2 Day Tour from Queenstown to Christchurch via Franz Josef

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Highlights & inclusions

Two day tour from Queenstown to Christchurch via Franz Josef
Lakes Wanaka, Hawea & Matheson
Hokitika Town & Gorge
Stay the night in Franz Josef with your choice of accommodation
Historic Cardrona Valley Hotel
Arthurs Pass & Castle Hill
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From $533.60
$469.57AUD
Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to experience

1. Select date

December 2024

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Hot Deal
Last minute deal

2. Select participants

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What you can expect

This two day tour from Queenstown to Christchurch is the perfect blend of adventure and serenity. Journey through the rugged beauty of New Zealand's iconic West Coast, marvel at the stunning Franz Josef Glacier and soak in the tranquil charm of the Canterbury Plains.

Designed for small groups, this tour ensures a more personal and enjoyable experience, allowing travellers to truly connect with the breathtaking landscapes and friendly local culture. From jaw-dropping vistas to hidden gems along the way, every moment is packed with unforgettable sights and experiences.

Create lifelong memories in one of the world’s most spectacular settings. Don’t miss this chance to discover the heart of New Zealand’s natural beauty with expert guides and a friendly, upbeat atmosphere.

Location

The Station Information Centre, Queenstown, STH 9300

What you need to know

Inclusions
  • Small group tour and guide
  • Lunch (please advise of dietary requirements)
  • Bottled water and snacks
  • Lunch on both days
Exclusions
  • Accommodation
  • Dinner
  • Scenic flights
Itinerary
  • Day One
  • Your adventure begins in the vibrant town of Queenstown. Meet your friendly Cheeky Kiwi Travel guide and fellow travelers before setting off early in a comfortable, modern minibus. Your first stop is the historic Cardrona Hotel, with its rustic charm, you'll stop here for your photo opportunity. Next up is the picturesque town of Wanaka, where you can stretch your legs and enjoy a stroll along the serene lakefront. Snap a photo of the famous Wanaka Tree, standing majestically in the lake.
  • Continuing your journey will see stops at the Lake Hawea lookout, Thunder Creek Falls, Bruce Bay, Ships Creek. Before long, we arrive at every photographer's dream: Lake Matheson. On a calm day, you can capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This walk will reward you with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps.
  • Finally, we arrive in the quaint village of Franz Josef. Here, you'll check into your comfortable accommodation, nestled amidst lush greenery with views of the surrounding mountains. The evening is yours to explore at your leisure – perhaps take a dip in the local hot pools or enjoy a meal at one of the village’s cozy restaurants.
  • Day Two
  • Leaving Franz Josef, you'll head north to Hokitika Gorge, a treasured gem that consistently inspires awe, with its striking turquoise waters radiating an otherworldly beauty. Afterwards we arrive at the charming town of Hokitika, famous for its rich history of gold mining and greenstone (pounamu) carving. Take some time to explore the local shops and perhaps pick up a beautifully crafted souvenir.
  • After departing Hokitika we continue making our way across the country, stopping at Otira Gorge Lookout before arriving in Arthurs Pass Village. Here you have the option to grab a bite to eat, a coffee or maybe shop for some souvenirs, or you can walk to the Devils Punch Bowl, a 131 metre waterfall! Fitness is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and forest.
  • Our final stop is Castle Hill. A self-guided walk among the weathered limestone rocks that once sat in the ocean! It's famed for its striking limestone rock formations and has several highlights that attract visitors: rock climbing, cultural significance, flora & fauna & maybe most famously, a filming location for several movies!
  • As the tour approaches its end, you'll arrive in the garden city of Christchurch. Reflect on your incredible journey as you’re dropped off at your central city location.
Departure Location
  • If not being picked up from a hotel, please meet outside The Station - Home of Adventure, in Central Queenstown.
Hotel Pickup
  • Kamana Lakehouse - 6:45am
  • Mercure - 6:46am
  • Heritage Hotel - 6:47am
  • Rydges Lakeland Resort - 6:50am
  • Hotel St Moritz - 6:51am
  • QT Queenstown - 6:22am
  • Crowne Plaza - 6:53am
  • Pinewood Lodge - 6:54am
  • Queenstown Park Boutique - 6:55am
  • Flaming Kiwi Backpackers - 6:56am
  • Novotel - 6:57am
  • Nomads Hostel - 6:58am
  • Sofitel Hotel & Spa - 7:00am
  • The Station Home of Adventure - 7:00am
  • LyLo Queenstown - 7:00am
  • Aspen Lodge - 7:01am
  • Heartland Hotel - 7:02am
  • Holiday Inn Express - 7:03am
  • Ramada Queenstown Central - 7:04am
  • Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront - 7:05am
  • Millennium Hotel - 7:06am
  • Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Lakeview - 7:07am
  • Swiss Belsuites Pounamu - 7:08am
  • Oaks Shores Resort - 7:09am
  • The Rees - 7:10am
  • Holiday Inn Frankton Road (bus stop Frankton Rd) - 7:11am
  • Sherwood Hotel (Bus stop Frankton Rd) - 7:12am
  • Frankton Terminus (near Airport) - 7:13am
  • Wyndham Garden - 7:15am
  • Sudima 5 Mile - 7:16am
Cancellation Policy
  • Change your booking up to 24 hours before the start time of your experience
  • Changes are not permitted within 24 hours of your experience
  • Late arrivals or no shows may result in you forfeiting your experience
Booking Information
  • Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
  • Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
  • Mobile Vouchers are accepted! Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
  • Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
  • For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
  • We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements