Tour Overview
This tour is a full day trip from Christchurch of 12 hours. I am glad to make it a multi-day trip, should you wish to have more time in Aoraki Mt Cook or enjoy the night sky. Alternatively, continue to Queenstown and Milford. From Christchurch, it is a 330 Kms drive, so we have about 2 hours to enjoy lunch and time in Aoraki Mt Cook. My Christchurch to Aoraki Mt Cook Tour gives you an opportunity to see a huge range of landscapes from the Canterbury Plains. The journey takes you through the rolling pastures of Geraldine and then up into the Alpine Tussock. It continues around Lake Tekapo, through to the permanent snow Alpine Scenery of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Here you can see the true magnificence of the highest mountain in New Zealand.
You will have the opportunity to take plenty of instagramable photos along the way. We will stop for a morning tea, in a scenic spot along the way to suit your wishes or perhaps the prettiest spot is near the “Church of the Good Shepherd”, where you can enjoy the stunning turquoise blue waters of Lake Tekapo.
We will then head up into the Alpine wonderland of the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, as we get closer to the Tasman Glacier and snowfields. Enjoy a two-course hand crafted picnic lunch in a picturesque location of your choice. Whilst in the National Park, you can go for a short walk up the Hooker Valley track to the Mueller Viewpoint. On the other hand, you may choose to climb up the Tasman Lake view, which bears an incredible perspective on the Tasman Glacier and the East essence of Aoraki Mt Cook. You can also take the opportunity to go on a Scenic Flight (optional), or just relax and enjoy the magnificent views from The Hermitage Hotel.
View my other tours to see a snippet of popular and unforgettable tour experiences in New Zealand.
Optional Extras
• Optional Scenic Flight from Lake Tekapo – Glentanner Airport 20 kms before Mount Cook village.
• Ski Plane flight landing on the Tasman Glacier from Mount Cook Airport.
Highlights of the Mount Cook Tour
• Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
• Alpine Tussock
• Lake Tekapo Church of the Good Shepherd
• Tasman Glacier and snowfields
• Mueller Viewpoint on the Hooker Valley track
• The Hermitage Hotel
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Best Time to book
• Popular time to visit – mid November (Interesting Point: Lupin flowers are in full bloom)
• Best time to visit – During winter, June to July
Tour Duration
• Full day trip – 12 hours
Tour Itinerary
| 07.00 | Christchurch departure |
| 09.00 | Break and / or view farm animals at the Tin Shed |
| 10.00 | Morning tea at Lake Tekapo. Enjoy 30 minutes at the Church of Good Shepherd and Sheepdog Statue scenery |
| 11.00 | Lake Pukaki photo stops and opportunity to purchase fresh salmon from Salmon Farm Shop |
| 12.00 | Short hike on the Hooker Valley track to the Mueller Lake Lookout or Relax at The Hermitage Hotel and enjoy the wonderful National Park visitor centre. Enjoy a two course Homemade Picnic Lunch amongst the Alpine Splendour |
| 15.30 | Depart from Aoraki Mt Cook |
| 19.30 | Arrive back at Christchurch |
What’s included
• Experienced & Knowledgeable Tour Operator Tour Guide
• Shuttle from and to Christchurch to Mt Cook in a comfortable, 7-seater – Toyota Hi Ace (2012 model)
• Scrumptious homemade, organic picnic lunch. You have the choice of these options…
Option 1: Homemade bread, soup, a selection of two meats, cheeses, pickles and a green salad with tomatoes.
Option 2: Fresh, delicious salmon served Japanese style, sourced from the local salmon farm. Rice, Nori, Soy Sauce, Wasabi, Avocado and fresh green salad.
Ideal for Summer, we can add fresh berries and yoghurt, or fruit instead of homemade soup. Fruit juice is served with the meal.
Option 3: Should you wish to make your own arrangements the tour price can be adjusted accordingly.
Enjoy lunch at The Alpine restaurant, located at The Hermitage Hotel or Kohan restaurant, in Tekapo.
Rates
• Priced from $520 per person
• Half price for children under 12