Franz Josef to Wanaka Drive: Distance, Time & Best Stops
The drive from Franz Josef to Wanaka runs south down the wild West Coast to Haast, then climbs inland over the Haast Pass through Mount Aspiring National Park to Lake Wanaka. It’s one of the South Island’s longest and most scenic legs. Here’s the distance, drive time, best stops, and tips for the journey.
Quick facts
Distance
330 km (approx)
Driving time
4 hours 30 min (approx)
Best time to drive
Year-round. The Haast Pass can be affected by snow and heavy rain; check conditions before you leave the coast.
Road notes
Sealed. South down the West Coast to Haast, then inland over the Haast Pass to Wanaka. Long, scenic, and winding through the pass.
Times vary with stops, weather and roadworks.
Route map
Follow the route from Franz Josef to Wanaka. Stops are numbered on the map.
Route stops:
Map data © Mapbox
Best stops along the way
Franz Josef
Fuel and supplies before the long southern run. Glacier valley walks if you have time.
- Best for: Fuel
- Best for: Glacier
- Best for: Start
Fox Glacier
Village and glacier views; Lake Matheson’s mirror reflections are a short detour.
- Best for: Photos
- Best for: Fuel
- Best for: Short walk
Haast
Last coastal town and the gateway to the pass. Fuel, visitor centre, and a break before the climb.
- Best for: Fuel
- Best for: Break
- Best for: Info
Blue Pools & waterfalls
Blue Pools, Thunder Creek Falls and Fantail Falls line the Haast Pass — short walks off the highway.
- Best for: Photos
- Best for: Walks
Wanaka
Lakefront town and a relaxed base for the Southern Lakes.
- Best for: Arrival
- Best for: Lake
- Best for: Accommodation
Scenic highlights
- • Franz Josef and Fox Glacier views
- • West Coast rainforest and coastline south to Haast
- • Haast Pass and Mount Aspiring National Park
- • Blue Pools, Thunder Creek Falls and Fantail Falls
Driving tips
- • Fill up at Franz Josef, Fox Glacier and Haast — the stretch between Fox and Haast is long and remote.
- • Mobile coverage is patchy on the West Coast and through the pass; download maps before you go.
- • Allow a full day. The Haast Pass can be slow in rain or snow; check NZTA. Times vary with stops, weather and roadworks.
Where to stay / camp
Recommended vehicle
A compact car is easy to drive and park on this route and saves fuel. An SUV gives extra space and confidence on winding or higher-altitude sections. A campervan suits if you’re camping but is larger to manoeuvre. For a balance of size, fuel efficiency, and ease of parking, especially at popular stops, a compact 4WD like the Jimny works well: easy to park, fuel efficient, and capable on sealed and gravel public roads. Gravel roads are common in the South Island; drive to conditions. Off-road driving is not allowed on rental vehicles.
See our vehicles and camping setup. Compare options in our campervan vs rooftop tent guide.
Frequently asked questions
- How long is the drive from Franz Josef to Wanaka?
- Approximately 330 km and 4.5 hours via the Haast Pass — the same road as the forward leg. Allow a full day with stops. Times vary with weather and roadworks.
- What are the best stops on the way?
- Fox Glacier and Lake Matheson, a break at Haast, then the Blue Pools, Thunder Creek Falls and Fantail Falls through the Haast Pass.
- Where can I get fuel?
- Franz Josef, Fox Glacier, Haast and Wanaka. Fill up at Haast before the pass; the coastal stretch between Fox and Haast is remote.
- Is the road difficult?
- Sealed throughout. The West Coast is straightforward; the Haast Pass is winding. Suitable for all vehicles.
- Is winter driving safe?
- The Haast Pass can be affected by snow and heavy rain. Check NZTA and drive to conditions.
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