Overview
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 personalised service, small group sizes, and expert local guides who will ensure your journey is as informative as it is exhilarating. Tour highlights includes: Arthurs Pass, Hokitika Town & Gorge, Franz Josef, Lakes Matheson & Thunder Creek Falls, Lake Hawea & Wanaka, and the Wanaka Tree.
Low carbon footprint
What you will be doing
Start your adventure with a pick-up from your Christchurch accommodation. Departing Christchurch, you will travel through the picturesque Canterbury Plains. Enjoy panoramic views of sprawling farmlands and the majestic Southern Alps in the distance. With stops along the way at Lake Lyndon, Castle Hill, Arthurs Pass Village, an optional walk to Devils Punchbowl, & Otira Lookout before arriving in Hokitika, a charming coastal town known for its vibrant arts scene and rich history. Visit a local jade factory to learn about the Maori significance of pounamu (jade) and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir or take a photo with the Hokitika beach sign! We will continue our journey south along the stunning west coast, with its dramatic coastline, lush rainforest & hidden waterfalls. Arriving in Franz Josef Village, we will drop you off at your accommodation where you can have some time to relax.
We'll depart Franz Josef and travelling through the awe-inspiring Haast Pass. This scenic drive offers stunning views of dense rainforests, crystal-clear rivers, and towering mountains. Before long we will stop for a walk at the stunning Lake Matheson before continuing onto Bruce Bay, Ships Creek & Thunder Creek Falls. Enjoy short stops to take in the spectacular views and capture unforgettable photos. We will pass by the serene waters of Lake Hawea, before arriving in Wanaka for a break. This is your opportunity to take a photo of the famous Wanaka Tree. After a bit to eat, some photos, and you've stretched your legs, we continue onto our final destination, but not before stopping at the Historic Cardrona Valley Pub for a quick look. Finally, arrive in the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown. Enjoy a convenient drop-off at your accommodation, where you can rest or immediately begin exploring the vibrant city.
Where we'll meet
🧭 Meeting/pick-up point: Christchurch, New Zealand
🗺️ Instructions: We will pick you up from Christchurch.
Things to know
Accessibility:
Children friendly
Fitness requirement
Any fitness level
Tour Language
English
License requirement
None
Additional information:
Children under the age of 7 must be in a child safety seat, as it is a legal requirement in New Zealand. If you need a safety seat or booster seat these can be added during the booking process.
Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements
Inclusion ✅
Tour guide
Lunch
Water
Snack
Pick up and drop off transport
Exclusion ❌
Accommodations
About your host
Cheeky Kiwi TravelWe are all about giving you a real Kiwi Adventure. Our tours and day trips have a maximum of 16 guests! We believe it's the small extra things we do, combined with being flexible, that make all the difference to your experience and give you an amazing trip. Our trips have been described as fun and informative, with, of course, a little bit of cheekiness. From the outset, our mission has been to nurture both our communities and the environment, aligning with and advocating for The Tiaki Promise. We've reduced our carbon emissions by adopting fuel-efficient vehicles and closely monitoring fuel usage. Our drivers are incentivised to follow eco-friendly practices, ensuring your journey is as environmentally responsible as possible. We pride ourselves on being a fully paperless office, and we prioritise responsible waste management during our operations. We encourage our guests to travel responsibly with Wild Kiwi and to commit to The Tiaki Promise to care for New Zealand, for now, and for future generations.
Qualmark Gold: Qualmark works with Tourism New Zealand to help the tourism industry deliver high-quality experiences and maintain a high level of visitor satisfaction. Only businesses that deliver a quality sustainable experience, ones that have undergone an independent evaluation, and showcase true New Zealand hospitality, are recognised through a Qualmark accreditation. It has three levels: Gold, Silver and Bronze.
For every trip booked, Kodama Travel donates £1 to Just One Tree to restore our forests and the ocean.