Crown Range Road

Snaking between Queenstown and Wanaka, the Crown Range Road is New Zealand's highest sealed highway, cresting at 1,076 metres. This exhilarating drive offers jaw-dropping alpine panoramas, tight switchbacks, and a sense of adventure that rewards those who take it slow. In winter, snow dusts the peaks; in summer, the golden tussock glows under a big blue sky. It's a detour worth savouring — not just a shortcut but a destination in itself.

Highlights & What to See

• Cardrona Hotel – New Zealand's most photographed pub, a historic gold-rush-era watering hole with a roaring fire and hearty meals.
• Bra Fence – A quirky roadside attraction where bras have been tied to the fence since 1999; a bizarre but memorable photo stop.
• Crown Range Summit Lookout – Pull over for sweeping views over the Wakatipu Basin and the Remarkables; best in late afternoon light.
• Arrowtown – A charming gold-mining settlement just off the road, with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and the Chinese Settlement.
• Cardrona Alpine Resort – A family-friendly ski field in winter, with mountain biking and hiking trails in summer.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for the full drive from Queenstown to Wanaka, including stops. The road is only 50 km but demands attention on the winding sections. Half a day is ideal if you want to linger at Cardrona Hotel, explore Arrowtown, or take a short walk at the summit. In winter, check conditions and carry chains — the road can close after heavy snow.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown – The adventure capital of New Zealand, 30 minutes south of the road's start.
• Wanaka – A laid-back lakeside town with the famous #ThatWanakaTree, 20 minutes north of Cardrona.
• Glenorchy – A serene village at the head of Lake Wakatipu, gateway to the Routeburn Track and Paradise.
• Arrowtown – Perfect for a lunch stop or a stroll through history.
• Cardrona Valley – Offers walking trails and the Cardrona Distillery for gin lovers.

Please check official sources for current details.