Dunedin to Queenstown

South Island, New Zealand | 738km

Image: Mark Watson

Tear yourself away from Dunedin and take the coastal Brighton Road out of town. Wind your way through Ettrick, Roxburgh, Alexandra and Clyde, a magnificent little village off the beaten track, en route to Queenstown. Before you hit the city limits hang a right towards Wanaka and ride the footpeg-disintegrating Crown Range Road – it’s one of the coolest roads in NZ. Perched on the banks of Lake Wakatipu, with its snow-capped mountain backdrop, Queenstown is a uniquely beautiful city; but don’t leave without riding out to Glenorchy. The road snakes along the lake with about a thousand variations of the humble corner. NZ’s South Island has some of the world’s best touring and you won’t want to leave; but when you do, treat yourself with a ride back through Omakau, Ranfurly and Middlemarch. You’ll be glad you did!

Bungy town
Arguably the home of the bungy jump, Queenstown claims the first commercial jump (Kawaru Bridge, 1987) and NZ’s highest bungy (Nevis Bungy, 134 metres). It also has the world’s highest cliff jump, the world’s steepest zip line and one of the biggest giant swings. If it’s thrills you’re seeking then this is your town.

Crown Range Road
Reaching an altitude of 1,121 metres, the road over the Crown Range is the highest main road in New Zealand. While challenging in winter, the rewards for summer riders are immeasurable. Outstanding views and challenging hairpin turns abound.

Click here to view this route in the Harley-Davidson Ride Planner and start planning your next adventure.

Originally published in 2023.

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