Crown Range Road

New Zealand’s highest sealed road, the Crown Range Road, is a thrilling alpine drive that links Queenstown and Wanaka. Winding over the Crown Range summit at 1,121 m, this 47-km route offers jaw-dropping panoramas of the Southern Alps and the braided Cardrona River. It’s a favourite among driving enthusiasts and cyclists for its switchbacks and ever-changing vistas – a scenic shortcut that packs a punch.

Highlights & What to See

• Cardrona Hotel: Pull over at this historic 1863 gold-rush pub for a pint and a photo of its iconic verandah – it’s one of New Zealand’s most photographed buildings.
• Bra Fence: A quirky roadside attraction near Cardrona where hundreds of bras have been strung on a fence, raising funds for breast cancer research – a colourful, unexpected stop.
• Crown Range Summit: The highest point on the route, with a lookout offering sweeping views over the Wakatipu Basin, the Remarkables, and Lake Hayes. Ideal for a picnic or a quick snap.
• Arrowtown: Detour into this historic gold-mining settlement, with its preserved Chinese settlement, boutique shops, and autumn colours that rival any in the country.
• Lake Hayes: A serene glacial lake just off the road, perfect for a short walk or a scenic break – especially beautiful in evening light.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 1.5–2 hours for the drive one way, including photo stops. If you plan to explore Arrowtown or enjoy a meal at the Cardrona Hotel, budget a half-day. Cyclists should allow 3–4 hours for the climb, with plenty of breaks to soak in the views. The road is narrow and winding in places, so drive with care – but the reward is a quintessential New Zealand alpine experience.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown: The adventure capital, just 20 minutes from the Crown Range’s southern end – combine with bungee jumping, lake cruises, or the Skyline Gondola.
• Wanaka: At the northern end, this lakeside town offers hiking, the famous #ThatWanakaTree, and the challenging Roy’s Peak Track.
• Glenorchy: A scenic drive from Queenstown, Glenorchy is the gateway to Paradise and film locations from The Lord of the Rings.
• Cardrona Alpine Resort: In winter, the road leads to this family-friendly ski field; in summer, the mountain biking trails are top-notch.
• Gibbston Valley: Known as the ‘Valley of the Vines’, it’s a short detour from the southern end for wine tasting and cheese at the Gibbston Valley Winery.

Please check official sources for current details.