Christchurch to Mt Cook via Tekapo (1 way) (Small Group)
Overview
Available languages
8 hours
Mobile ticket
At 3724 metres, Aoraki Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak. As a sacred ancestor for local Ngā Tahu iwi, Aoraki is more than just a mountain. He and his brothers’ story is arguably one of the South Island’s most important Māori legends, speaking to the dramatic formation of Kā Tiritiri o te Moana (Southern Alps) which have since become home to one of Aotearoa’s most beautiful National Parks.
So why not join us as we travel south to experience the best of what the South Island has to offer. Escaping the hustle and bustle of Ōtautahi Christchurch, this 1 way trip adventures via the Canterbury plains, State Highway 79, the world famous Fairlie Bakehouse, Lake Tekapo, and Lake Pukaki before arriving in Aoraki Mt Cook Village. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget!
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Travel time is included in the total duration of the tour.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Christchurch
We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head south, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights.
Canterbury Region
Travelling across the Rakaia bridge and inland towards mid-Canterbury, you will notice both the region’s unique braided river ecosystem and patchwork fields. Farms on the plains are home to a variety of activities, including crop cultivation, viticulture, dairy farming, and livestock production.
What‘s Included
WiFi on board
Bottled water
Lunch
Snacks
Air-conditioned vehicle
100% Kiwi Experience
Pickup points
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Christchurch to Mt Cook via Tekapo (1 way) (Small Group)
Pickup included
Reviews
7 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Crammed van and food poisoning
P I,,Jan 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00Unfortunately, given the small group premium pricing, I found many aspects of the tour fell short. The van was too crammed. Once the snack and lunch bags were handed out, it was so squeezy and uncomfortable. The seat belts were so hard to pull out for many passengers, so i don't know how old the van is. We also never had a stop to eat the lunch collected at Fairlie, so I just went on water and snacks till 2.30pm when I was dropped off at Mt Cook. The guide should advise us on these things so that we know whether to eat while on the van or not. And even that would have been so uncomfortable because there was no space to really handle food in the squeezy seats. The food got so soggy that the paper bag tore as I took the cold sandwich out to eat after I reached my accommodation. The tour staff put me in as vegetarian because I said I can't have beef and pork, so I had a sad sandwich with vegetables, avocado and cheese. I did like that they provided an apple, chips, bottled water, and nut bar, but I could not enjoy these because I had got food poisoning within 20min of eating the sandwich and nut bar. My afternoon was spoiled. Regarding rest stops, only after the 1hr40min non-stop drive in the morning, there were enough stops. An additional stop might be better. For the level of discomfort faced, I would not recommend this tour. However, it is the only small group tour I found that offers stops at Mt Cook trails before drop-off at the village. The stops, walks, and views were nice. I hope my review helps other know what to expect.
I really appreciate Ella...
DARyL T,,Aug 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00I really appreciate Ella and Paul for everything they did to get me on the tour when I mistaken the meet up timing. Thank you very much! And for Paul, he is an amazing guide. Super friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. I can see he is very passionate in his job! Taking a great care to all travellers. Fantastic experience, picturesque scenery. 2 thumbs up!
Unforgettable journey through New Zealand's beauty
mv03790,,Jul 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The views were absolutely breathtaking. Every stop looked like a postcard! Lake Tekapo was stunning and Mt Cook left us speechless. We took so many photos. The van was really comfy, with plenty of leg space (I'm 1.80 m for reference), and our guide was friendly, funny, and full of great info. We had plenty of stops and time to take photos, and the small group made the experience feel more personal and relaxed. The walk at the Tasman Glacier Trail was very accessible and easy for most people. The meat pies at Fairlie Bakehouse were seriously delicious. Make sure to buy more than one!
Great service but pricy
T J MX,,Feb 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Great service that provides an efficient way to commute great distances from one area to another. Drivers were excellent but van space was very cramped. WiFi provided and most appreciated.
Relaxing trip
itheque,,Feb 18, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Amazing scenes at the lake Tekapo and had a good time at the Tasman Glacier Track. The driver is very friendly and considerate, having us hamburger and pie for lunch. He also drove me to the Haka House when getting the destination. Look forward to visiting next year.
A great tour
kealie2019,,Nov 28, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was an awesome was to transfer from Christchurch to Mt Cook. A lot of scenic stops on the way, good recommendations on local hiking routes, and drop off at your accommodation. Our driver/guide was very easy going and friendly, and gave a lot of insight to the surrounding area. Lunch was provided on top of snacks and drinks which catered well for dietary requirements. I'd recommend!
Good Trip in Bad Weather
Gopal B,,Oct 18, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Although the weather didn't fully cooperate, the one-way tour to Mount Cook from Christchurch was still an incredible experience. The journey itself was scenic and enjoyable, and our guide Diane did their best to keep our spirits high despite the clouds. I can only imagine how breathtaking it must be on a clear day. I'll definitely be back for another attempt keeping an eye on the forecast.
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Operated by Cheeky Kea Tours