Christchurch to Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo (1 way)
9 Reviews
Multi-day trips
Sightseeing on wheels
Nature & adventure
Outdoor activities
Tours
Guided tours
National parks
Sightseeing
UNESCO sites
Escaping the hustle and bustle of Ōtautahi Christchurch, this 1 way trip adventures via State Highway 79, Fairlie Bakehouse, Lake Tekapo, and Lake Pukaki before arriving in Mt Cook Village.
Highlights
- Lake Tekapo (including the Church of the Good Shepherd)
- Lookout over Lake Pukaki
- World Famous Fairlie Bakehouse (pre-ordered lunch included)
- Aoraki Mt Cook National Park (scenic flights booked and sold separately)
Description
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! 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, we can arrange a scenic flight (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 ensure you are dropped off in Mt Cook Village prior to our departure.
Aoraki Mt Cook Village - It is here that we drop you off and wish you safe travels for your next onward adventure. However, 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.
Includes
Small group size
1 way carbon neutral tour from Christchurch to Mt Cook
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
Lunch (pre-ordered from Fairlie Bakehouse), bottled water, and Kiwi snacks
WiFi and USB charging
Commentary
100% Kiwi as experience
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund