Most Scenic Supercar Drives in New Zealand: Where Luxury Meets the Open Road

New Zealand’s rugged mountains, mirror-smooth lakes, and ocean-hugging roads make it one of the most thrilling places in the world to drive a supercar. From Christchurch’s sun-lit coastal highways to the alpine passes of Queenstown, these routes combine world-class engineering with jaw-dropping scenery. If you’ve booked a ride through Christchurch Supercars, these destinations turn your rental into an experience you’ll never forget.

Here are our top-rated scenic supercar drives in New Zealand — a collection of routes that blend luxury, adrenaline, and the freedom of the open road.

1. Christchurch to Akaroa – The Summit Road Experience

Distance: ~82 km (1.5 hours one way) | Best for: Sweeping coastal curves and hilltop views of Banks Peninsula

Just an hour from central Christchurch, the Summit Road to Akaroa is a must-drive for any supercar enthusiast. The route winds through the Port Hills and offers 360° views of Lyttelton Harbour and the Pacific Ocean. Smooth tarmac and gentle switchbacks let you experience your car’s handling without pushing limits. Stop at Evans Pass for photos or a coffee in Akaroa village before heading back through the rolling green valleys.

2. Arthur’s Pass – The Alpine Ascent

Distance: ~150 km from Christchurch (2.5 hours) | Best for: Mountain driving and panoramic alpine views

Few roads in the South Island match the drama of Arthur’s Pass. This route from Canterbury to the West Coast weaves through mountain tunnels and snow-dusted peaks. The sharp curves and smooth surface make it ideal for drivers who appreciate precision and control. Pull over at Otira Viaduct Lookout for photos that capture the scale of the Southern Alps.

In winter, watch for icy patches at higher elevations, but in spring and summer, this drive is pure motoring bliss.

3. Christchurch to Lake Tekapo – Blue as Far as You Can See

Distance: ~230 km (3 hours) | Best for: Long, open straights and scenic photography

If you love cruising at speed with mountain views ahead and open sky above, the drive to Lake Tekapo is a dream. Leaving Christchurch, you’ll pass through Geraldine and Fairlie before the landscape opens into a blue-and-gold canvas of lakes and peaks. The flat tarmac invites smooth, steady acceleration—ideal for enjoying the power of a Ferrari or McLaren without aggression.

Once there, stop at the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and take a short detour to Lake Pukaki for mirror-clear photos of Aoraki Mount Cook.

4. The Crown Range Road – Queenstown to Wanaka

Distance: ~70 km (1 hour) | Best for: New Zealand’s highest sealed road and thrilling hairpins

For those taking their supercar beyond Christchurch, the Crown Range Road is New Zealand’s most famous mountain pass. It links Queenstown and Wanaka through a series of tight bends, elevation changes, and unforgettable vistas. The road surface is immaculate, and there are multiple lookouts for that Instagram-worthy shot of your car against a backdrop of cloud-kissed peaks.

Take your time—this drive is as much about the view as the vehicle. Start early morning to avoid traffic and catch the sun rising over the mountain spine.

5. Kaikōura Coast Road – Ocean Meets Asphalt

Distance: ~180 km (2.5 hours from Christchurch) | Best for: Coastal vistas and marine wildlife sightings

Stretching north from Christchurch toward Kaikōura, this coastal route is an unfolding gallery of sea cliffs, seal colonies, and turquoise water. Smooth roads carve through headlands, making it perfect for convertibles and luxury coupes. Stop at Oaro or Clarence to photograph your car with the Kaikōura Range rising behind you.

It’s a drive that defines New Zealand motoring—where the journey is the destination.

6. Christchurch to Hanmer Springs – Luxury Meets Relaxation

Distance: ~135 km (1.75 hours) | Best for: Weekend getaways and spa relaxation

This route is ideal for drivers seeking balance—adrenaline in motion followed by tranquil reward. The road winds gently through Waipara wine country before climbing into Hanmer Springs, a famous thermal spa village. It’s a favourite weekend drive for our clients who book the supercar upgrade experience and want a destination as luxurious as the ride itself.

Park beneath the alpine trees, enjoy a soak in the hot pools, and watch the steam rise against snowy peaks while your engine cools off.

Driving Tips for Supercar Routes in New Zealand

• Check seasonal conditions: Coastal roads can get slick after rain; alpine passes may have frost in winter.
• Fuel smart: Supercars thrive on premium fuel—plan refueling stops in advance on rural routes.
• Respect speed limits: New Zealand policing is strict on open roads; enjoy acceleration responsibly.
• Plan photo stops: Use designated lay-bys and lookouts for safe photography.
• Listen to your car: The road is a conversation between machine and landscape—let the engine guide your rhythm.

Seasonal Supercar Highlights

• Summer (Dec–Feb): Perfect for coastal routes like Kaikōura and Akaroa; crisp sunlight for photography.
• Autumn (Mar–May): Vineyard drives and mountain passes glow with gold and crimson foliage.
• Winter (Jun–Aug): Alpine routes to Arthur’s Pass or Queenstown offer snow-capped drama—just check for icy conditions.
• Spring (Sep–Nov): Lush valleys and blooming lupins around Lake Tekapo make for magical backdrops.

Luxury Stops Along the Way

• Waipara Valley Wineries: Pair a half-day drive with a tasting menu at Greystone or Pegasus Bay.
• Lake Pukaki Lodge: Stay overnight for sunrise views and starlit skies.
• Te Anau Lakeside Retreat: Ideal for multi-day South Island road trips with luxury parking and concierge service.

Photography and Videography Tips

Supercars deserve cinematic backdrops. Plan your shoot around golden hour (light between 7–9 a.m. and 5–7 p.m.). Avoid harsh midday light that flattens paint colours. A polarising filter helps reduce glare on glass and chrome. And remember — never stop on blind corners or narrow bridges for photos; use designated pull-outs.

The Christchurch Supercars Experience

At Christchurch Supercars, we curate drives that combine precision engineering with breathtaking landscapes. Whether you choose a half-day coastal route or a multi-day South Island journey, our fleet includes Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, and Aston Martin models maintained to perfection. We also offer bespoke GPS maps and concierge services to help you navigate these iconic routes effortlessly.

Conclusion: Luxury That Moves You

Every supercar has a story, and New Zealand’s roads provide the perfect stage to tell it. From the serene curves of Akaroa to the rugged heights of Arthur’s Pass, these routes capture the essence of freedom and craftsmanship. If you’re ready to turn a drive into an adventure, start your journey in Christchurch — where luxury meets the open road and the scenery never stops moving.

Discover more in our related articles: Christchurch Supercars vs Standard Rentals and Supercar Experiences in Christchurch.