Franz Josef to Christchurch Small-Group Tour via Hokitika (1-way)
Overview
Available languages
12 hours
Mobile ticket
Travel from the wild beauty of the West Coast to the Garden City of Christchurch on this unforgettable small group, fully guided day trip. Journey through rainforests, mountain passes, alpine villages, and glacier country while your guide brings the landscapes to life with stories and local insight.
This route is one of New Zealand’s most scenic, showcasing the best of the South Island from rugged beaches to the snowcapped Southern Alps.
Additional Info
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Guests can bring 1 large & 1 small piece of luggage each
Not recommended for travelers with limited mobility or confined to a wheelchair
What To Expect
Franz Josef
Depart the peaceful township of Franz Josef and begin your journey east across the South Island.
Stop for a quick photo at this serene lake surrounded by forest and wetlands, home to rare native birdlife.
Options
Franz Josef - Christchurch 1 W
Duration: 12 hours: Arrive in Christchurch approximately 7:30pm Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van Pickup included
What‘s Included
Fully guided small group tour with local guide
Sit down - free choice from a set menu
Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
Water available & snacks provided
Restroom on board
Children below 8 are required to travel in a booster/safety seat. Hire for NZ$20 or provide your own
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
32 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Five tours down, more to go
johnnab202,Apr 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I cannot express how much my wife & I enjoy this company. Every driver is fantastic. You will not be disappointed using this company. Another great experience. Our guide, Natalia was superb. She dealt with an american couple who were never on time returning to the van with poise and humor, didn't stop them from being late at every stop! The tour was great, One caveat, it's virtually impossible to hike to Devils Punchbowl waterfall in 1 hour, so as patrons be on time so others don't need to rush. We practically ran the uphill trail for fear of being last in the van. It was rainy all day, and it was still a lot fun.
Nice journey
siddhikar2026,Apr 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Really nice experience and driver was very knowledgeable letting us know the details and history. Very thoughtful stops. Overall great journey.
Nice ride
tirupathip2026,Apr 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very nice trip,enjoyed the ride driver was friendly
Awesome journey
308dheerajs,Apr 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was an incredible experience. From pickup to drop, we all enjoyed the ride. The stops that were made were beautiful to explore and the driver was very nice, courteous and knowledgeable. Cheers to him.
Pleasant ride from West to East
julianea967,Mar 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It's was a very nice day trip, quite thoughtful and beautiful stops in between. Also Renee, our driver of the day, was a relaxed and competent driver.
Jannes is the best
johnsD5377VU,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our driver and local guide, James, was very helpful and knowledgeable. He shared local experience and history along with colorful stories about the raw natural beauty and history of Arthur’s Pass, the coal mine, punchbowl falls, and castle hill. Jane’s was the best.
I would give more than 5...
Folu F,Jan 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I would give more than 5 stars if I could! The weather was awful and a major road through Arthur’s Pass was closed so we were stranded, but Cheeky Kiwi took great care of me. They sorted me alternative accommodation and transport to Greymouth so I could continue my trip as planned. Yanis was a great tour guide and great company during all the delays. The tour did not go according to plan and yet it was one of the best I’ve been on, thank you!
An enjoyable day out amongst the mountains.
Q4500joyb,Jan 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We did the Greymouth to Christchurch portion of this tour and loved it. We enjoyed Paul's friendly commentary and his flexibility approach. We also appreciated how well he was able to keep on schedule.
Excellent experience
José Pablo O,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent experience from start to finish. Our guide, Joel, was extraordinary, showing us beautiful places on our way to Christchurch and telling us more about life in New Zealand. I would certainly repeat the experience.
Good Trip, Nice Tour Guides
F1995ETseanl,Dec 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This route, going from Queenstown along the West Coast to Christchurch, was completely worth it just to see the blue water of the Hokitika River, rocks of Castle Hill and magnificent Arthur Pass. Both of our tour guides, Christina(1st day) and Logan(2nd day) are professional and friendly, and specifically came over to talk simpler vocabulary to us as non-native English speakers. We have enjoyed an unforgetable trip.
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Operated by Cheeky Kiwi Travel