Christchurch to Queenstown road trip – 25 best stops along the way

A Christchurch to Queenstown road trip is a journey through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes. From dramatic mountains to the bluest lakes, charming towns, infinite fields and starry skies, this adventure has it all.

Having lived in both Christchurch and Queenstown, I’ve traversed this route countless times, and let me assure you, the beauty of it never ceases to amaze.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best route, must-stop locations, top activities, as well as dining and accommodation recommendations to help you make the most of your Christchurch to Queenstown road trip.

So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a journey you won’t soon forget. No matter the season, this road trip is a visual feast, with each twist and turn unveiling new breathtaking views.

How to get from Christchurch to Queenstown

While there are many quick and direct flights connecting Queenstown and Christchurch, the best way to get from Christchurch to Queenstown is by road.

This is one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand and you get to stop at Lake Tekapo, traverse gorgeous mountain passes and you can even do a detour to Mt. Cook National Park.

Private transfers

There are a ton of excellent one-way tours from Christchurch to Mt Cook and Queenstown that make exploring this region super easy. You’ll get to learn about the sights and locations from a local guide, stopping at the key points of interest, and you’ll be able to rest on the bus while enjoying the scenery.

If you wish to spend more time in Mt Cook Village and do a bunch of hikes I suggest you book two separate tours to break up the trip.

Book your transfer:
Christchurch to Queenstown Day Tour via Tekapo & Mt Cook (One-Way)
Christchurch to Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo Half-Day Tour (One-Way)
Mt. Cook to Queenstown Small Group Tour (One-Way)

Own transport

If you want more flexibility when traveling from Christchurch to Queenstown, then renting a car or campervan can be a good option. That being said, driving in New Zealand isn’t for everyone and if you’re not used to driving on the left, and on narrow, windy roads, this might not be your cup of tea.

Book your ride:
Rent a car
Rent a motorhome

Public transport

Long-distance bus services, such as InterCity and Kiwi Experience run regularly between Christchurch and Queenstown. However, the stops along the way are limited and you won’t get much flexibility to explore.

Christchurch to Queenstown – Best route

When traveling, I like to take the scenic route rather than the fastest route, and I believe you should do the same.

The best and most scenic route from Christchurch to Queenstown will take you down the 77 (avoid the boring A1), past Rakaia Gorge and Mt. Hutt before merging onto the 79 through Geraldine and Fairly. Then continue down the 8 through Burkes Pass, Tekapo and Lake Pukaki.

I recommend you take the detour to Mt. Cook Village before continuing down the 8 through Twizel, Omarama and Lindis Pass.

Then you’ll be faced with a choice, do you want to drive to Queenstown through Wanaka and the Crown Range or via Cromwell and Kawaru Gorge? Both roads are incredibly scenic and worth driving but your choice should ultimately depend on the rest of your itinerary, so let’s break it down.

Via Cromwell

The route from Christchurch to Queenstown via Cromwell is much shorter than via Wanaka and is recommended for those in a time crunch. This is also the better option in winter since the Crown Range is at a higher elevation and it might be icy or even closed due to bad weather.

Driving through Cromwell and Kawaru Gorge is also the better option for you if you’re planning on visiting Wanaka from Queenstown or are continuing your way down Haast Pass to the West Coast.

Via Wanaka

Doing a detour to Wanaka, Lake Hawea, and the Crown Range makes sense if you’re otherwise not able to visit this area.

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

The drive from Christchurch to Queenstown is 481km long and the drive takes just under 6 h without accounting for stops.

You’ll most likely need to fuel up and at least stop for the loo if not food so it will take you closer to 6.5 h, depending on traffic. If you get stuck behind a tuck or slow camper on the steep windy roads you’re looking at 7h on the road.

However, I’d recommend you budget at least 2 days for this dive so that you can truly enjoy the beautiful Mackenzie Country and Mt. Cook National Park. With 3 days or more, you’ll be able to do some more hikes, a scenic flight and really enjoy the journey.

Things to do on the way from Christchurch to Queenstown

The road between Queenstown and Christchurch is incredibly scenic and you might be tempted to stop around every corner (I sure was!). However, you probably don’t have infinity at your disposal so below I walk you through the best stops along the way.

You can drive this and quickly peek at most points of interest in just one day but that would be an atrociously busy and tiring day. Instead, I recommend you spend 2-3 days for the trip, and 4 or more if you’re visiting Wanaka.

If you have two days for the road trip you’ll want to spend the night in Mt. Cook. You Can stay in Twizel if the accommodation is fully booked.

With three days I recommend spending the first night in either Tekapo or Mt Cook and the second night in Omarama or Wanaka.

If you have four days at your disposal, stay in either Tekapo or Mt Cook on your first night, the second night in Omarama, and the third in Wanaka or Hawea.

1. Christchurch

Start your road trip from the beautiful city of Christchurch, where you can explore its vibrant arts scene, stroll through the Botanic Gardens, or enjoy a leisurely punting tour along the Avon River. Don’t forget to check out the impressive street art and indulge in city’s various cafes and restaurants.

Before you leave Christchurch behind, make sure to fuel up and restock at the supermarket. While there are some smaller towns along the way you won’t find any proper supermarkets before Twizel and fuel at the small petrol stations along the way tends to be pricier.

Read next:
Christchurch Itinerary
Where to stay in Christchurch

2. Rakaia Gorge

The first stop on your road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown is Rakaia Gorge. The nature here is stunning but if you’re short on time, this is one of the least impressive stops along the way and the first one I’d skip.

Remember to take Highway 77 (not A1) for this scenic route!

Stretch your legs at Rakaia Gorge Walkway, a 10-kilometer (6.2 miles) return walking track that offers breathtaking views of the gorge. It takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete and takes you through native forests, historic ferryman’s tracks, and glacial terraces.

Don’t miss the chance to explore several coal mine tunnels and the remnants of mining extraction equipment along the way.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also go jet boating or take a refreshing swim in the river (though be warned, it can be quite cold!).

3. Mt. Hutt

Next stop is Mt Hutt. Thrill seekers will love this destination, especially during winter when you can go skiing at Mt Hutt Ski Field. It was voted New Zealand’s best ski field for five consecutive years.

In the summer, the mountain transforms into a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts with downhill runs suitable for all skill levels.

In Methven, located near Mt Hutt, where you can enjoy a breathtaking balloon ride offering stunning views of the majestic Southern Alps.

Remember to take Highway 77 (not A1) for this scenic route!

4. Geraldine

Geraldine is a charming small town known for its boutique shops, beautiful gardens, and artisan food producers. This is the perfect lunch stop!

Visit Barker’s Foodstore and Eatery for delicious jams and condiments, explore the Talbot Forest Cheese shop, and take a stroll through the Geraldine Vintage Car and Machinery Museum.

5. Fairly

Fairlie is another quaint town on your route, famous for its pies and as the gateway to the Mackenzie Basin. If you’re feeling peckish visit the famous Fairlie Bakehouse for their scrumptious pies.

6. Burkes Pass

Burkes Pass is a historic village with well-preserved buildings from the Gold Rush era. Take a short walk around town that looks like a time machine. I love the fuel station here more than anything.

Then get ready for some seriously breathtaking landscapes, as you enter Mackenzie Country the scenery is about to change big time!

7. Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve

The Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park and Mackenzie Basin, spanning 4100 square kilometers is the the world’s largest International Dark Sky Reserve.

These reserves are havens where the natural night sky remains untainted by artificial light. This enables local wildlife to adhere to their natural diurnal rhythms but most of all, here you can see the stars in all their ancient splendor.

With an almost complete absence of artificial light within the reserve, you’ll get an unparalleled stargazing experience.

Book your stargazing:
Crater Experience at Cowan’s Observatory

8. Lake Tekapo

If you think you know what blue is, wait until you see Lake Tekapo! This vibrant blue color is what’s called glacial flour that reflects blue and turquoise wavelengths while absorbing red and green light. This is even more prominent on a clear sunny day.

The Church of the Good Shepherd

On the shore of the lake stands the Church of the Good Shepherd all by itself. This small but picturesque church with the blue Lake Tepako and mountains in the back, it is the most photographed church in the world.

Lupin Fields

From November to December the lake is surrounded by Lupin fields blooming in all shades of pink and purple, making for an even more spectacular landscape.

Mackenzie Basin & Backcountry

Tekapo is the perfect starting point to explore more of the Mackenzie Basin with incredible views and beautiful lakes. This 4WD tour is the perfect way to explore the more remote areas. It will take you off the beaten path and you’ll explore deeper into Mackenzie Country.

Book your adventure:
Mackenzie 4WD tour

Tekapo Springs

Tekapo Springs boast soothing hot pools filled with natural spring water, offering a relaxing and therapeutic experience amid stunning views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains.

Wellness services such as spas and massages are available for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. In winter you’ll also find a fun ice skating rink here and a roller skating rink in summer.

Mt. John or Cowan’s Observatory

Perched atop New Zealand’s majestic landscapes, within the Night Sky Reserve, Mt. John or Cowan’s observatories offer unparalleled opportunities to observe the night sky through powerful telescopes.

Join expert astronomers and learn about distant stars, galaxies, and nebulae. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a novice, these observatories provide an unforgettable adventure, connecting you to the mysteries of the universe in one of the world’s darkest and most pristine stargazing locations.

Book your stargazing:
Crater Experience at Cowan’s Observatory

Dark Sky Experience

The Dark Sky Experience at the Dark Sky Project is a 45-minute tour taking you on a 13.8-billion-year cosmic odyssey.

During this interactive journey, you’ll gain insights into Māori astronomy, and its significant role in the Māori understanding of the cosmos. Using immersive visual displays, the experience delves into the scientific narrative of the origins of life and takes you on a cosmic voyage through the Milky Way.

Moreover, you’ll have the unique opportunity to get up close with the remarkable 125-year-old Brashear telescope, recently restored to its former glory.

Where to stay in Tekapo

9. Lake Pukaki

Just a short drive further you’ll find another mesmerizing blue lake, Lake Pukaki. What sets it apart is its incredible view of Mount Cook or Aoraki, New Zealand’s highest peak, which stands majestically on the opposite shore, creating a picture-perfect vista.

And if you’re a LOTR fan on top of it, then definitely book this tour to Edoras. You’ll see the same landscapes, just through a Middle Earth lens.

Book your LOTR adventure:
Journey to Edoras from Christchurch

10. Drive the Mt. Cook Road

The drive from Lake Pukaki Village to Mt. Cook Village continues on Mt. Cook Road along the shores of Lake Pukaki with more breathtaking views around each corner.

If you’re travelling by public transport you might want to take a guided tour from Tekapo to Mt Cook in order to make the most of this journey.

This Mt. Cook tour from Tekapo ticks all the boxes and allows for plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

The drive from Lake Pukaki village to Mt. Cook village is approximately 45 kilometers (about 28 miles), and it typically takes around 45 without stops. But you will want to stop, a lot!

The scenic lookouts along the way offer breathtaking views of the turquoise Lake Pukaki and the Southern Alps.

Peter’s Lookout, located just a short drive from Lake Pukaki village, offers one of the most iconic views of Lake Pukaki with Aoraki/Mt. Cook in the background.

Glencoe Reserve is perfect for a picnic stop and offers a lovely view of Lake Pukaki with the Southern Alps as a backdrop.

The entire drive along the winding Mt. Cook Road is picturesque, offering glimpses of Aoraki/Mt. Cook and other peaks, but the bit just before you enter the park is absolutely breathtaking!

Keep an eye out for pull-off areas where you can safely stop and take in the scenery.

Book your Mt. Cook adventure:
Mt. Cook tour from Tekapo

11. Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park (detour)

At the end of the road, 330 km from Christchurch, you’ll find Mt. Cook Village surrounded by towering mountains that will make you feel smaller than an ant. Hotel Hermitage offers the perfect setting for lunch and you can visit the Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.

Hikes in Mt. Cook NP

The real appeal of Mt. Cook National Park are the hikes that offer even more breathtaking views! The Hooker Valley Track is still one of my favorite hikes in the world and it takes you to Hooker Lake filled with mini icebergs and the Hooker Glacier at the end. You can also do the shorter Kea Point Track or make your way up to Muller Hutt.

Read next: Best hikes in MT. Cook NP

Mt. Cook Scenic Flights & skydive

Mount Cook and its surroundings are an incredible sight no matter where you look at it, but the most impressive perspective is without a doubt from the air.

There are several small airports in the area offering experiences like a helicopter flight around the mountain including a landing on the Tasman Glacier, or a combo with a scenic flight around the mountain in a ski plane.

And if you’re into more adrenaline-filled activities, how about a heli hike? Or if you want to take it even further, go skydiving over Mount Cook National Park!

Book your adventure:
Helicopter flight with alpine landing
Mount Cook and The Glaciers Helicopter Flight
Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo
Mt. Cook Skydive
Tasman Glacier Heli-hike

Read next: Skydiving in New Zealand

Tasman Glacier

The Tasman Glacier in New Zealand is known for being the largest glacier in New Zealand by both length and volume. While it’s not the longest glacier in the country (that title goes to Franz Josef Glacier), it is the largest in terms of volume due to its extensive ice fields.

The Tasman Glacier View Track provides an easy and accessible way to enjoy stunning views of the Tasman Glacier and its terminal lake.

I highly recommend you take a boat tour on the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake to get up close to the icebergs that have calved from the glacier. These tours provide a unique perspective on the glacier’s immense size and the changing landscape.

Where to stay in Mt. Cook. Village

12. Twizel

Twizel, is a convenient pitstop for refueling, restocking on groceries, or grabbing a bite to eat. For a satisfying meal, consider Poppies Cafe on Benmore Place.

Some scenes from the Lord of the Rings movies, including the iconic Battle Of Pelennor Fields scene in The Return Of The King, were filmed at the nearby Ben Ohau Station which offers a glimpse into Middle-earth’s magic.

Twizel also serves as a convenient overnight option, especially during peak summer months when Mount Cook Village and Lake Tekapo accommodations are often fully booked. If you decide to stay here overnight make sure to check out Ruataniwha Lake.

Where to stay in Twizel

13. High Country Salmon

Nestled against the stunning Southern Alps, High Country Salmon is the perfect stop for food enthusiasts eager to savor the freshest salmon around.

You can join an informative farm tour to discover the salmon’s life cycle and hand-feed these remarkable fish. There’s also a Floating Cafe on sight that serves a delectable array of salmon dishes, from sashimi to mouthwatering burgers. The Fish Shop has a large range of fresh, smoked and cured salmon products, as well as frozen ones.

14. Ōmarama & Omarama Hot Tubs

Omarama is a charming town that offers a wide range of activities amidst breathtaking scenery. Plus, the serene ambiance and friendly local community add to the town’s charm, making it a perfect stop on your Christchurch to Queenstown journey.

The area around Omarama offers numerous hiking and biking trails, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Ahuriri Conservation Park nearby is a great place to explore the alpine landscapes and enjoy hiking adventures.

Omarama is also the gliding capital of New Zealand, boasting excellent conditions for gliding and soaring due to its unique geography and wind patterns. You can take a glider flight with a skilled pilot to experience the thrill of silent flight and aerial views of the region.

One of the town’s highlights is the Omarama Hot Tubs. These private, wood-fired hot tubs allow you to soak in soothing, natural mineral water while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Where to stay in Omarama

15. Omarama Clay Cliffs

Just a short drive from Omarama lie the striking Omarama Clay Cliffs. This geological formation developed over millions of years through the erosion of glacial deposits left behind during the last ice age, resulting in towering pinnacles and ravines composed of layers of gravel and silt.

