Lewis Pass

Straddling the Main Divide between Canterbury and the West Coast, Lewis Pass is one of New Zealand's most scenic and least-trafficked alpine crossings. The SH7 route snakes through ancient beech forests, past braided rivers and limestone bluffs, offering a genuine backcountry experience that feels a world away from the tourist crowds. For self-drive travellers, this is a journey where the road itself is the destination, with plenty of opportunities to pull over and soak in the raw, moody beauty of the Southern Alps.

Highlights & What to See

• Marble Hill Scenic Reserve – Short walks through surreal limestone formations and mossy beech forest; the Marble Hill Walk is a must-do for geology buffs.
• Lewis Pass National Reserve – The alpine tarns and tussock grasslands near the pass summit offer stunning views; the short Tarn Nature Walk is perfect for a leg-stretch.
• The St James Walkway – A multi-day tramp through valleys and over saddles, but day-hikers can tackle the first section to Anne Hut for a taste of the backcountry.
• Hot springs at Maruia Springs – Soak in thermal pools set beside the Maruia River, a blissful stop after a day's drive.
• Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for kea, falcons, and even the occasional chamois on the higher slopes.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least half a day to drive the pass from Hanmer Springs to the West Coast (or vice versa), factoring in plenty of stops for walks and photos. If you want to tackle a longer tramp like part of the St James Walkway, budget a full day or overnight. Most travellers combine Lewis Pass with a night in either Hanmer Springs or Reefton to break the journey.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs – A 40-minute drive east, famous for its thermal pools, mountain biking, and bungy jumping.
• Reefton – A historic gold-mining town 45 minutes west, with well-preserved Victorian architecture and the nearby Victoria Conservation Park.
• Murchison – A whitewater kayaking hub on the Buller River, about an hour northwest.
• Kaikōura – Two hours southeast via SH7 and SH1, known for whale watching and fresh crayfish.
• Boyle River Outdoor Education Centre – A great base for tramping and fishing in the upper Boyle valley.

Please check official sources for current details.