Queenstown to Christchurch Tour via Franz Josef (One-Way)
Tour Overview
Join Cheeky Kiwi Travel on an unforgettable 2-day journey from Queenstown to Christchurch via Franz Josef and New Zealand’s scenic West Coast. Travel with passionate guides through lakes, waterfalls, gorges, and alpine towns, with an overnight stop in Franz Josef and optional add-ons like heli hikes and scenic flights.
- Duration: 2 Days
- Vehicle: Toyota Prius, Alpha, Toyota Alphard, Toyota Hiace, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Mini Bus
- Guide: German, Chinese, French, Japanese, English, Korean & Hindi Speakers
- Note: 10 hours service per day. $130 NZD per hour for overtime fee
Highlights
- Visit Cardrona Hotel, Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea
- Walk through Blue Pools and Thunder Creek Falls
- Experience coastal views at Bruce Bay and Ship Creek
- Sunset stop at Lake Matheson
- Stay overnight in Franz Josef (accommodation optional)
- Visit Hokitika Gorge and Arthur’s Pass
- Explore Castle Hill limestone formations
- View Otira Viaduct Lookout
- Small group for a personal experience
- Travel in comfortable minibuses with WiFi and USB
What's Included
- Experienced local guide
- Modern, WiFi-equipped transport
- USB charging onboard
- Free cancellation (24+ hours notice)
Not Included
- Accommodation in Franz Josef (optional add-on)
- Optional activities: heli hike, scenic flight
- Meals not listed
- Personal expenses
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Queenstown to Franz Josef
Start your scenic West Coast adventure from Queenstown to Franz Josef, with several iconic stops along the way.
Queenstown
Depart from Queenstown and begin your scenic journey through the Southern Alps.
Cardrona Hotel
Stop at one of New Zealand’s oldest and most iconic hotels, known for its rustic charm and mountain views on the Crown Range Road.
Wānaka
Enjoy views of the famous Wānaka Tree and explore the charming lakeside town.
Lake Hāwea
A scenic photo stop with sweeping views of this pristine alpine lake.
Blue Pools
Short nature walk across swing bridges to crystal-clear glacial pools nestled in native forest.
Thunder Creek Falls
Admire the towering 28-meter waterfall in Mt Aspiring National Park.
Ship Creek
Stretch your legs with a boardwalk stroll through coastal wetlands and forest.
Bruce Bay
Capture stunning views of the Tasman Sea and rugged driftwood-covered beach.
Lake Matheson
Famous for its mirror-like reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
Franz Josef
Arrive in Franz Josef and check in to your accommodation or enjoy optional evening activities.
Day 2: Franz Josef to Christchurch
Continue your adventure from Franz Josef to Christchurch through stunning gorges and alpine scenery.
Franz Josef
Begin the day with pickup from your accommodation in Franz Josef or Fox Glacier.
Hokitika Gorge
Marvel at the turquoise waters of the Hokitika River surrounded by native bush.
Hokitika
Visit this coastal town known for pounamu (greenstone) carving and wild beach views.
Otira Gorge Lookout
Stop for sweeping views of the viaduct and surrounding mountain ranges.
Arthur’s Pass
Drive through the spectacular alpine landscape and lookout for native Kea birds.
Castle Hill
Explore massive limestone boulders in this spiritual and cinematic landscape.
Christchurch
End your journey in the vibrant garden city of Christchurch.