South Island

Wanaka via Arrowtown

It’s about an hour from Queenstown to Wanaka through some incredible valleys, so you’d be wise to make a few stops along the way and see what else the Otago region has to offer.

Head east from Queenstown towards Arrowtown, a township that still pays tribute to its gold rush past. There’s still gold in those hills, and it’s easy enough to hire gold pans and perhaps take home a few flakes.

Keep travelling east towards Cromwell, being sure to stop at the Roaring Meg – the extraordinarily loud stream that feeds two small power stations locally. The stream also gives its name to the popular wine range from Mt. Difficulty.

Head north along some easy straights towards Queensberry and eventually Wanaka.

With its world-class ski fields, vineyards, and the Mount Aspiring National Park, Wanaka has a lot going on to make the most of the day. For something different, head to Puzzling World, just 15 mins from the heart of the township. It’s family-friendly fun, with mazes, bizarre buildings, and optical illusions.

Head back to Queenstown via Cardrona and take a snap at the world famous Cardrona Bra Fence tucked in the valley between Cardrona itself and Mount Pisa