If you happen to be visiting the central South Island at the end of November/Start of December you must take advantage of one of our most beautiful natural wonders - the Russel Lupin, a gorgeous but invasive weed that paints the landscape in vibrant hues of purple, pink, and yellow.
It's day one and you've arrived in Queenstown!
We will be visiting the beautiful little town of Glenorchy this morning before heading to lake Wanaka via Arrowtown. Your total drive time for today is about 3 and a half hours.
Important Notes:
Lupins typically bloom late November/Early December
Lupins are considered an invasive weed and are sprayed by local councils each year, hopefully all of the spots mentioned in this guide have lupins when you come to visit but I can't guarantee it.
1
2
111 m (0.1 mi)
3
8.1 km (5 mi)
7 min
Paradise is a further 20 minute drive from Glenorchy with beautiful lupins along the river fronts. It's worth a detour before heading back towards Queentown!
4
73.9 km (45.9 mi)
1 hr 9 min
You've hopefully photographed lots of lupins by now! Let's head to Arrowtown for lunch and more lupins along the riverside. We will also grab a bite to eat in Arrowtown, I have included my favorite cafe and there are lots of other eateries on the main street too.
5
63 m (0 mi)
6
515 m (0.3 mi)
2 min
7
699 m (0.4 mi)
2 min
8
30.5 km (19 mi)
32 min
Cardona Hotel doesn't have any lupins (that I know of) but is too iconic to drive by without stopping. Visit the pub for a drink or take some photos outside.
9
Choose the option that fits you the best
26.2 km (16.3 mi)
22 min
Let's continue on to the lakeside mountain village of Wanaka. This will likely be the only location in this itinerary where we will see beautiful yellow lupins.
Wanaka has tons of accommodations and Airbnbs, I have included one of my favourites called Edgewater, right on the lakeside within walking distance of the famous Wanaka tree.
10
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1.1 km (0.7 mi)
2 min
11
301 m (0.2 mi)
12
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