Queenstown to Christchurch: Wānaka, Mt Cook & Tekapo 1-Way Tour

4.5(8)13 hFree cancellationBy Cheeky Kea Tours

About this activity

Most people fly from Queenstown to Christchurch. In an hour, they miss everything in between.

This full-day small-group tour covers the same distance on the ground: Kawarau Gorge, the Mackenzie Basin lakes, Aoraki Mt Cook National Park and Lake Tekapo. Lunch, water and Kiwi snacks are included. WiFi and USB charging on board.

At 3724 metres, Aoraki is New Zealand's highest peak and a sacred ancestor to Ngā Tahu iwi. You have 2-2.5 hours at the national park: walk the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track through the moraines of Haupapa, NZ's longest glacier, explore Mt Cook Village, or arrange a scenic flight on the day.

From November 2026, Wānaka will replace the Kawarau Gorge stop where your guide collects lunch while you spend time at the lakefront, home of #ThatWānakaTree. The tour ends at Lake Tekapo beside the Church of the Good Shepherd with the Southern Alps behind it.

Small group, maximum 16. Carbon neutral within Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. Wānaka pickup available.

What's included

✓Small-group experience, maximum 16 people
✓Transport in a modern Mercedes Sprinter or similar vehicle
✓Live guide commentary throughout
✓WiFi on board
✓Bottled water
✓Drop-off in Christchurch
✓USB charging on board
✓Carbon neutral tour of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park
✓Kiwi snacks
✓Lunch (collected by your guide at the Wānaka stop)

Not included

✕Gratuities
✕Scenic flights (can be arranged through your guide on the day, sold separately)
✕Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre entry (available to purchase at Mt Cook Village)
✕Accommodation
✕Additional personal purchases

Good to know

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dress in layers. There is a significant temperature difference between Queenstown and Aoraki Mt Cook.
Bring a waterproof jacket. Alpine weather changes rapidly.
Wear closed-toe shoes with grip. The Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track involves uneven and stony terrain.
Bring sunscreen. UV is strong at altitude, particularly in summer.
This tour operates with two guides. One guide drives Queenstown to Mt Cook; a second guide drives Mt Cook to Christchurch. The changeover takes place at Mt Cook Village.
Children aged 7 and under require a child safety car seat. If you need one provided, request it at booking with at least 24 hours notice.
Scenic flights and Heli Hike are available to arrange through your guide on the day, subject to weather and availability. Sold separately.
The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre is not included. Entry is available to purchase on arrival.
Time at Aoraki Mt Cook may be reduced due to delays elsewhere on the route or road conditions.
Service animals are permitted.
The tour departs near public transportation.
Wānaka-based travellers: you can join and alight at the Wānaka stop. Select this option at time of booking.
Hotel pickups begin from 06:15 am. Please be ready and waiting outside 5 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.
Not recommended for travellers with serious back conditions, heart conditions, or who are pregnant.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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