Private Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo (1 way) (Small Group, Customisable, Carbon Neutral)

Wanting to explore this iconic South Island route, but want a more personalised and tailored experience? Look no further than our private Queenstown to Christchurch Day Tour via Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo.

At 3724 metres, Aoraki Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak. Located in the heart of the ruggedly beautiful Mackenzie District, it was first summited in 1894 by Tom Fyfe, Jack Clarke, and George Graham and remains a popular ascent to this day. However, as a sacred ancestor for local Ngā Tahu iwi, Aoraki is more than just a mountain. He and his brothers’ story is arguably one of the South Island’s most important Māori legends, speaking to the dramatic formation of Kā Tiritiri o te Moana (Southern Alps) which have since become home to one of Aotearoa’s most beautiful National Parks.

So why not join us as we travel to this region and beyond, experiencing the best of what Te Wai Pounamu (New Zealand’s South Island) has to offer. Escaping the hustle and bustle of Tāhuna Queenstown, this 1 way trip adventures via the Crown Range, Wānaka, the Lindis, Lake Pukaki, Aoraki Mt Cook Village, and Lake Tekapo, before arriving in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Situated in the heart of the South Island, Christchurch is a stellar example of what happens when urban innovation collides with nature, heritage, and culture. Following the devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 and subsequent rebuild projects, the city has been revitalised to become one of the world’s most agreeably unique destinations. With plenty of things to see and explore, Ōtautahi is a fantastic base for both city and regional activities of interest. As this tour showcases some of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations, it is one of our most popular full day experiences. 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 fully customisable and is one you will never forget! 

Highlights and inclusions:

• Small group size
• Carbon neutral tour to Christchurch
• Picture perfect scenery and panoramic views
• Wānaka - including #thatwanakatree
• Lindis Pass
• Aoraki Mt Cook Village and National Park - including optional walks
• Lookout over Lake Pukaki
• Lake Tekapo - including the Church of the Good Shepherd
• Bottled water and Kiwi snacks (lunch is not included, but can be on request)
• WiFi and USB charging
• Commentary
• 100% Kiwi as experience

Itinerary:

Queenstown - We start by leaving Tāhuna Queenstown - the country’s ‘adrenaline capital’. As we head north, our knowledge guide will share highlights of the city and surrounding region.

Cardrona and the Crown Range Lookouts (5-10 minutes) - The first leg of our journey takes us through Cardrona and the famous Crown Range. We will make a stop or two along this famous road, including outside the Cardrona Hotel. Opened in 1863, it is one of the last remaining traces of the valley’s gold rush.

Wānaka (15 minutes) - Next we make a brief stop in Wānaka at the famous Tree. The former fence post turned lone willow is now an iconic part of the lakeshore’s landscape and is one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand. 

Lindis Pass - As we continue to make our way north, we drive through the Lindis Pass - one of three Alpine passes that enable travel between Te Wai Pounamu’s east and west sides. 

Lake Pukaki (10 minutes) - Our final stop before arriving in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park is Lake Pukaki. With its shifting colours ranging from ice to deep blue depending on the weather, this glacier-fed lake stands out from other alpine lakes in the region. On clear days, enjoy uninterrupted views of Aoraki rising from the lake’s edge.

Aoraki Mt Cook National Park (2 - 2.5 hours*) - Welcome to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park! Established in 1953, roughly 40% of the park is covered by glaciers, with Haupapa being the longest at approximately 23 kilometres. Impressively, 19 mountains - including Aoraki - within the area also stand at over 3000 metres tall. Once you arrive, you have the option to embark on the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track or explore Mt Cook Village, taking in sights such as the Visitor Centre and Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. Alternatively, if you’d prefer an aerial view of the mountains, we can arrange a scenic flight for you and your group (booked and sold separately).

Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track - Leading through old terminal moraines of the Haupapa, this track offers incredible views of the glacier, surrounding river and Tasman Lake.

*Please note that due to potential delays from road conditions, the allocated time in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to explore may be less than advertised. This may mean that you might be unable to fully complete walks etc. Your friendly guide will be able to assist you on the day with the best options available. At 2:15pm, please follow their instructions as they will provide the collection time to continue through to Ōtautahi Christchurch for the next stage of your tour.

Lake Tekapo and The Church of the Good Shepherd (15 minutes) - Next up we stop at Lake Tekapo. Surrounded by the Southern Alps and the Mackenzie District’s distinct tussocked landscape, you will be greeted with panoramic views. From late November to early January, the famous lakeshore is adorned with clusters of wild lupins. While here, we will stop at one of New Zealand’s most photographed locations; the Church of the Good Shepherd.

Canterbury Plains - Travelling across the Rakaia bridge, you will notice both the region’s unique braided river ecosystem and patchwork fields. Farms on the plains and surrounding Selwyn district are home to a variety of activities, including crop cultivation, viticulture, dairy farming, and livestock production. 

Christchurch – As we enter New Zealand’s ‘Garden City’, sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring Wānaka, the Lindis, Lake Tekapo, and Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. 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.

We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. 

See More, Do More, Spend Less.