Wānaka to Queenstown: A Self-Guided Drive via the Crown Range

2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

This self-guided audio driving tour takes you on a stunning, two-hour journey from Wānaka to Queenstown via the scenic Crown Range and historic Arrowtown. It is a trip through natural drama, rich gold-rush history, and quirky landmarks.

Key highlights of the tour include:
Driving New Zealand’s highest sealed alpine road, the Crown Range.
Visiting iconic landmarks like That Wānaka Tree and the historic Cardrona Hotel.
Passing by the famous and quirky Cardrona Bra Fence.
Exploring the historic gold-mining town of Arrowtown.
Hearing stories of Māori trailblazers, explorers, and skiing pioneers.

This tour can be combined with the 'Queenstown to Wānaka' tour for a complete circular route.

Would you like me to find out more details about either of the mentioned tours?

What's Included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The tour starts near the famous Wānaka tree, on the shoreline of Lake Wānaka, in the carpark at 51 Wanaka Mount Aspiring Road. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

End point

The tour ends at the Queenstown Airport on Sir Henry Wigley drive.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • (Pass by)

    Pull over for a quick photo and contribute a bra or donation to the Breast Cancer Foundation. This quirky roadside attraction features a fence adorned with hundreds of bras in the Cardrona Valley.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Pull over for lunch, a drink, or a stay at this historic establishment. This iconic, most-photographed 1860s gold rush hotel has a restaurant, legendary beer garden, and charming accommodation. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Pull over at the vista point to take photos of the stunning views over the Wakatipu Basin and mountains. This summit is the highest paved public road pass in New Zealand, reaching an altitude of 1,076 meters.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Pull over to stroll along the Arrow River, explore the historic Chinese Settlement, or try gold panning. This charming former gold-mining town features over 60 preserved historic buildings and boutique shops. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Pass by or pull over to visit the famous Shotover Jet boat ride location and the Onsen Hot Pools. This Queenstown suburb is located near the Shotover River and Coronet Peak Ski Area access road. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • Queenstown (Pass by)

    Drive along Lake Wakatipu's edge or pull over to explore the vibrant city centre, famous for adventure sports like bungee jumping and hiking. Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand, set among majestic alpine scenery. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Drive along the main road where you can stop for shopping at Remarkables Park Town Centre or access the lakeside walking tracks. This Queenstown suburb is a major retail and commercial hub, situated near the airport. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Drive up the scenic road to the base area for summer hiking, disc golf, or winter skiing and sightseeing gondola rides. This ski area offers spectacular views over the Wakatipu basin. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • The total tour time includes driving the route and passing by the attractions
Supplied by VoiceMap Audio Tours

Tags

Nature and Wildlife Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Audio Guides
Historical Tours
Car Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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