cook, the largest mountain in New Zealand.

Mount Cook and Hooker River at dawn at Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand

This region is well-known for its lavender offerings, and there are several farms that you can visit and take a tour of - the purple fields are a sight to behold!

There is also great fishing in the nearby lakes, and you can visit High Country Salmon Farm to try delicious salmon, and even have a go at catching your own king salmon!

For a cosy place to stay try Mountain Chalets Motel , a collection of small private chalets that offer kitchens, BBQ facilities, and free WiFi. There is free parking available on-site and they also have a tour desk that can take care of bookings for Lord of the Rings tours or trips to Mount Cook National Park.

This hotel is located close to many of the natural sites that make this region so special including Lake Ruataniwha and Lake Pukaki. You can rent bicycles to do some exploring on two wheels. It's also located close to the route, so you can continue on to Christchurch the next day.

Hike into the clouds in Wanaka

Wanaka is located on both routes, about two hours out of Queenstown. It is home to beautiful Lake Hawea and boasts tons of opportunities for outdoor adventures including skiing and hiking to glorious viewpoints.

This is one of the more popular small towns on this route, where visitors flock to the famous Wanaka Tree. Take a picture of this famous willow tree, growing smack dab in the middle of Lake Wanaka.

Wanaka Tree at sunrise, in clear waters and a colorful sky

Surrounded by New Zealand's Southern Alps, there is some fantastic hiking nearby. Hike up Roy's Peak to discover one of the most famous viewpoints in all of New Zealand - it's a bit of a tough walk, but well worth it!

New Zealand is incredibly well-known for its wine offerings, and Wakana is surrounded by tons of vineyards that you can visit for a tour or tasting of the local grapes.

The Hawea Hotel is located right on Lake Hawea , with rooms featuring stunning lake and mountain views, as well as private balconies. It's just 15 minutes drive from the township of Wanaka and a great base if you're looking to enjoy the beautiful surrounding nature.

You'll have everything you need, with an on-site restaurant and bar, free parking and wifi - it's also near the highway so you can get back on route in the morning without any difficulty.

Where to stay when you reach Christchurch

Christchurch is a cultural hub, so you'll want to stay right in the heart of the city when you reach your destination. The Observatory Hotel Christchurch is located in the city centre , so you'll have easy access to top museums and galleries such as Canterbury Museum and Christchurch Art Gallery.

Christchurch Tramway city tour tram in the street

It's an extremely comfortable place to rest up after a long drive - with 5 stars, you can expect to be greeted by a gorgeous exterior and luxury interiors. There is a concierge service which will help make you feel like a local as you are exploring Christchurch.

Make sure to enjoy the hotel's complimentary continental breakfast before heading out to sightsee. Bridge of Remembrance, The Chalice and Victoria Square are all within a short distance of the property.

Things to see on a road trip from Queenstown to Christchurch

The views are so good on this trip that you'll want to stop every few minutes to take a photo. However, some stops are better than others, so we've rounded up the top hikes, natural landmarks and friendly towns to park up at along the way.

Lindis Pass - Discover this stunning pass through the green rolling hills and mountains of the South Island.
Omarama Hot Tubs - There's no better way to take in the beauty of the Omarama area than this experience, which combines relaxing hot tubs and saunas with the stunning outdoors.
Omarama Clay Cliffs - While in Omarama, make sure you check out the breathtaking clay cliffs, a popular Instagram spot that's definitely worth stopping for.
Twizel - This small town is the perfect base for the surrounding outdoor adventure activities in Mount Cook National Park and the Mackenzie Basin. The town itself is quaint and lovely to explore on foot.
Lake Pukaki - One of several crystal-clear alpine lakes, Lake Pukaki is best viewed from the Lake Pukaki Lookout located just north of your route.
Mount Cook - The largest mountain in New Zealand, you'll see Mount Cook coming from a distance; we recommend getting up-close via a hike!
Lake Tekapo and the Tekapo Springs - Bathe in the sprawling Tekapo Springs thermal pools while enjoying the views of this beautiful alpine lake.
Mount Hutt - With a summit of 2190 metres, Mount Hutt is another stunning mountain on this route, rising to the west of the Canterbury Plains and a favourite amongst alpine sport-lovers.

Haast - A small town along this route, Haast boasts stunning views of the Tasman Sea.
Rakaia Gorge - This wonderful gorge is a must-see along your route; hop out of the car to grab some pictures with the beautiful Rakaia River and to stretch your legs.
Westland Tai Poutini National Park - The Westland Tai Poutini National Park contains some stunning geological formations and is known for its glacier country.
Jetty Point - Take a hike up to this viewpoint located near Lake Matheson; the walk in its entirety takes about 40 minutes for the round trip and promises stunning vistas.
Arthur's Pass - The highest pass over the Southern Alps, Arthur's Pass is one of the most breathtaking stretches of this route. It's recommended to pack chains for the car in case of snow!

Copland River, Copland Track, Westland Tai Poutini National Park, New Zealand

Both routes

Arrowtown - This adorable town near Queenstown dates back to the 1800s and boasts delicious food as well as historic streets and cottages.
Lake Hayes - Easily accessible along both routes, Lake Hayes is a small lake and popular swimming spot near Queenstown.
Wanaka - Discover Wanaka, a wonderful little town known for its outdoor sport offerings and stunning surrounding landscapes.
Crown Range - Located between Queenstown and Wanaka, the Crown Range is a beautiful mountain range that boasts the highest main road in New Zealand.
Kawarau Gorge - A Lord of the Rings shooting location, Kawarau Gorge is a major river gorge that extends for about 60 kilometres. Add on an hour to either route to discover this attraction!

Colorful autumn in Arrowtown with large mountains in the background

Best time to go on a road trip from Queenstown to Christchurch

Christchurch is best visited during the summer months (December to March) when the weather is warmest, though there is still plenty to get out of the city if during the winter (June to August).

The summer is a great time to visit, as temperatures are warm but comfortable, ranging between 11 and 21 degrees Celsius. It's the most popular time of the year for tourists. If you visit in June you can catch celebrations for Maori New Year, while WORD Christchurch Festival takes place in August.

In winter, temperatures range between 3 and 10 degrees, and tourism dips during this season. Consequently, it's a good time to visit Christchurch if you're looking to enjoy reduced accommodation rates and fewer crowds. If you're there in January, you'll get to witness Kite Day at New Brighton Beach.

As you'll be driving through mountainous regions on your way to Christchurch, be prepared for a fair amount of snowfall if visiting during the winter. You'll want to pack some snow chains and it's even recommended to keep some sleeping bags in the car just in case.

The same is true regarding cheap accommodation for spring and autumn, when temperatures range between 5 and 20 degrees. There are some great events during these times of the year, including Christchurch Pride, City 2 Surf Open Christchurch and NZ Music Month in spring, with the Christchurch Heritage Festival taking place in October.

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Change your itinerary, choose trip duration, want to change the duration of your journey, change trip duration, queenstown to franz josef to queenstown in 7 days, driving tour.

Awesome news! You’ve got a week off and you’ve decided to take some time to explore the South Island starting off in the adventure capital of the world – Queenstown! This trip is going to take you on a real kiwi adventure through amazing landscapes from the Southern Alps to the rugged West Coast with plenty in between. So, there really is no time to waste – let’s GO!

If you’re still in the planning stage of your trip, make sure you check out the great deals on car rental in Queenstown – we’re not one of New Zealand’s favourite rental car companies for no reason!

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Trip Itinerary

1 queenstown to mt cook village (263kms – 3 hours 19mins).

With only a morning to spare before you hit the road, you’re going to have to pick your activity wisely from the action-packed to the more sedate in and around Queenstown – here are some of our top tips:

Adrenaline fuelled adventure

For those who have headed to Queenstown for adrenaline-fuelled adventure, these are our highlights of things to do in a day:

Image showing the AJ Hackett, Nevis Bungy Jump near Queenstown, New Zealand

1) AJ Hackett Nevis Bungy – Australasia’s highest bungy at 134m, this is not for the faint-hearted – 8.5 seconds of freefall will have you screaming like a lunatic!

