Crown Range Road

Winding between Queenstown and Wanaka, the Crown Range Road is New Zealand's highest paved highway, cresting at 1,076 metres (3,530 ft) above sea level. This 75-kilometre stretch offers breathtaking alpine scenery, with hairpin bends, sweeping valley views, and a sense of adventure that rewards confident drivers. It's a thrilling alternative to the more direct State Highway 6, cutting travel time while delivering some of the South Island's most dramatic landscapes.

Highlights & What to See

• Cardrona Bra Fence: A quirky roadside attraction where hundreds of bras have been tied to a fence since 1999, raising funds for breast cancer research.
• Cardrona Hotel: One of New Zealand's oldest pubs, built in 1863, offering historic charm, hearty meals, and a great spot for a photo stop.
• Cardrona Alpine Resort: A popular ski field in winter (June–October) with excellent snow and terrain for all levels; also offers scenic chairlift rides in summer.
• Crown Range Summit: The highest point on the road, with panoramic views over the Wakatipu Basin and the Southern Alps – perfect for a picnic or photo.
• Arrowtown: A historic gold-mining town at the base of the road, featuring preserved 19th-century buildings, boutique shops, and the Chinese Settlement.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 1–2 hours for the drive itself, but factor in extra time for stops at Cardrona, the summit, and Arrowtown. Most travellers combine it as a scenic half-day loop from Queenstown or Wanaka, making it a memorable addition to a self-drive itinerary of the Otago region.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown: The adventure capital of New Zealand, just 20 minutes from the start of the road, offering bungee jumping, jet boating, and vibrant dining.
• Wanaka: A lakeside town with outdoor pursuits like hiking, skiing, and the famous Wanaka Tree; about 30 minutes from the Cardrona end.
• Arrowtown: Explore its gold-mining heritage and scenic Arrow River walks.
• Glenorchy: A gateway to Paradise and Mount Aspiring National Park, known for its wild landscapes and film locations.
• Milford Sound: A longer day trip from Queenstown, but the drive through Fiordland is spectacular.

Please check official sources for current details.