Queenstown to Christchurch | Via Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo | Small Group Tour

• Get up to 10% cash back per person when you book with us
• Scenic journey from Queenstown to Christchurch with a stop at Aoraki/Mt Cook
• Explore the stunning landscapes of Mt Cook National Park and Lake Tekapo
• Capture amazing photos at Lake Pukaki, Tasman Glacier, and the Church of the Good Shepherd
• Enjoy a personalised experience in a comfortable small group setting
• One-way transport from Queenstown to Christchurch in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle
• Refreshments and bottled water
• Small group size for a more intimate travel experience

Set off from Queenstown and travel through the dramatic landscapes of the Southern Alps, heading towards Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. Along the way, you’ll pause to take in the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki and marvel at the panoramic views of New Zealand's tallest mountain, Aoraki/Mt Cook.

The tour continues with a visit to the picturesque Lake Tekapo and the historic Church of the Good Shepherd, a favourite spot for its stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps. You'll end your journey in Christchurch, enriched by the stunning scenery and memorable experiences you've encountered along the way.

Itinerary:

Queenstown – Your tour starts in the stunning city of Queenstown. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today but also point out and guide you past some of the area’s top highlights.

Kawarau Suspension Bridge – Departing Queenstown we then make our way north through the stunning Kawarau Gorge passing beautiful views. The Kawarau Suspension Bridge and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout. Time and light permitting we will stop for that first great shot of the tour.

Cromwell – Exiting the Kawarau Gorge we enter the fruit and wine growing region of Cromwell. Passing huge fields of vines we cross Lake Dunstan and follow this striking lake towards Lindis Pass.

Lindis Pass – Climbing in altitude, Lindis Pass has amazing views down through the valley. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps, we stop at the Lindis Pass lookout 971m above sea level for an essential photo.  

Omarama – While driving through the endless plains of the Mackenzie district we will spot several of the celebrated Merino breed of sheep before stopping at the quaint township of Omarama. While in Omarama we have time for a break or even to try the best creamy chicken pie in NZ (in our opinion)!

Lake Pukaki – Turning west we begin to enter the Aoraki National Park and Lake Pukaki begins to emerge in front of us. Lake Pukaki is one of the bluest lakes you will ever see and stunningly framed by the backdrop of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. We stop for some amazing photos and to just marvel the sight that we are beholding. It’s not hard to see why so many Lord of the Rings scenes were filmed nearby and we will point them out for you.

Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park – Arriving at Mt Cook Village, weather depending, we should get some amazing shots of the mountain itself.  At 3724m, Aoraki/Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak, however, the mountain can be viewed without any acclimatisation whatsoever from the village which is just 750m above sea level.

While in the national park you have approximately 2.5 – 3 hours free time to enjoy free walks/hikes or one of the extra optional activities. Some of our recommendations include: Hooker Valley hike – This easy 3 hour hike is considered one of New Zealand’s most beautiful,  Scenic flights – see the region from the air and land on the Tasmin Glacier. Whatever you have decided to do, we will pick you up and drop you off where you need to go and make sure you are well looked after. Before departing, our guide will hand you over to our Christchurch partners Cheeky Kea, who will be guiding your tour from Mt Cook to Christchurch. 

Tekapo (10 minutes) – Farewelling Mt Cook we make our way to Lake Tekapo. This turquoise blue lake is famous world over for its pristine beauty. We have a short time here but long enough to get those Instagram breaking photos explore the Church of the Good Shepard and see the Mackenzie dog before starting to head towards Christchurch.

Christchurch – upon arriving in Christchurch your guides will point out any highlights we pass while travelling to the drop off locations to complete the tour.

This tour perfectly combines scenic travel with enriching stops at some of New Zealand’s most iconic locations. From the breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mt Cook to the tranquil beauty of Lake Tekapo, each stop on the journey offers unforgettable sights. The small group format ensures a more personalised and engaging experience, with insightful guidance along the way.

• A minimum cancellation fee of $20 applies to all online bookings at the discretion of the supplier:
  • 7 days or more prior to travel – overnight tours will incur a cancellation fee at the discretion of the supplier. (day tours/ trips)
  • 7 days – 48 hours prior to travel – 25% of the total fare at the discretion of the supplier. (over night or package tours)
  • 7 days – 48 hours prior to travel – 50% of the total fare at the discretion of the supplier.
  • Within 24 hours prior to travel – 100% cancellation fee.
• An amendment fee of NZ$20 per booking will be charged for any bookings changed 7 days prior to travel. Within 7 days fees will be charged in accordance with the policies of other suppliers.
• Customers that do not show up for their tour with incur a 100% cancellation fee.
• Customer that are 10 minutes or more late for their pick up time will be considered as no show and will incur a 100% cancelation fee
• It is strongly recommended that customers insure themselves against cancellation charges and a possible loss of money or personal

• The Operator reserves the right to alter fares, arrange alternative transport, tour routes, services or accommodation
• In the event that The Operator is unable to operate the tour – an alternative operator will be provided. If an alternative is not available, then a full refund will be issued
• The Operator reserves the right to cancel the tour if the tour has not meet the minimum passenger numbers required for the tour to operate. In the event that The Operator is unable to operate the tour – an alternative operator will be provided. If an alternative is not available, then a full refund will be issued
• Minimum operational numbers for public tours is usually 4
• The Operator shall not be held responsible for any property loss or damage and/or for any damages resulting in death or personal injury which may arise whilst on tour or when utilising any other service provided by the supplier agents
• The operator cannot be held responsible for any personal items or luggage passengers forget to remove from the coach.
• The Operator reserves the right to request passengers leave the coach if their behaviour is detrimental to the enjoyment of other paying passengers. In such circumstances, no refunds shall be given.
• Should we cancel the tour due to force majeure (i.e political unrest, war or threat of war, riots, acts of god, civil strife, industrial disputes, natural and nuclear disasters, adverse weather conditions or similar events beyond the supplier's control) we will give a full refund of any monies paid to us less reasonable expenses incurred by us in respect of your booking.
• The passenger acknowledges and gives consent for The Operator to take photographs, audio or video recordings, or other forms of recordings that capture the passenger's image, likeness, voice, performance or all of these ("Images") during the course of this activity / tour. The passenger acknowledges and gives consent for The Operator to receive and use Images of the passenger from other. The Operator may use Images for marketing and promoting its services. The ways in which the Images will be used for marketing purposes include, but are not limited to, incorporating the Images in print, broadcast, internet media, direct marketing channels, downloadable content and applications, and all other media, platform or technology now known or to be developed for distribution around the world.