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

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 Ōtautahi Christchurch, this 1 way trip adventures via the Canterbury plains, State Highway 79, the world famous Fairlie Bakehouse, Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, Aoraki Mt Cook Village,and the Lindis, before arriving in Tāhuna Queenstown. Situated on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, the self-proclaimed ‘adrenaline capital of New Zealand’ is framed by The Remarkables mountain range. With plenty of things to see and explore, Queenstown is a ‘must-do’ destination; popular with tourists and locals alike all year round. 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 one you will never forget! 

Highlights and inclusions:

• Small group size
• Carbon neutral tour to Queenstown
• Picture perfect scenery and panoramic views
• Fairlie Bakehouse 
• Lake Tekapo - including the Church of the Good Shepherd
• Lookout over Lake Pukaki
• Aoraki Mt Cook Village and National Park - including optional walks
• Lindis Pass
• Kawarau Gorge and Suspension Bridge
• Lunch (pre-ordered from Fairlie Bakehouse), bottled water, and Kiwi snacks
• WiFi and USB charging
• Commentary
• 100% Kiwi as experience

Itinerary:

Christchurch – We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head south, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights.

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

Fairlie Bakehouse (10 minutes) - Nestled in the charming farming township of Fairlie, this stop is always popular with guests. It is especially stunning in autumn as the trees lining the streets and Burkes Pass turn a vibrant orange. It is here that you can enjoy a famous Fairlie Bakehouse pie. Our team’s personal favourite is the classic steak and cheese!

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.

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 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 continue through to Tāhuna Queenstown.

High Country Salmon - Farewelling Aoraki/Mt Cook Village and making our way to Queenstown, we stop in at High Country Salmon; a local salmon farm where you can feed the fish and taste some of the freshest salmon in New Zealand.

Lindis Pass - Climbing in altitude, Lindis Pass has amazing views down through the valleys. In fact, it is one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana).

Jacksons Orchard* - As we get close to Tāhuna, we often stop at Jacksons Orchard to try or buy some delicious local fruit and/or real fruit ice cream (season dependent).

Kawarau Suspension Bridge - Nearing Queenstown, we then make our way through the stunning Kawarau Gorge passing stunning views, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout.

Queenstown - As we enter New Zealand’s ‘adrenaline capital’, sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring Lake Tekapo, Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, the Lindis, and the Kawarau Gorge. 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. Please also note that the Mt Cook to Queenstown leg of this trip is operated by our wonderful Queenstown partner Cheeky Kiwi Travel. 

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.