RoadAtlas
Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand — Mountain
Australia & Pacific

Southern Alps Highway

New Zealand

In short: Southern Alps Highway is a 470 km mountain road trip in New Zealand, typically driven over 3–5 days, best in Nov–Mar (NZ summer). Highlights: Queenstown, Haast Pass, Fox Glacier.

Distance
470 km
Duration
3–5 days
Best Season
Nov–Mar (NZ summer)
IconicModerateMountainEV-friendly

New Zealand's South Island SH6 and SH73 cross the Southern Alps through Franz Josef Glacier, the turquoise Hokitika Gorge, Arthur's Pass, and Lake Tekapo, a drive of glaciers, braided rivers, and an outrageously starry Mackenzie sky.

~0 refuels
~1 charge
Practical notes
Arthur's Pass and the alpine sections can close without warning due to snow, ice, or rockfall, particularly between May and October. Check NZTA road conditions before departure and carry chains in winter. The Otira viaduct and narrow mountain passes require careful driving in poor weather.
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Stops along the route

Queenstown — City — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
City
Queenstown
Adventure capital of the world on Lake Wakatipu below the Remarkables. Bungee, jet boat, or just the view.
Hotels
Christchurch — City — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
City
Christchurch
The Garden City rebuilt after its 2011 earthquake with bold street art, container malls, and a punted Avon River.
Hotels

Things to Do

Haast Pass — Nature — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
Nature
Haast Pass
Lowest of the three main Southern Alps crossings at 563m. UNESCO World Heritage rainforest begins here.
Fox Glacier — Nature — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
Nature
Fox Glacier
One of two glaciers worldwide descending into temperate rainforest. Heli-hike onto the ice for an otherworldly walk.
Franz Josef Glacier — Nature — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
Nature
Franz Josef Glacier
A glacier terminating just 245m above sea level amid tree ferns and nikau palms. An extraordinary contrast.
Hokitika Gorge — Nature — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
Nature
Hokitika Gorge
A swing bridge over water so intensely turquoise it looks artificial. Glacial flour suspended in the current does it.
Arthur's Pass — Nature — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
Nature
Arthur's Pass
Alpine village at 924m where kea parrots steal wiper blades and viaducts span impossible gorges below.
Skyline Queenstown — Scenic Viewpoint — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
Scenic Viewpoint
Skyline Queenstown
Take a gondola ride to Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
Fox Glacier Guiding — Hike — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
Hike
Fox Glacier Guiding
Experience guided walks and ice climbing on the stunning Fox Glacier.
West Coast Treetop Walk & Café — Scenic Walk — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
Scenic Walk
West Coast Treetop Walk & Café
Explore the rainforest canopy on a treetop walkway near Hokitika, offering unique perspectives of the lush environment.
Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre — Visitor Centre — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
Visitor Centre
Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre
Learn about the natural and cultural history of Arthur's Pass National Park at this informative center.

Where to Eat

Fergburger — Gourmet Burgers — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
Gourmet Burgers
Fergburger
Renowned for its massive, juicy burgers, Fergburger is a must-visit spot in Queenstown, often with lines out the door.
The Cow Restaurant — Italian — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
Italian
The Cow Restaurant
A cozy, rustic eatery offering delicious pizzas and pasta in a historic stone building in Queenstown.
The Landing Restaurant & Bar — New Zealand — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
New Zealand
The Landing Restaurant & Bar
Located in Franz Josef, this restaurant offers a variety of local dishes with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The Hokitika Sandwich Company — Sandwiches — Southern Alps Highway — New Zealand
Sandwiches
The Hokitika Sandwich Company
Famous for its fresh, hearty sandwiches made with local ingredients, a perfect stop in Hokitika.

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Frequently asked questions

How long is the Southern Alps Highway drive?

The Southern Alps Highway covers 470 km from start to finish.

How long does the Southern Alps Highway take to drive?

Most travellers spend 3–5 days on the Southern Alps Highway, depending on stops and pace.

When is the best time to drive the Southern Alps Highway?

The recommended season for the Southern Alps Highway is Nov–Mar (NZ summer).

Where does the Southern Alps Highway start and end?

The Southern Alps Highway runs from Queenstown to Christchurch.

What are the main stops on the Southern Alps Highway?

The Southern Alps Highway passes through Queenstown, Haast Pass, Fox Glacier.

Can I drive the Southern Alps Highway in a regular car?

Yes — the Southern Alps Highway is paved end-to-end and a regular car is fine in normal conditions.

How many fuel stops are needed on the Southern Alps Highway?

Plan around 0 refuels (or about 1 EV charges) along the Southern Alps Highway, based on its 470 km length.

Is the Southern Alps Highway EV friendly?

Yes — the Southern Alps Highway has charger coverage along the route and works as an EV road trip.

Is the Southern Alps Highway safe to drive?

Arthur's Pass and the alpine sections can close without warning due to snow, ice, or rockfall, particularly between May and October. Check NZTA road conditions before departure and carry chains in winter. The Otira viaduct and narrow mountain passes require careful driving in poor weather.

What scenic tier is the Southern Alps Highway?

The Southern Alps Highway is a iconic drive — Iconic road trips that anchor a region's reputation — postcard scenery, headline highways, and the routes most travellers want to drive.