2) Skippers Canyon Jet – reaching speeds of up to 85mph this ride up the tight Shotover Canyon is sure to get your pulse racing. The 360-degree spins will get you closer to the wall than you feel comfortable with! Skippers Canyon Jet is also a GO Play partner. Bonus!

3) Coronet Peak ski resort (in season) – fantastic resort for pros and beginners alike, Coronet Peak is a GO Rentals favourite in the winter where lots of fun can be had on and off the slopes

Queenstown Complete Guide

Something a bit more…relaxing

We know that jumping off mountains and flipping jet boats is not everyone’s cup of tea but there’s more to Queenstown than adrenaline-fuelled adventure. Here are our top three things for the more laid back traveller:

1) Ben Lomond – a 4-hour walk giving you some awesome views of Queenstown, the lake and surrounding mountains

2) Skyline gondola – take the gondola up Bob’s Peak and enjoy some award-winning cuisine and some amazing views. If you want to get down a bit quicker, the luge is a lot of fun!

3) Wine tasting – The Central Otago region is famous for producing world-leading Pinot Noirs – this one is not for the driver but passengers can enjoy sampling some fine wines from the region before hitting the road.

Use your GO Play card here

Safari of the scenes glenorchy & paradise.

Heading out of Queenstown on the road east, there are some great stops on the way to break up the drive:

Arrowtown (20.5km – 24 mins)

Image of the high street in Arrowtown, New Zealand

A number of hiking tracks start and end at Arrowtown so, if you feel like a walk, head to the Information Centre to find out more about these tracks.

Cromwell (47.6kms – 37 mins from Arrowtown)

Located on the shores of Lake Dunstan, the town has a modern feel but in fact, has a rich history dating back to the 1800s and the gold rush. You can get a feel for what the town would have been like by taking a trip through Old Cromwell Town – a feature attraction for tourists that’s a fascinating look back in time.

Lindis Pass

Your journey north will take you towards Twizel and over the Lindis Pass – a spectacular drive where you will often see snow down to the roadside throughout much of the year. If you’re making this drive in the winter months, be sure to check the conditions of the road before heading out as things can get a bit precarious and the weather can soon close in up above 900m.

Twizel (140kms – 1 hour 35 mins from Cromwell)

Twizel will be your final stop-off point before you head into the Mt Cook National Park where you will spend the first night of your trip. The town was purpose-built in the 1960s to provide homes for workers on the Upper Waitaki Power Scheme and it now offers a great base for people looking to head off into the National Park. There is a good range of shops here to stock up on goodies for the rest of your journey into the National Park.

Your journey from Twizel takes you up the shoreline of Lake Pukaki with some stunning views of the Southern Alps and Aoraki/Mt Cook which will leave you breathless. It’s a further 63.9kms from Twizel to Mt Cook Village which should take you just under an hour.

2 Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park

Image of Mount Cook courtesy of GO Rentals customer Christina Jander

This is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular National Parks (and we have some amazing ones!) so spending the day here is going to be one you never forget. There is so much to see and do in the park so choosing your activities carefully to maximise your time here is going to be crucial. We recommend planning your day when you arrive on Day 3 leaving yourself the whole day today to take it all in and soak up that fresh mountain air. With so much to do here, we have pulled together some of our personal favourites:

Mount Cook Lily - the world's largest buttercup

Skiing and snow sports – obviously this is an activity for the winter enthusiasts but many descend on Mt Cook Village as the winter sports down here are pretty awesome! There’s plenty for those who are not into skiing though from snowshoeing to climbing so there is plenty to do down here in the winter months.

Scenic flights and heli-hiking – If you have a few dollars to spare we can definitely recommend taking a scenic flight around these parts. For something extra special, try one of the ski planes which can land up on the Tasman Glacier – now that is cool! For those true adventurers, you can also take a helicopter ride to go hiking or even ski the virgin snow up high on the mountains.

Best of the rest – no matter what you’re into, chances are you can do it down here from fishing to golf, cycling to horse trekking and lots in between. You can visit the official Department of Conservation website for more ideas of things to do in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

Whether you’re a sporting enthusiast, adventure junkie or a nature lover, this place is a truly special location to spend a day and night.

