Southern Alps & West Coast Grand Journey: Queenstown to Christchurch
Route: Queenstown • Milford Sound • Wanaka • Haast Pass • Franz Josef • Hokitika • Punakaiki • Arthur’s Pass • Castle Hill • Christchurch
$189,25/Person
This spectacular 5-day journey takes you from the dramatic fjords of Fiordland through the wild beauty of the West Coast and into the heart of the Southern Alps. Experience towering waterfalls in Milford Sound, glacier landscapes in Franz Josef, rugged limestone cliffs at Punakaiki, and alpine scenery in Arthur’s Pass before finishing in Christchurch.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want dramatic landscapes, iconic scenery, and the full South Island alpine experience in a compact yet well-paced itinerary.
Highlights
- Cruise through Milford Sound where waterfalls cascade from sheer cliffs and seals often lounge along the shoreline.
- Travel the spectacular Haast Pass, one of New Zealand’s most scenic alpine routes, surrounded by rainforest and glacier-fed rivers.
- Experience Franz Josef Glacier and learn about its unique formation and history from local experts.
- Walk the Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki and witness powerful ocean blowholes along the rugged West Coast.
- Cross Arthur’s Pass and explore Castle Hill’s fascinating limestone formations before arriving in Christchurch.
Included and Excluded
- Private vehicle with an experienced and knowledgeable driver/ guide
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off within the city or agreed locations
- Flexible sightseeing stops as per the itinerary and time availability
- Bottled water during the tour
- Entry tickets or admission fees for any attractions or activities
- Charges for optional experiences such as cruises, adventure
- activities, or guided attractions
- Meals, snacks, and personal refreshments
- Accommodation and airfare
- Travel insurance
- Any activity not specifically mentioned in the inclusions
- Personal Expenses
Tour Plan
Day 1 – Queenstown to Milford Sound and return
- Travel along the stunning Milford Road, stopping at Mirror Lakes and Eglinton Valley for photos and short scenic walks.
- Enjoy a scenic Milford Sound cruise, where you’ll see Mitre Peak, cascading waterfalls, and native wildlife.
- Return to Queenstown through Fiordland National Park with scenic stops along the way.
Day 2 – Queenstown to Wanaka to Franz Josef (via Haast Pass)
- Stop in Wanaka to see the iconic Wanaka Tree and enjoy lakefront views.
- Drive through Haast Pass, stopping at Thunder Creek Falls and Blue Pools for short walks.
- Arrive in Franz Josef with time to explore the township or enjoy a hot pool soak.
Day 3 – Franz Josef to Punakaiki to Greymouth
- Optional glacier heli-hike or guided valley walk in the morning.
- Visit Hokitika Gorge to see its vivid turquoise waters.
- Explore Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and coastal walking tracks before overnight in Greymouth.
Day 4 – Greymouth to Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch
- Travel through Arthur’s Pass National Park with stops for alpine walks and scenic viewpoints.
- Visit Castle Hill, famous for its unique limestone rock formations.
- Continue to Christchurch and enjoy an evening exploring the city.
Day 5 – Christchurch Exploration
- Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens and the Avon River precinct.
- Visit the Transitional Cardboard Cathedral and vibrant Riverside Market.
- Optional Akaroa day trip or leisure time in the city before departure.
