New Zealand Day 7: Wanaka Tree, Crown Range Road & Shotover River

by Allan See Toh on April 26, 2025 with No Comments

The Wanaka Tree is one of New Zealand’s most photographed natural landmarks

The Day 7 of our Nov-2024 New Zealand (South Island) camper van trip kicked off with a stop at the iconic Shotover River, home to the thrilling Shotover Jet. From there, we began our scenic drive toward Wanaka via the spectacular Crown Range Road. Along the way, we paused at the Arrow Junction Lookout Point for some quick snaps, then continued the ascent through the mountainous pass. We took in stunning views from both the Crown Range Road Scenic Lookout and the Crown Range Summit marker before descending into Wanaka Town, where we ended the day with a visit to the picturesque Wanaka Tree.

Date visited: Nov-2024

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Things to do : Day 7 of our New Zealand South Island Campervan Adventure

Below are the brief intros for each site that we visited on Day 7.

Shotover River (Map)

Nestled just minutes from Queenstown, the Shotover River is a striking New Zealand gem known for its crystal-clear waters and steep canyon walls. It’s also the base of the famous Shotover Jet, where high-speed jet boats zip through narrow gorges for an adrenaline-pumping experience.

It's also the base of the famous Shotover Jet, where high-speed jet boats zip through narrow gorges for an adrenaline-pumping experience. — It’s also the base of the famous Shotover Jet, where high-speed jet boats zip through narrow gorges for an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Arrow Junction Lookout Point (Map)

A quick roadside stop with panaromic views of Gibbston Valley, Arrowtown, and the surrounding Central Otago landscapes. Located right at the start of the Crown Range Road climb.

Arrow Junction Lookout Point, New Zealand

Views from Arrow Junction Lookout Point, New Zealand

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Crown Range Road Scenic Lookout (Map) & Summit Marker (Map)

These two nearby lookouts showcase breathtaking alpine views and mark the highest main road in New Zealand.

Summit Marker at Crown Range Road, New Zealand

Crown Range Road (Map)

Crown Range Road is one of New Zealand’s highest and most scenic sealed roads, winding through dramatic alpine landscapes between Queenstown and Wanaka. The drive offers stunning viewpoints, steep climbs, and sweeping bends, making it a must-do for road trip lovers. On a clear day, the views from the top are absolutely unforgettable.

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Wanaka Tree (Map)

The Wanaka Tree is one of New Zealand’s most photographed natural landmarks—a lone willow standing gracefully in the waters of Lake Wanaka with the Southern Alps as its backdrop. Its striking silhouette, especially during sunrise or sunset, makes it a favorite spot for photographers and travelers alike. Despite its quiet presence, the tree has become an iconic symbol of Wanaka’s serene beauty.