This part of the world also gives you the perfect opportunity to get involved in our GO Snap Happy competition – just send us your best photos for the chance to win back the cost of your car hire – how good is that?!!

3 Aoraki/Mount Cook to Christchurch (330kms – 3 hours 53 mins)

After an awesome day spent exploring the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, it’s time to hit the road and head off towards the east coast and the South Island’s largest city, Christchurch. There are plenty of interesting stop-offs on the way though so let’s get GOing.

Mt John Observatory/Lake Tekapo (107kms – 1 hour 13 mins)

Image of the observatory on Mt John in Canterbury, New Zealand with views looking out towards Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is also famous for its unique turquoise colour, as well as its beautiful starry nights – if you can park here for the night, you will not regret it. Mt John, just above the Tekapo township, is considered one of the most accessible observatories in the world, home to 6 telescopes, including New Zealand’s biggest telescope, which can observe 50 million stars each clear night (yes, you read that right).

Akaroa (284km – 3 hours 38 mins)

Located 75km from Christchurch and known by locals as the ‘Riviera of Canterbury’, Akaroa is a great stop off as you head towards the big city. This village is located on the Banks Peninsula within a harbour of the same name and is considered “the most French town” in New Zealand, as it was the only French settlement in the country. Spend some time exploring the small town and then head to the harbour for the best fish and chips meal of your life (at least that’s Akaroa’s claim so you be the judge and let us know). Black Cat Cruises, a GO Play partner offer an awesome opportunity to swim with the rare Hector’s dolphins which are only found in these waters – a must if you have never done this type of thing before.

Lyttelton (77.5km – 1 hour 18 mins from Akaroa)

Image of Lyttelton harbour which is located just outside of Christchurch, New Zealand

4 Christchurch to Greymouth (242kms – 3 hours 17 mins)

You should have time this morning to explore Christchurch as this leg of the journey over to the West Coast will take just over 3 hours. Christchurch is a city on the mend after the devastating earthquakes of 2011.

Christchurch Complete Guide

Image of Christchurch post-earthquake with the redevelopment that has taken place

After a morning of exploring it’s time to hit the road. Heading out of Christchurch your journey is going to take you all the way from the East to the West Coast via the spectacular Arthur’s Pass. This is the only road to take if you want a real road trip and what better way to start this journey. The pass rises up to over 900 metres as you cross into the Arthur’s Pass National Park with stunning scenery on all sides.

The road itself is an engineering marvel as it cuts through the Southern Alps. One of the most popular ways to travel the route from Christchurch to Greymouth is on the Tranz Alpine Rail Service and the road runs alongside the rail tracks for much of the journey.

Arthurs Pass Village (146kms – 1 hour 59 mins)

Arthur’s Pass Village is a great stop-off point on your journey and a great chance to stretch your legs. Although this 7-day itinerary does not allow time for a stop, there are plenty of places to stay up here if you fancy heading out for a hike. There is time for you to do the 1-hour leg stretching loop to the Devil’s Punchbowl Falls before you start to head down towards the West Coast.

Punakaiki pancake rocks (45.1km – 37 mins)

Hmmmm pancakes as Homer would say! Although your day is going to end in Greymouth, we highly recommend a detour north to end your day. These 30-million-year-old limestone formations are nothing to be scoffed at. They’re towering cliffs of rock that really do look like a sky-high layer of grey pancakes stacked one on top of the other. We reckon Homer would be pretty happy with these bad boys.

Image of the Punakaiki Rocks on the West Coast, New Zealand

With a well-maintained path leading out to the best spots, this is a great chance to see the huge waterspouts that blast out towards the sky from blowholes.

It may be late by the time you arrive in Greymouth depending on what time you hit the road in Christchurch and despite this being a popular transit stop for those taking the Tranz Alpine, there is still plenty to see and do in the area and probably the most popular is the Monteith’s brewery tour and tasting. Monteith’s is one of NZ’s most famous exports and the master brewers will talk you through the process of creating multi-award winning beers…and then you’ll get to try them for yourself. Winner.

