Over Arthur's Pass to the wild West Coast, past Franz Josef Glacier and Haast Pass to Wanaka and Queenstown. That is what South Island Alpine and Glacier Circuit promises, and it delivers. At about 420 miles (676 km), it is a drive best taken slowly, over 5–7 days, with time to pull over whenever the view demands it on the way from Christchurch to Queenstown.
Open this route in XCRSNSetting out from Christchurch
Start early, with a full tank and a loose plan. Christchurch is where the road begins, and the first miles set the rhythm for everything that follows.
The first big moment is Otira Viaduct lookout. Give it the time it deserves; it is why many people make this trip at all.
Along the way
The road strings together Arthur's Pass, Hokitika, Franz Josef and Wanaka. Each one makes a natural break, and Franz Josef sits close to the middle if you want to split the drive with a night's sleep.
Do not miss Franz Josef and Fox glaciers.
Arriving in Queenstown
Save energy for the final stretch: Lake Wanaka is still ahead.
By the end you will have seen Otira Viaduct lookout, Franz Josef and Fox glaciers and Lake Wanaka, and you will understand why South Island Alpine and Glacier Circuit belongs on any list of great drives.
When to go and how to pace it
The best time to drive it is November–April. Plan on 5–7 days so the drive never feels rushed.
West Coast fuel stops are far apart; fill up in Hokitika and Haast.
XCRSN prices fuel for every leg in the local currency, finds stops along the way and books overnights near each town.