To reach the cliffs, you’ll need to drive to the parking area near the entrance, 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from Omarama town center. From there, it’s a short hike to the base of the cliffs. The terrain can be uneven, steep and crumbly in some places, so wear appropriate footwear.

If you don’t have the time do the detour and hike don’t worry, you’ll be able to see them in the distance as you drive towards Lindis Pass. Omarama Clay Cliffs have intricate patterns and textures in shades of gray and brown, creating an otherworldly and almost surreal setting visible from far and wide.

16. Lindis Pass

Lindis Pass, situated in New Zealand’s South Island within the Southern Alps, is a picturesque mountain pass along State Highway 8. Connecting the Mackenzie Basin and Upper Clutha Valley, it reaches an elevation of approximately 971 meters (3,186 feet) and spans about 63 kilometers (39 miles) in length.

Lindis Pass offers breathtaking vistas of surrounding mountain ranges, rolling hills, and iconic tussock-covered landscapes that come alive with vibrant colors during the changing seasons. The pass boasts a unique tussock grassland ecosystem typical of New Zealand’s high country, creating a striking contrast against the snow-capped peaks in the distance.

For outdoor enthusiasts, it’s a haven for hiking and birdwatching, with the nearby Lindis Conservation Area offering a range of tracks and trails.

Historically, it was a vital route for early European settlers, including gold rush travelers, who crossed from the east to the west coast of the South Island.

Soon after leaving Lindis Pass, as you get to the end of the valley you’ll have to choose whether you want to continue straight to Cromwell or take a detour and turn right towards Havea and Wanaka.

17. Cromwell

Cromwell is at the heart of Central Otago’s wine country, known for its excellent Pinot Noir, and part of the “Fruit Bowl of New Zealand,” known for its abundance of stone fruit orchards. You can’t miss the oversized fruit sculptures in the center of town.

Depending on the season, you can pick your own cherries, apricots, and other fruits at local orchards. You can also explore numerous vineyards and wineries in the region, offering wine tastings and tours. Some renowned wineries include Mt Difficulty, Carrick, and Felton Road.

If you’re visiting on a Sunday, don’t miss the Cromwell Farmers’ Market. It’s a great place to sample local produce, artisanal foods, and crafts. Or you can visit a local farm.

Highlands Motorsport Park offers an array of exciting experiences, including go-karting, the National Motorsport Museum, and the opportunity to ride a high-performance Ferrari or Porsche supercar on a world-class circuit.

If that’s too much horsepower for you, don’t dismiss this spot yet! If nothing else you should make a toilet stop here. Their Loo with a view is the most famous public toilet in New Zealand.

Each restroom features one-way glass windows offering breathtaking views of the race track and unique themes. The themed restrooms include the opulent “Royal Suite,” the motorsport-themed “Highlands History,” and the playful “Sound of Music” with urinals disguised as musical instruments and a humorous presidential urinal dedicated to Trump.

18. Kawarau Gorge

The drive through Kawarau Gorge is characterized by towering cliffs above you on one side and the meandering Kawarau River far below you on the other side. The route is particularly stunning during the changing seasons.

The gorge was a vital route during the Otago Gold Rush of the 1860s and settlers used this passageway to access goldfields, leaving behind a legacy of gold mining history that can still be explored in the area.

At Goldfields Mining Centre you can learn about the town’s gold mining history and try your hand at gold panning and gain insights into the area’s gold rush past. On top of that the gorge is fantastic for canyoning, jet boating and rafting.

Kawarau Gorge is also as the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping. The famous Kawarau Bridge, which spans the gorge, offers the opportunity to take a thrilling leap off the bridge.

