Six great road trips from Queenstown
Queenstown to Glenorchy
Driving distance: 45kmTravel time: 45 minutes
One of New Zealand’s most scenic drives, the journey to Glenorchy hugs the edge of Lake Wakatipu beneath towering peaks. Numerous lookouts provide photo opportunities, while the small township serves as a gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park. Film fans may recognise the area from The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
2. Queenstown to Wanaka
Driving distance: 70kmTravel time: 60 minutes
Travelling via the Crown Range Road, this route delivers spectacular mountain vistas and dramatic switchbacks. At 1,076m, the Crown Range is New Zealand’s highest sealed road. Once in Wanaka, visitors can enjoy lakeside walks, boutique shops and attractions such as the famous Wanaka Tree.
3. Queenstown to Arrowtown
Driving distance: 20kmTravel time: 20-30 minutes
There are two scenic routes from Queenstown to Arrowtown. Take Malaghans Road via Arthurs Point, passing the Shotover Jet base and Coronet Peak turn-off, or follow State Highway 6 past Lake Hayes. Along the way, Amisfield, Mora and Ayrburn offer excellent wine tastings and lunch options; booking ahead is recommended. Arrowtown offers a fascinating glimpse into the Otago gold rush era. Historic cottages, tree-lined streets and charming cafes make it an enjoyable day trip.
4. Queenstown to Milford Sound
Distance: 290kmDriving time: 4.5 hours
Although it takes more than four hours oneway, the drive to Milford Sound is unforgettable. Travelling through Te Anau, the route passes glacier-carved valleys, mirror-like lakes and the engineering marvel of the Homer Tunnel. The reward is Milford Sound itself, where towering cliffs, waterfalls and abundant wildlife create one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.
5. Queenstown to Central Otago Wine Country
Distance: 60km (to Bannockburn)
Driving time: 1 hour
Just beyond Queenstown lies Central Otago, one of the world’s southernmost wine regions and the spiritual home of New Zealand pinot noir. Follow the Kawarau Gorge through Gibbston, Cromwell and Bannockburn, stopping at acclaimed cellar doors, boutique restaurants and vineyard estates while soaking up the region’s spectacular mountain and river scenery.
6. Queenstown to The Catlins
Distance: 280km
Driving time: 3.5 hours without extended stops
For those with more time, a road trip to The Catlins on the southeast coast reveals a quieter side of the South Island. Ancient forests, rugged beaches, waterfalls and wildlife encounters await. Highlights include Nugget Point Lighthouse, Curio Bay and the chance to spot sea lions, dolphins and rare yellow-eyed penguins.
View from above Queenstown.
Frequently asked questions about Queenstown
Where is Queenstown?
Queenstown is located in the Southern Lakes region of New Zealand's South Island. It sits on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges, including The Remarkables. The town is one of New Zealand's most popular visitor destinations and serves as a gateway to many of the South Island's iconic natural attractions.
When is the best time to visit Queenstown?
There is no single 'best' time to visit Queenstown because the destination offers four distinct seasons, each with its own appeal. Summer (December to February) is ideal for hiking, cycling, lake activities and outdoor dining, while winter (June to August) attracts skiers and snowboarders to nearby alpine resorts. Autumn (March to May) is renowned for its vibrant red and gold foliage, particularly around Arrowtown, and spring (September to November) offers a unique mix of snow-capped mountains, blooming landscapes and outdoor adventure.
What is Queenstown famous for?
Queenstown is widely known as the 'Adventure Capital of the World' and is the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping. Visitors flock to the region for adrenaline activities such as jet boating, skydiving, mountain biking and skiing. It's also famous for its spectacular alpine scenery, sitting beside Lake Whakatipu and surrounded by mountains including The Remarkables.
What visitors is Queenstown best suited for?
Queenstown appeals to a wide range of travellers. Adventure seekers will find world-class outdoor activities, while families can enjoy scenic attractions, walking trails and lakefront experiences. Couples are drawn to the region's luxury lodges, wineries and dramatic landscapes, and road trippers use Queenstown as a base for exploring New Zealand's South Island. It is also popular with skiers, snowboarders and nature lovers.
How long should I stay?
Queenstown NZ recommends allowing five to seven days to properly experience the region. While many travellers visit for a weekend, a longer stay provides time to explore beyond the town centre, enjoy day trips to places such as Glenorchy, Arrowtown and Milford Sound, and experience a mix of adventure, food, wine and nature-based activities.
Is Queenstown expensive to visit?
Queenstown is generally considered one of New Zealand's more expensive destinations, particularly during peak summer and winter seasons when accommodation and activities are in high demand. However, travelling during the shoulder seasons of autumn and spring can provide better value, with lower accommodation costs and fewer crowds while still offering excellent weather and activities.
Is driving in New Zealand difficult?
Most Australians find driving in New Zealand quite easy because many road rules are similar and vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. However, there are a few challenges visitors should be aware of:
- Roads are often narrower and more winding than those in Australia, particularly in alpine and rural regions around Queenstown, Wanaka and Milford Sound.
- Travel times can be longer than expected. A 200km journey may take several hours because of mountain roads and lower speed limits.
- Weather can change rapidly, especially in the South Island. Snow, ice, fog and heavy rain can affect driving conditions in winter.
- Many highways are two-lane roads, rather than divided motorways, so overtaking opportunities can be limited.
- Wildlife and livestock occasionally wander onto rural roads.
- Popular tourist routes can become congested during peak holiday periods.
The final word on Queenstown
With spectacular scenery, easy self-drive routes and attractions ranging from Milford Sound to Central Otago's renowned wineries, Queenstown is one of New Zealand's premier road trip destinations. Whether you're seeking adventure, natural beauty, great food or family-friendly experiences, these scenic drives showcase the very best of the Southern Lakes region.
RACQ members save on car hire, travel insurance
If you're inspired to plan your own adventure, RACQ Members can save 15% on car hire* across Australia and New Zealand.
And for extra peace of mind while you're away, members can also save 15% on Travel Insurance^.
*Retail partners, offers and discounts may change at any time without notice. Visit www.racq.com.au/travel/car-hire for the conditions, limits and exclusions for each offer. Discount on Base Retail Rate. Not applicable to airport fees, location and other surcharges or administration and other fees. No available on prepaid rates. Cannot be used in conjunction with other offers. Participating locations only. Subject to availability. Offers are for personal use only.
^RACQ Operations Pty Ltd (ABN 80 009 663 414, AR No. 234978) and Members Travel Group Pty Ltd (ABN 45 144 538 803, AR No.432492) (RACQ) distribute travel insurance policies issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. (ABN 80 000 438 291, AFSL 246 548) (Tokio Marine) as Tokio Marine’s authorised representative. Tokio Marine Management (Australasia) Pty Ltd (ABN 69 001 488 455, AR No. 1313066) administers the policy as Tokio Marine’s authorised representative. This advice is general only. Before you buy, consider the PDS/FSG and TMD available at racq.com. Terms, conditions, limits, sub-limits and exclusions apply. Visit www.racq.com.au/travelinsurance to learn more.
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