Tekapo to Christchurch Day Tour via Mt Cook (Small Group, Carbon Neutral)

At 3724 metres, Aoraki Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak. Located in the heart of the ruggedly beautiful Mackenzie District, it was first summited in 1894 by Tom Fyfe, Jack Clarke, and George Graham and remains a popular ascent to this day. However, 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 from Tekapo to Christchurch via Mt Cook to experience the best of what Te Wai Pounamu (New Zealand’s South Island) has to offer. With additional sweeping views of Haupapa (Tasman Glacier) - our country’s longest glacier - this 1 way trip adventures via Lake Pukaki and Mt Cook, before returning north to Ōtautahi Christchurch. 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! 

Highlights and inclusions:

• Small group size
• Carbon neutral tour to Christchurch
• Picture perfect scenery and panoramic views
• Lake Tekapo
• Lookout over Lake Pukaki
• Aoraki Mt Cook Village and National Park - including optional walks
• Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks
• WiFi and USB charging
• Commentary
• 100% Kiwi as experience

Itinerary:

Lake Tekapo (10:00am) - We start by picking you up in Tekapo before driving further into the Mackenzie Basin for our first stop. From late November to early January, the famous lakeshore is adorned with clusters of wild lupins.

Lake Pukaki (10 minutes) - Before arriving in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, we stop at Lake Pukaki. With its shifting colours ranging from ice to deep blue depending on the weather, this glacier-fed lake stands out from other alpine lakes in the region. On clear days, enjoy uninterrupted views of Aoraki rising from the lake’s edge.

Aoraki Mt Cook National Park (2 - 2.5 hours*) - Welcome to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park! Established in 1953, roughly 40% of the park is covered by glaciers, with Haupapa being the longest at approximately 23 kilometres. Impressively, 19 mountains - including Aoraki - within the area also stand at over 3000 metres tall. Once you arrive, you have the option to embark on the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track or explore Mt Cook Village, taking in sights such as the Visitor Centre and Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. Alternatively, if you’d prefer an aerial view of the mountains, we can arrange a scenic flight for you and your group (booked and sold separately).

Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track - Leading through old terminal moraines of the Haupapa, this track offers incredible views of the glacier, surrounding river and Tasman Lake.

*Please note that due to potential delays from other customers or road conditions, the allocated time in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to explore may be less than advertised. This may mean that you might be unable to fully complete walks etc. Your friendly guide will be able to assist you on the day with the best options available. At 2:15pm, please follow their instructions as they will provide the collection time to start the return journey to Ōtautahi. 

Christchurch - As we head north to the Garden City, sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!

Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks.

We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. 

See More, Do More, Spend Less.