• Queenstown - The tour begins in the breathtaking city of Queenstown. As the journey commences, the guide will not only set the stage for the day’s adventure but also highlight and navigate through some of the area’s top attractions.
• Kawarau Suspension Bridge - Leaving Queenstown, the route heads north through the picturesque Kawarau Gorge, offering stunning views. The Kawarau Suspension Bridge and the renowned Roaring Meg Lookout are notable stops. If time and lighting allow, there will be an opportunity for the first great photo of the tour.
• Cromwell - After exiting the Kawarau Gorge, the tour enters Cromwell, known for its fruit and wine production. Passing vast vineyards, the journey crosses Lake Dunstan and follows this striking lake towards Lindis Pass.
• Lindis Pass - As the altitude increases, Lindis Pass offers breathtaking views down the valley. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps, a stop at the Lindis Pass lookout, 971 meters above sea level, is perfect for a memorable photo.
• Omarama - Traveling through the expansive plains of the Mackenzie district, several of the famous Merino sheep can be spotted before stopping at the charming township of Omarama. Here, there is time for a break or to enjoy what is considered the best creamy chicken pie in New Zealand (in our opinion)!
• Lake Pukaki - Heading west, the tour enters Aoraki National Park, and Lake Pukaki comes into view. This lake is one of the bluest you will ever see, beautifully framed by Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. There will be a stop for incredible photos and to admire the stunning scenery. It’s easy to see why many Lord of the Rings scenes were filmed nearby, and these locations will be pointed out.
• Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu) - Within the national park, there are approximately 3 hours of free time to enjoy walks/hikes or optional activities. Recommendations include:
  • Hooker Valley hike: This easy 3-hour hike is considered one of New Zealand’s most beautiful!
  • Scenic flights (subject to availability): Experience the region from the air and land on the Tasman Glacier or enjoy Heli Hikes.

When it’s time to leave Mt Cook, a transfer to a partner company will continue the journey to Christchurch!

• Lake Tekapo - Bidding farewell to Mt Cook, the tour proceeds to Lake Tekapo. This turquoise blue lake is renowned worldwide for its pristine beauty. Although the time here is short, it’s enough to capture Instagram-worthy photos, explore the Church of the Good Shepherd, and see the Mackenzie dog before heading towards Christchurch.
• Christchurch - Upon arrival in Christchurch, the guides will highlight any attractions passed while traveling to the drop-off locations.

• Scenic Stops
• Small Group & Fully Guided Tour
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person

• Gratuities
• Optional extras and activities - please select the tour option you want at time of booking
• Lunch - opportunities to purchase along the way.
• On-board restrooms

Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook, this small group, fully-guided tour combines two of the most stunning locations in the South Island with the time and options to enjoy the activities, unlike other tours.

Highlights:
• Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park, free time for activities & walks
• Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki
• Church of the Good Shepherd, Lindis Pass and the Southern Alps

Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

• A moderate amount of walking is involved.
• Children 7 years old and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. If you don’t have a car seat one can be provided (with 24 hours’ notice).
• Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
• Bus tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
• Scenic flights are independently operated and entirely weather dependent
• The second half of this tour (Mt Cook to Christchurch) is guided by our Christchurch partners, Cheeky Kea.

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