Franz Josef to Christchurch via Hokitika (One Way)

The West Coast of New Zealand offers a unique holiday experience, featuring scenic roads, breathtaking landscapes, and picturesque spots. This iconic route takes you on a bucket list adventure along the ever-changing coastline, passing through hidden gems and towns, and offering endless opportunities to stop and explore. You will be driven in comfort in our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter packed with extras, just to make your journey that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable and passionate tour guides, this journey will come to life in a new way for you.

Memories made, hearts happy and photos a plenty in this tour!

Highlights

• Castle Hill
• Devils punchbowl
• Arthurs Pass Village
• Otira Lookout
• Hokitika Sign
• Hokitika Gorge

Itinerary

1. Franz Josef – We leave the quiet town of Franz Josef, as we make our way towards the garden city of Christchurch.

2. Lake Ianthe (5 min) - Lake Ianthe is surrounded by hills and podocarp forests, with a large flax swamp at its southern end. The lake is home to a diverse array of wetland birds, including the endangered Great Crested Grebe, which has one of the largest populations in New Zealand. The lake is situated in a glacial trough, surrounded by a moraine and flows into Wanganui River through Ianthe Creek. A little stop here for those “wows” and “oooohs”

3. Hokitika Gorge (1hr) – Hokitika Gorge is a treasured gem that consistently inspires awe, with its striking turquoise waters radiating an otherworldly beauty. Nestled amidst a lush canopy of native bush, this enchanting gorge is a magnet for nature enthusiasts and photographers, who flock to capture its unique essence and unforgettable vistas.

4. Hokitika (1.5hrs) – Experience the laid-back atmosphere that's sure to evoke a sense of nostalgia once we arrive in Hokitika. Allowing time for lunch and a stroll down Hokitika's wild beach, where black sand meets the rugged coastline. Our guides give you the time needed to enjoy this “cool town” and a little teaser of what it has to offer.

5. Greymouth (5min) – A quick stop at the Information center. Greymouth is located in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, Greymouth is the largest town in the West Coast region, with a population of around 14,000 people. Nestled amidst chiseled cliff tops, wild beaches, and the picturesque Grey Valley, this charming destination is not only a beautiful spot itself, but also a key hub for connecting via the renowned TranzAlpine train service.

6. Cobden Breakwater (5 min) - Cobden is a beach break with a rock breakwater at its southern end, producing standout waves that break right up against the structure. This picturesque spot is a photographer's paradise, with a stunning backdrop that's sure to capture breathtaking images.

7. Otira Gorge Lookout (10 min)   – Also known as Deaths Corner! The Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the national park in all its glory. This bridge is the only reason driving Arthurs Pass is possible! It’s huge at 440 Meters long and is a great spot for a photo of the bridge and the surrounding landscape. A little bonus too, you might see a wee Cheeky Kea! The sneaky Alpine Parrot of NZ. We then embark in the next adventure towards the gorgeous village of Arthurs Pass.

8. Arthurs Pass Village (1hr) – On the way through you will be able to see the beautiful backdrop of the majestic Southern Alps up close.  Once we arrive you will have the opportunity to either walk the Devils Punch Bowl or spend this time around the local shop.

• Devils Punch Bowl – This walking track is approx. 1 hour with a gradual incline including steps towards a ferocious 131-meter-tall waterfall. Fitness is low to moderateas you walk through the bush and forest. 

• Arthurs pass village – Grab a bite to eat, a coffee and shop for local goodies! This village is a great way to really get to know the area. 

9. Castle Hill (1hr) – Weathered limestone rocks sit proudly on the tussocky hills and were once in the ocean! Over time they eroded away and started forming these amazing unique shapes you’ll see today. You might recognize this landscape from movies such as Lord of the Rings and Narnia! That’s right.  Not only that, but while you walk amongst the rocks you will also see climbers and boulderers! This place is a magnet for thrill seekers. This is not a guided walk so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own. 

10. Lake Lyndon (5 min) - Lake Lyndon, located near Porters Pass, it is a popular spot for rainbow trout fishing due to its thriving population, the lake is nestled within the Korowai/Torlesse Tussocklands Park and is fed by the Acheron River, which flows into the Rakaia River.

11. Christchurch – The final stretch towards the vibrant city, offering a unique blend of history, culture and boasting architecture, ranging from ancient landmarks to modern marvels, while its thriving art scene provides endless opportunities for culture seekers. Meanwhile, the laidback lifestyle and stunning natural surroundings make it a paradise for nature lovers, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern city life. Our guide will drop you at your accommodation as you continue on with your journey here in New Zealand. With new friends and memories, this full packed day is sure to make you want more.

Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks.

Inclusions:

• Small Group
• Gourmet Packed Lunch
• Fully Guided Tour
• Bottled Water & Snacks

• Tranzalpine Train (Greymouth to Christchurch)
• Tree Top Walk
• Pounamu
• Scenic Flights

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