Wanaka to Queenstown Drive: Distance, Time & Best Stops
The drive from Wanaka to Queenstown is short but spectacular. You can take the Crown Range Road (New Zealand’s highest sealed pass) or the longer route via Cromwell. Here’s the distance, time, best stops, and tips.
Quick facts
Distance
70 km (approx)
Driving time
1 hour (approx)
Best time to drive
Year-round. Crown Range can be icy in winter; check conditions.
Road notes
Two options: Crown Range (mountain pass, scenic, can be icy) or via Cromwell (longer, flatter).
Times vary with stops, weather and roadworks.
Route map
Follow the route from Wanaka to Queenstown. Stops are numbered on the map.
Route stops:
Map data © Mapbox
Best stops along the way
Wanaka
Last fuel and supplies before Crown Range.
- Best for: Fuel
- Best for: Supplies
Cardrona
Historic hotel and bra fence. Short detour off Crown Range.
- Best for: Photos
- Best for: Quirky stop
Crown Range lookout
Views over Queenstown and the Remarkables.
- Best for: Photos
- Best for: Viewpoint
Queenstown
Lake Wakatipu, town, activities.
- Best for: Arrival
- Best for: Accommodation
Scenic highlights
- • Crown Range Road views (if open and conditions good)
- • Cardrona Hotel and bra fence
- • First view of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu from the summit
Driving tips
- • Crown Range can close or require chains in winter; check NZTA. Alternative: Wanaka → Cromwell → Queenstown (approx 1.5 hours).
- • Fuel in Wanaka or Queenstown. Times vary with stops, weather and roadworks.
- • Compact vehicles handle the Crown Range well; easy to park at lookouts.
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 Wanaka to Queenstown?
- Approximately 70 km and 1 hour via Crown Range. Via Cromwell is longer (about 1.5 hours). Times vary with weather and roadworks.
- Is the Crown Range difficult?
- Sealed but steep and winding. Can be icy in winter; check NZTA. Closed occasionally in severe weather.
- Can I avoid the Crown Range?
- Yes. Drive Wanaka → Cromwell → Queenstown. Longer but flatter.
- Are there gravel sections?
- Main route is sealed. Gravel exists elsewhere; drive to conditions. Off-road not allowed.
- Is winter driving safe?
- Crown Range can require chains or close in winter. Check NZTA. Use Cromwell route if unsure.
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