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HomeRoad TripsOceaniaNew ZealandLewis Pass
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Lewis Pass Scenic Drive

Christchurch - Lewis Pass - Greymouth

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Security Security
Road conditions Road conditions
Comfort Comfort
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
Historical sites Historical sites
Lewis Pass Scenic Drive ACTIVATE MAP Stages2 km329 h/stage2.2

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Lewis Pass Scenic Drive in New Zealand?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 54EUR drive & more 50EUR sleep & more 154EUR eat & more 144EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 348EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 402EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 108EUR drive & more 63EUR sleep & more 209EUR eat & more 216EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 488EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 596EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 234EUR drive & more 75EUR sleep & more 319EUR eat & more 288EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 682EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 916EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 450EUR drive & more 88EUR sleep & more 110EUR eat & more 144EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 342EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 792EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Lewis Pass Itinerary

The Lewis Pass Scenic Drive is an unforgettable road trip through the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand. Starting in Christchurch and ending in Greymouth, this 205 mile journey takes you through the spectacular Lewis Pass. Taking two days to complete, the best time to drive the Lewis Pass Scenic Drive is during the summer or autumn months for the most pleasant journey. This drive will take you through rolling green hills, lush forests, and past crystal clear rivers and lakes. You will also enjoy winding roads that will give you plenty of amazing views along the way. The road conditions are very good, with only some curvy roads in some areas. This scenic drive is suitable for all drivers, and will create a lifetime of memories. However, it is important to remember that this road trip comes at a high cost, so make sure you plan your budget accordingly. All in all, the Lewis Pass Scenic Drive is an amazing journey that will provide a very high level of experience and memories.
number of days 2 number of days
route length 329 km route length
budget high budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level low accident level

START Christchurch

Distance 329 km Driving time 4.3 h Pace: fast 98.8 kWh Airports CHC
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Christchurch is the perfect starting point for the Lewis Pass Scenic Drive. This stunning drive takes you through the picturesque countryside of Canterbury, New Zealand, and offers stops at some of the region’s most beautiful spots. Start your journey in Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island. Here you can visit the Canterbury Museum, International Antarctic Centre, and the Botanic Gardens. If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, try your hand at one of the adventure activities on offer in the city. Christchurch is the closest international airport to the Lewis Pass Scenic Drive, with the IATA code CHC. If you are travelling by car, car rentals are available at the airport. From Christchurch, the Lewis Pass Scenic Drive takes you to the stunning alpine scenery of Lewis Pass. Along the way, you can stop and explore the Maruia Falls, Lake Taylor, and the stunning Mount Rochfort. So, start your journey in Christchurch and make your way to the Lewis Pass Scenic Drive. With its beautiful alpine scenery, there is something for everyone along this stunning drive.

1 Christchurch - Lewis Pass

Distance 186 km Driving time 2.4 h Pace: fast 55.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road sections of steep road stretches of winding road junction of road trips interesting cultural site interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Christchurch to Lewis Pass! This 116-mile drive takes less than 3 hours and is full of memorable sights. Along the way, you'll be treated to winding roads, steep ramps, and picturesque landscapes – perfect for capturing the perfect photo! There are also several sites of historical importance to explore, so keep your eyes peeled. At the end of your journey, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the Lewis Pass, one of the most beautiful places in the area. Don't forget to check out the Itinerary for this stage of your trip for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.

2 Lewis Pass - Greymouth

Distance 143 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: fast 42.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road sections of steep road stretches of winding road junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Lewis Pass to Greymouth! This 89mi journey, taking less than two hours of driving time, will lead you through some of New Zealand's most stunning landscapes. As you journey through this breathtaking scenery, be sure to keep an eye out for historical sites and the picturesque road. Be mindful of the steep ramps and winding roads in some sections. During your journey, you'll experience some of the most captivating landscapes in New Zealand. From Lewis Pass to Greymouth, you'll pass through majestic mountains, lush forests, and rolling hills. Make sure to take the time to explore some of the most interesting places along the way - such as the Maruia Hot Springs, the Lewis Pass Visitor Centre, and the Murchison Museum. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the Itinerary of this stage. Bon voyage!

  Greymouth

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Greymouth is a small city on the west coast of New Zealand's South Island, and the perfect end point for the Lewis Pass Scenic Drive. The town is known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities, making it a great place to end a road trip. Greymouth's highlights include the beautiful Shantytown, a recreated gold rush-era village with a working steam train, and the nearby Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. These geological wonders are a must-see for all visitors, and the nearby Paparoa National Park is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The town is also home to Monteith's Brewing Company, where you can sample the local craft beer and take a tour of the brewery. The West Coast Wildlife Center is another great spot to explore, with its interactive exhibits about the local wildlife. For a more relaxed activity, take a stroll along the Grey Riverwalk, a scenic walk along the riverbank. Greymouth is also a great base for exploring the nearby attractions, including the glaciers of Fox and Franz Josef, the wild beaches of the West Coast, and the remote wilderness of Lake Brunner. The closest international airport is Christchurch International Airport (CHC), located about 270 km away. With its stunning scenery and activities, Greymouth is the perfect end point for the Lewis Pass Scenic Drive. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure or a more laid-back experience, Greymouth has something for everyone.

Lewis Pass at a glance

Facts for safer driving in New Zealand

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 100 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 110 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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