On yer bike! Adventures also offer some fantastic off-roading fun in their quads, go-karts, argo and hagglunds through amazing rainforest trails and flowing creeks. If you still haven’t checked out the gold mining history in these parts, GO Play partner Shanty Town offer a 5% discount for a tour back in time – definitely worth a look.

5 Greymouth to Franz Josef (173km – 2 hours 17 mins)

This is one of the easier days of driving with a spectacular drive down the West Coast towards Franz Josef. Take your time to enjoy the stop-offs on the way – there are some great little towns that really give an insight into life on the rugged West Coast.

Hokitika (83km – 1 hour 10 mins)

Image of the word Hokitika spelt out in sticks on the beach at Hokitika

Why not get involved yourself and try some jade carving at the Just Jade Experience?

Lake Mahinapua

You and your GO Rentals car should be getting to know each other by now so before you know it, you’ll come across Lake Mahinapua which offers a fantastic stop-off point for a picnic and a stretch of the legs. Once a coastal lagoon it’s a lovely place for a swim and the water is surprisingly warm. A great place for families, there is a suitable wading area for young children and bigger kids love jumping off the jetty or launching a canoe to explore. For the twitchers out there, you’re likely to see black swans and mallard ducks and if you’re extremely fortunate you could also spot a magnificent white heron or the rare fern bird if that floats your boat.

There are a number of short walks or if you have the time try the two-hour Mahinapua walkway which traverses board-walked wetlands and forest following a historic logging tramway.

The final pitstop before you hit Franz Josef should be at Ross (27.2km – 22 mins from Hokitika) which was made famous in 1909 when NZ’s largest-ever gold nugget was mined weighing in at an impressive 2.807kgs. Your drive from here cuts back inland, passing many beautiful lakes before finally arriving at Franz Josef (107km – 1 hour 23 mins).

Arriving mid-afternoon in Franz is perfect as it gives you the time to plan your day for tomorrow. With so many activities to choose from, it’s nice to be able to wander around the village and take in the glorious surroundings of the Southern Alps. Grab a hearty bite to eat at night as you are going to have a big day ahead of you!

West Coast Complete Guide

6 Exploring the Franz Josef Glacier

The Glacier was first explored in 1865 by Austrian Julius Haast and it has been advancing and retreating ever since and now it’s your chance to get up close and personal with a variety of activities to tickle your fancy.

There are several ways to explore the glacier from independent walks to heli-hikes but however, you choose to take in the sights and sounds of the stunning glacier, make sure you pack your bag for all weathers as things can change quickly up at the glacier.

Independent walks

There are a number of independent walks you can make which provide great viewpoints of the glacier. The best is probably Sentinel Rock which is 10 minutes from the car park or the Ka Roimate o Hine Hukatere walk which is a more energetic 40-minute walk that leads to the terminal of the glacier.

Guided walks

Image of people on a guided walk on the Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

Shantytown Heritage Park

For those with a few more dollars to spare, a heli-hike offers two fantastic opportunities; see the sheer scales of the glacier from the skies but also get onto the glacier much higher up where the ice is much purer. Here you’ll get the chance to discover blue-ice caves, seracs and pristine ice formations and let’s face it, a trip in a helicopter is pretty cool.

Image of people being dropped of by helicopter above the Franz Josef glacier to take a heli-hike down onto the ice

Aoraki Mount Cook

Taking things one step further, Aoraki Mount Cook is within reach of Franz by helicopter with a number of companies running tours to see the highest peak in NZ. These tours can often be combined with a heli-hike on either Franz Josef or Fox glacier and are the ultimate Southern Alps experience. If you do head out on one of these amazing trips, be sure to let us know so we can all be super jealous in the office!

There are so many cool places to go skydiving in New Zealand and Franz Josef is definitely up there with the best of them. If you are looking for bragging rights over your mates, Franz Josef is definitely the place for you. Home of New Zealand’s highest skydive at 19,000ft, Franz Josef is also one of the most scenic places in the world to skydive as you soar down over the spectacular glacier with Mount Cook in the backdrop. Great news for anyone renting with GO Rentals is that Skydive Franz is an exclusive GO Play partner and will give you $30 off when you show your GO Play card. Awesome!

Glacier Hot Pools

Once you’re finished, how about a dip in the glacier hot pools, right in the middle of the rainforest? It sounds just as stunning as it is. The pools are located in the Franz Josef township on Cron Street and open between 1pm to 9pm all year round and if all this sounds too perfect, it’s about to get better! Glacier Hot Pools are a GO Play partner so you can sit back and relax with a few extra bucks in your pocket.

Queenstown to Franz Josef Spotify Playlist

7 Franz Josef to Queenstown (350km – 4 hours 43 mins)

After a day on the glacier, today is going to be about the driving and some spectacular scenery (don’t worry, these GO Rentals hire cars love a good run out!). The drive to Queenstown takes you down the West Coast before cutting inland along the Haast Pass towards Queenstown. There are some spectacular viewpoints on the way but be sure to pick one or two or you may never arrive in Queenstown!

Lake Matheson (27.8km – 27 mins from Franz Josef)

As you head out of Franz Josef, one-stop that cannot be missed is a detour to Lake Matheson. If you’re looking for a photo to put on Facebook to make all your friends jealous, then this is it. Better still, send your photos in to our GO Snap Happy competition for a chance to win back the cost of your rental – can’t say fairer than that! Take the road west at the popular Fox Glacier township and you’ll be rewarded with views that take your breath away and make you question why you ever want to go back to whatever it is you do when you’re not touring around NZ’s South Island.

Image of the Southern Alps and Mount Cook reflecting in the crystal clear waters of Lake Matheson

As you carry on down the Haast Pass, there are loads of forest and lakeside walks you can take along the way depending on how you’re doing for time. Lake Paringa offers a great pitstop location for lunch with some stunning scenery in all directions. The highway then makes its way back out to the coast at Bruce’s Bay and a stunning drive awaits.

Monro Beach (125km – 2 hours 8 mins)

Enjoy the views along the rugged coastline as this is your last chance to take in the splendour of New Zealand’s West Coast – it’s soon time to turn east and head inland towards the lakes and mountains. Be sure to stop off for the walk down to Monro Beach just before you hit the Haast Pass going east where between July and December it’s possible to see the tawaki (Fiordland crested penguin). Make sure you cover up though as the venomous sand flies can be brutal at most times of the year. From here, your GO Rentals beast should be singing along as the road takes a meandering route through the Mt Aspiring National Park and on to Wanaka.

Blue Pools (78km – 1 hour 30 mins)

Image showing the crystal clear waters of the blue pools found along the Haast Pass between Wanaka and the West Coast

From here you still have around 140kms till you hit Queenstown which will take you around 2 hours. Make sure you leave plenty of time if you need to drop off your car today. This last drive of the trip is a beast but one we think you will enjoy as the scenery is out of this world! Be sure to take loads of photos and don’t forget, if you come across any hidden gems on this road trip to let us know on our GO Explore Facebook page .

