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Embark on an unforgettable journey through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes with Cheeky Kiwi Travel. This two-day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz Josef offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes and hidden gems. You’ll enjoy personalized service, small group sizes, and expert local guides who will ensure your journey is as informative as it is exhilarating. Book your adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime.
What's Included
Lunch
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 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.
If your accommodation is yet to be confirmed, we ask that you select the Bus Interchange (Intercity stop on Litchfield Street) for now. You can update this later. PICKUP TIME: 7:08am.
This is a one way tour starting in Christchurch, overnighting in Franz Josef, and ending in Queenstown. You will be dopped at your centrally located accommodation or the closest alternative if not located centrally.
Itinerary
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1
Upon collection in Christchurch, your journey begins as we depart the garden city
Admission ticket free -
2
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 -
3
Weathered limestone rocks sit proudly on the tussocky hills and were once in the ocean! Over time they eroded away and started forming these amazing unique shapes you’ll see today. You might recognize this landscape from movies such as Lord of the Rings and Narnia! That’s right. Not only that, but while you walk amongst the rocks you will also see climbers and boulderers! This place is a magnet for thrill seekers. This is not a guided walk so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
4
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 walking around the local shop.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
5
This optional 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 -
6
Also known as Deaths Corner! The Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the national park in all its glory. This bridge is the only reason driving Arthurs Pass is possible! It’s huge at 440 Meters long and is a great spot for a photo of the bridge and the surrounding landscape. A little bonus too, you might see a wee Cheeky Kea! The sneaky Alpine Parrot of NZ. We then embark on the next adventure towards the gorgeous town of Hokitika.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7
A quick stop at the information centre! Located in the heart of New Zealand South Island, Greymouth is the largest town in the West Coast Region, with a population of around 14,000 people. This charming town is not only a beautiful spot, but also a key hub for connecting via tthe renowned TranzAlpine train service.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8
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 -
9
Experience the laid-back atmosphere that's sure to evoke a sense of nostalgia once we arrive in Hokitika. Allowing time for lunch and a stroll down Hokitika's wild beach, where black sand meets the rugged coastline. 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 -
10
After lunch and sometime in the town we venture 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. After getting those Instagram worthy shots we head to our final destination for the day, Franz Josef.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
11
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. The lake is situated in a glacial trough, surrounded by a moraine and flows into Wanganui River through Ianthe Creek.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
12
There will be two options once you arrive in Franz Josef Village. Please let our driver 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
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
13
Day 2 begins with collection from your accommodation in Franz Josef, as we make our way South along the West Coast.
Admission ticket free -
14
This spot is every photographers dream. On a calm day you can capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This easy bushwalk will reward you with breathtaking views across the southern alps
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
15
At this location you will see where the thick native rainforest meets a seemingly endless open ocean of the Tasman Sea. This beautiful beach really is the best of the west.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
16
As we make our way south along the boarder where ancient rainforest meets the ocean we will make a stop at Ship Creek. Dig your toes in the sand and feel the crash of the relenting waves of the Tasman Sea. Explore the dunes via an easy 1km walking track.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
17
Time to stop for lunch!
45 minutes • Admission ticket free -
18
This easy 5 minute walk will reward you with the spectacular view of Thunder Creek Falls. This 28 meter waterfall is the remanence of a once great glacier that pours from a hanging valley into the Haast River below.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
19
As we leave the national park behind make sure to keep your eyes open as we make our way westwards and past stunning Lake Hawea. We will stop for a quick photo at a lookout point between Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
20
Stretch your legs take a walk down to the lakeside for that iconic photo of the Wanaka Tree. Soak in the beauty of this expansive lake backdropped by Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps. This is truly a photo opportunity that you do not want to miss!
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
21
From Wanaka we head over the Crown Range Road that connects Queenstown and Wanaka. We do a quick stop here to see the Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic hotels. Its rustic charm, spectacular mountain setting and rich history make it a must see while in Central Otago.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
22Queenstown
Your tour concludes in the stunning town of Queenstown. As we drive into the town your guide will point out key sites and any local highlights before dropping you off to your central Queenstown accommodation.
Admission ticket free
Christchurch to Franz Josef via Hokitika
Franz Josef to Queenstown via Wanaka
Additional info
- 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
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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Additional info
- 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
- 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
- Space for luggage - 1 large & 1 small per person
- The tour duration includes travel time between attractions
- If you have dietary requirements. Please indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking
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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