Words: AutoTrader NZ
Published 12 December 2025
NZ’s roads are more than just how you get from A to B – they’re an experience. Whether coastlines, mountains, forests or lakes, there’s a drive for every mood. Picking the right car for the route makes it even better. Here are some standout scenic drives and the kind of vehicle that’ll make them come alive.
1. Milford Road (Te Anau → Milford Sound, South Island)
Why go:
Dramatic alpine passes, dense rainforest, glacier-carved valleys – Milford Road is one of NZ’s most iconic scenic drives and throws everything at you: winding roads, tunnels, rain, snow, and misty mountain views.
Car pick: A comfortable and capable SUV.
Recommended: Subaru Outback
- All-wheel drive for confidence in changing conditions
- Great visibility on twisty mountain roads
- Plenty of space for gear
- Comfortable seats for long driving stretches
Top tip: Weather can change quickly here – choose a car with good fuel range and stability.
2. Coastal Drive: Christchurch → Picton (SH1)
Why go:
Open roads, sea views, surf towns and sunny stretches – these coastal drives are all about cruising, relaxing, and enjoying the view with the windows down.
Car pick: A fun, light, easy-to-handle hatchback or convertible.
Recommended: Mazda MX-5
- Light, agile, and perfect for winding coastal roads
- Superb visibility with the top down
- Surprisingly comfortable for long, relaxed drives
- Drop the roof and enjoy the full coastal experience
Top Tip: Prioritise well-maintained soft-top or hard-top models – coastal wind, sunshine, and scenery were made for an MX-5.
3. Rural/High Country: Lindis Pass & similar
Why go:
Big skies, long stretches of open highway, rugged landscapes, and minimal traffic. These routes showcase some of the best views in the country.
Car pick: A crossover or SUV that offers comfort, stability, and strong fuel range.
Recommended: Toyota RAV4
- Comfortable for long drives
- Great reliability in remote areas
- Spacious boot for bags, picnic gear, and camera equipment
- Hybrid options are available for lower fuel costs
Top Tip: Services can be far apart – check your tyres, charge, and fuel before you leave.
4. Crown Range Road (Queenstown → Wānaka)
Why go:
New Zealand’s highest main road delivers sharp switchbacks, incredible views, and a thrilling but challenging alpine drive. It’s steep, winding, and unforgettable.
Car pick: A confident, well-balanced SUV with strong braking and control.
Recommended: Mazda CX-5
- Stable and composed on sharp bends
- Great cabin comfort for long drives
- Strong handling for steep climbs and descents
- Ideal for both adventure and everyday driving
Top Tip: Drive this route outside peak traffic hours – sunrise and sunset offer unreal views (and fewer cars).
5. Thermal Explorer Highway (Auckland → Rotorua → Taupō)
Why go:
Geothermal valleys, lakes, forests, bubbling mud pools, and volcanic landscapes. This drive is scenic without being remote – perfect for families, first-time road-trippers, or relaxed cruisers.
Car pick: A reliable, comfortable sedan or hatchback with smooth highway cruising.
Recommended: Toyota Corolla
- Economical for long-distance driving
- Comfortable and predictable handling
- Easy for any driver, from new to experienced
- Plenty of boot space for luggage, hiking gear, or picnic supplies
Top Tip: Plan stops at geothermal parks, the Waikato River trails, or lakeside picnic spots – plenty of charging and fuel stations along the way.
Why the Right Car Matters
- Comfort: Long drives mean long hours in the seat – comfort matters.
- Visibility & roof height: Big windows and higher seating make it easier to enjoy the views.
- Handling & road readiness: Coastal roads are windy, alpine roads are steep, and high-country roads are remote – choose a vehicle built for the terrain.
- Boot & gear space: Snacks, camera gear, jackets, hiking packs – scenic drives often come with scenic stops.
- Fuel & reliability: Remote stretches mean fewer service stations – reliability is key.
Bottom Line
Whether you’re chasing coastlines, mountain passes, or high-country vistas, picking the right car makes all the difference. Pair the perfect route with the perfect ride, pack smart, and you’re set for one of NZ’s most unforgettable road trips.
👉🏼 Ready to find your perfect scenic-drive companion?
