touring routes
Lake Brunner’s location makes a great fit with any touring itinerary, approachable from the east, north or south and in close proximity to many of the highlights of the South Island’s West Coast.
These touring routes include recommended sights enroute to the Lodge and below is a guide to the likely driving times. Take time to enjoy your travels to Lake Brunner Lodge and drive safe, stop to take that magical photo opportunity or stretch your legs on a nature walk.
Eastern Route
Christchurch - Arthur's Pass - Lake Brunner Lodge
From Christchurch take State Highway 73 (SH73) west over breath-taking Arthur’s Pass. The highest alpine pass and National Park in New Zealand, Arthur’s Pass village is less than 1 hour from Lake Brunner Lodge. Stop and enjoy unique alpine flora, fauna and scenic walks. Check weather conditions before leaving.
Northern Route
Nelson/Picton - Buller Gorge - Punakaiki - Greymouth - Lake Brunner Lodge
Drive through the Buller Gorges to the West Coast on SH6, under limestone cliffs along the wild river. Stop at Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, just over 1hr from the lodge, to view the fascinating rock formations, dramatic coast and Paparoa National Park.
Southern Route
Haast Pass - Glaciers - Hokitika - Lake Brunner Lodge
Crossing Haast Pass on SH6 and travelling up the West Coast from Wanaka and Queenstown is a complete day of scenic driving. Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier are enroute, Franz Josef is an easy 2.5 hours drive from Lake Brunner. Take time to experience alpine flights, and the short walks to glacial snout in forest-lined valleys are a must-see.
Driving Times to Lodge (add time for sightseeing stops):
- Picton 5 hours
- Nelson 4 hours
- Greymouth 50 minutes
- Christchurch 3 hours
- Arthur's Pass 1 hour
- Hokitika 50 minutes
- Franz Josef 2.5 hours
- Fox Glacier 3 hours
- Haast 6 hours
- Wanaka 7 hours
- Queenstown 8 hours
