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Offered languages
- English
Discover New Zealand’s wild West Coast on this unforgettable small group, fully guided day tour from Christchurch to Franz Josef. Journey from the Canterbury Plains through the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass, and continue along the rugged coastline to the glacier country. With breathtaking scenery, short walks, and authentic Kiwi storytelling along the way, this tour is the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and discovery.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
- 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.
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.
Drop off to central Franz Josef accommodations only
Itinerary
-
Christchurch (Pass by)
Depart the Garden City and head west toward the mountains as your guide shares stories and highlights of the Canterbury region.
Admission ticket free -
1Castle Hill
Wander among the dramatic limestone rock formations of Castle Hill, a landscape so striking it featured in movies like Narnia and The Lord of the Rings.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
2
Arrive in the heart of the Southern Alps. Choose to take the Devil’s Punchbowl track for an hour-long walk to a spectacular 131-metre waterfall, or explore the village for a bite to eat or coffee.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
3Otira Viaduct Lookout
Stop at this famous viewpoint known as Death’s Corner to admire the impressive Otira Viaduct and sweeping mountain views. Keep an eye out for cheeky Kea parrots.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Greymouth
Make a stop in Greymouth for lunch, the largest town on the West Coast and gateway to the TranzAlpine route.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
5Cobden Beach
Visit this coastal lookout where rugged waves meet the rock breakwater, a perfect stop for photos of the Tasman Sea.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6Hokitika
Enjoy some free time to explore this charming coastal town. Walk along the black sand beach, see the iconic Hokitika sign, and browse local art shops.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7Hokitika Gorge Walk
Take a short walk through native bush to marvel at the turquoise waters of Hokitika Gorge, one of the West Coast’s most photographed natural spots.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
8Lake Ianthe
Pause briefly at this peaceful lake surrounded by forest and wetlands, home to rare birdlife and a serene glacial setting.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
9Franz Josef
Arrive in the relaxed township of Franz Josef, where your guide will check you into your accommodation and share tips for exploring the area’s glacier walks and scenic flights. Drop off to central Franz Josef accommodations only
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
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
- Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
- Drop off in Fox Glacier not available - we reccommend booking accommomation in central Franz Josef
- Not recommended for travelers confined to a wheelchair
- Not recommended for travelers with limited mobility
- If you have dietary requirements. Please kindly indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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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