Christchurch to Franz Josef 1-Way Small Group Tour via Hokitika

5.0 (16 reviews) 12 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

16 reviews

5.0

Christchurch to Franz Josef 1-Way Small Group Tour via Hokitika — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Christchurch to Franz Josef 1-Way Small Group Tour via Hokitika, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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.

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At a glance

Duration: 12 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 15 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Cheeky Kiwi Travel

Ages: Infants (0–3 years) · Children (4–14 years) · Adults (15–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Safety/booster seat for children aged 7 & younger (please advise if you prefer to provide your own)
Included: Fully guided small group tour with local guide
Included: Space for luggage - 1 large & 1 small per person
Included: Lunch: Sit down - free choice from a set menu
Included: Water available & snacks provided

Not included

Not included: On-board restrooms: Restroom on board
Not included: Private transportation: Drop off/pickup in Fox Glacier

Itinerary

Christchurch

Passing by

Depart the Garden City and head west toward the mountains as your guide shares stories and highlights of the Canterbury region.
Castle Hill

one hour

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.
Stop 3

one hour

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.
Otira Viaduct Lookout

10 min

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.
Greymouth

one hour

Make a stop in Greymouth for lunch, the largest town on the West Coast and gateway to the TranzAlpine route.
Cobden Beach

5 min

Visit this coastal lookout where rugged waves meet the rock breakwater, a perfect stop for photos of the Tasman Sea.
Hokitika

30 min

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.
Hokitika Gorge Walk

one hour

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.
Stop 9

5 min

Pause briefly at this peaceful lake surrounded by forest and wetlands, home to rare birdlife and a serene glacial setting.
Franz Josef

10 min

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

Meeting point and pickup

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

Meeting point

PICKUP TIME: 7:08. Please meet your guide at the Intercity Bus Stop on Litchfield Street, outside the bus interchange.

End point

Drop off to central Franz Josef accommodations only

Pickup points

Hotel Give
Hotel Elms Christchurch, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Merivale Manor
The George Christchurch
Sudima Christchurch City
Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Urbanz
Fino Hotel & Suites
Christchurch City Hotel
Scenic Hotel Cotswold
Sudima Christchurch Airport

and 6 more pickup points

*If no pickup is selected at time of booking, you will be allocated our default meeting point (InterCity Bus Stop, Christchurch Bus Interchange). You are welcome to update this at any time. If your location isn’t listed, please choose your nearest available option & meet us there.

*Pick-ups can begin up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time, depending on location. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside 5 minute prior to your specific pickup 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. We are unable to wait for late guests.

Using your ticket

*You will receive an email with important pickup information in the days prior, please read this information.

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.

Good to know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Guests can bring 1 large & 1 small piece of luggage each
Drop off in Fox Glacier not available - we reccommend booking accommomation in central Franz Josef
Due to uneven surfaces & a moderate amount of walking being involved, this tour is not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, or wheelchair users