Christchurch: Mt Cook Day Trip via Lake Tekapo with Lunch

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Admire Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand's tallest peak, on a small group tour from Christchurch. Visit Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, and enjoy scenic walks, stunning views, and a delicious stop at Fairlie.

Highlights

  • Fairlie Bakehouse - Best pies in the country. A kiwi delicacy
  • Church of the Good Shepard - One of the most photographed locations in NZ
  • Lake Pukaki - Unique and beautiful colours with Mt Cook as the back drop
  • Mt Cook - Highest peak in New Zealand, Stunning views
  • Hooker Valley Track - Voted one of the best day walks in New Zeland

Description

**Itinerary** **Christchurch** – Our journey begins as we leave the Garden City (Christchurch) and head south toward our destination. Along the way, our knowledgeable driver will highlight some of the key landmarks and attractions of Christchurch. **Canterbury Plains** – Surrounding Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains stretch out, offering views of farmland as far as the eye can see. The plains are home to a variety of farming activities, including crop cultivation, vineyards, dairy farming, and livestock production. **Fairlie Bakehouse (10 mins)** – Nestled in the charming farming town of Fairlie, located in Mackenzie, this stop is a true delight. The town is especially stunning in autumn, as the landscape transforms with vibrant colors. Here, you can enjoy one of the famous meat pies from the local bakehouse. This is also where we’ll grab your lunch, ensuring you’re fueled for the rest of the journey. **Lake Tekapo & The Church of the Good Shepherd (15 mins)** – Located in the heart of the Mackenzie region, Lake Tekapo is a breathtaking alpine destination. At the right time of year, the lakeshore is adorned with clusters of wild lupins. We’ll head to the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots, perfect for those Instagram-worthy pictures. **Lake Pukaki (10 mins)** – This glacier-fed lake stands out from other alpine lakes with its shifting colors, ranging from ice blue to deep blue, depending on the weather. On clear days, enjoy uninterrupted views of the majestic Mt Cook, rising from the lake’s edge. **Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park (2.5 hrs)** – Welcome to the heart of our journey! Aoraki/Mt Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, is named after the famous explorer James Cook. Once you arrive, you'll have the option to embark on one of two spectacular walks: the **Hooker Valley** or the **Tasman Glacier** walk. Alternatively, if you’d prefer an aerial view of the mountains, we can arrange a scenic helicopter ride for you and your family. - **Hooker Valley Walk (2-2.5 hrs)** – One of New Zealand's most renowned day hikes, the Hooker Valley track takes you alongside ice-covered cliffs (you might even hear them creaking) to a glacial lake with stunning views of Mt Cook. - **Tasman Glacier Walk (2-2.5 hrs)** – This track leads through the old terminal moraines of the Tasman Glacier, offering incredible views of the glacier, surrounding river, and lake. PLEASE NOTE, THE DOC ADVERTISED TIME FOR MT COOK IS 3 HOURS. HOWEVER, DUE TO POTENTIAL DELAYS FROM OTHER CUSTOMERS OR ROAD CONDITIONS, WE CANNOT GUARANTEE THIS TIMEFRAME. At 2:15 PM, please follow your guide's instructions, as they will provide the collection time to start the journey back home. **Christchurch** – After a day full of unforgettable sights, we’ll return to Christchurch. You’ll be exhausted but filled with memories from this incredible adventure.

Includes

Hotel pick up and drop off (select list) Small Group Carbon Neutral Fully Guided Tour (except walks) Bottled Water Kiwi Snacks Wi-Fi USB charging Lunch Commentary 100% Kiwi as experience

Important Information

  • This tour operates in all weather except for when there are road closures. Customers are asked to check the weather 24hrs before hand and cancel if they are not happy Full walks might not be achievable due to time restraints Notify us of any dietary requirements Please bring comfortable clothing along with something warm Be aware this tour is a long day 13hrs in total with 8hrs driving

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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