Christchurch to Franz Josef With TranzAlpine (1 way) (Small Group, Carbon Neutral)

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s unique West Coast Glacier Country, Franz Josef is only one of two places in the entire world where you can view glaciers surrounded by native alpine forest. The glacier’s Māori name, Kā Roimata o Hinehukatere - translating to ‘The Frozen Tears of Hinehukatere’ - speaks to the story of Hinehukatere whose fearless nature and love for the mountains saw her take her lover, Wawe, climbing, only for him to be swept away in an avalanche. Grief-stricken and broken-hearted, her tears were frozen by the Gods as a permanent reminder of her love and grief, forming the beautiful glacier we have today. 

As a popular midpoint for those travelling between Christchurch and Queenstown, this 1 way tour showcases the very best of what the Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana) and rugged West Coast have to offer. So why not join as we travel the Great Alpine Highway from New Zealand’s east to west coast. From the jaw dropping geology and geography of Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass to the picturesque Hokitika Gorge and Lake Ianthe, there will be panoramic views from every angle. 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 and including transfer from Christchurch to Greymouth aboard the world famous TranzAlpine, this journey is one you will never forget! 

Highlights and inclusions:

• Small group size
• Carbon neutral 1 way tour to Franz Josef from Christchurch
• Christchurch to Greymouth train tour aboard the world famous TranzAlpine
• Picture perfect scenery - including of Cobden Breakwater and Lake Ianthe
• Hokitika - including the option to visit the Hokitika Gorge
• Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks
• WiFi and USB charging
• Commentary
• 100% Kiwi as experience

Itinerary:

Christchurch and the TranzAlpine (CHCH-GRZ) – We start our journey towards the West Coast by dropping you off at the Christchurch Railway Station at Tower Junction. It is here that you will catch the TranzAlpine and head towards Greymouth. Enjoy the views from the train’s open air carriage as you travel across braided rivers, past high country stations and alpine lakes, around horseshoe bends, and through the 8km long Otira Tunnel. This ever-changing landscape is beautiful all year round, allowing you to sit back and relax and take it all in.

Greymouth (5 minutes) - Upon arrival in Greymouth, our guide will collect you from the Information Centre - conveniently located at the train station. 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 Breakwater* (5 minutes) - 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.

Hokitika (1 hour 30 minutes) - 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. 

Lake Ianthe (5 minutes) - 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 Franz Josef.

**Upon arriving in Franz Josef Village, there are two options. You can either be dropped off directly at your accommodation, or continue through to walk towards the famous Franz Josef Glacier and be dropped off after. Please let our guide know on the day which option you would prefer.**

Franz Josef Glacier (30 minutes) - Part of New Zealand’s West Coast Glacier Country - one of only two locations in the world where you can view glaciers flowing into native forest - Franz Josef Glacier, or Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere, is approximately 12km long. While direct access to the glacier face is not possible, you are able to walk to the lookout and learn more about the amazing history of this piece of natural beauty.

Franz Josef - After a trip to the glacier that bears this town's name, we return to Franz Josef township. 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. The Cobden Breakwater stop is subject to timing. If delayed, there may not be time to stop at this location.

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. 

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