Wānaka to Arrowtown over the Crown Range by Campervan
Quick summary: For campervan drivers, arriving in Arrowtown from Wānaka over the Crown Range is one of the most dramatic ways to reach any New Zealand town. The road runs up the Cardrona Valley, crosses a high tussock plateau and then plunges down the zigzag, a series of tight hairpins, with the whole Wakatipu Basin spread out below and Arrowtown at the bottom. It’s around 60 km, about an hour, and needs care in a campervan or motorhome, especially on the steep descent.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Distance | Around 60 km, Wānaka to Arrowtown |
| Time | About 1 hour without stops |
| Road | Sealed; a gentle climb from Wānaka, a steep descent to Arrowtown |
| Highlights | The Cardrona Valley, the summit plateau, the zigzag lookout |
| Alternative | Via Cromwell and the Kawarau Gorge, around 100 km |
| Tours | Photography tours |
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What is the drive like from Wānaka?
From Wānaka, the road heads south through the Cardrona Valley, climbing gently past the historic gold-rush hotel at Cardrona and the turn-offs to the ski areas. It then rises onto the high plateau of the Crown Range, with tussock, rock and wide skies, before the summit. On the southern side, the road drops steeply down the zigzag towards Arrowtown, with a lookout near the top.
How should you drive the zigzag descent in an RV?
Slowly and in a low gear. The descent into Arrowtown is steep, with tight hairpin bends one after another, and using the brakes alone can cause them to overheat in a heavy vehicle. Select a low gear before you start down, let the engine hold your speed, and brake firmly but briefly before each bend rather than continuously. Watch for cyclists and oncoming traffic cutting the corners, and use the lookout to pause and enjoy the view.
When should you avoid the Crown Range?
In snow, ice, heavy rain or fog. In winter, the road can be affected by snow and ice, and chains may be required. Check road conditions before setting out, and if in doubt, take the longer route via Cromwell. Large motorhomes and less confident drivers may prefer the Cromwell route at any time of year.
What is the alternative route?
From Wānaka, drive south to Cromwell along Lake Dunstan, then west through the Kawarau Gorge past the Gibbston Valley and the bungy bridge to Arrowtown, around 100 km. It’s easier, with gentler grades, and passes the Bannockburn and Gibbston vineyards. See Gibbston Valley.
What should you know before you go?
- There’s no fuel on the Crown Range; fill up in Wānaka.
- Allow time for the lookout, one of the best views in the region.
- Arrive in Arrowtown in daylight, especially on your first drive.
For a day trip up the range from Arrowtown, see the Crown Range and Cardrona, and for Wānaka’s vineyards, our sister site’s Wānaka by campervan guide.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Around 60 km, about 1 hour without stops.
Yes. The zigzag on the Arrowtown side is a steep series of hairpins. Use a low gear to save your brakes.
The route via Cromwell and the Kawarau Gorge, around 100 km, with easier grades.
Often, but snow and ice can affect the road and chains may be required. Check conditions before driving.
No. Fill up in Wānaka or Arrowtown.