Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Trip from Christchurch

5.0
(16 reviews)
Christchurch, New Zealand

10 to 13 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 2 more

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the South Island on a private day tour from Christchurch to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and Lake Tekapo.

Travel through the Canterbury Plains with a stop at Fairlie Bakehouse for a quick breakfast or coffee. Visit the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, with an optional seasonal stop at the New Zealand Alpine Lavender Farm.

Continue along the stunning Lake Pukaki with incredible views of Aoraki / Mount Cook. At Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, enjoy a short walk to Kea Point / Mueller Glacier Lake Lookout. Explore the renowned Hooker Valley Track/ Tasman Valley to view the impressive Tasman Glacier before returning to Christchurch.

What's Included

Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Meals

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Please arrange the meeting point by contacting the customer and selecting a convenient nearby location. Kindly proceed to the designated area provided by the guide for the meetup.

Itinerary

Duration: 10 to 13 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Fairlie Bakehouse

    Take a relaxed 30-minute break at Fairlie Bakehouse. It’s the perfect spot to grab a fresh pie and coffee, stretch your legs, and enjoy a quick treat before you continue your journey.

    30 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 2
    Lake Tekapo

    Lake Tekapo, located in New Zealand's South Island, is renowned for its striking turquoise waters, a result of glacial silt suspended in the lake. Situated at an elevation of 710 meters, it spans approximately 83 square kilometers. The area is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, offering exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. Notable landmarks include the Church of the Good Shepherd, a historic stone chapel on the lake's shores, and the vibrant lupin blooms that adorn the landscape from mid-November to December. The surrounding region also boasts hot springs and various hiking trails, making Lake Tekapo a favored destination for both relaxation and adventure.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Lake Pukaki

    Lake Pukaki is the largest of three parallel alpine lakes in New Zealand's South Island, covering an area of approximately 178.7 square kilometers. Its distinctive blue color comes from glacial flour—fine rock particles suspended in the water. The lake is fed by the Tasman River, originating from the Tasman and Hooker Glaciers near Aoraki/Mount Cook. Elevations range between 518.2 and 532 meters above sea level. Lake Pukaki is integral to the Waitaki hydroelectric scheme, with dams and canals connecting it to nearby lakes for power generation.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    New Zealand Alpine Lavender Farm

    NZ Alpine Lavender near Aoraki/Mt Cook: largest certified organic farm in the Southern Hemisphere (600m). Visit Dec-Mar for blooming lavender amidst stunning alpine scenery: clear skies, snowy peaks, turquoise rivers. Unique climate yields potent, pure oil. Discover NZ-made products: organic oil, soaps, aromatherapy. Experience alpine purity.

    30 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 5
    Tasman Glacier

    Tasman Glacier (South Island, NZ): NZ's longest (~23.5km), thickest (~600m), and largest by ice volume. Retreating rapidly, forming Tasman Lake with icebergs. Lower section covered in rock debris. Popular for boat tours and scenic flights. Named after Abel Tasman. Accessible from Mt Cook Village. A powerful display of glacial change.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Mt. Cook Village

    Stop at Mount Cook and then continue to the Lake Mueller Lookout. Take your time to enjoy the sweeping views of the glaciers and the rugged alpine landscape. It’s a short walk with a rewarding backdrop that feels straight out of a postcard.

    50 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Supplied by The Nature's Trail
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Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Audio Guides
Ports of Call Tours
Layover Tours
Car Tours
Shore Excursions
New Product
Port Pickup
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 16 16 reviews
5 stars
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