Road Tripping From Lake Tekapo to Wanaka & Queenstown
If you’re looking for a New Zealand road trip that’s packed with lots of natural beauty, family-friendly stops, and just the right amount of adventure, the drive from Lake Tekapo to Queenstown via Wanaka is a perfect choice.
This drive is more than just a route between two destinations, it’s an opportunity to experience the diverse beauty of New Zealand’s South Island. Along the way, you’ll find mirror-like lakes, easy nature walks, picnic spots, and cozy small towns. Whether you’re skipping stones on Lake Pukaki, grabbing ice cream in Wanaka, or riding gondolas in Queenstown, this route is full of moments you’re sure to treasure.
Starting Point: Lake Tekapo (You can check out our Lake Tekapo post here.)
Church of the Good Shepherd: This iconic stone church sits on the shores of Lake Tekapo offering picturesque views of the Southern Alps. It’s one of the most photographed landmarks in New Zealand. Our drive to Wanaka took us through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes. It covers approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. That’s without stopping, the route is rich with scenic vistas and unique attractions.
Scenic Stops En Route
Lake Pukaki: This stunning turquoise lake fed by glacial waters, offering panoramic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook in the distance. It’s a perfect spot for stretching your legs and taking photos.
Twizel: A convenient place to refuel and grab a bite. Consider stopping at Hydro Café for coffee and baked goods.
Lindis Pass: An alpine pass characterized by rolling grasslands. There’s a lookout at the summit that provides sweeping views of the surrounding area.
Tarras: A small township known for its merino wool products and country cafés.
Wanaka Lavender Farm: Just outside Wanaka, this farm offers vibrant lavender fields, farm animals, and a shop with lavender-infused products and ice cream.
Things to Do in Wanaka
Wanaka is the kind of place that immediately invites you to take a breath and unwind…. but if you’ve only got a few hours or half a day to spare, don’t worry, you can still experience some of its best vibes.
These are our recommendations if your just passing through.
Visit That Wanaka Tree
Because well, while it’s touristy, it’s that iconic!
You’ve probably seen it on Instagram. A lone willow that grows out of Lake Wanaka (though water levels vary seasonally). It’s a favorite subject for photographers and social media folks. Be careful that you don’t get so close that you damage the tree or roots by walking around it’s base, and please don’t attempt to climb it. Parking is close by with an easy walk along the lake.
From Lake Tekapo To Wanaka Gallery:
Fuel up with a coffee and lunch in town.
There are plenty of shops and restaurants in the business district for dining in or grabbing take away to enjoy a lakeside picnic. We enjoyed our lunch & people watching at the Big Fig. Highly Recommend!
If you have more time or staying overnight, then we suggest planning a side trip from Wanaka to the Blue Pools. The Blue Pools are nestled within Mount Aspiring National Park located approximately 72 kilometers (about a 1-hour drive) north of Wanaka along State Highway 6. Unfortunately the Blue Pools were closed during our visit due to bridge replacement. We’re hoping that one day we can return to experience this pristine wilderness.
For those more adventurous there are plenty of hiking opportunities in and around Wanaka.
On To Queenstown
There are two options when driving from Wanaka to Queenstown.
1. Via Cromwell (State Highway 6)
We understand it’s a more relaxed drive through Cromwell with scenic vineyards and rolling hills.
2. Via the Crown Range Road (State Highway 89)
This is the route we took, it’s the most direct and more dramatic route, with twisting switchbacks, amazing views and lookouts along the way that will have you constantly reaching for your camera. (Be sure to check road conditions during winter.)
Highlights include the Crown Range Lookout located just past the summit with jaw-dropping views over Arrowtown and Queenstown. And yes, the quirky bra fence affectionately known as Bradona. When we passed by we immediately had to double back to check it out.
Bradona all started in the late ’90s when a few bras mysteriously appeared on a rural fence outside Cardrona. Not really certain who hung the first few but it quickly caught on. Locals added more, tourists joined in, and before long, hundreds of bras were waving proudly in the breeze.
