Safest driving route from Dunedin to Queenstown, NZ

I'm flying down to NZ's first Bitcoin conference on Friday, 31st October and will rent a car from Dunedin airport. I'm planning to either drive direct on Friday night or set off very early Saturday morning, while it's still dark.

Which of these 3 routes offers the least amount of windy mountain roads / other perceived hazards?

Dunedin -> Queenstown

I'll be flying out of Queenstown for the return, so only concerned about the one-way journey.

Best Answer

Something to consider this time of year, especially early morning / late night down south is the ice risk. If it's still cold, ice and indeed fog can be a factor.

Also beware of early morning livestock being moved on the roads.

Last time I did this trip I took the 'Presidential Highway' (through Clinton and Gore - the southern route) and it was fairly straightforward.

As Russell mentions, all will be scenic and at least you'll be seeing the most mountainous parts during the day.

Pictures about "Safest driving route from Dunedin to Queenstown, NZ"

Safest driving route from Dunedin to Queenstown, NZ - From above long exposure traffic on modern highway elevated above ground level surrounded by urban constructions in evening

Safest driving route from Dunedin to Queenstown, NZ - Faceless person driving contemporary cab in city

Safest driving route from Dunedin to Queenstown, NZ - Blue mopeds parked on empty road in countryside

Where should I stop between Dunedin and Queenstown?

On the most direct route from Queenstown to Dunedin the best stops are Arrowtown, Kawarau Gorge, Champagne Gully, Clutha River, Clyde, Alexandra, Bellview Wetlands Reserve, Mt Stuart Reserve, and Lake Waihola.

Which is the best route for New Zealand?

For adventure: Ninety-Mile Beach. ...

For coves and beaches: the Pacific Coast Highway. ...

For Lord of the Rings: Tongariro National Park. ...

For high country: Molesworth Station. ...

For the Southern Alps: the Great Alpine Highway. ...

For paradise: Queenstown to Glenorchy. ...

For valleys and fiords: the Milford Road.

What is the name of the new official touring route between Queenstown and Dunedin via Central Otago?

It's officially known as the Central Otago Touring Route, and the 341-kilometre drive links Dunedin to Queenstown, weaving through a fascinating snowcapped hinterland rich in history and spectacular scenery.

Does New Zealand have good roads?

New Zealand has some of the most incredible scenic drives and open roads in the world. Whether it's your first or tenth time visiting our country, it's always a good idea to brush up on road safety. Help keep others safe on the road with these simple actions while driving around our beautiful country.

Dunedin to Queenstown scenic drive | New Zealand | 4K

Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Images: Kelly L, Ruiyang Zhang, Tim Samuel, Midhun Madhu