Christchurch to Queenstown 2-Day Transfer Via Franz Josef

5.0 (13 reviews) 2 days Free cancellation

out of 5

13 reviews

5.0

Christchurch to Queenstown 2-Day Transfer Via Franz Josef — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Bruce Bay — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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.

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At a glance

Duration: 2 days
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: Children (0–14 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: Space for luggage - 1 large & 1 small per person
Included: Lunch
Included: Fully guided small group tour
Included: Water & snacks

Not included

Not included: Accommodation
Not included: On-board restrooms: Restroom on board
Not included: Drop off in Fox Glacier

Itinerary

Day 1 · Christchurch to Franz Josef via Hokitika

Christchurch

Passing by

Upon collection in Christchurch, your journey begins as we depart the garden city
Castle Hill

one hour

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.
Stop 3

one hour

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.
Devils Punchbowl Walking Track

one hour

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.
Otira Viaduct Lookout

10 min

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.
Greymouth

one hour

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. Here we stop for lunch, you will have free choice from a set menu.
Cobden Beach

5 min

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.
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

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.
Stop 10

5 min

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.
Franz Josef

10 min

Arriving in Franz Josef Village we will drop you off at your accommodation where you can some time to relax. (drop off in Fox Glacier not available)

Day 2 · Franz Josef to Queenstown via Wanaka

Franz Josef

Passing by

Day 2 begins with collection from your accommodation in central Franz Josef, as we make our way South along the West Coast.
Lake Matheson Walk

one hour

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
Bruce Bay

10 min

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.
Ship Creek Walks

30 min

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.
Stop 5

45 min

Time to stop for lunch!
Thunder Creek Falls

20 min

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.
Lake Hawea Lookout

10 min

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.
Wanaka

15 min

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!
Cardrona

10 min

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.
Queenstown

Passing by

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.

Meeting point and pickup

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

Meeting point

Intercity stop on Litchfield Street. PICKUP TIME: 7:08am.

End point

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.

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 (Christchurch Bus Interchange, InterCity Stop). 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
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Drop off off in Fox Glacier is not avaialble - we reccomend booking accommodation in 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