The Lindis Pass is a scenic mountain pass that connects the Mackenzie Basin with Central Otago on New Zealand’s South Island. Known for its stunning tussock-covered landscapes, rugged hills, and winding roads, the Lindis Pass offers a breathtaking journey through some of the country’s most remarkable high country scenery.
Location
The Lindis Pass is located in the South Island of New Zealand, approximately halfway between the towns of Wanaka and Omarama, on the boundary between the Otago and Canterbury regions.
Opening Hours
The Lindis Pass is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, as it is a public highway (State Highway 8). However, visitors should check road conditions and weather forecasts before traveling, particularly during the winter months when snow and ice can make driving conditions challenging.
Highlights
- Stunning tussock grasslands and rugged, rolling hills
- Spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges
- Unique geological features, including exposed rock formations and scree slopes
- Excellent stargazing opportunities due to the clear, dark skies
- Iconic photo opportunities, particularly at sunset and sunrise
Activities
- Scenic driving through the pass, stopping at viewpoints and pull-offs
- Photography, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the light is most dramatic
- Hiking and walking on nearby trails, such as the Lindis Pass Scenic Reserve Track
- Stargazing and night sky viewing, thanks to the clear, dark skies
- Picnicking and enjoying the peaceful surroundings
Admission Fees
There are no admission fees to drive through or visit the Lindis Pass, as it is a public road.
Facilities
- Facilities at the Lindis Pass are limited due to its remote location. However, visitors can find the following:
- Public toilets at the Lindis Pass Scenic Reserve car park
- Picnic tables and a short walking track at the scenic reserve
- Accommodation, food, and fuel available in nearby towns such as Omarama and Wanaka
Accessibility
The Lindis Pass is accessible by car, as it is part of State Highway 8. The road is well-maintained but can be narrow and winding in some sections. There are several pull-offs and viewpoints along the route that are accessible for most vehicles. However, the walking tracks and scenic reserves in the area may have uneven terrain and limited accessibility for those with mobility challenges.
How to Get There
The Lindis Pass is located on State Highway 8, which connects the Mackenzie Basin with Central Otago. It can be accessed by car from several nearby towns:
- From Wanaka: approximately 1 hour drive north on State Highway 8
- From Omarama: approximately 30 minutes drive south on State Highway 8
- From Queenstown: approximately 2 hours drive north via Cromwell and Tarras
Nearby Attractions
- Lake Pukaki and the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
- Omarama and the Clay Cliffs
- The Ahuriri Valley and Lindis River
- Wanaka and Lake Wanaka
- The Central Otago region, known for its wineries and historic towns
Insider Tips
- Plan your drive to coincide with sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic light and photo opportunitiesTake your time and stop at
- the various viewpoints and pull-offs to fully appreciate the landscape
- Bring warm layers, as the high elevation can make temperatures significantly cooler than the surrounding areas
- Fill up your gas tank and pack snacks and water, as services are limited along the route
- Respect the environment and take any rubbish with you, leaving the area as you found it
What Visitors Say
Visitors to the Lindis Pass are consistently in awe of the stunning landscapes and the feeling of being immersed in New Zealand’s untouched wilderness. Many describe the drive as one of the most scenic in the country, with the tussock-covered hills and distant mountain ranges creating an almost surreal atmosphere. Photographers particularly appreciate the unique light and shadows that play across the landscape, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. For more highlights and tour reviews see real experiences from our guests: The Road Trip Testimonials.
Photos and Videos
For photos and videos of the Lindis Pass, visit the following websites:
- New Zealand Tourism: https://www.newzealand.com/int/feature/lindis-pass/
Contact Information
As the Lindis Pass is a public highway, there is no specific contact information for the attraction itself. However, visitors can find information about road conditions, weather, and nearby services from the following sources:
New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA)
Phone: +64 3 964 2800
Website: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/
Omarama Visitor Information Centre
Phone: +64 3 438 9978
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.discoveromarama.co.nz/information-centre/
Wanaka i-SITE Visitor Information Centre
Phone: +64 3 438 9978
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.wanaka.co.nz/
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