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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
• Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass
• Hokitika - including the option to visit the Hokitika Gorge
• Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks

Description

Christchurch – We start by leaving Ōtautahi. As we head inland, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights. Castle Hill (1 hour) - Castle Hill, or Kura Tāwhiti, is perhaps one of Canterbury’s most distinguishable settings. Please note that this is not a guided walk, so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own. Lake Lyndon (5 minutes) - Next up we make a brief stop at Lake Lyndon. Arthur’s Pass Village (1 hour) - After a short drive we land in Arthur’s Pass Village. Once we arrive, you can choose to either walk to Devils Punch Bowl, or grab a coffee and spend some time exploring the local shops. Your guide will let you know how long you have and will assist you on the day in regard to the best activity for the weather and time allocated. Otira Gorge Lookout (10 minutes) - Also known as Death's Corner, the Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the National Park in all its glory. 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. Greymouth* (5 minutes) - We make a quick stop in Greymouth at the Information Centre to pick up any guests who chose to add on the TranzAlpine from CHCH-GRZ (booked and sold separately). 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 to join a group 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. The track itself is easy and undulating. 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, 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) - 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. Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks. *These two stops are only made if there are any travellers booked with the Christchurch to Greymouth TranzAlpine train service.

Includes

Small group size Carbon neutral 1 way tour to Franz Josef from Christchurch Picture perfect scenery - including of Lake Lyndon, Cobden Breakwater, and Lake Ianthe Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass Chance to spot Kea in the wild! 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 pickup process please be waiting at your selected pickup location at least 15 minutes before your scheduled pickup 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 in front 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 Arthurs Pass Greymouth

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund