Queenstown: One-Way Tour to Christchurch via Mt Cook

Christchurch City Council, Christchurch



This one way small group tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery, taking you from the adrenaline capital of Queenstown to the vibrant city of Christchurch.

Highlights

  • Mt Cook National Park: New Zealand's highest peak with optional scenic flights
  • Lake Pukaki: Turquoise waters with Mt Cook in the background
  • Lake Tekapo: Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd
  • Canterbury Plains: Vast agricultural heartland of New Zealand
  • Lindis Pass: Alpine scenery with tussock-covered hills and valleys

Description

This full-day guided tour travels from Queenstown to Christchurch, exploring key South Island landmarks like Mt Cook, Lake Tekapo, and the Canterbury Plains.

The journey starts with pickup from select Queenstown locations, passing through Kawarau Gorge, Cromwell, Lake Dunstan, and Tarras, before a photo stop at Lindis Pass. You will then spend 30 minutes in Oamarama to stretch, eat, and photograph local sheep.

A quick photo stop at the glacial Lake Pukaki showcases its turquoise waters with Mt Cook rising behind. The tour continues to Mt Cook Aoraki National Park, where you have about three hours. Options include a weather-dependent scenic flight, hiking, visiting the visitor centre, or relaxing with a hot drink at the Hermitage Hotel.

After departing Mt Cook, the tour stops briefly at Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd for panoramic views. The route then crosses the Canterbury Plains before reaching Christchurch, with drop-offs at select central accommodations.

Includes

  • Knowledgeable guide and driver
  • Luggage allowance of one large and one small bag per person
  • Small group experience
  • Hotel pickup from listed Queenstown locations
  • Photo stops at key sites

Excludes

  • Personal expenses
  • Lunch or additional food
  • Tea and coffee
  • Scenic flights
  • Guided hikes

Important Information

  • This is a one-way tour from Queenstown to Christchurch; some stops may be missed depending on timing.
  • Please specify the ages of any children when booking. Child seats are required for children under 7 years old. Rental seats cost $20 each, or you may provide your own.

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring weather-appropriate clothing and a camera. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for optional scenic flights at Mt Cook.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes guided stops at Mt Cook National Park, Lake Pukaki, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury Plains, and Lindis Pass, with optional scenic flights at Mt Cook.
The tour starts in Queenstown with pickup from select locations and ends in Christchurch.
Yes, there is an optional scenic flight available over Mt Cook National Park, which can be added to the tour.
The full-day guided tour typically takes around 10 to 12 hours, depending on stops and activities.
Food is generally not included; travelers should bring their own meals or plan to purchase food along the route.
The tour passes through alpine scenery at Lindis Pass, turquoise glacial lakes like Lake Pukaki, the agricultural Canterbury Plains, and mountain views around Mt Cook.
Yes, the tour includes a stop at Lake Tekapo to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd.
Yes, the tour ends in Christchurch, making it ideal for travelers interested in exploring the South Island's scenic highlights and continuing in Christchurch.
The tour involves some walking at scenic stops, but generally requires a moderate level of fitness; check the provider’s details for accessibility information.
The tour operates year-round, but weather conditions and daylight hours vary by season; check the website for recommended times and current availability.

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