Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz Josef - Excluding Accommodation

From NZD$580

4.8
(8 reviews)

Departs from: Christchurch

Duration: 48 hours

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Travel from Christchurch to Queenstown over two unforgettable days, weaving through the wild heart of the South Island via the West Coast. From alpine passes and glacial lakes to rainforests, waterfalls and charming towns, this journey is packed with iconic scenery and cheeky hidden gems. With a small group, expert local guide and plenty of time to soak it all in, this is the relaxed, personal way to cross the island. Expect epic landscapes, great company and memories that stick.

Itinerary - Day 1

Itinerary - Day 2

Why you’ll love this

Explore the dramatic alpine landscapes of Arthur’s Pass, including Castle Hill and powerful waterfalls

Discover the creative West Coast town of Hokitika and learn about the cultural significance of pounamu jade

Travel the rugged West Coast coastline, with rainforest, wild beaches and hidden waterfalls along the way

Walk around Lake Matheson and see its famous reflections, then visit crystal-clear rivers and waterfalls through Haast Pass

Photograph iconic South Island sights including That Wanaka Tree, Lake Hawea and the historic Cardrona Valley Pub

What’s included

Small-group tour with an experienced local guide

Lunch with free choice from set menus

Bottled water and snacks

Premium, comfortable 16 seater Mercedes Buses

Accommodation pick-ups and drop-offs in Christchurch, Franz Josef and Queenstown

Why choose us

Famously passionate tour guides

Our guides share stories, laughs, and Kiwi charm on every journey.

Travel in comfort

Small groups, big comfort. Relax in our modern Mercedes minibuses with style and space.

Award-winning tours

Thousands of five-star reviews and top travel awards - experiences loved worldwide.

Kiwi owned. Kiwi operated

Proudly local and passionate about sharing authentic New Zealand with every traveller.

Stories worth sharing

3/27/2026

ROAD TRIP!!!

We spent 3 weeks in NZ. Why fly from Queenstown to Christchurch, when you can see the sights on along the road! This was a great way to see more of NZ. There were about 8 of us in the journey. We had many different stops that weren't just hop out for a picture. We got to spend time to go along some hiking trails/treks. The first half was to Franz Joseph with Jonathan. He was full of dad jokes and was terrific. At Franz Joseph, we were picked up by Joel for the 2nd half of the journey. Joel was young but he was easy going and had some great local information. He'll pickup some dad jokes later. The only thing I would change in this trip would be to allow us at least one full day at Franz Joseph. We arrived there about dinner time, with very little time before the sunset.... then we left Franz Joseph bright and early at 8am the next day. It was such a beautiful place and a shame that we couldn't explore the place. Since it is a new guide and 2nd part of the journey, Cheeky Kiwi could have picked up a day later, allowing us to explore Franz Joseph for a day. No tour guide would be needed. All in all, this was a great road trip!

angela g

5
11/7/2025

Interesting and fun time on 2 day trip Christchurch to Queenstown

This trip was excellent, just what worked for me travelling on my own.... The group was small so lots of personal interaction with guides and along the travelers. The stops along the way we're interesting and the guides provided excellent infhionraí and support. They catered for all levels of mobility with humour and patience. The pick ups were extremely prompt and efficient. A special word of praise to our excellent guides, Rosie and Lynette!!

Go826491

5
12/25/2024

Great day!

Cheeky kiwi has a gem in Collin, what an informative, kind and great tour guide. He went out of his way to be helpful and share what he knew. A big thank you from Canada and the u.k

Louisa A

5
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