Road Trip Franz Josef to Queenstown Drive: 17 Amazing Stops

Franz Josef is the best stop for ski fanatics and those who love winter wonderlands. Take some time in Glacier Country to enjoy a wild outdoor adventure before you head off to Queenstown.

Franz Josef Glacier

The Franz Josef Glacier is 12 km of breathtaking snowfields in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Enjoy an exciting day of skiing, hikes through the snow or relaxing at the local resorts near this world heritage site. You can also find outstanding food, drink and shopping in the township itself when you need a break from the cold.

Franz Josef Wildlife Centre

The Franz Josef Wildlife Centre is the largest kiwi hatching facility in all of the South Island. It’s also the official hatchery for the world's two rarest kiwis, the Rowi and the Haast Tokoeka.

Immerse yourself in the history of the Western Coast of The Southern Island with an interactive glacier attraction and a ‘Backstage Pass Tour’. You can also enjoy quality Franz Josef shopping inside the all-weather facility.

Be advised, there are limited numbers for the 40-minute backstage pass tour. Be sure to book in advance so you don’t miss out!

Okarito Kiwi Tours

There’s no such thing as too many Kiwis. Go deep into the Kiwi habitat to see New Zealand's national bird during a calm, relaxed tour. Okarito Kiwi Tours is the only licenced operator on the South Island dedicated to wild Kiwi sightings, including the rare Rowi.

With a 95% sighting success rate, this low-impact, relaxed guide is perfect for a chilled day out after you’ve had your fill of adrenaline-filled slopes. The Kiwi tours are a night activity suitable for small groups. On top of Kiwis, you may also see morepork, possums, and even deer.

Helicopter Tour

You’ll find plenty of quality helicopter tours in Franz Josef, Fox, and other surrounding areas. Franz Josef offers stunning sights that are only accessible by air, like the icefalls and other steep alpine regions. Cut down on travel time and get the absolute most of your time in Franz Josef from the skies!

The road from Franz Josef to Wanaka is a lovely, scenic drive that will take you from frozen mountaintops into wild forest lands and beach views.

Be sure to stop and take a breather whenever you need to!

Knights Point Lookout

If you need a pit stop on your way to Wanaka, Knights Point Lookout has public toilet facilities available, plus an outstanding view nearby. Just take a short 4-minute walk from the car park to find the lookout platform, as well as tables and other facilities.

Enjoy a quick picnic alongside the tranquil Tasman Sea before heading back on the road.

Lake Matheson

Situated near Fox Glacier, Lake Matheson is surrounded by beautiful mountain views that flawlessly reflect along the lake's surface. From outstanding local cuisine to breathtaking forest walks, Lake Matheson is a perfect stop for nature lovers.

Be sure to try the Lake Matheson walk while you’re in the area! Hike across the Clearwater River suspension bridge as you make your way to the jetty point and ‘the View of Views’ Lookout.

Thunder Creek Falls

This awe-inspiring vista offers a perfect chance to rest up and look at one of New Zealand's most incredible destinations. Thunder Creek Falls is a short, 5-minute walk to a 28-metre-high viewing platform in the Mt Aspiring National Park.

Take a breather, stretch your legs, and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Lake Hawea

Lake Hawea is the best stop for adventurers and thrill seekers. It’s home to kite surfing and kayaking rides on the lake, or wild hikes along the nearby mountain range. Whether you are looking for a relaxed day on the beach or something more adventurous, you won’t regret stopping at Lake Hawea.

You can also find wonderful hiking paths and horse riding activities in the area.

Wanaka

The quaint town of Wanaka and its surrounding areas offer incredible attractions, stunning views, and thrilling outdoor activities. You can use the town as your base to head out on a range of stunning mountain hikes and trails. Or, stay closer to home and enjoy a range of local delicacies.

Explore Mt Aspiring for a day, or head out to the lake for a serene and relaxing boat tour.

Get ready to head out for the last day of your journey. You’ll find stunning sights all around as you make the trip from Wanaka to Queenstown.

Wanaka Lavender Farm

You’ll find this delightful lavender farm just a few minutes away from central Wanaka. Like other South Island lavender farms, you are most welcome to explore the lavender fields yourself. Be sure to check out the gift shop and try some delicious lavender ice cream before you go!

Roy’s Peak

Fully immerse yourself in the beautiful Wanaka region on the Roy’s Peak hiking trail. On this intermediate track, you’ll make your way through the beautiful mountainside and walk side by side with Lake Wanaka. Cross through farmlands and alpine meadows as you make your way to the astounding view of the summit.

Parking for Roy’s Peak can be limited during busy seasons. To avoid trespassing, please stay on the marked track.

Arrowtown

Take a step into the past with a stop in Arrowtown. Founded in the 1860s, this historic mining town features old buildings well preserved from the town's gold mining days. It also offers gorgeous walking paths and bike trails.

Immerse yourself in the full story of Arrowtown at the Lakes District Museum and Art Gallery. There, you’ll find intriguing looks into pioneering gold miners and in-depth details on local Maori culture.

Be sure to grab a souvenir from the delightful shops along Buckingham Street!

The Remarkables

You’ll find the Remarkables a short drive away from Queenstown. This ski area is beautiful and suitable for all levels of skiing. With a large learning area for first-timers and extreme ski runs for seasoned experts, you won’t regret spending a day on the powder.

The Remarkables also offers tubing, sledding, and a wonderful terrain park nearby. There are over 4 chair lifts and a lodge to fully immerse yourself in a winter adventure.

The excitement doesn’t end once you’ve reached Queenstown! The ‘Adventure Capital’ of New Zealand has its own must-see sights and hidden gems you don’t want to miss.

Deer Park Heights

This little-known stop is a beautiful, scenic drive through an active deer farm. It’s just a short drive away from Queenstown Airport. The park offers a serene overview of the Wakatipu Basin and an opportunity to encounter wildlife up close and personal.

Feed local animals like deer, goats, and sheep as you head towards serene picnic grounds and gorgeous lookout points. You may also recognise some areas as a filming location for The Lord of The Rings!

Hydro Attack

This semi-submersible vehicle departs from Queenstown and offers a wild, exhilarating ride across Lake Wakatipu. The ride goes over 80 kph and dives in and out of the water with incredible power. You’ll be touching the sky on re-breaches as the vehicle shatters the lake’s surface.

All Hydro Attack rides are one-on-one with your pilot, allowing you to control just how adrenaline-pumping your experience is.

Queenstown Gardens

Queenstown’s botanical gardens offer rose gardens, ancient trees, and a gorgeous stroll along Lake Wakatipu. You can also find several local and introduced species of birds, such as the New Zealand Scaup.

You can enjoy a stroll, play disc golf, use the children's playground, or visit the Robert Falcon Scott memorial.

Skyline Queenstown

Housing the famous Queenstown Gondola, Skyline Queenstown offers a full day of adventure and thrills fit for all ages. From the Southern Hemisphere’s steepest cable car to guided walks and biking trails, you’ll find something for everyone at Skyline Queenstown.

The only thing more exciting than making your way up to the Skyline is heading back down! Take a ride on the Queenstown Luge, a cross between a go-kart and a toboggan, and enjoy a fast and winding trip down.