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. Hokitika Gorge – 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.

3. Hokitika – 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.

4. Otira Gorge Lookout   – 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.

5. Arthurs Pass Village – 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 moderate

as 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. 

6. Castle Hill – 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. 

7. Christchurch – Once we arrive our guide will drop you the designated city locations before

saying our goodbyes.

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

Inclusions:

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

• Tranzalpine Train

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