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Offered languages
- English
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 to this region and beyond, experiencing the best of what the South Island has to offer. Escaping the hustle and bustle of Tāhuna Queenstown, this 1 way trip adventures via the Lindis, Lake Pukaki, Aoraki Mt Cook Village, and Lake Tekapo, before arriving in Ōtautahi Christchurch. 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
Please be waiting outside your accommodation 10 minutes before your designated pick-up time. Pickups can be delayed, please be patient. Customers who are not at their location will be noted as a NO SHOW. Pick up times and locations can be found below 06:15 Kamana Lakehouse 06:16 Mercure Queenstown 06:17 Heritage Hotel 06:20 Rydges Lakeland Resort 06:21 Hotel St Moritz 06:22 QT Queenstown 06:23 Crowne Plaza 06:24 Pinewood Lodge 06:25 Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel 06:26 Flaming Kiwi Backpackers 06:27 Novotel 06:28 Nomads Hostel 06:30 The Station - Home of Adventure 06:30 LyLo Queenstown 06:30 Sofitel 06:31 Aspen Lodge Backpackers 06:32 Heartland Hotel 06:32 Scenic Suites 06:33 Holiday Inn Express 06:34 Ramada Queenstown Central 06:35 Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront 06:36 Millennium Hotel 06:37 Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Lakeview 06:38 Swiss Belsuites Pounamu 06:39 Oaks Shores Resort 06:40 The Rees 06:41 Holiday Inn Frankton Road (Bus stop on Frankton Road) 06:42 Sherwood Hotel (Bus stop on Frankton Road) 06:44 Frankton Bus Interchange 06:45 Wyndham Garden
Itinerary
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Queenstown (Pass by)
We start by leaving Tāhuna Queenstown, also known as New Zealand's ‘adrenaline capital’. As we head north, our knowledgeable guide will point out some highlights of the city and surrounding region.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Departing Queenstown we then make our way north through the stunning Kawarau Gorge, passing beautiful views, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge and famous Roaring Meg Lookout. Time and light permitting, we will stop for that first great shot of the tour.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Exiting the Kawarau Gorge we enter the fruit and wine growing region of Cromwell. Passing huge fields of vines we cross Lake Dunstan and follow this striking lake towards Lindis Pass.
Admission ticket free -
1
Climbing in altitude, Lindis Pass has amazing views down through the valley. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps, we stop at the Lindis Pass lookout 971m above sea level for an essential photo.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
While driving through the endless plains of the Mackenzie district, we will spot several of the celebrated Merino breed of sheep, before stopping at the quaint township of Omarama. While in Omarama, we have time for a break and to grab some lunch if you wish.
30 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 (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 to continue through to Ōtautahi Christchurch.
3 hours • Admission ticket free -
5
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
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
As we make our way through to the ‘Garden City’, sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring Kawarau Gorge, the Lindis, Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, and Lake Tekapo. 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. Please also note that the Queenstown to Mt Cook leg of this trip is operated by our wonderful Queenstown partner Cheeky Kiwi Travel.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The tour duration includes the sightseeing and transportation
Tags
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 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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