Crown Range Road

One of New Zealand’s most thrilling alpine drives, Crown Range Road links Queenstown and Wanaka via the highest sealed pass in the country. This 46 km stretch of twisting tarmac climbs to 1,076 m at the summit, offering jaw-dropping views of the Southern Alps, Cardrona Valley, and distant lakes. The road is a favourite among driving enthusiasts and cyclists, but demands respect — narrow lanes, steep gradients, and frequent hairpin bends keep you alert. Allow at least an hour for the journey, and stop at the summit lookout for panoramic photos that capture the raw beauty of Central Otago.

Highlights & What to See

• Summit Lookout: The crown jewel of the drive, with 360° views of snow-capped peaks and the braided Cardrona River far below.
• Cardrona Hotel: A historic gold-rush pub, perfect for a pint or a hearty meal in a rustic setting.
• Bra Fence: A quirky roadside attraction where thousands of bras have been tied to the fence since 1999 — a fundraiser for breast cancer research.
• Cycling Challenge: Part of the Otago Central Rail Trail and a favourite leg for Tour of New Zealand riders; cyclists can tackle the climb for a serious workout.
• Autumn Colours: Visit in April or May to see the hillsides blaze with gold and crimson.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours to drive the full route from Queenstown to Wanaka (or vice versa), including photo stops and a break at the Cardrona Hotel. If you’re cycling, allow 3–4 hours for the climb and descent. The road is best done as a scenic half-day loop combined with a visit to Arrowtown or Cromwell.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Arrowtown — A charming gold-mining settlement with preserved cottages and autumn trees.
• Wanaka — Lakefront town with hiking, kayaking, and the famous #ThatWanakaTree.
• Queenstown — Adventure capital for bungee jumping, jet boating, and gondola rides.
• Cromwell — Fruit-growing region with orchards, wineries, and the historic Old Town.
• Cardrona Alpine Resort — Ski fields in winter, mountain biking in summer.

Please check official sources for current details.