Franz Josef to Christchurch via Hokitika (1 way)

5.0 (one review) 13 hours Free cancellation

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5.0

Franz Josef to Christchurch via Hokitika (1 way) — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Franz Josef to Christchurch via Hokitika (1 way), photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Situated in the heart of the South Island, Christchurch, or Ōtautahi, is a stellar example of what happens when urban innovation collides with nature, heritage, and culture. With plenty to see and do from the mountains to the sea, the city is a great place to base yourself while exploring the wider regional highlights, such as Akaroa, Kaikoura, and Hanmer Springs.

So why not join us as we travel the Great Alpine Highway from New Zealand’s west to east coast, experiencing the very best of what the Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana) and rugged West Coast has to offer as we make our way to Christchurch on this 1 way tour. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget!

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At a glance

Duration: 13 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 16 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Cheeky Kea Tours

Ages: Children (4–14 years) · Adults (15–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: On-board WiFi: WiFi on board
Included: Bottled water
Included: Snacks
Included: Lunch
Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle

Not included

Not included: Personal Expenses

Itinerary

Franz Josef

Passing by

We start by leaving Franz Josef, or Kā Roimata o Hinehukatere, and head north along State Highway 6 towards our first stop.
Stop 2

5 min

Surrounded by hills and native podocarp forests with a large flax swamp at its southern end, the lake is an important home for endangered wetland species such as the Great Crested Grebe. Situated in a former glacial trough, the lake is surrounded by a moraine and flows into the Wanganui River via Ianthe Creek. We make a brief stop here for photos before continuing through to Hokitika.
Hokitika

one hour

This ‘Cool Little Town’ is famous for its rugged black sand and driftwood laden coastline. After a brief photo stop at the beach to take in the surf and views of the Tasman Sea, you have the option to again explore the local shops or join the group on a trip to the Hokitika Gorge.

Hokitika Gorge (1 hour) - Perhaps one of the West Coast’s most iconic and photographed spots, on a fine day, its striking turquoise waters frame a distinct contrast from the mature native podocarp forest that borders it. With various lookout points offering different angles of the enchanting river, it is an incredibly popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The track itself is easy and undulating.
Greymouth

5 min

*We make a quick stop in Greymouth at the Information Centre to drop off any guests who chose to add on the TranzAlpine from Greymouth to Christchurch (booked and sold separately). As the largest town in the Westland region, Greymouth, or Māwhera, is home to about 14,000 people. Framed by chiseled cliff tops, wild beaches, the Grey River and the picturesque Grey Valley, this charming destination is not only a beautiful spot, but a key transit hub and community for the West Coast.
Cobden Beach

5 min

*Located just a short drive away from the centre of Greymouth, Cobden is a beach break with a rock breakwater at its southern end, producing incredible waves that pound right up against the structure. It’s a rugged but picturesque photo spot.
Otira Viaduct Lookout

10 min

Also known as Death's Corner, the Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the National Park in all its glory. This bridge is the only reason that driving through Arthur’s Pass is possible today. At 440 metres long, it is a true feat of engineering. The lookout is a great spot for a photo framing viaduct and the surrounding landscape. Keep your eyes peeled at this stop! With a bit of luck, you might even see a wee Cheeky Kea - New Zealand’s sneaky alpine parrot!
Arthur's Pass National Park

one hour

After a short drive we land in Arthur’s Pass Village. Located 740 metres above sea level, you will be able to experience the majestic Southern Alps up close. Once we arrive, you can choose to either walk to Devils Punch Bowl, or grab a coffee and spend some time exploring the local shops.

Devils Punch Bowl - This walking track is approximately 1 hour long, with a gradual incline (including steps) towards a ferocious 131 metre tall waterfall. Fitness is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and native beech forest.

Please note that depending on time, your guide will let you know how long you have and will assist you on the day in regard to the best activity for the weather and time allocated.
Lake Lyndon

5 min

Next up we stop at Lake Lyndon. Nestled at the base of Porters Pass, Lyndon, or Te Hāpua Waikawa, is popular amongst jetboaters, bird watchers, and brave swimmers. It is known as one of this area's colder lakes.
9
Castle Hill

one hour
- Castle Hill, or Kura Tāwhiti, is perhaps one of Canterbury’s most distinguishable settings. Famous for its scenery that would later inspire Middle Earth™, nearby Flock Hill, who Castle Hill shares its geology with, went on to become one of the filming locations used for The Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. The weathered limestone rocks sit proudly abreast the tussocky hills that were once in the ocean. Over time they have eroded away, forming the amazing unique shapes you see today. While you walk amongst the rocks, you might catch a glimpse of climbers and boulderers who frequent the area. Please note that this is not a guided walk, so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own.
Christchurch

Passing by

After a long day of exploring, we enter the Canterbury region and head towards Christchurch. Sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring the Southern Alps and West Coast. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!

Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks.* These two stops are only made if there are any travellers booked with the Greymouth to Christchurch TranzAlpine train service.

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

please be waiting 5 minutes before your pick up time
please be waiting 5 minutes before your pick up time
Please be waiting at least 5minutes before your pick up time

End point

This tour ends back in Christchurch. We can drop off at certain accommodation providers. Please check with us for what locations these are.

Pickup points

Haka House Franz Josef
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Bella Vista Motel Franz Josef Glacier

Please be waiting for your pick up at least 5minutes before the pick up time.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

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

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.