{"id":159,"date":"2025-07-04T10:55:14","date_gmt":"2025-07-04T10:55:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/blog\/?p=159"},"modified":"2026-03-31T00:01:39","modified_gmt":"2026-03-31T00:01:39","slug":"a-guide-to-new-zealands-best-scenic-drives","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/blog\/a-guide-to-new-zealands-best-scenic-drives","title":{"rendered":"A Guide to New Zealand\u2019s Best Scenic Drives"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <a href=\"https:\/\/cookthatchicken.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">jessica alba nude<\/a><\/p>\n<p>New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, and there\u2019s no better way to explore them than by hitting the road. From snow-capped mountains and rugged coastlines to lush forests and shimmering lakes, the country\u2019s highways and byways deliver jaw-dropping scenery at every turn. In this guide, we\u2019ll take you through <strong>New Zealand\u2019s best scenic drives<\/strong> \u2014 journeys that will leave you in awe and longing for more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1\ufe0f\u20e3 Queenstown to Glenorchy (South Island)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/queenstown-glenorchy.jpeg\" alt=\"Queenstown to Glenorchy\" class=\"wp-image-186\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This short but stunning 46 km drive along Lake Wakatipu is one of the most beautiful in New Zealand. As you wind your way along the lake\u2019s edge, you\u2019ll be treated to views of the Remarkables mountain range and snow-dusted peaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Highlights:<\/strong> Lake Wakatipu, Bennett\u2019s Bluff lookout, Paradise (yes, that\u2019s the name of a real place!)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tip:<\/strong> For even more adventure, continue beyond Glenorchy to the Routeburn Track trailhead.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/?o=Queenstown&amp;d=Glenorchy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\ud83d\uddfa\ufe0f Explore an interactive map of this route and tailor it to your preferences.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2\ufe0f\u20e3 Milford Road (Te Anau to Milford Sound, South Island)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/te-anau-milford-sound.jpeg\" alt=\"Te Anau to Milford Sound\" class=\"wp-image-189\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Without a doubt, Milford Road is one of the most iconic scenic routes in the world. The 120 km journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound takes you through Fiordland\u2019s dramatic landscapes, including rainforests, mirror lakes, and towering cliffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Highlights:<\/strong> Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, The Chasm<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Stop often \u2014 the viewpoints and short walks along the way are part of the magic.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/?o=ta+anau&amp;d=milford+Sound\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\ud83d\uddfa\ufe0f Explore an interactive map of this route and tailor it to your preferences.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3\ufe0f\u20e3 The West Coast (Greymouth to Westport, South Island)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/greymouth-westport.jpeg\" alt=\"Greymouth to Westport\" class=\"wp-image-184\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you crave wild, untamed scenery, this coastal drive delivers. The road hugs the rugged Tasman Sea coastline, offering views of pounding surf, limestone cliffs, and native forest. Furthermore, you can detour to the famous Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Highlights:<\/strong> Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, blowholes, seal colonies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Plan extra time to explore the short coastal walks and beaches.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/?o=Greymouth&amp;d=Westport\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\ud83d\uddfa\ufe0f Explore an interactive map of this route and tailor it to your preferences.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4\ufe0f\u20e3 The Crown Range Road (Queenstown to Wanaka, South Island)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/queenstown-wanaka.jpeg\" alt=\"New Zealand's best scenic drives - Queenstown to Wanaka\" class=\"wp-image-187\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This is New Zealand\u2019s highest main road, and it offers spectacular alpine views. The steep, winding road is not for the faint-hearted, yet the scenery makes it worthwhile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Highlights:<\/strong> Arrowtown, Crown Terrace lookout, Cardrona Hotel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Therefore, drive cautiously, especially in winter when snow and ice are common.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/?o=queenstown&amp;d=Wanaka\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\ud83d\uddfa\ufe0f Explore an interactive map of this route and tailor it to your preferences.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5\ufe0f\u20e3 The Forgotten World Highway (Stratford to Taumarunui, North Island)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/straford-taumarunui.jpeg\" alt=\"New Zealand's best scenic drives - Stratford to Taumarunui\" class=\"wp-image-188\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As its name suggests, this remote 148 km route feels like a journey back in time. It winds through rolling farmland, deep gorges, and tiny settlements. In addition, you\u2019ll pass through Whangamomona, a self-declared republic with its own presidential pub.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Highlights:<\/strong> Whangamomona, Moki Tunnel (\u201cHobbit\u2019s Hole\u201d), historic bridges<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Fill up on fuel before you set out \u2014 services are scarce along the way.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/?o=Stratford&amp;d=Taumarunui\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\ud83d\uddfa\ufe0f Explore an interactive map of this route and tailor it to your preferences.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6\ufe0f\u20e3 Pacific Coast Highway (Auckland to Napier, North Island)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/auckland-napier.jpeg\" alt=\"New Zealand's best scenic drives - Auckland to Napier\" class=\"wp-image-181\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Stretching down the east coast, this drive showcases golden beaches, surf towns, and vineyards. Not only is the scenery varied, but the cultural experiences along the way add depth to your journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Highlights:<\/strong> Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty beaches, Gisborne, Hawke\u2019s Bay wineries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Consider breaking this trip into sections over several days to fully appreciate the sights.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/?o=Auckland&amp;d=Napier&amp;w=Thames%2CWaihi%2CWhakatane%2CHicks+Bay\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\ud83d\uddfa\ufe0f Explore an interactive map of this route and tailor it to your preferences.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7\ufe0f\u20e3 The Thermal Explorer Highway (Hamilton to Taup\u014d to Napier, North Island)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/hamilton-napier-1.jpeg\" alt=\"New Zealand's best scenic drives - Hamilton to Taup\u014d to Napier\" class=\"wp-image-194\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For those fascinated by geothermal wonders, this route is a must. It connects bubbling mud pools, geysers, and steaming lakes, while also offering views of rolling farmland and mountain ranges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Highlights:<\/strong> Rotorua, Huka Falls, Craters of the Moon<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Additionally, take the time to visit M\u0101ori cultural sites along the way.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/?o=Hamilton&amp;d=Napier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\ud83d\uddfa\ufe0f Explore an interactive map of this route and tailor it to your preferences.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8\ufe0f\u20e3 Arthur\u2019s Pass (Christchurch to Greymouth, South Island)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/christchurch-greymouth.jpeg\" alt=\"New Zealand's best scenic drives - Christchurch to Greymouth\" class=\"wp-image-182\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Crossing the Southern Alps, this drive is dramatic and ever-changing. The route ascends through beech forests before opening up to high alpine valleys and craggy peaks. As you descend, the scenery shifts to lush rainforest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Highlights:<\/strong> Arthur\u2019s Pass Village, Devil\u2019s Punchbowl Falls, Otira Viaduct<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Keep an eye out for cheeky kea parrots at the pass summit.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/?o=Christchurch&amp;d=Greymouth\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\ud83d\uddfa\ufe0f Explore an interactive map of this route and tailor it to your preferences.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9\ufe0f\u20e3 Southern Scenic Route (Dunedin to Te Anau, South Island)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/dunedin-te-anau.jpeg\" alt=\"New Zealand's best scenic drives -  Dunedin to Te Anau\" class=\"wp-image-183\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This lesser-traveled gem covers a vast range of landscapes \u2014 from windswept beaches and waterfalls to remote fishing villages. Moreover, it offers abundant opportunities to spot wildlife such as sea lions and yellow-eyed penguins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Highlights:<\/strong> Catlins Coast, Curio Bay, Invercargill, Fiordland National Park<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Allow several days to enjoy this drive at a relaxed pace.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/excursion.nz\/?o=Dunedin&amp;d=Te+Anau\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\ud83d\uddfa\ufe0f Explore an interactive map of this route and tailor it to your preferences.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcad Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>New Zealand\u2019s best scenic drives offer more than just a way to get from A to B. Rather, they\u2019re journeys through some of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth. Therefore, take your time, stop often, and let the road lead you to unforgettable experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udc49 <strong>Need Help Planning Your Trip?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Excursion New Zealand is your ultimate guide to an unforgettable journey. We help you discover top attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites to maximize your New Zealand adventure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How it works is you enter you starting origin, destination and it will show you an optimized route and any attractions along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From there you can select what attractions you want to see and we provide you with a plan including the travel time required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a class=\"button\" href=\"\/\">Create a travel plan<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>jessica alba nude New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, and there\u2019s no better way to explore them than by hitting the road. From snow-capped mountains and rugged coastlines to lush forests and shimmering lakes, the country\u2019s highways and byways deliver jaw-dropping scenery at every turn. In this guide, we\u2019ll take you through New [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":284,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-159","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tips"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.3.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>A Guide to New Zealand\u2019s Best Scenic Drives<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Hit the road and explore New Zealand\u2019s best scenic drives \u2014 from alpine passes to coastal highways, reveal the country\u2019s natural wonder.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" 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