Wānaka to Tekapo via Mt Cook 1 way

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.

Escaping Wānaka, we route via the tussocked valleys of the Lindis Pass on our way to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. With additional sweeping views Haupapa (Tasman Glacier) - our country’s longest glacier - and Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki, this tour combines several of New Zealand’s most coveted destinations into one action-packed day. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that little bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget! 

Highlights and inclusions:

• Small group size
• Carbon neutral tour of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park
• Picture perfect scenery and panoramic views
• Lookout over Lake Pukaki
• Aoraki Mt Cook Village and National Park - including optional walks
• Drop off in Lake Tekapo
• Lunch, bottled water and Kiwi snacks
• WiFi and USB charging
• Commentary
• 100% Kiwi as experience

Itinerary:

Wānaka - Home of #ThatWānakaTree - it is in this alpine village where that we pick you up for your tour with us to Mt Cook.

Ōmārama - After our morning ventures, we make a stop in Ōmārama. Translating to ‘the place of light’ in te reo Māori, the town is an important hub of the broader Waitaki district. This region, and the nearby Ahuriri Valley was even used as the setting for Disney’s live action re-make of Mulan.

Twizel and Lake Ruataniwha - We make a brief stop at Twizel to take in the sight of Lake Ruataniwha. Famous for its blue water and rowing regattas, this man-made lake is indicative of the area's hydro-electricity projects and is supported by the Ben Ohau and Pukaki canal networks. The area is also popular in the summer for water skiing, fishing, and other recreational activities. 

Lake Pukaki - 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 other customers or 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 start the journey through to Lake Tekapo.

Lake Tekapo (approx 3:45pm) - A short drive later, we've arrived! It is here that we drop you off and wish you safe travels for your next onward adventure. 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.