Lewis Pass

Lewis Pass, a remote alpine crossing on New Zealand's South Island, offers a raw and untamed wilderness experience. The pass itself is a scenic drive through beech forests, tussock-covered valleys, and alongside braided rivers, with the Southern Alps as a dramatic backdrop. This is a place for those seeking solitude, stunning landscapes, and a glimpse into the rugged heart of the country.

Highlights & What to See

• Lewis Pass Scenic Drive – The journey over the pass (State Highway 7) is the main attraction, with sweeping views of the Maruia Valley and the surrounding peaks.
• Maruia Springs Thermal Resort – Soak in natural hot pools surrounded by alpine forest, a perfect stop for relaxation after a day of driving or hiking.
• Boyle River Outdoor Education Centre – A great base for tramping, with short walks like the Boyle River Loop Track offering river and mountain views.
• St James Walkway – A multi-day tramp through the remote St James Conservation Area, passing through beech forest, alpine meadows, and historic huts.
• Lake Daniels – A serene alpine lake accessible via a 4WD track or a longer tramp, ideal for fishing and picnicking in isolation.
• Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for red deer, chamois, and native birds like the kea and fantail.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers experience Lewis Pass as part of a road trip between Christchurch and the West Coast, spending just a few hours driving through and making a short stop at Maruia Springs. To fully appreciate the area, allocate a full day for a short walk and a soak in the hot pools, or 2–3 days if you plan to tackle a section of the St James Walkway or explore the side valleys. The pass is also a popular stop for cyclists and motorcyclists, who often break the journey here.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs – A charming alpine village with famous thermal pools, adventure activities, and the nearby Hanmer Forest Park.
• Reefton – A historic gold-mining town with well-preserved buildings and access to the Victoria Conservation Park.
• Kaikōura – Famous for whale watching, dolphin encounters, and fresh seafood, about 2.5 hours east via the scenic Inland Road.
• Murchison – A small town on the Buller River, popular for whitewater rafting and the nearby Murchison River Walk.
• Arthur's Pass – Another stunning alpine crossing with more challenging tramps and kea sightings, about 2 hours south.
• The West Coast (Greymouth, Punakaiki) – Drive west to the wild coastline, home to the Pancake Rocks and glaciers like Franz Josef.

Please check official sources for current details.