Franz Josef to Christchurch Small-Group Tour via Hokitika (1-way)

5.0
(18 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.

What's Included

Kindly advise dietary requirements
English Speaking Guide
Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
Water available & snacks provided
Restroom on board
Gratuities
Coffee and/or Tea
Children safety/booster seats are available to hire for NZ$20 per seat

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 Scenic Hotel Franz Josef 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.

Itinerary

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

    We leave the quiet town of Franz Josef, as we make our way towards the garden city of Christchurch. With a couple of stunning stops along the way you’ll be immersed in this tour with us.

    Admission ticket free
  • 1

    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
  • 2

    A charming coastal town, famous for its greenstone (pounamu) carvings, artisan galleries, and the nearby stunning beaches and forests, Hokitika offers a perfect blend of cultural and natural attractions, including the iconic driftwood sign on its beach. 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
  • 3

    Why not join the group on an excursion towards a stop hidden away on the West Coast. Hokitika Gorge is a treasured gem that consistently inspires awe, with its striking turquoise waters radiating an otherworldly beauty. Nestled amidst a lush canopy of native bush, this enchanting gorge is a magnet for nature enthusiasts and photographers, who flock to capture its unique essence and unforgettable vistas.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 4

    A quick stop at the Information center. Greymouth is located in the heart of New Zealand's 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
  • 5

    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 photographer's paradise, with a stunning backdrop that's sure to capture breathtaking images.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    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
  • 7

    On the way through you will be able to see the beautiful backdrop of the majestic Southern Alps up close. Once we arrive you will have the opportunity to either walk the Devils Punch Bowl or spend this time around the local shop.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 8

    This walking track is approx. 1 hour with a gradual incline including steps towards a ferocious 131-meter-tall waterfall. Fitness is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and forest.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 9

    Castle Hill is 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! This will be a self guided walk.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 10

    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
  • 11

    The final stretch towards the vibrant city, offering a unique blend of history, culture and boasting architecture, ranging from ancient landmarks to modern marvels, while its thriving art scene provides endless opportunities for culture seekers. Meanwhile, the laidback lifestyle and stunning natural surroundings make it a paradise for nature lovers, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern city life. Our guide will drop you at your accommodation as you continue on with your journey here in New Zealand. With new friends and memories, this full packed day is sure to make you want more.

    1 hour Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • 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
  • 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
  • The tour duration includes travel time
Supplied by Cheeky Kiwi Travel

Show 3 more

Tags

Day Trips
Nature and Wildlife Tours
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Excellent Quality
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
New Product

Cancellation Policy

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

Show more

Rating

5.0 Based on 18 18 reviews
5 stars
18
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
from per person
Was {{currencySymbol}}{{ summaryFromPriceBeforeDiscount }}