Arrowtown and Wanaka Highlights Tour from Queenstown

If you’re visiting Queenstown and looking for a way to explore some of New Zealand’s most picturesque towns without the hassle of driving yourself, the Arrowtown and Wanaka Highlights Tour might just be your perfect day out. With glowing reviews and a strong reputation, this half-day excursion offers a balanced mix of history, breathtaking scenery, and relaxed exploration.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to see Queenstown’s surrounding landscapes from high mountain roads, enjoy a charming historic town, and take a leisurely walk along Wanaka’s famous lakeside. The knowledgeable guides make the experience more personal, weaving stories and insights that enrich each stop. Plus, the included refreshments at the historic Cardrona Hotel add a local touch to the journey.

One thing to consider is that the tour lasts around six hours, which might be a bit rushed if you’re hoping to spend a long time in each place. Still, for most travelers, the well-paced stops and scenic drives provide excellent value. This tour suits those who want a comfortable, informative experience that covers multiple highlights without the stress of self-driving or full-day commitments.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenic Routes: Drive through Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest road, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Historic Charm: Visit Arrowtown’s preserved gold rush-era streets and the iconic Cardrona Hotel.
• Beautiful Landscapes: Experience Wanaka’s lakeside views and the famous “That Wanaka Tree.”
• Expert Guides: Learn about the history and geography from friendly, knowledgeable guides.
• Flexible Free Time: Enjoy an hour in Wanaka and Arrowtown to explore at your own pace.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicles and small groups ensure a relaxed atmosphere.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Crown Range Road: The Scenic Highpoint

The tour kicks off with a drive along Crown Range Road, which boasts the title of New Zealand’s highest paved road. The 30-minute drive features multiple stops where you’ll get sweeping views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. As one reviewer put it, “Our bus driver/ tour guide was very friendly and very knowledgeable,” making the journey both scenic and informative. Expect to stop frequently for photos of the dramatic mountain vistas and sparkling lakes.

This route is particularly special because it offers the kind of vistas you’ll want to pin and revisit later. The elevation and clear air make the scenery feel even more expansive—perfect for snapping that perfect shot.

Cardrona Hotel and Bra Fence: A Slice of History

Next, the tour visits the legendary Cardrona Hotel, a heritage-listed pub often used in TV ads and reality shows. Here, you get a complimentary drink—beer or ginger beer—and a chance to explore the gardens or take photos of the quirky Bra Fence. This landmark is a quirky and beloved feature of the area, and many reviewers mention it as a highlight. One said, “Enjoyed a complementary drink at the historic Cardrona Hotel and took photos of the legendary Bra fence.”

The historic site offers a glimpse into the region’s gold rush past, with charming architecture and lush surroundings. It’s a relaxing stop that mixes history, scenery, and local flavor.

That Wanaka Tree: Iconic and Instagram-Worthy

The next stop is Lake Wanaka, home to the world-famous That Wanaka Tree—a lonely, windswept willow that has become a photography sensation. The tour includes a helpful guide who shares the tree’s story and tips for capturing great photos. Expect around 20 minutes here, which is enough time for some quick snaps and a short walk along the lakeshore.

Many travelers note the appeal of this stop: “Learn about its history and what makes it so popular,” and “the scenery here is simply breathtaking.” If you’re into landscape photography, this is a must-see.

Wanaka Town & Lake Exploration

Following the photo stop, you’ll have about an hour of free time in Wanaka. This gives you the chance to explore the waterfront, browse local shops, or grab a bite at one of the many cafés. Reviews mention how “Wanaka was busy with plenty of cafes for lunch,” and how the town’s lakeside setting is “beautiful.”

While lunch is at your own expense, the informal free time allows for flexibility. You can stroll along the lake, snap photos of the mountains reflected in the water, or just relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Arrowtown: A Gold Rush Town with Charm

The last major stop is Arrowtown, a historic town that still feels like stepping back in time. The guided driving tour highlights the preserved streets and Chinese settlement. Afterward, you’re free to wander, shop, or enjoy a local café.

Reviewers describe Arrowtown as “magical,” and one noted, “Our guide told us about the gold rush history and the Chinese settlement—it really added depth to the visit.” The town’s quaint streets, vintage architecture, and surrounding hills make it an ideal spot for a relaxed exploration.

Transport and Overall Experience

The tour is operated in air-conditioned vehicles with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring comfort and intimacy. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere and allows guides to tailor storytelling and assistance, like helping with photo-taking, as many reviewers appreciated.

Most reviews praise the driver/guide—names like Wayne, Brian, and Serena come up repeatedly as engaging, knowledgeable, and friendly. Their storytelling and local insights significantly enhance the experience, transforming a simple sightseeing trip into an engaging narrative.

The price of approximately $127.45 per person offers good value, considering the included stops, guide expertise, and transport. For the cost, you get a well-structured itinerary with enough time at each location, avoiding the rush often experienced on full-day tours. Plus, the scenic drives alone are worth the price.

What Travelers Find Most Valuable

Reviewers emphasize the stunning scenery and the expert guides. Many mention the comfortable transportation and the small group setting as making the trip more personal and relaxing. The inclusion of a refreshing drink at Cardrona adds a touch of local flavor without extra cost.

Considerations for Potential Travelers

While the tour offers a lot, it isn’t ideal for those seeking long stays at each location. The 6-hour duration means quick visits—perfect for a taste, not a deep dive. Also, children under six are not permitted, so families with young kids might need to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

This Arrowtown and Wanaka Highlights Tour is a carefully curated experience that balances spectacular scenery, engaging storytelling, and manageable pacing. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer not to drive or who want a guided overview of some of New Zealand’s prettiest towns. The small group size, friendly guides, and picturesque stops make it a memorable addition to any Queenstown itinerary.

If you’re after a sightseeing experience that combines history, nature, and comfort, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s not just about ticking boxes but genuinely enjoying a beautifully orchestrated day designed to show off the best of this part of the South Island.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes transfers from a central Queenstown meeting point in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 6 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning to the meeting point.

Are meals included? No, lunch is not included, but there’s free time in Wanaka for you to find your own meal.

Can children join this tour? Only children over 6 years old are permitted, as per the tour policy.

What’s the best time of year for this tour? The tour operates in all weather conditions, so it’s suitable year-round, but dress appropriately for the weather.

Is this tour suitable for photographers? Absolutely. The stops at Crown Range, Wanaka Tree, and Arrowtown are perfect for photography, especially with guide tips on capturing the scenery.

How many people will be on the tour? The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, making it intimate and personalized.

What’s the main attraction of Arrowtown? The town’s preserved gold rush streets and its Chinese settlement give it a charming, historic atmosphere that many find enchanting.

In all, the Arrowtown and Wanaka Highlights Tour offers a fantastic way to explore some of New Zealand’s most photogenic spots with ease, comfort, and a touch of local flavor. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a scenic, well-organized, and engaging day out from Queenstown.