Book your adventure:
Kawaru canyoning
Jet boating and rafting

19. Gibbston Valley

Gibbston Valley is your last stop just 25 minutes before Queenstown. It offers picturesque landscapes and is known for exceptional wine, particularly the Otago golden child, Pinot Noir.

As one of the region’s pioneers, Gibbston Valley Winery is a must-visit. Known for its high-quality Pinot Noir, the winery offers tours, tastings, and a restaurant with scenic views. Other great wineries include Peregrine Wines and Amisfield Winery.

Follow the Gibbston Valley Wine Trail, which is well-marked and offers a route to several wineries, or visit Gibbston Valley on a wine tour from Queenstown so you don’t have to worry about driving after.

Book your wine tasting:
Gibbston Valley Winery tour
Wine tour from Queenstown

20. Lake Hawea

If you choose to take the detour via Wanaka then Lake Hawea will be your first stop after Lindis Pass.

This stunning glacial lake offers stunning scenery and a quieter escape compared to nearby Wanaka. Its pristine glacial waters mirror the majestic Southern Alps, with the prominent Mount Maude in the backdrop.

There are plenty of outdoor activities abound you can choose from, including hiking along the Lake Hawea Track, kayaking, fishing, and cycling.

21. Wanaka

Wanaka is Queenstown’s smaller sister and it’s just as scenic. Take a stroll through town and along the lakefront. Wanaka is also a great spot to do a wine tour and savor some of Otago’s best wines.

I highly recommend you also visit Mou Waho Island. This is an island in the middle of Wanaka Lake and there’s a lake in the middle of Mou Waho Island…. Ever watched inception?

If you like hiking you won’t want to miss Roys Peak and Diamond Lake Track. And if you like the views, but not the hiking part, you can even take a helicopter up to Roy’s Peak!

For the adventurers among you, try skydiving in Wanaka or do a via ferrata and climb up a waterfall!

Have you even been to Wanaka if you didn’t take a photo of ‘that Wanaka tree’? This willow tree stands alone in the water, about 15 meters from the shore. It has been photographed hundreds of thousands of times and it is Wanaka’s most popular tourist attraction. To be fair, it is a really picturesque shot with the Southern Alps in the backdrop.

Book your adventure:
Mou Waho Island
Skydiving in Wanaka
Waterfall climb
Wine tour & tasting
Roy’s Peak heli tour

Where to stay in Wanaka

22. Cardrona

The scenic drive from Wanaka to Queenstown is a quintessential South Island New Zealand experience, and a must-do stop along the way is the charming village of Cardrona. Nestled amidst rolling hills and framed by the stunning Crown Range Mountains, Cardrona is the perfect place for a Quad bike tour or Horse Riding.

Just before arriving to Cardrona, stop at the Bra Fence lovingly called Bradrona where bras of various sizes and colors are playfully hung on a fence. It started spontaneously in the late 1990s and has since evolved into a peculiar and unconventional attraction. Now accompanied by a pink sign and a donation box, Bradrona supports the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation. You can contribute to a great cause either in cash or in bras. to

The highlight of Cardrona is undoubtedly the historic Cardrona Hotel, an iconic 19th-century pub that exudes rustic charm. Stop here for a hearty meal, a refreshing drink, and a glimpse into the past. The town is also known for its stunning autumn foliage, which paints the landscape with vibrant hues, making it a photographer’s paradise during the fall season.

The Cardrona Alpine Resort offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and in the summer, it’s a great place for mountain biking and hiking.

23. The Crown Range

As you ascend this winding mountain road, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes, with numerous viewpoints offering ideal photo opportunities. The entire drive is a spectacle in itself, with its twists and turns, but the dramatic landscapes and viewpoints.

One standout stop is the Crown Range Summit, which provides panoramic views of the rugged peaks and valleys. Along the way, consider hiking the Crown Range Scenic Trail that offers even more expansive views.

24. Arrowtown

Arrowtown can be visited whether you choose to drive via Wanaka or via Cromwell since you’ll end up on the same road after Arrow Junction. However, if you’re planning on spending more time in Queenstown, Arrowtown is an easy day trip from Queenstown so you might choose to visit another day instead.

