The Two Passes
New Zealand
A four-day loop from Christchurch through the Southern Alps via Lewis Pass and Arthur's Pass, two of New Zealand's great mountain crossings through forests, lakes, rivers, and the West Coast Wilderness Trail. Hanmer Springs thermal pools at the overnight waypoint; Kumara's gold-rush history on the return via State Highway 73.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Christchurch
The Garden City rebuilding after the 2010-11 earthquakes. The cardboard Transitional Cathedral and punting on the Avon define a city of resilient reinvention.
- Hanmer Springs
An alpine spa village in a mountain bowl of pine forest, with geothermal pools and hiking trails radiating from heritage lodges. The ideal overnight stop before Lewis Pass.
- Lewis Pass
The lowest and most forested of the South Island's alpine crossings, at 864 metres through beech forest and river gorges. Red deer and kea are spotted roadside on clear mornings.
- Reefton
The first town in the Southern Hemisphere with a public electricity supply, powered by the Inangahua River in 1888. Gold-rush streetscapes and craft beer survive intact.
- Greymouth
The West Coast's largest town, a coal and timber port at the Grey River mouth. Monteith's Brewery is a craft institution; Punakaiki's pancake rocks lie 43 km north.
- Kumara
A gold-rush town that produced 40,000 ounces of gold in 1866. The historic theatre and streetscape survive; the West Coast Wilderness Trail connects it to wider Westland.
- Arthur's Pass Village
An alpine village at 920 metres in the Southern Alps, surrounded by national park. Kea investigate unattended cars; the descent follows the Waimakariri River gorge back to Christchurch.
Where to Eat
- No.31 Restaurant & BarModern New Zealand
Offers a refined dining experience with a focus on local ingredients and seasonal dishes.
- The Broadway Tearooms & BakeryBakery
A historic café serving freshly baked goods and hearty meals in a charming setting.
- Speight's Ale House GreymouthPub
A classic pub offering a range of Speight's beers and hearty New Zealand fare.
- The Wobbly Kea Café & BarCafé
A cozy spot known for its coffee, homemade meals, and friendly atmosphere.
Things to Do
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & SpaHot Springs
Relax in natural thermal pools surrounded by alpine scenery, offering a range of pools and spa treatments.
- Maruia FallsWaterfall
A picturesque waterfall accessible via a short walk, perfect for photography and picnics.
- Pancake Rocks and BlowholesNatural Attraction
Unique limestone formations with blowholes that create impressive sea sprays during high tide.
- Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor CentreVisitor Centre
Provides information on local hikes, wildlife, and the history of the national park.
Travel advisory
Both Arthur's Pass and Lewis Pass can be affected by snow and ice between June and September; check NZTA road conditions before crossing. The passes are paved throughout but Arthur's Pass in particular has steep gradients and sharp curves that require careful driving in wet or icy weather.