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2 Day Tour From Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz Josef

By Cheeky Kiwi Travel
10 out of 10
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Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes with Cheeky Kiwi Travel. This two-day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz Josef offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes and hidden gems. You’ll enjoy personalized service, small group sizes, and expert local guides who will ensure your journey is as informative as it is exhilarating. Book your adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Activity location

  • Christchurch
    • Christchurch, New Zealand

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Bus Interchange (Intercity stop)
    • 8011, Christchurch, Canterbury Region, New Zealand

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What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's includedFully guided small group tour
  • What's includedWhat's includedWater & snacks
  • What's excludedWhat's excludedAccommodation
  • What's excludedWhat's excludedRestroom on board

Know before you book

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • The first day of this tour is guided by our Christchurch partners, Cheeky Kea.
  • If you have dietary requirements. Please indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking

Activity itinerary

Day 1: Christchurch to Franz Josef via Hokitika
  • 12 stops
  • Meals: lunch
  • Accommodation: Not included
Christchurch
Upon collection in Christchurch, your journey begins as we depart the garden city
Lake Lyndon
  • 5m
Lake Lyndon, located near Porters Pass, it is a popular spot for rainbow trout fishing due to its thriving population, the lake is nestled within the Korowai/Torlesse Tussocklands Park and is fed by the Acheron River, which flows into the Rakaia River.
Castle Hill
  • 1h
Weathered limestone rocks sit proudly on the tussocky hills and were once in the ocean! Over time they eroded away and started forming these amazing unique shapes you’ll see today. You might recognize this landscape from movies such as Lord of the Rings and Narnia! That’s right. Not only that, but while you walk amongst the rocks you will also see climbers and boulderers! This place is a magnet for thrill seekers. This is not a guided walk so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own.
Arthur's Pass Village
  • 1h
On the way through you will be able to see the beautiful backdrop of the majestic Southern Alps up close. Once we arrive you will have the opportunity to either walk the Devils Punch Bowl or spend this time walking around the local shop.
Devils Punchbowl Walking Track
  • 1h
This optional walking track is approx. 1 hour with a gradual incline including steps towards a ferocious 131-meter-tall waterfall. Fitness is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and forest.
Otira Viaduct Lookout
  • 10m
Also known as Deaths Corner! The Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the national park in all its glory. This bridge is the only reason driving Arthurs Pass is possible! It’s huge at 440 Meters long and is a great spot for a photo of the bridge and the surrounding landscape. A little bonus too, you might see a wee Cheeky Kea! The sneaky Alpine Parrot of NZ. We then embark on the next adventure towards the gorgeous town of Hokitika.
Greymouth
  • 5m
A quick stop at the information centre! Located in the heart of New Zealand South Island, Greymouth is the largest town in the West Coast Region, with a population of around 14,000 people. This charming town is not only a beautiful spot, but also a key hub for connecting via tthe renowned TranzAlpine train service.
Cobden Beach
  • 5m
Cobden is a beach break with a rock breakwater at its southern end, producing standout waves that break right up against the structure. This picturesque spot is a photographer's paradise, with a stunning backdrop that's sure to capture breathtaking images.
Hokitika
  • 1h 30m
Experience the laid-back atmosphere that's sure to evoke a sense of nostalgia once we arrive in Hokitika. Allowing time for lunch and a stroll down Hokitika's wild beach, where black sand meets the rugged coastline. Our guides give you the time needed to enjoy this “cool town” and a little teaser of what it has to offer.
Hokitika Gorge Walk
  • 1h
After lunch and sometime in the town we venture towards a stop hidden away on the West Coast, Hokitika Gorge is a treasured gem that consistently inspires awe, with its striking turquoise waters radiating an otherworldly beauty. Nestled amidst a lush canopy of native bush, this enchanting gorge is a magnet for nature enthusiasts and photographers, who flock to capture its unique essence and unforgettable vistas. After getting those Instagram worthy shots we head to our final destination for the day, Franz Josef.
Lake Ianthe
  • 5m
Lake Ianthe is surrounded by hills and podocarp forests, with a large flax swamp at its southern end. The lake is home to a diverse array of wetland birds, including the endangered Great Crested Grebe, which has one of the largest populations in New Zealand. The lake is situated in a glacial trough, surrounded by a moraine and flows into Wanganui River through Ianthe Creek.
Franz Josef
  • 30m
There will be two options once you arrive in Franz Josef Village. Please let our driver know if you prefer to be dropped off straight at your accommodation or if you wish to do the walk towards the famous Franz Josef Glacier and be dropped off after
Day 2: Franz Josef to Queenstown via Wanaka
  • 10 stops
  • Meals: lunch
  • Accommodation: Not included
Franz Josef
Day 2 begins with collection from your accommodation in Franz Josef, as we make our way South along the West Coast.
Lake Matheson Walk
  • 1h
This spot is every photographers dream. On a calm day you can capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This easy bushwalk will reward you with breathtaking views across the southern alps
Bruce Bay
  • 10m
At this location you will see where the thick native rainforest meets a seemingly endless open ocean of the Tasman Sea. This beautiful beach really is the best of the west.
Ship Creek Walks
  • 30m
As we make our way south along the boarder where ancient rainforest meets the ocean we will make a stop at Ship Creek. Dig your toes in the sand and feel the crash of the relenting waves of the Tasman Sea. Explore the dunes via an easy 1km walking track.
The Hard Antler
  • 45m
Time to stop for lunch!
Thunder Creek Falls
  • 30m
This easy 5 minute walk will reward you with the spectacular view of Thunder Creek Falls. This 28 meter waterfall is the remanence of a once great glacier that pours from a hanging valley into the Haast River below.
Lake Hawea Lookout
  • 10m
As we leave the national park behind make sure to keep your eyes open as we make our way westwards and past stunning Lake Hawea. We will stop for a quick photo at a lookout point between Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea.
Wanaka
  • 15m
Stretch your legs take a walk down to the lakeside for that iconic photo of the Wanaka Tree. Soak in the beauty of this expansive lake backdropped by Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps. This is truly a photo opportunity that you do not want to miss!
Cardrona
  • 10m
From Wanaka we head over the Crown Range Road that connects Queenstown and Wanaka. We do a quick stop here to see the Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic hotels. Its rustic charm, spectacular mountain setting and rich history make it a must see while in Central Otago.
Queenstown
Your tour concludes in the stunning town of Queenstown. As we drive into the town your guide will point out key sites and any local highlights before dropping you off to your central Queenstown accommodation.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIESChristchurch
    • Christchurch, New Zealand

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLEBus Interchange (Intercity stop)
    • 8011, Christchurch, Canterbury Region, New Zealand

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