Family Friendly

Christchurch to Queenstown Alpine Route

Duration 7 days
Distance 720 km
Difficulty Moderate
Best Time Oct – Apr
  1. Christchurch
  2. Geraldine
  3. Lake Tekapo/Takapō
  4. Lake Pūkaki
  5. Aoraki/Mount Cook
  6. Ōmarama
  7. Lindis Pass
  8. Wānaka
  9. Arrowtown
  10. Queenstown

Trip overview

This 7-day campervan itinerary is designed as a practical starting point for planning the route. Allow time for scenic stops, short walks and relaxed overnight stays rather than rushing between destinations.

Why this route works well by campervan

The route combines memorable scenery with useful towns for fuel, groceries and overnight facilities. Always check current road conditions, campsite rules and seasonal closures before travelling.

Before you go

  • Book popular holiday parks and activities early in peak season.
  • Keep a flexible buffer for weather and photo stops.
  • Download offline maps before driving through low-signal areas.

Last updated: August 19, 2026

Related content

Route Highlights

Lake Tekapo stargazing
Lake Tekapo stargazing
Scenic drive beside Lake Pūkaki
Scenic drive beside Lake Pūkaki
Hooker Valley or Tasman Glacier walk
Hooker Valley or Tasman Glacier walk
Lindis Pass
Lindis Pass
Wānaka lakefront
Wānaka lakefront
Historic Arrowtown
Historic Arrowtown
Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu
Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu
South Island Mountains Photography

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

Collect the campervan, stock up in Christchurch, and cross the Canterbury Plains. Stop in Geraldine before continuing to Lake Tekapo for lakeside views, the Church of the Good Shepherd and evening stargazing.

Day 2: Explore Lake Tekapo

Keep driving light today. Walk beside the lake, visit a viewpoint and allow time for Tekapo’s dark-sky experience. Use the slower day to check supplies before entering the alpine section.

Day 3: Lake Tekapo to Aoraki/Mount Cook

Follow Lake Pūkaki toward Aoraki/Mount Cook, stopping at safe designated viewpoints. Arrive early enough for the short Tasman Glacier View Track or Glencoe Walk. DOC notes that alpine weather can change quickly.

Day 4: Aoraki/Mount Cook to Wānaka

Retrace the road beside Lake Pūkaki, then travel through Twizel, Ōmarama and Lindis Pass. Take regular breaks and arrive in Wānaka with time for a lakefront walk.

Day 5: Wānaka to Queenstown via Arrowtown

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Wānaka before continuing to historic Arrowtown. Campervan drivers wanting the gentler route can travel via Cromwell rather than the steeper Crown Range Road. Finish in Queenstown.

Day 6: Queenstown

Use the final day for a scenic cruise, lakeside walk or gondola visit. Refuel, empty waste only at approved facilities and complete the rental return checklist.

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