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At 3724 metres, Aoraki Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak. As a sacred ancestor for local Ngā Tahu iwi, Aoraki is more than just a mountain. He and his brothers’ story is arguably one of the South Island’s most important Māori legends, speaking to the dramatic formation of Kā Tiritiri o te Moana (Southern Alps) which have since become home to one of Aotearoa’s most beautiful National Parks.
So why not join us as we travel south to experience the best of what the South Island has to offer. Escaping the hustle and bustle of Ōtautahi Christchurch, this 1 way trip adventures via the Canterbury plains, State Highway 79, the world famous Fairlie Bakehouse, Lake Tekapo, and Lake Pukaki before arriving in Aoraki Mt Cook Village. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget!
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
For a smooth pick-up process please be waiting at your selected pick-up location at least 5 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time. Your vehicle may be delayed due to previous pickups. Please be patient and wait 10 minutes before calling the office. Our drivers cannot wait for late customers. No show / late customers will not be refunded. We only pick up from locations that have a pickup noted. Please make sure you have let us know your pickup location. For hotel pickups please be waiting at or Infront of reception. 06:00 Sudima Airport Hotel 06:18 Sudima City 06:20 Crowne Plaza 06:21 Novotel City 06:23 Distinctinction Christchurch 06:24 Christchurch City Hotel 06:25 Bus Interchange Intercity Stop (Litchfield Street) 06:27 Breakfree 06:29 Rydges 06:31 Urbanz 06:33 Fino 06:35 The George 06:37 Hotel Give
Itinerary
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(Pass by)
We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head south, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Travelling across the Rakaia bridge and inland towards mid-Canterbury, you will notice both the region’s unique braided river ecosystem and patchwork fields. Farms on the plains are home to a variety of activities, including crop cultivation, viticulture, dairy farming, and livestock production.
Admission ticket free -
1
Nestled in the charming farming township of Fairlie, this stop is always popular with guests. It is especially stunning in autumn as the trees lining the streets and Burkes Pass turn a vibrant orange. It is here that you can enjoy a famous Fairlie Bakehouse pie. Our team’s personal favourite is the classic steak and cheese!
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Next up we stop at Lake Tekapo. Surrounded by the Southern Alps and the Mackenzie District’s distinct tussocked landscape, you will be greeted with panoramic views. From late November to early January, the famous lakeshore is adorned with clusters of wild lupins. While here, we will stop at one of New Zealand’s most photographed locations; the Church of the Good Shepherd.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
Our final stop before arriving in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park is Lake Pukaki. With its shifting colours ranging from ice to deep blue depending on the weather, this glacier-fed lake stands out from other alpine lakes in the region. On clear days, enjoy uninterrupted views of Aoraki rising from the lake’s edge.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
Welcome to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park! Once you arrive, you have the option to embark on the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track or explore Mt Cook Village, taking in sights such as the Visitor Centre and Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. Alternatively, if you’d prefer an aerial view, we can arrange a scenic flight for you and your group (booked and sold separately). Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track - Leading through old terminal moraines of the Haupapa, this track offers incredible views of the glacier, surrounding river and Tasman Lake. *Please note that due to potential delays from other customers or road conditions, the allocated time in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to explore may be less than advertised. This may mean that you might be unable to fully complete walks etc. Your friendly guide will be able to assist you on the day with the best options available. At 2:15pm, please follow their instructions as they will provide the collection time prior to drop off in Mt Cook Village.
3 hours • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
It is here that we drop you off and wish you safe travels for your next onward adventure. However, with your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about! Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Travel time is included in the total duration of the tour.
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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