New Zealand's highest sealed road climbs from Queenstown across the Crown Range Saddle (1,076m) and descends through the Cardrona Valley to Wanaka. Tight switchbacks at both ends, an alpine plateau in the middle, and the historic 1863 Cardrona Hotel halfway. Rideable year-round but watch for ice September–October mornings. Less than 120km but easily a half-day with stops — the panorama from the saddle alone holds you for an hour.
Clone it to your planner, customize dates and stops, then ride. All free.