queenstown.kiwi Logo

Queenstown to Christchurch One-Way Tour via Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo

Offered by Cheeky Kiwi Travel

From

$379.00 per person

4.5 (158 reviews)

Instant Confirmation

Check Availability

Booking handled by our partner, Viator

14 hours (approx.)Pickup Available Mobile or paper ticket accepted Offered in: English

Small-group guided tour from Queenstown to Christchurch via Lindis Pass, Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park and Lake Tekapo, with free time in the park.

Tour Overview

Travel from Queenstown to Christchurch on a small group, fully guided journey that combines Aoraki National Park with some of the South Island’s most recognisable alpine and lake landscapes.

Leaving Queenstown, the route heads through Kawarau Gorge, passing the Kawarau Suspension Bridge and Roaring Meg Lookout, then continues through Cromwell, across Lake Dunstan and up to Lindis Pass. At 971 metres above sea level, the Lindis Pass lookout opens up wide views through the valley before the road carries on across the Mackenzie district to Omarama for a break.

From here, the tour turns west into Aoraki National Park, where Lake Pukaki comes into view with Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps behind it. You’ll have around three hours of free time in the national park to choose how you spend your visit, whether that means a walk, hike, or an optional activity such as a scenic flight or heli hike, subject to availability. The Hooker Valley hike is one option recommended on the day.

After departing Mt Cook, you transfer to a partner company for the journey onward to Christchurch. Along the way, there is a stop at Lake Tekapo to see the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Mackenzie dog, before continuing on to Christchurch with commentary on highlights passed en route.

What's Included

  • Scenic Stops
  • Small Group & Fully Guided Tour
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person

Not Included:

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

What To Expect

  1. 1

    Queenstown

    Your tour starts in the stunning city of Queenstown. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today but also point out and guide you past some of the area’s top highlights.

    Pass by without stopping

  2. 2

    Kawarau Suspension Bridge

    Departing Queenstown we then make our way north through the stunning Kawarau Gorge passing beautiful views. The Kawarau Suspension Bridge and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout. Time and light permitting we will stop for that first great shot of the tour.

    Pass by without stopping

  3. 3

    Cromwell

    Exiting the Kawarau Gorge we enter the fruit and wine growing region of Cromwell. Passing huge fields of vines we cross Lake Dunstan and follow this striking lake towards Lindis Pass.

    Pass by without stopping

  4. 4

    Lindis Pass

    Climbing in altitude, Lindis Pass has amazing views down through the valley. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps, we stop at the Lindis Pass lookout 971m above sea level for an essential photo.

    15 minutes

  5. 5

    Omarama

    While driving through the endless plains of the Mackenzie district we will spot several of the celebrated Merino breed of sheep before stopping at the quaint township of Omarama. While in Omarama we have time for a break or even to try the best creamy chicken pie in NZ (in our opinion)!

    30 minutes

  6. 6

    Lake Pukaki

    Turning west we begin to enter the Aoraki National Park and Lake Pukaki begins to emerge in front of us. Lake Pukaki is one of the bluest lakes you will ever see and stunningly framed by the backdrop of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. We stop for some amazing photos and to just marvel the sight that we are beholding. It’s not hard to see why so many Lord of the Rings scenes were filmed nearby and we will point them out for you.

    5 minutes

  7. 7

    Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Te Wahipounamu)

    While in the national park you have 3 hours (approximately) free time to enjoy free walks/hikes or one of the extra optional activities. Some of our recommendations include: - Hooker Valley hike: This easy 3 hour hike is considered one of New Zealand’s most beautiful! - Scenic flights (pending availability): see the region from the air and land on the Tasmin Glacier or Heli Hikes When it's time to depart Mt Cook, we will transfer you to our partner company, who will continue your journey to Christchurch!

    3 hours

  8. 8

    Lake Tekapo

    Farewelling Mt Cook we make our way to Lake Tekapo. This turquoise blue lake is famous world over for its pristine beauty. We have a short time here but long enough to get those Instagram breaking photos, explore the Church of the Good Shepherd and see the Mackenzie dog before starting to head towards Christchurch.

    5 minutes

  9. 9

    Christchurch

    Upon arriving in Christchurch your guides will point out any highlights we pass while travelling to the drop off locations.

    Pass by without stopping

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup available

If requesting pickup, please select your preferred location when booking through Viator.

Pickup details

*If no pickup is selected at time of booking, you will be allocated our default meeting point. You are welcome to update this at any time. If your location isn’t listed, please choose your nearest available option & meet us there. *Pick-ups can begin up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time, depending on location. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside 5 minutes prior to your specific pickup time. ...

Or Meet At Meeting point

The Station - Home of Adventure in Queenstown

Corner of Shotover & Camp Streets, 25 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Open in Google Maps →

Pickup time: 6:30am. If not being collected from one of our hotel locations, please meet your guide at The Station - Home of Adventure / Marmolada Cafe

End Point

Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

Open in Google Maps →

We can drop off to select central Christchurch Hotels.

Important Information

*Pick-ups can begin up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time, depending on location. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside 5 minutes prior to your specific pickup time. *You will receive an email with important pickup information in the days prior, please read this information.

Additional Info

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • 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) for $20 NZD
  • 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
  • Guests can bring 1 large & 1 small piece of luggage each

Cancellation Policy

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