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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.

Highlights

• Carbon neutral 1 way tour to Franz Josef from Christchurch
• Christchurch to Greymouth train tour aboard the world famous TranzAlpine
• Hokitika - including the option to visit the Hokitika Gorge
• Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks

Description

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. 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. 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. 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. **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) - 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.

Includes

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

Important Information

• For a smooth pick-up process please be waiting at your selected pick-up location at least 15 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time. Your vehicle may be delayed due to previous pickups. Please be patient and wait 10 minutes before calling the office. Our drivers cannot wait for late customers. No show / late customers will not be refunded. We only pick up from locations that have a pickup noted. Please make sure you have let us know your pickup location. For hotel pickups please be waiting at or Infront of reception. Please see pick up times below Hotel Elms Scenic Hotel Cotswold Sudima City Crowne Plaza Novotel City Distinction Christchurch City Hotel Christchurch Bus Interchange (Intercity stop) Breakfree Rydges Latimer Urbanz Fino The George Hotel Give Commodore Christchurch Airport Sudima Christchurch Airport

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund