• Geraldine - Geraldine will be the first stop after departing from Christchurch for a refreshing break (Coffee/Toilet Break).

• Fairlie - Fairlie is a quaint town situated in the South Island of New Zealand, acting as a gateway for travelers heading to Mount Cook. The Fairlie Bakehouse is a famous bakery in New Zealand.

• Lake Tekapo - Lake Tekapo is one of the most picturesque destinations, located in the heart of the South Island. Known for its vibrant turquoise waters and stunning alpine scenery, it is a popular spot for nature lovers and adventurers. The best things to do in Tekapo include visiting the Church of the Good Shepherd, snapping a photo of the Sheepdog Memorial, soaking in the Tekapo Springs, and stargazing in the Dark Sky Reserve.

• Lake Pukaki - Lake Pukaki is another breathtaking glacial lake, renowned for its dazzling turquoise waters, panoramic views, scenic drives, and photography opportunities. It is close to Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand, offering truly spectacular views. The blue color is due to fine silt particles, or glacial flour, in the water.

• Tasman Glacier - This is the best spot for scenic photography of the Tasman Glacier viewpoint. Enjoy the easy-going 1-hour walk and don’t forget your camera! (The glacier is in the distance behind a lake). This is a major attraction to spend quality time while at Mt Cook.

• Hooker Valley Track - The track at dawn offers a view of the first rays of the sun creeping over the Southern Alps, including New Zealand’s highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook.

• Mt. Cook Village - At your final destination, enjoy lunch at a lovely hotel with a stunning location and views. The hotel is ideally positioned to offer excellent views of Mount Cook Glaciers. Mt Cook, the tallest mountain in New Zealand, helped Sir Edmund Hillary develop his climbing skills in preparation for conquering Everest. The Muller Hut Route is temporarily closed for day walkers. If you have booked to stay at Mueller Hut, you may still use the track and hut. Mount Cook Village is the key entry point to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park — several short walks and overnight hikes start from the village. It’s also worth visiting for the pristine night sky and other activities such as boat tours and heli hikes to the Tasman Glacier and hiking the Hooker Valley track.

• Lake Tekapo - After lunch, get a coffee to keep you energetic on the way back! We stop briefly to use the toilets, and you can hopefully capture a gorgeous sunset photo of Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd.

• Geraldine - We stop briefly to use the toilets and purchase coffee/water.

• Christchurch - The fantastic day concludes with a drop-off in Christchurch.

Now it’s time to relax and unwind. Thank you for joining us — and until next time, kia ora and safe travels!

NZ Journey Tours

• Private transportation
• Bottled water
• In-vehicle air conditioning

• Meals
• any activity

Completely Customized Private Adventure!

Join a one-day tour that guides you through the stunning Lake Tekapo. Immerse yourself in the turquoise glow of lakes nourished by glacial waters, visit local landmarks like the Church of the Good Shepherd, and appreciate the natural splendor.

Discover New Zealand’s highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook, its Māori cultural importance, the Tasman Glacier – the largest glacier in New Zealand, unique flora and fauna, mountaineering history, icebergs and ice caves, breathtaking helicopter flights, a photographer’s dream, the beautiful lakes Pukaki, and a lavender farm.

Consider NZ Journey tours as a key part of your upcoming adventure. Our private tour has something for everyone.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.