From Christchurch: Queenstown via Tekapo & Mt Cook Day Trip
Tekapo, Christchurch
Escaping the hustle and bustle of Ōtautahi Christchurch, this 1 way trip adventures via Fairlie Bakehouse, Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, Mt Cook, and the Lindis, before arriving in Tāhuna Queenstown.
Overview
This full-day guided tour travels from Christchurch to Queenstown, ideal for nature lovers and those interested in scenic landscapes and local culture.
Highlights
- Lake Tekapo, including the Church of the Good Shepherd
- Lookout over Lake Pukaki
- Fairlie Bakehouse with pre-ordered lunch
- Aoraki Mt Cook National Park (optional scenic flights available separately)
Description
The tour begins in Christchurch, also called Ōtautahi or New Zealand’s Garden City, where your guide will point out key city highlights en route south.
You will visit Fairlie Bakehouse in the farming township of Fairlie, known for its popular pies. The classic steak and cheese pie is a team favorite.
Next is Lake Tekapo, set against the Southern Alps and Mackenzie District’s tussocked landscape, where you will have time to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd.
At Lake Pukaki, observe the glacier-fed lake’s changing shades of blue, distinctive among the region’s alpine lakes.
Spend 2 to 2.5 hours at Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, where you can choose to walk the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track or explore Mt Cook Village’s Visitor Centre and Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. Scenic flights over the park can be booked separately.
The Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track passes through old terminal moraines and offers views of the glacier, river, and Tasman Lake.
Please note the allotted time at Mt Cook may be shortened due to traffic or other delays. Your guide will advise on best options and collection time to continue your journey to Tāhuna Queenstown.
Visit High Country Salmon farm to feed fish and sample fresh salmon, although this stop is not guaranteed for bookings from November 1 onward. Instead, brief stops at Wānaka and Cardrona replace Jacksons Orchard and High Country Salmon from that date.
Drive through Lindis Pass, rising in altitude with valley views, and Kawarau Gorge, passing the Suspension Bridge and Roaring Meg Lookout before entering Queenstown.
Includes
- Small group size
- Carbon neutral tour to Queenstown
- Scenic landscapes and panoramic views
- Fairlie Bakehouse lunch (pre-ordered), bottled water, and Kiwi snacks
- Visits to Lake Tekapo and Church of the Good Shepherd
- Lookout over Lake Pukaki
- Aoraki Mt Cook Village and National Park with optional walks
- Lindis Pass
- Kawarau Gorge and Suspension Bridge
- WiFi and USB charging on board
- Guided local commentary by 100% Kiwi team
Excludes
- Optional extra activities at Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo (book separately)
- Tips
Important Information
- This is a one-way tour; return to Christchurch is not included.
- Optional activities at Mount Cook are not included but can be arranged separately.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking Advice
Do not book accommodation or other travel plans until you receive confirmation that your booking is fully accommodated. Bring comfortable walking shoes and layers for changing weather. The best time to visit is during daylight hours for optimal views and walks.