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One Week Queenstown Itinerary: How to Spend 7 Days in Queenstown
Now you can start the drive back to Queenstown. About 38 kilometers (23.6 miles) in, keep an eye out for signs for Moke Lake. You'll turn left onto a gravel road and follow this road for about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) until you reach the lake. Moke Lake is an iconic destination in Queenstown.
QUEENSTOWN Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)
Queenstown Hill, or Te Tapu-nui (mountain of intense sacredness) in the native Maori language, is a small hill overlooking the city. It is particularly popular for its Time Walk trail, one of the best free things to do in Queenstown! The mile-long trail takes between 2-3 hours to complete.
Queenstown Itinerary Ideas
Itinerary ideas to help you plan your holiday in Queenstown, including family-friendly, adrenaline-packed, indulging and off the beaten track itineraries. Meet. Live. Business. Study. Meet. Live. ... Central Otago Touring Route: a Low-Impact Guide. Take the 341km journey from Queenstown to Dunedin with Roady, and discover one of New Zealand's ...
How to Spend 3 Days in Queenstown: A Detailed Itinerary (by a local!)
Money-saving tip: If you plan your Queenstown itinerary in advance, you may be able to snag a table on the website First Table. This website allows you to get 50% off your food at most restaurants in Queenstown. ... You get a bus journey there to see all the sights along the way. Then, you'll enjoy a 2-hour nature cruise on the fiord and a ...
Queenstown itinerary
Christchurch to Queenstown road trip - 7 day itinerary. Auckland to Rotorua 5 day return road trip. Christchurch to Nelson drive - 8 day round trip itinerary. Auckland itinerary - perfect 1, 2 or 3 days in Auckland.
Plan Your Trip to Queenstown, NZ
Planning your trip to Queenstown. Dreaming of your next holiday is always exciting. We've compiled lots of information about getting around in Queenstown, weather and climate , maps and visitor guides, itineraries, our surrounding regions and top tips for planning and packing. Queenstown is located in the southern lakes region of the South ...
best things to do in Queenstown in 3, 5 & 7 days
Where to stay in Queenstown. 7 day itinerary. Day 1 - QT town and lake cruise. Day 2 - Glenorchy, Paradise and party. Day 3 - Adventure and wine. Day 4 - Milford Sound Cruise. Day 5 - Wanaka and Haast Pass road trip. Day 6 - Hikes and views. Day 7 - Mt. Cook NP day trip.
Queenstown to Christchurch
15 Best Stops Between Queenstown and Christchurch. 1. Arrowtown. Buckingham Street in Arrowtown during summer in New Zealand. Explore this cute gold-mining town! Easily one of my favorite little towns on the South Island, Arrowtown is quaint and super charming.
Christchurch to Queenstown road trip
A Christchurch to Queenstown road trip is a journey through some of New Zealand's most spectacular landscapes. From dramatic mountains to the bluest lakes, ... To help you plan your trip I've prepared a series of New Zealand travel guides. Read next: NZ South Island: 2 & 3 week itineraries.
How to Explore Queenstown by $2 Public Bus
Plan your journey. To plan your Queenstown bus trip check out this bus journey planner, which also includes the ferry, ... Queenstown public bus. Route #1 - Remarkables Shops to Sunshine Bay. You can use public transport from the start of your trip - the Route #1 bus goes from Queenstown Airport to central Queenstown via the Frankton bus ...
Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip: Best Stops and Itinerary
Driving distance: 125 miles (200km) Driving time: 2 - 3 hours. Today is the last day of your three-day Christchurch to Queenstown road trip. Begin your day with a short drive to the High Country Salmon Farm. Here, learn about salmon farming in New Zealand, feed the fish and try some fresh salmon.
The Ultimate Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary
The drive from Christchurch to Queenstown is easily one of New Zealand's most epic road trips. While driving between Christchurch and Queenstown, you'll encounter some of the South Island's finest scenery: towering snow-capped mountain ranges, bluer-than-blue glacial lakes, braided rivers, thick beech forests, and golden tussock fields.
Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary
Distance: 495 Kilometers (307 miles) Time: Minimum of 7 hours (5 days ideally) Recommended for: Those not visiting Wanaka after Queenstown and don't mind skipping the Gibbston Valley (you can visit while staying in Queenstown) The route via Wanaka is the more scenic in my opinion and I really love the drive this way. It also visits Wanaka which is a must-visit town in New Zealand.
Queenstown to Christchurch
GO Snap Happy Photo Opportunity. For those who have headed to Queenstown for adrenaline-fuelled adventure, these are our highlights of things to do in a day:. 1) AJ Hackett Nevis Bungy - Australasia's highest bungy at 134m, this is not for the faint-hearted - 8.5 seconds of freefall will have you screaming like a lunatic!. 2) Skipper Canyon Jet - reaching speeds of up to 85mph this ...
Queenstown to Christchurch Road Trip Itinerary
The route options for driving from Queenstown to Christchurch. There are two main routes to get from Queenstown to Christchurch to choose from: driving up the middle of the South Island past Aoraki Mount Cook and through Tekapo, or driving up the West Coast and Glacier Country before heading across Arthur's Pass.
Queenstown to Christchurch
1) Ben Lomond - a 4-hour walk giving you some awesome views of Queenstown, the lake and surrounding mountains. 2) Skyline gondola - take the gondola up Bob's Peak and enjoy some award-winning cuisine and some amazing views. If you want to get down a bit quicker, the luge is a lot of fun! 3) Arrowtown (22.1km - 22mins) - head out in ...
Road Trip from Queenstown to Christchurch
The Glacier Country Route. 740 km. 9 hours 30 minutes. There are two different routes to make the journey from Queenstown to Christchurch, both of which have plenty to offer. The Inland Scenic Route is the shorter option at 560 kilometres, which takes 7 hours 30 minutes of direct driving time.
| NZTA Journey Planner
Find road closures, incidents, roadworks and traffic cameras across New Zealand. View traffic cameras from across New Zealand to see current road conditions, traffic jams and heavy traffic. Use our holiday journey planner to check traffic predictions before you leave. Every holiday period and long weekend we see large numbers of people heading ...
Queenstown buses
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Contact us. Get in touch with our fantastic customer services team if you have any questions or feedback on our Orbus services. Use our journey planner to find what buses to take to get to your destination in our Orbus Dunedin and Queenstown public transport networks.
Queenstown to Franz Josef
7 Franz Josef to Queenstown (350km - 4 hours 43 mins) After a day on the glacier, today is going to be about the driving and some spectacular scenery (don't worry, these GO Rentals hire cars love a good run out!). The drive to Queenstown takes you down the West Coast before cutting inland along the Haast Pass towards Queenstown.
Travel Time and Distance Calculator
Planning a New Zealand road trip? Use the AA's Time and Distance Calculator to find the most efficient route.
11 Best Places to Stop on the Drive from Queenstown to Te Anau
1. Jack's Point. The first stop on your road trip from Queenstown to Te Anau has to be Jack's Point, which is just a 20-minute drive from Queenstown. Perfect for snapping a few photos at the start of your journey, Jack's Point is a gorgeous neighborhood with views of the Remarkables mountain range.

