Drives Otago, New Zealand Queenstown, Central Otago and Dunedin
Devil's Staircase: SH6
SH 6, Kingston Road · Frankton → Kingston
The drive
The Devil's Staircase is the stretch of State Highway 6 along the south-eastern shore of Lake Wakatipu, from Frankton to Kingston, 36 km (22 mi). The road runs south from the Frankton roundabout with The Remarkables and the Hector Mountains to the east and the lake to the west.
Wikipedia calls the section tortuously winding, with a series of rises and falls high above the water. Curves are mostly gentle, but the road climbs and drops as it follows the lake edge, and there are passing bays. The drive ends at Kingston, where the highway leaves the lake, and takes about 30 minutes.
Kingston is the end of the drive; the highway carries on south from there.
Along the way
- Frankton
- Kingston
Good to know
- The road is two lanes with passing bays.
- Pull over only at laybys or signed stops, not on the shoulder.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check NZTA Journey Planner: highway conditions.
Questions about this drive
How long does the Devil's Staircase SH6 take from Frankton to Kingston?
Frankton to Kingston on SH6 is 36 km (22 mi) and takes about 30 minutes.
Where is the Devil's Staircase?
It is the winding part of SH6 along the south-eastern shore of Lake Wakatipu, between Frankton and Kingston.
Is the Devil's Staircase twisty?
It is a winding lakeside road with rises and falls, though the curves are mostly gentle.
Is the Devil's Staircase open in winter?
Usually yes. It is a main state highway, but check NZTA for closures.
What you get in the app
Free on iPhone and Android. CarPlay and Android Auto come with Apex.
More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.