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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).
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, Lake Pukaki, Aoraki Mt Cook Village,and the Lindis, before arriving in Tāhuna Queenstown. As this tour showcases some of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations, it is one of our most popular full day experiences. 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. Pick up times are as follows 6:18 Sudima City 6:20 Crowne Plaza 6:23 Distinction Christchurch 6:24 Christchurch City Hotel 6:25 Bus Interchange Intercity Stop (Litchfield Street) 6:27 Breakfree 6:29 Rydges 6:31 Urbanz 6:33 Fino 6:35 The George 6:37 Hotel Give
Please wait ready for collection at the bus stop on Lichfield Street outside the bus exchange. If you put Christchurch Bus Interchange intercity stop into google maps this will give you the correct location. Pick up time is at 06:25am
Sit back and relax while we whisk you down to Queenstown to continue your New Zealand adventure. From Mt Cook this service is operated by Cheeky Kiwi Travel
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 (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 Tāhuna Queenstown.
3 hours • Admission ticket free -
5
Farewelling Aoraki/Mt Cook Village and making our way to Queenstown, we stop in at High Country Salmon; a local salmon farm where you can feed the fish and taste some of the freshest salmon in New Zealand.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Climbing in altitude, Lindis Pass has amazing views down through the valleys. In fact, it is one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana).
Admission ticket free -
6
Nearing Queenstown, we then make our way through the stunning Kawarau Gorge passing stunning views, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
Queenstown (Pass by)
As we enter New Zealand’s ‘adrenaline capital’, sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring Lake Tekapo, Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, the Lindis, and the Kawarau Gorge. 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 Mt Cook to Queenstown leg of this trip is operated by our wonderful Queenstown partner Cheeky Kiwi Travel.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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 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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