Wanaka and Queenstown
 

We are driving from Franz Josef through Haast Pass. Is it worth staying in Wanaka for 1 night and then Queenstown for 2 or should we stay in Queenstown for 3 nights and side trip?
Thanks for your advice.

I would take my time getting from Franz Joseph (there are some nice short walks from the main road) and spend one night in Wanaka. The next morning you can move to Queenstown. If this is your first visit and you are going to do a lot of the tourist activities in Queenstown, it's more convenient to stay there. The setting is beautiful. The downside is that it has become overdeveloped IMO.

There are many good things to see between FJ and QT. You could do them and still make it to QT by the night. It may depend on how tired you get driving. Is there anything that interests you in Wanaka? ((*))

Thank you for the responses. We have decided to stay in Wanaka and would appreciate any recommendations anyone might have. Also would love to hear more specifics on short walks along the route.

Stayed at The Moorings in Wanaka for 1 night back in March this year. It overlooked the lake and the local ducks seemed to like our patio!!! Would definitely recommend.

I second the recommendation for The Moorings we stayed there at the end of January this year and it was lovely. Great location and very nice rooms.

You can pick up a brochure about the many short walks along the Haast Pass Hwy at one of the visitor centers (there is a big one where the Haast Pass Hwy turns inland from the coast). Some are: Roaring Billy waterfall (25 minute return), Thunder Creek Falls (5 minutes) Fantail Falls (5 minutes), and Blue Pools (30 minutes return). There is also Munro's Beach just north of Haast (plenty of sandflies, about 1 to 1.5 hrs RT with possibility of seeing Fiordland Crested Penguin).

Yes I would stop in a Wanaka for a night its agreat spot before the full-on Queenstown adventure.

http://www.newzealandatoz.com/dunedinandotago.php

Have a look at the Bra Fence on your travels around Wanaka.
Enjoy

Thanks for all your help.
We booked the Moorings and can't wait for our trip.