The Crown Range Road

One of New Zealand's most thrilling drives, the Crown Range Road links Queenstown and Wanaka via a serpentine ribbon of tarmac that climbs over 1,000 metres. This isn't just a shortcut — it's a white-knuckle adventure with heart-stopping views of the Crown Terrace, distant peaks, and the braided Kawarau River far below. The road is narrow, steep, and often windswept, but for drivers who relish a challenge, it's an unforgettable alpine experience.

Highlights & What to See

• The Summit Viewpoint: Pull over at the Crown Range Summit (1,076 m) for a panoramic photo stop. On a clear day, you can see from the Remarkables to Mount Aspiring.
• Cardrona Bra Fence: A quirky roadside attraction — a fence festooned with hundreds of bras, a spontaneous monument to female liberation and a beloved photo op.
• Cardrona Hotel: One of New Zealand's most photographed historic pubs, built in 1863. Stop for a cold beer or a hearty meal by the open fire.
• Autumn Colours: In fall (March–April), the surrounding hillsides blaze with gold and crimson, making the drive even more spectacular.
• Cycling the Crown Range: For fit cyclists, the climb is a legendary challenge, part of the Queenstown–Wanaka cycle trail.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 45 minutes to 1 hour for the drive between Queenstown and Wanaka (about 50 km), but budget extra time for photo stops and a break at the Cardrona Hotel. The road is best driven as a scenic loop: combine it with the shorter route via the Kawarau Gorge for a full day of exploring.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Arrowtown — historic gold-mining town with charming main street and autumn colours
• Wanaka — lakeside hub with the famous Wanaka Tree, hiking, and mountain biking
• Queenstown — adrenaline capital of New Zealand, with bungy, jet boats, and skyline gondola
• Cardrona Alpine Resort — ski area in winter, mountain biking in summer
• Gibbston Valley — wine region known for pinot noir and cheese tasting

Please check official sources for current details.