Highlands - Experience the Exceptional
Discover the thrill of racing and the beauty of nature at Highlands, Cromwell's premier tourist attraction for adrenaline seekers and families alike.
A brief summary to Highlands - Experience the Exceptional
- Corner SH6 and Sandflat Road, Sandflat Rd, Cromwell, 9384, NZ
- +6434454052
Highlands, located in Cromwell, New Zealand, is not just a car racing track; it is a full-fledged tourist attraction that promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors. Nestled in the heart of Central Otago, the venue is renowned for its world-class racing facilities, making it a must-visit for motorsport enthusiasts. The race track is designed to challenge even the most skilled drivers, while spectators can enjoy the excitement from various vantage points. The serene backdrop of mountains and vineyards adds to the allure of the location, creating a picturesque setting that is perfect for photography or simply soaking in the natural beauty. Beyond the thrill of racing, Highlands offers a variety of activities suitable for all ages. Visitors can partake in go-karting, experience the thrill of driving supercars, or explore the scenic tracks on a leisurely walk or bike ride. The venue also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, ensuring that there is always something happening. For those looking to relax, the on-site café serves delicious food and beverages, allowing guests to unwind while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you are a motorsport aficionado or just looking for a unique outing, Highlands provides a diverse range of experiences that cater to everyone. The combination of adrenaline-pumping activities and the breathtaking scenery of Cromwell makes it an ideal destination for tourists seeking an exceptional adventure in New Zealand.
Local tips
- Visit during events for the best racing excitement and atmosphere.
- Check the schedule online to plan your visit around special activities and experiences.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes surrounding the track.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in Central Otago.
- Arrive early to secure good viewing spots, especially on busy event days.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, start from Queenstown. Head northeast on State Highway 6 (SH6) for approximately 64 km (about 50 minutes). You'll pass through the beautiful landscapes of the Gibbston Valley and along the shores of Lake Dunstan. Keep an eye out for the signs pointing towards Cromwell. Once you reach Cromwell, look for the intersection of Sandflat Road and SH6. Highlands - Experience the Exceptional is located at the corner of SH6 and Sandflat Road. There is free parking available on-site.
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Public Transportation
For those relying on public transport from Queenstown, take the bus service operated by Orbus to Cromwell. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you arrive in Cromwell, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber) to reach Highlands - Experience the Exceptional, as it is not within walking distance from the bus stop. The taxi fare could range from NZD 20 to NZD 30 depending on the distance.
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Car from Dunedin
If you're coming from Dunedin, take State Highway 1 (SH1) northbound for about 90 km until you reach the intersection with SH85. Merge onto SH85 and continue for about 40 km. Then turn onto SH6 towards Cromwell. Once you enter Cromwell, look for the intersection of Sandflat Road and SH6. Highlands - Experience the Exceptional is at this intersection. There’s ample parking available.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you're already in Cromwell and prefer not to drive, you can easily get a taxi or rideshare to Highlands. Simply call a local taxi service or use a rideshare app on your smartphone. The fare should be reasonable, typically around NZD 10 to NZD 15, depending on your starting point in Cromwell.
Attractions Nearby to Highlands - Experience the Exceptional
- Highlands Motorsport Park
- Cromwell Chafer Beetle Nature Reserve
- Bannockburn Sluicings Historic Reserve
- Bannockburn Inlet
- Cromwell, Central Otago
- Cromwell Heritage Precinct
- The Junction Lookout
- The Bruce Jackson Lookout
- Goldfields Mining Centre
- Lake Dunstan
- Quartz Reef Point
- Oxbow Adventure Co
- Mt Rosa Wines
- Brennan Wines
- Kinross Winery & Cellar Door
Landmarks nearby to Highlands - Experience the Exceptional
- Otago Goldfields Heritage Trust
- Whatatorere
- Roaring Meg Lookout
- Snow Farm NZ
- Silver Fern Gallery
- Vallance Cottage
- Historic Arrowtown Chinese Settlement
- Queenstown Heritage Tours Ltd.
- Queenstown Highlights - Small group sightseeing tours
- Appellation Wine Tours, Queenstown, New Zealand
- Kawarau Falls Scenic Reserve
- Coronet Peak
- Crossfire Wanaka
- Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow
- Queenstown Hill