Christchurch to Franz Josef 1-Way Small Group Tour via Hokitika

5.0
(4 reviews)

12 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

The West Coast of New Zealand offers a unique holiday experience, featuring scenic roads, breathtaking landscapes, and picturesque spots. This iconic route takes you on a bucket list adventure along the ever-changing coastline, passing through hidden gems and towns, and offering endless opportunities to stop and explore.

You will be driven in comfort in our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter packed with extras, just to make your journey that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable and passionate tour guides, this journey will come to life in a new way for you.

Memories made, hearts happy and photos a plenty in this tour!

What's Included

English speaking guide
Lunch
Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
Water available & snacks provided
Restroom on board
Gratuities
Private transportation
You can hire child seats, or you can provide your own

Meeting and pickup

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

- Pickup offered from listed locations only. If your location isn’t listed, please choose your nearest available option & meet us there. - If your accommodation is yet to be confirmed, we ask that you select the Christchurch Bus Interchange (Intercity stop on Litchfield Street) for now. You can update this later. - Pick-ups begin up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside by this time. - Pick-up locations are carefully planned for each tour and may vary by day. If your pick-up location changes, kindly inform us in advance. - Our guides make multiple stops and may arrive within a 10-minute window. To ensure a timely departure, we recommend being ready 5–10 minutes early, as we are unable to wait for late guests. - You will receive an email with important pickup information the day prior, please read this information.

OR
Meeting point

PICKUP TIME: 7:08. Please meet your guide at the Intercity Bus Stop on Litchfield Street. If your accommodation is yet to be confirmed, we ask that you select the Christchurch Bus Interchange (Intercity stop on Litchfield Street) for now. You can update this later.

End point

Itinerary

Duration: 12 hours (approximately)
  • (Pass by)

    Departing Christchurch, we begin our day tour to Franz Josef

    Admission ticket free
  • 1

    Lake Lyndon, located near Porters Pass, it is a popular spot for rainbow trout fishing due to its thriving population, the lake is nestled within the Korowai/Torlesse Tussocklands Park and is fed by the Acheron River, which flows into the Rakaia River.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Renowned for its stunning limestone rock formations, which resemble an ancient, weathered castle. These unique geological structures make it a popular spot for rock climbing and bouldering. It also served as a filming location for "The Chronicles of Narnia."

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps, Arthurs Pass Village is a charming alpine village offering a gateway to some of New Zealand's most rugged and picturesque landscapes. The village is surrounded by high peaks and is a hub for outdoor activities, including hiking and birdwatching, with the chance to see the curious Kea, the world's only alpine parrot

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 4

    The Devils Punchbowl waterfall is a breathtaking natural spectacle, cascading 131 meters down into the basin below. Accessible via a scenic forest trail, this powerful waterfall offers a rewarding hike with stunning views of the surrounding beech forest and alpine scenery.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Otira Lookout provides panoramic views of the Otira Viaduct and the spectacular mountainous terrain of Arthur's Pass National Park. The lookout offers a dramatic perspective of the engineering marvel of the Otira Viaduct, set against the backdrop of steep, forested mountainsides

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Located in the heart of New Zealands South Island, Greymouth is the largest town in the West Coast region, with a population of around 14,000 people. Nestled amidst chiseled cliff tops, wild beaches, and the picturesque Grey Valley, this charming destination is not only a beautiful spot itself, but also a key hub for connecting via the renowned TranzAlpine train service.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    Cobden is a beach break with a rock breakwater at its southern end, producing standout waves that break right up against the structure. This picturesque spot is a photographers paradise, with a stunning backdrop that's sure to capture breathtaking images.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 8

    Allowing time for a stroll down Hokitika's wild beach, where black sand meets the rugged coastline. Looking out towards the Tasman Sea you’ll be able to watch the rugged surf with views towards a shipwreck and perhaps you'll have a chance to stumble upon some greenstone. Our guides give you the time needed to enjoy this “cool town” and a little teaser of what it has to offer

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 9

    The gorge offers a striking contrast between the bright blue waters and the lush green native bush, with a swing bridge providing an exhilarating view of this natural wonder.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 10

    Lake Ianthe is surrounded by hills and podocarp forests, with a large flax swamp at its southern end. The lake is home to a diverse array of wetland birds, including the endangered Great Crested Grebe, which has one of the largest populations in New Zealand.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 11
    Franz Josef Glacier

    ** There will be two options once you arrive in Franz Josef Village. Please let your guide know if you prefer to be dropped off straight at your accommodation or if you wish to do the walk towards the famous Franz Josef Glacier and be dropped off after ** New Zealand's West Coast Glacier Country is one of the only two locations in the world where you can view glaciers flowing into rainforests. Despite minimal snowfall in the towns of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier, the surrounding high mountains receive plenty of snow, ensuring the glaciers remain icy. While direct access to the glacier face is not possible, you are able to walk to the lookout and read up about the amazing history behind this scenic attraction.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 12

    In the quiet town of Franz Josef, this treasured gem in New Zealand offers an array of thrilling hikes with awe-inspiring views and backdrops, as well as unique local experiences. But the real piece of history is the chance to marvel at the majestic glaciers up close, whether by exploring the icy terrain on foot or taking to the skies for a bird's-eye view.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • The tour duration includes travel time between attractions
Supplied by Cheeky Kiwi Travel

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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 4 4 reviews
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