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

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. Arthurs Pass Village – Our guide will be waiting for you as you depart the train station, you will be welcomed by the beautiful backdrop of the majestic Southern Alps up close in this National Park village. Once collected our guide will go through the activities provided, which can either be the walk of Devils Punch Bowl or spend this time around the local shops located close by.

• 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 some local goodies! This village is a great way to really get to know the area. 

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

3. 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 on the next adventure towards the gorgeous town of Hokitika.

4. Hokitika – 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 – After lunch and sometime in the town we venture 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. 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
• Lunch
• Fully Guided Tour
• Bottled Water & Snacks

Optional Extras:

• Scenic flights