Scenic South Island Road Trip
About this activity
Highlights
- Breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mt Cook
- Photo opportunities at Church of the Good Shepherd
- Scenic drive through Lindis Pass
- Explore the Southern Alps
- Comfortable small-group experience
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour from Queenstown to Christchurch
- Visit to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
- Stop at Lake Tekapo's Church of the Good Shepherd
- Meals and personal expenses
Itinerary
Pass by: 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: 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: 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.
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.
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)!
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.
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
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.
Pass by: Upon arriving in Christchurch your guides will point out any highlights we pass while travelling to the drop off locations.
Meeting point
Start Location
The Station - Home of Adventure in Queenstown, Corner of Shotover & Camp Streets, 25 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Important information
Know before you book
- This tour is conducted in English; proficiency in the language is recommended.
- The tour operates in all weather conditions; please dress appropriately for the day's forecast.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult; please inform us in advance if you have specific requirements.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and varying weather conditions.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and landmarks.
- Ensure you have a valid form of identification for check-in purposes.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Infant Seats Available
- Easy Public Transport
- Stroller Accessible
Good to know
- A moderate amount of walking is involved. 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
Traveler reviews
What an adventure!
Danny was an amazing tour guide who got us safely through a snow storm on Lindis Pass and kept us well entertained when we were unable to move. We also loved the guide who took us into Christchurch from the salmon farm! His stories were entertaining as well!
Transfer
The tour guide tried to make this a fun trip and incorporated lots of stops along the way and food. If you need to get one way I recommend this.
Excellent, mind blowing, superb customer service by Jason
form Arnab Bose and Family -If there is 10 stars i would give our driver and guide Jason who on my birthday took my family to Mt cook from queenstown, we had to take the flight from Mt cook as well and he had planned everything so perfectly to accommodate us, so kind, always giving , always before time, absolute legend, great going keep it up, will recommend all my friends
Wonderful experience at Mt Cook with great guide
Tour was awesome, especially made better with our guide Shura who ensured that our journey throughout was comfortable and also provided tips for the walks at Mt Cook National Park.
Highly recommend this tour!
Loved discovering the wonders of the South Island with Cheeky Kiwi! Witnessing Mt Cook and the gorgeous blue lakes were a dream come true. Nature is New Zealand is truly magnificent. I couldn't have picked a better day for this tour as the sun followed us everywhere we went. If I could, I would do it all over again! Thank you so much to the team that makes this experience so memorable with good commentary, interesting facts and a kind and caring attitude all along the way!