Christchurch to Franz Josef via Hokitika (One-Way)
Cobden, Greymouth, Christchurch
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.
Christchurch to Franz Josef Carbon Neutral Day Tour
This small group tour travels one way from Christchurch to Franz Josef, suited for nature lovers and those wanting to explore iconic scenic stops along the West Coast.
Highlights
- Carbon neutral one-way tour from Christchurch to Franz Josef
- Stops at Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass
- Visit Hokitika with an optional trip to Hokitika Gorge
- Includes lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks
Description
The tour departs from Christchurch (Ōtautahi), with your guide pointing out key city highlights on the way inland.
Castle Hill (1 hour): Explore Castle Hill (Kura Tāwhiti) independently; this unique Canterbury landscape is not a guided walk.
Lake Lyndon (5 minutes): Brief stop to appreciate the lake’s surroundings.
Arthur’s Pass Village (1 hour): Choose between a walk to Devil’s Punch Bowl or relaxing with coffee while exploring local shops. Your guide will advise the best option based on weather and timing.
Otira Gorge Lookout (10 minutes): Also called Death’s Corner, this viewpoint offers sweeping views of Arthur’s Pass National Park.
Cobden Breakwater* (5 minutes): A short drive near Greymouth to see the rock breakwater known for producing notable surf waves.
Greymouth* (5 minutes): Quick stop at the Information Centre to collect guests joining the TranzAlpine train service (this add-on is booked separately).
Hokitika (1 hour 30 minutes): Explore the rugged black sand coastline and join an optional group visit to the turquoise waters of Hokitika Gorge.
Hokitika Gorge (1 hour): Walk an easy trail along the gorge, surrounded by native podocarp forest and striking turquoise waters (weather permitting).
Lake Ianthe (5 minutes): See native podocarp forests and flax swamps home to endangered wetland species such as the Great Crested Grebe.
Upon reaching Franz Josef Village, you can choose to be dropped off at your accommodation or continue with the guide to the Franz Josef Glacier lookout.
Franz Josef Glacier (30 minutes): Walk to the glacier lookout to learn about its history. Direct access to the glacier face is not possible.
Franz Josef Township: The tour concludes with a return to Franz Josef township.
Additional toilet stops are included as needed. Cobden Breakwater and Greymouth stops occur only if guests have booked the TranzAlpine train connection.*
Includes
- Small group size
- Carbon neutral one-way tour from Christchurch to Franz Josef
- Scenic views including Lake Lyndon, Cobden Breakwater, and Lake Ianthe
- Visits to Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass
- Opportunity to spot Kea parrots in the wild
- Hokitika and optional Hokitika Gorge visit
- Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks provided
- WiFi and USB charging available on board
- Commentary by a 100% Kiwi local guide
Important Information
- Be at your selected pickup location at least 15 minutes early. Drivers cannot wait for late arrivals and no-shows are non-refundable.
- Pickup locations are pre-noted; confirm your pickup point when booking.
- For hotel pickups, please wait at or in front of reception.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and your camera. The best time to join is during clear weather for optimal views of the gorge and glacier lookout.