Fast forward a few years, and what was once a quirky roadside gag is now Bradona, a heartfelt and cheeky landmark supporting breast cancer awareness. There’s a donation box on site with proceeds going to the Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand. So if you stop by (and you absolutely should), toss in a few coins, snap a photo, and maybe even leave a bra of your own in solidarity for a meaningful cause.
From Wanaka To Queenstown Gallery:
Slowing Down in Queenstown: A Couple of Peaceful Days in the Adventure Capital
When most people think of Queenstown, images of bungee jumps and jet boats come to mind. But during our recent visit, we enjoyed a slower side to this vibrant lakeside town. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer cozy cafés and scenic strolls over adrenaline highs.
A Morning by the Lake: Our day started with a gentle walk along Lake Wakatipu, where on calm days the water seems to mirror the mountains like glass.
Queenstown Gardens: Just a short walk from the town center offers quiet paths and benches under the trees. It felt worlds away from the thrill-seeking energy the town is famous for.
Dining: Everyone raves about Fergburger. We saw the lines on several walks through town and asked people if their burgers were all they were cracked up to be. We were anxiously awaiting the rave reviews, maybe we asked the wrong people because we both agreed to pass on that rite of passage.
Queenstown:
Our two best recommendations for dining are The Irishman Steam Wharf for Fish and Chips, the fish had a bit lighter batter than other places we tried, and Winnies for Pizza. In fact we visited Winnies on two occasions it was so good. We recommend sitting on the balcony that overlooks the street scene. For coffee & gelato our hands down favorite, on multiple occasions, was Mrs Ferg Gelateria on Beach Street. Hmmm, perhaps we should have reconsidered that Fergburger.
Day Trips Worth the Drive:
While Queenstown offers plenty to keep you captivated, these nearby destinations added something special to our visit, Each are less than an hour away and offer their own pace, charm, and jaw-dropping scenery.
Arrowtown: Just a 20-minute drive from Queenstown, Arrowtown feels like stepping into a postcard with its preserved cottages and tree-lined streets. The main street is home to a number of artisan shops, bakeries, and galleries. We wandered up and down the streets checking out the museum and a number of shops. If you have time, stop in to explore the historic Chinese Settlement telling the story of early Chinese gold miners.
Arrowtown & Coronet Peak Gallery:
Coronet Peak: On the way back from Arrowtown we stopped at Coronet Peak. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a more peaceful gondola experience compared to Skyline Queenstown. Granted there are plenty more things to experience at Skyline Queenstown including dining and the luge. But the crowds don’t compare at Coronet Peak.
Both experiences offer incredible views, but your choice depends on whether you prefer a more bustling, family-oriented experience (Skyline) or a more peaceful vibe (Coronet Peak).
Glenorchy: About 45 minutes from Queenstown along one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand. The journey itself is half the experience, with Lake Wakatipu unfolding beside you and dramatic mountains ahead.
Once in Glenorchy, we enjoyed walking around the wharf then strolled around the Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway. It’s an easy walk with boardwalks over wetlands with viewing options of the lagoon and surrounding mountains along with a variety of bird life.
After our walk we stopped at Queenies Dumplings for a light lunch.
Queenstown To Glenorchy Gallery:
Where We Stayed:
We stayed at the Crowne Plaza Queenstown in January and enjoyed a King Bed room with a private outdoor patio overlooking the stunning Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables. The view was absolutely breathtaking. Service was top-notch, with friendly staff and quick, efficient valet parking that made our arrival smooth. Each morning began with a delicious breakfast and quality coffee, setting the tone for a great day. The hotel’s location is unbeatable—just steps from Queenstown’s vibrant dining, shopping, and adventure activities. It was the perfect base for our Queenstown stay.
Crowne Plaza Queenstown:
Continue Reading Traveling To New Zealand – Part 4: Fiordland
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