The quaint Arrowtown is a historic little village full of charm. It was established during the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860s, and you can still see many of its historic buildings, which have been beautifully preserved. There’s also a fascinating Chinese settlement area where you can learn about the contribution of Chinese miners to the region’s history and visit restored buildings.

The surrounding area offers a host of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking trails. You can easily hire an e-bike and explore the area.

The Arrow River Track and Tobin’s Track are popular choices for those who want to explore the beautiful natural surroundings. You can also try your hand at gold panning in the river and relive the Gold Rush era.

In the evening head out to Fork & Tap for drinks and dinner, here you’ll be able to join the fun at the Irish night every Wednesday. Or end the evening with a visit to Dorothy Browns Cinema. This is the cutest and quirkiest boutique cinema with miss-matched armchairs and pink chiffon curtains.

25. Queenstown

Hold your jaw, you’ve made it to your destination! Nestled on the shores of Wakatipu Lake, Queenstown is a sight to behold.

Queenstown is fun and bustling with life. It offers insanely scenic views, incredible nature, and a vast outdoor playground spread over forests, mountains, lakes, and valleys. It is also known as the adventure capital of New Zealand (for a good reason, or rather several good reasons!).

I was lucky enough to call Queenstown home and for this, it will always have a special place in my heart. But you don’t need to move here to fall in love with this beautiful town!

This Queenstown Itinerary includes everything from the best spots in town, a lake cruise, some adrenalin pumping activities, loads of incredible views, some hikes and a bunch of fabulous day trips – Queenstown really is a great hub to explore the lower part of the South Island from.

Where to stay in Queenstown

Best time to drive from Christchurch to Queenstown

The drive from Christchurch to Queenstown is accessible year-round and every season brings a unique landscape and adventure.

Summer and fall are best if you’d like to go hiking and late spring is when you’ll be able to see lupin fields. Winter, with a thin blanket of white snow, brings its own mystique and charm too.

However, if you can, plan your road trip (and NZ visit really) so that you avoid Chinese New Year. This period sees a high influx of tourists and many are not used to driving on New Zealand roads resulting in more incidents and congestion than usual.

Is it safe to drive between Queenstown and Christchurch in winter?

While New Zealand roads are generally well maintained, some caution is required when driving between Christchurch and Queenstown in winter.

Check the weather and road status before hitting the road. Every now and again they will close Lindis Pass or the Crown Range due to snowfall, rain, or ice. These closures are usually temporary and they clean the roads promptly.

Carry snow chains with you as they’re mandatory by law on some roads, including Lindis Pass and the Crown Range.

There’s nothing quite like the blue Tekapo and Pukaki lakes surrounded by a blanket of white snow and Queenstown in winter is absolutely fantastic too! So if you’re not confident driving, just book a transfer with stops on the way from Christchurch to Queenstown.

Driving from Queenstown to Christchurch

A road trip from Queenstown to Christchurch will take you down the exact same road, just in reverse. The same tips and stops along the way will apply to you, but you’ll see them in reverse.

That being said, I always preferred the drive back to Queenstown, partially because I like Queenstown better than Christchurch so it was always nice to get back. And partially because once you’re past Tekapo, the scenery gets slightly less impressive the closer to Christchurch you get and I always like to end on a high.

So if you’re considering driving one way and flying the other, I’d highly recommend you drive towards Queenstown rather than back from it.

Planning a trip to NZ South Island?

New Zealand’s South Island is heaven on earth for nature and wildlife lovers. Follow this New Zealand South Island itinerary for the adventure of a lifetime. To help you plan your trip I’ve prepared a series of New Zealand travel guides.

New Zealand travel insurance

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and we’ve learned that the hard way!

ACC in New Zealand covers you for accidents but if you get sick or lose your luggage you’ll need good insurance to cover it for you.

We always get insured before we leave and Travel Insurance Masters is our go to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations here.