Where is Arthur's Pass?
New Zealand, oceania
44.6 km
739 m
hard
Year-round
Arthur's Pass, nestled in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, is a must-do for any road trip enthusiast! This mountain pass sits at a lofty 739m (2,425ft) above sea level, right on the border between the West Coast and Canterbury regions, within the stunning Arthur's Pass National Park.
Fun fact: it's named after Sir Arthur Dudley Dobson, who led the first group of Europeans through here back in 1864. Originally a Maori trading route, the road we know today was carved out in 1866 after gold was discovered, connecting Hokitika and Christchurch. Talk about a challenging construction project – built by hand with picks, shovels, and sheer determination!
Today, driving State Highway 73 through Arthur's Pass is an unforgettable experience. As the highest and most spectacular pass across the Southern Alps, it climbs to over 900 meters, boasting incredible engineering feats like viaducts, bridges, and redirected waterfalls.
Keep your eyes peeled – and your car locked – at parking spots along the way. This fully paved road is generally well-maintained, but winter can throw a curveball with snow and ice, sometimes requiring chains. Plus, with an average annual rainfall of 4000-7000mm and frequent winter snowfalls, it's wise to have a backup plan in case the pass closes.
Be prepared for some steep climbs, too, with gradients reaching up to 16 percent in sections. Spanning 44.6 km (27.71 miles) between Jacksons and Bealey, this scenic drive will take about 45 minutes. Arthur's Pass itself is a fantastic base for exploring the National Park, but the journey is just as rewarding!
Road Details
- Country
- New Zealand
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 44.6 km
- Max Elevation
- 739 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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