Queenstown to Wanaka Drive Guide | Best Stops, Routes & Campervan Tips

Planning the Queenstown to Wanaka drive? This scenic South Island road trip takes you through the spectacular Cardrona Valley, over the famous Crown Range Road and into one of New Zealand's most beautiful alpine destinations. Whether you're travelling by campervan, motorhome or car, the journey offers incredible mountain views, historic towns and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.

Getting there from Queenstown

Queenstown to Wanaka Quick Facts

Detail	Information
Distance	Approximately 68 km via Crown Range Road
Drive Time	Around 1 hour
Best Route	Crown Range Road via Cardrona
Suitable for Campervans	Yes
Recommended Trip Length	1 to 2 days
Best Time to Visit	Year-round

Via Cardrona follow State Highway 6 to Arrow Junction and turn left on the Crown Range Rd.

Via Cromwell stay on State Highway 6 until Wanaka

Suggested trip duration: 2 Days Take Note: If you are driving between May and September, be sure you are carrying chains as the conditions can become slippery.

Why the Queenstown to Wanaka Drive is One of New Zealand's Best Road Trips

The drive from Queenstown to Wanaka may be relatively short, but it delivers some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand's South Island. Within a single journey, you'll travel through alpine mountain passes, historic gold-mining settlements, working sheep stations and lakeside landscapes that have made the region famous with travellers from around the world.

For campervan travellers, the route offers the perfect balance of convenience and adventure. You can comfortably complete the drive in a day while still allowing plenty of time to stop at viewpoints, enjoy local cafés and explore the attractions along the way.

Whether you're visiting during the vibrant colours of autumn, the long days of summer or the snow-covered landscapes of winter, every season offers something unique on the journey between Queenstown and Wanaka.

Driving the Crown Range Road

For most travellers, the Crown Range Road is the highlight of the journey. As New Zealand's highest main road, the route climbs through dramatic alpine terrain before descending into the picturesque Cardrona Valley. The winding road rewards drivers with uninterrupted mountain views and several excellent photo opportunities.

If you're travelling by campervan, the road is well maintained and suitable for standard two-wheel-drive vehicles in normal conditions. During winter, however, snow and ice can occasionally affect road conditions and carrying chains may be necessary. Always check local road updates before setting out.

At the summit, be sure to stop at the Crown Range Lookout. From here you'll enjoy panoramic views across rugged mountain ranges and deep valleys that showcase the scale and beauty of Central Otago.

Discover Historic Cardrona

No Queenstown to Wanaka road trip is complete without stopping in Cardrona. Originally established during the gold rush era, the settlement has become one of the South Island's most iconic roadside destinations. The historic Cardrona Hotel has welcomed travellers since 1863 and remains one of New Zealand's most photographed pubs.

Today, Cardrona combines its rich history with a thriving food, wine and arts scene. Alongside the famous hotel, visitors can explore local galleries, browse boutique stores and visit the award-winning Cardrona Distillery. The relaxed atmosphere makes Cardrona a fantastic place to stretch your legs and enjoy a break from driving before continuing towards Wanaka.

Best Photo Stops on the Drive

One of the biggest advantages of travelling by campervan is the freedom to stop whenever something catches your eye. Fortunately, this route offers no shortage of photo opportunities. Lake Hayes

Located just outside Queenstown, Lake Hayes provides a peaceful setting surrounded by rolling hills and mountain views. Early morning is an especially beautiful time to visit when the lake reflects the surrounding landscape.

Crown Range Summit

One of the highest viewpoints on the journey, the Crown Range Summit offers spectacular vistas across Central Otago and is a favourite stop for photographers.

Cardrona Valley

The open landscapes of Cardrona Valley provide endless opportunities for memorable road trip photos. During autumn, the valley's trees transform into vibrant shades of gold, orange and red.

Lake Wanaka Waterfront

Upon arrival in Wanaka, take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy views of the lake framed by the Southern Alps. The lakefront is one of the town's most popular locations for sunrise and sunset photography.

Where to Eat Between Queenstown and Wanaka

Exploring the region can quickly build an appetite, and fortunately there are some excellent food stops along the route.

Arrowtown

Arrowtown offers everything from artisan bakeries and cafés to restaurants serving local Central Otago produce.

Cardrona Hotel

A popular lunch stop for both locals and visitors, the Cardrona Hotel serves classic pub meals alongside stunning mountain views.

Wanaka

Once you arrive in Wanaka, you'll find a diverse range of dining options including waterfront restaurants, breweries, cafés and family-friendly eateries. Travellers visiting during peak holiday periods should consider making reservations, particularly during summer and winter ski season.

Best Time of Year to Drive from Queenstown to Wanaka

This road trip can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a different experience.

Summer (December to February)

Summer brings warm temperatures, long daylight hours and ideal conditions for hiking, kayaking and lakeside relaxation.

Autumn (March to May)

Many travellers consider autumn the most beautiful time to visit. The Central Otago landscape transforms with brilliant autumn colours, particularly around Arrowtown and Cardrona.

Winter (June to August)

Winter turns the region into a snow-covered alpine wonderland. Ski fields around Wanaka and Queenstown attract visitors from across New Zealand and overseas.

Spring (September to November)

Spring offers mild weather, snow-capped mountain peaks and fewer crowds than peak summer months.

Things to Do in Wanaka

• Rob Roy Glacier Track
• Eco Tour (Cruise)
• Wildlife Wanaka via Ferrata
• Skydive
• Food and Wine Tours
• Wanaka Bike Tours
• Wanaka Horse Riding Tours

Other Information

Camping Near Wanaka

Travelling by campervan gives you plenty of flexibility when exploring Wanaka and the wider Otago region.

Popular DOC campsites near Wanaka include:

• Boundary Creek Campsite
• Kidds Bush Campsite

These campsites offer lake and mountain scenery, basic facilities and a more remote camping experience.

If you're looking for powered sites, showers and kitchen facilities, Wanaka also has several private holiday parks and campgrounds. During summer and ski season, advance bookings are recommended.

Continue Your South Island Adventure

Wanaka is often the beginning rather than the end of a South Island road trip. From here, many travellers continue towards:

• Haast and the West Coast
• Franz Josef Glacier
• Fox Glacier
• Mount Cook National Park
• Tekapo
• Christchurch

If you're planning a longer campervan adventure, Wanaka makes an excellent base for exploring Central Otago and some of New Zealand's most spectacular natural landscapes.

Did You Know?

Campervan Village has a fleet of Campervans for hire, perfect for exploring New Zealand! You can collect a campervan in Christchurch, Queenstown or Auckland, so book online today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to drive from Queenstown to Wanaka?

The drive takes approximately one hour via Crown Range Road without stops.

What is the most scenic route from Queenstown to Wanaka?

Most travellers choose Crown Range Road via Cardrona because of its spectacular mountain scenery and lookout points.

Is Crown Range Road suitable for campervans?

Yes. Most campervans can travel the route safely in normal conditions. Extra care should be taken during winter.

What are the best stops between Queenstown and Wanaka?

Popular stops include Arrowtown, Crown Range Summit, Cardrona Hotel and Cardrona Valley.

Can you camp near Wanaka?

Yes. There are several DOC campgrounds and private holiday parks located around Wanaka and Lake Hawea.