QUEENSTOWN Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

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3 Day Queenstown Itinerary Overview

Best Hostel in Queenstown – Nomads Queenstown

Best Budget Hotel in Queenstown – Melbourne Lodge

Best Luxury Hotel in Queenstown – Heartland Hotel Queenstown

9:00AM – Coronet Peak

1:00PM – Lake Wakatipu

1:30PM – Botanic Queenstown Gardens

2:30PM – Kiwi Birdlife Park

3:30PM – Skyline Queenstown

5:00PM – Onsen Hot Pools

9:00AM – The Remarkables

1:30PM – Queenstown Hill

2:00PM – Lake Hayes

3:00PM – Arrowtown

5:00PM – Gibbston Valley Winery

Nomads Queenstown

Nevis Valley

Shotover River

Walter Peak High Country Farm

Ben Lomond Track

Queenstown Mall

Peregrine Wines

The Lakes District Museum

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Christchurch to Queenstown road trip – 25 best stops along the way

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Winter evening at The Lodge Bar

What you need to know about catching the bus in Queenstown

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Plan your journey

Route #1 – Remarkables Shops to Sunshine Bay

Frankton & The Remarkables Shopping Centre

Fernhill & Sunshine Bay

Route #2 – Arthur’s Point to Arrowtown

Route #3 – Frankton Hub to Kelvin Heights

Route #4 – Frankton Hub to Jack’s Point

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Which route: Wanaka or Cromwell?

Stops for your road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown

Rakaia Gorge

Fairlie (rest stop)

Lake Tekapo

Lake Pukaki (viewpoints)

Mount Cook National Park

Twizel (rest stop or overnight stop)

High Country Salmon Farm (stop)

Omarama (rest stop)

Omara Clay Cliffs

Lindis Pass (viewpoint)

Cromwell (rest stop)

Extra stop: Gibbston Valley

Wanaka (detour)

The Crown Range Road

A Three-Day Road Trip Itinerary from Christchurch to Queenstown (via Cromwell)