Christchurch to Franz Josef via Hokitika 1 Way

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. You will be driven in comfort in our modern, comfortable
Mercedes Sprinter packed with extras, just to make your journey that bit
easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable and passionate tour guides, this journey
will come to life in a new way for you.

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

Highlights

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

Itinerary

1. Christchurch - We start by leaving the Garden City/Christchurch and
heading north towards our 1st stop, while our knowledgeable driver points out
some of the Garden City’s highlights.

2. Lake Lyndon (5 mins) - Lake Lyndon, located near Porters Pass, it is
a popular spot for rainbow trout fishing due to its thriving population, the
lake is nestled within the Korowai/Torlesse Tussocklands Park and is fed by
the Acheron River, which flows into the Rakaia River.

3. Castle Hill (1hr) – Weathered limestone rocks sit proudly on the
tussocky hills and were once in the ocean! Over time they eroded away and
started forming these amazing unique shapes you’ll see today. You might
recognize this landscape from movies such as Lord of the Rings and Narnia!
That’s right. Not only that, but while you walk amongst the rocks you will
also see climbers and boulderers! This place is a magnet for thrill seekers.
This is not a guided walk so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty
on your own.

4. Arthurs Pass Village (1hr) – On the way through you will be able to
see the beautiful backdrop of the majestic Southern Alps up close. Once we
arrive you will have the opportunity to either walk the Devils Punch Bowl or
spend this time walking around the local shop.

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

5. Otira Gorge Lookout (10mins) – 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.

6. Greymouth (5mins) - A quick stop at the information centre! Located
in the heart of New Zealand South Island, Greymouth is the largest town in the
West Coast Region, with a population of around 14,000 people. This charming
town is not only a beautiful spot, but also a key hub for connecting via tthe
renowned TranzAlpine train service.

7. Cobden Breakwater (5mins) - 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.

8. Hokitika (1.5hrs) – Experience the laid-back atmosphere that's
sure to evoke a sense of nostalgia once we arrive in Hokitika. Allowing time
for lunch and a stroll down Hokitika's 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.

**9. Hokitika Gorge (1hr) ** – 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.

10. Lake lanthe (5 mins) - 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 off straight at your
accommodation or if you wish to do the walk towards the famous Franz Josef
Glacier and be dropped off after **

_**

11. 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.

12. 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 bird's-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
• Gourmet Packed Lunch
• Fully Guided Tour
• Bottled Water & Snacks

Optional Extras:

· Train from Christchurch to Arthurs Pass , please visit our Christchurch to
Franz Josef including TranzAlpine tour
page to book!

· Scenic Flights

Have more questions? Please visit out FAQs
page