Lewis Pass Scenic Drive

Stretching between the alpine spa town of Hanmer Springs and the West Coast, the Lewis Pass Scenic Drive is one of New Zealand's most underrated road trips. This winding highway cuts through the Southern Alps via the Lewis Pass (864 m), offering ever-changing vistas of beech forests, braided rivers, and rugged mountain peaks. Unlike the busier Arthur's Pass route, this drive feels wilder and more remote, with fewer cars and a palpable sense of solitude. Keep your camera ready for sudden clearings that reveal epic valley views, and don't be surprised if you spot a kea or a red deer along the way.

Highlights & What to See

• Marble Hill Recreation Reserve – A great picnic spot with short walks through limestone outcrops and native bush.
• Boyle River – Stop at the swing bridge for panoramic views of the river flats and surrounding mountains.
• Lewis Pass Summit – At 864 m, the pass offers a short interpretive walk and a chance to stretch your legs above the treeline.
• St James Walkway trailhead – For hikers, this 67 km multi-day track starts near the pass; even a short section rewards with pristine wilderness.
• Thermal pools at Hanmer Springs – Bookend your drive with a soak in the famous hot pools at the eastern terminus.
• Reefton – A historic gold-mining town on the western side, with well-preserved Victorian architecture.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least half a day (4–5 hours) for the 140 km drive from Hanmer Springs to Reefton, not counting stops. To fully appreciate the scenery, budget a full day: start early, take short walks, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a roadside picnic spot. If you're continuing to the West Coast, this drive fits neatly into a two-day itinerary combining Hanmer Springs with Punakaiki or Greymouth.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs – The perfect base for thermal relaxation and adventure activities.
• Reefton – Explore the historic town centre and nearby heritage walks.
• Punakaiki – The Pancake Rocks and blowholes are a 90-minute drive west of Reefton.
• Kaikōura – Whale watching and coastal scenery, about 2 hours east via the inland route.
• Murchison – A charming town on the Buller River, famous for whitewater rafting.

Please check official sources for current details.