Christchurch - Arthurs Pass - West Coast Glaciers - Queenstown: Private Four Day Tour

From Alpine Peaks to Glacial Wonders: A Private Four-Day South Island Odyssey

Embark on an exclusive small-group journey (maximum 8 guests) from Christchurch to Queenstown, immersing yourself in the dramatic landscapes of New Zealand's South Island. This personalised tour unveils the hidden gems of Arthur's Pass National Park, the rugged West Coast, the awe-inspiring glaciers of Franz Josef, and the tranquil wilderness of Lake Moeraki or Haast.

Day 1: Christchurch to Arthur's Pass via TranzAlpine Train

Your adventure begins aboard the world-renowned TranzAlpine train, departing from Christchurch and winding through the vast Canterbury Plains. Upon arrival in Arthur's Pass National Park, your knowledgeable guide will meet you, showcasing the park's natural wonders through short walks amidst towering mountains, lush forests, and rushing rivers. Explore the park's diverse flora and landscapes, ranging from eastern beech-clad hills and tussock valleys to the luxuriant rainforests in the west. As the day concludes, settle into your comfortable accommodation in Arthur's Pass village.

Day 2: Arthur's Pass to Glacier Country

Journey through the heart of Arthur's Pass National Park, following the historic route once used by Māori to transport precious greenstone (pounamu) and later by gold miners seeking their fortunes. Marvel at the spectacular Otira Gorge, a geological masterpiece, as the road winds its way down into the rainforest, showcasing the diverse ferns that thrive in this region.

Visit Hokitika, a former gold mining town and now a bustling centre of art and craft shops where greenstone and gold still feature prominently. As you continue south, witness the remnants of the last Ice Age in the form of kettle lakes, formed by melting ice sheets.

Arrive in Glacier Country and embark on a guided walk to view the Franz Josef Glacier, where ice descends into the vibrant rainforest – a truly incredible sight. Your overnight stay will be in either Franz Josef or Fox Glacier village, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the glacial wonderland.

Day 3: Glacier Country to Lake Moeraki or Haast

Explore this unique glaciated region, where glaciers carve their way through regenerating temperate rainforest – a phenomenon found only in a few places on Earth. Short walks offer a closer look at the rainforest, with the glacier and its sculpted landscape as a dramatic backdrop. Optional activities include a scenic helicopter ride to view the Southern Alps with a snow landing on the upper reaches of the glacier (additional cost).

Tonight, you'll stay in either Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki or Haast, where you may have the opportunity to observe the Fiordland crested penguin, the second rarest penguin species in the world.

Day 4: Lake Moeraki/Haast to Queenstown

Travelling south, we reach the mighty Haast River Valley. The Haast Highway reveals a dramatic change in scenery, transitioning from the dense rainforest of the West Coast to the drier tussock lands of Otago.

The road skirts Lake Wānaka and then climbs a ridge to reveal the stunning Lake Hāwea. We'll continue along the shoreline to Wānaka village, then cross the rugged Crown Range, a historic gold mining area. Our journey concludes in the charming village of Arrowtown before arriving in Queenstown, where your knowledgeable Canterbury Trails guide will bid you farewell.