Christchurch to Franz Josef via Hokitika (One Way) inc TranzAlpine Train

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. Join us as you hop on the train towards Arthurs Pass in the morning offering views only possible through the Tranzalpine, this allows a panoramic landscape of the Majestic Southern Alps up close. With collection at the National Park, our guide will take you the rest of the way in this small group tour to Franz Josef

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

Highlights

• Tranzalpine
• Hokitika Sign
• Hokitika Gorge
• Lake lanthe

Itinerary

1. Railway Station/ Christchurch - We start our journey towards the wild west coast by dropping you of at Tower Junction to catch your train towards Arthurs Pass via the Tranzalpine. This journey offers open viewing carriages for you to enjoy the scenery through the panoramic windows.

2. Greymouth (5mins) - 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.

Please note the train is a third-party company in conjoined with our tour, there may be train delays of up to 30 minutes meaning you might not be able to have time for the views in Cobden. Please be aware of this and be patient if this occurs.

3. Cobden Breakwater (5min) - 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.

4. Hokitika (1.5hrs) – Experience the laid-back atmosphere thats sure to evoke a sense of nostalgia once we arrive in Hokitika. Allowing time for lunch and a stroll down Hokitikas 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. Hokitika Gorge (1hr) – After lunch and sometime in the town why not join the group on an excursion towards a stop hidden away on the West Coast, 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. After getting those Instagram worthy shots we head to our final destination for the day, Franz Josef.

6. Lake Ianthe (5min) - 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.

** There will be two options once you arrive in Franz Josef Village. Please let our driver know if you prefer to be dropped straight at your accommodation or if you want to do the walk towards the famous Franz Josef Glacier and be dropped off after. **

7. Franz Josef Glacier (30min) - New Zealand's West Coast Glacier Country is one of the only two locations in the world where you can view glaciers flowing into rainforests. Despite minimal snowfall in the towns of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier, the surrounding high mountains receive plenty of snow, ensuring the glaciers remain icy. While direct access to the glacier face is not possible, you are able to walk to the lookout and read up about the amazing history behind this scenic attraction.

8. Franz Josef – We arrive to the quiet town of Franz Josef, this treasured gem in New Zealand offers an array of thrilling hikes with awe-inspiring views and backdrops, as well as unique local experiences. But the real piece of history is the chance to marvel at the majestic glaciers up close, whether by exploring the icy terrain on foot or taking to the skies for a birds-eye view. Our guide will check you into your accommodation as this is only the beginning of your great adventure.

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

Inclusions:

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

Optional Extras:

• Scenic flights