Queenstown to Arrowtown by Campervan: Two Routes Compared

Quick summary: Two roads link Queenstown and Arrowtown, each around 20 km, and both are easy in a campervan. The main route runs via Frankton and Lake Hayes on State Highway 6, with flat, wide roads and supermarkets on the way. The scenic route climbs over Arthurs Point, crossing the Shotover River gorge, and runs along the foot of the mountains past the Coronet Peak turn-off. Campervan and motorhome drivers can take one each way to see both.

Route	Distance	Character	Best for
Via Frankton and Lake Hayes	Around 20 km	Flat main roads, more traffic	Supplies, easiest driving
Via Arthurs Point	Around 20 km	Hilly and winding in places, quieter	Scenery, the Shotover River

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What is the Lake Hayes route like?

From Queenstown, follow State Highway 6A to Frankton, then State Highway 6 east across the Shotover River and past Lake Hayes Estate. Turn off at Lake Hayes onto the road along its western shore, which leads past Millbrook to Arrowtown. It’s the easiest route, with wide roads, roundabouts and supermarkets in Frankton.

What is the Arthurs Point route like?

From Queenstown, the road climbs out of town to Arthurs Point, crossing the Shotover River on a bridge above the gorge, where jet boats speed through the canyon below. It then follows the foot of the mountains, past the turn-off to Coronet Peak and Skippers Road, to Arrowtown. The road is sealed but hilly and winding near Arthurs Point, so take care in a large vehicle.

Which route should an RV take?

For your first drive, or in a large motorhome, the Lake Hayes route is easier. The Arthurs Point route is more scenic and quieter, and it’s well suited to smaller campervans and confident drivers. Many travellers take one route in each direction. Don’t turn onto Skippers Road, which rental agreements commonly exclude. See Skippers Canyon.

Is it worth driving into Queenstown?

Only if you have somewhere to park. Queenstown’s town centre is busy and compact, with little space for large vehicles, so many campervan travellers stay in Arrowtown and take the bus or a shuttle into town, or cycle on the Queenstown Trail. If you do drive, use parking on the edge of the centre and check signs for vehicle restrictions.

Can you get between Queenstown and Arrowtown without driving?

Yes. Buses run between Queenstown, Frankton and Arrowtown, and many tours collect from both. The Queenstown Trail also links them by bike. See tours from Queenstown and the Queenstown Trail from Arrowtown.

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Frequently Asked Questions