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

At 3724m, Aoraki/Mt Cook is home to New Zealand’s highest peak and longest glacier – Haupapa/Tasman Glacier. The famous Lake Tekapo and world-renowned meat pies at Fairlie Bakehouse - are the places you will discover or rediscover on this tour, so escape the hustle and bustle of the city life and head out on an adventure to some of the most beautiful parts of the South Island

You will be driven in comfort in our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter or Similar vehicle packed with extras, just to make your journey that bit easier. Led by our fun and knowledgeable and passionate tour guides, this journey will come to life in a new way for you.

Memories, made, hearts happy and photos a plenty in this tour!

 Highlights

• Fairlie Bakehouse     
• Church of the Good Shepherd – Lake Tekapo      
• Lake Pukaki        
• Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park      
• Tasman Glacier (Optional)      
• Hooker Valley Track (optional)

*Itinerary**

**Christchurch** – Our journey begins as we leave the Garden City (Christchurch) and head south toward our destination. Along the way, our knowledgeable driver will highlight some of the key landmarks and attractions of Christchurch.

**Canterbury Plains** – Surrounding Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains stretch out, offering views of farmland as far as the eye can see. The plains are home to a variety of farming activities, including crop cultivation, vineyards, dairy farming, and livestock production.

**Fairlie Bakehouse (10 mins)** – Nestled in the charming farming town of Fairlie, located in Mackenzie, this stop is a true delight. The town is especially stunning in autumn, as the landscape transforms with vibrant colors. Here, you can enjoy one of the famous meat pies from the local bakehouse. This is also where we’ll grab your lunch, ensuring you’re fueled for the rest of the journey.

**Lake Tekapo & The Church of the Good Shepherd (15 mins)** – Located in the heart of the Mackenzie region, Lake Tekapo is a breathtaking alpine destination. At the right time of year, the lakeshore is adorned with clusters of wild lupins. We’ll head to the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots, perfect for those Instagram-worthy pictures.

**Lake Pukaki (10 mins)** – This glacier-fed lake stands out from other alpine lakes with its shifting colors, ranging from ice blue to deep blue, depending on the weather. On clear days, enjoy uninterrupted views of the majestic Mt Cook, rising from the lake’s edge.

**Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park (2.5 hrs)** – Welcome to the heart of our journey! Aoraki/Mt Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, is named after the famous explorer James Cook. Once you arrive, you'll have the option to embark on one of two spectacular walks: the **Hooker Valley** or the **Tasman Glacier** walk. Alternatively, if you’d prefer an aerial view of the mountains, we can arrange a scenic helicopter ride for you and your family.

- **Hooker Valley Walk (2-2.5 hrs)** – One of New Zealand's most renowned day hikes, the Hooker Valley track takes you alongside ice-covered cliffs (you might even hear them creaking) to a glacial lake with stunning views of Mt Cook.
- **Tasman Glacier Walk (2-2.5 hrs)** – This track leads through the old terminal moraines of the Tasman Glacier, offering incredible views of the glacier, surrounding river, and lake.

IMPORTANT:  THE DOC ADVERTISED TIME FOR MT COOK IS 3 HOURS. HOWEVER, DUE TO POTENTIAL DELAYS FROM OTHER CUSTOMERS OR ROAD CONDITIONS, WE CANNOT GUARANTEE THIS TIMEFRAME.

Lake Tekapo – Sadly, this is where our day together comes to a close. We’ll drop you off in Tekapo, where your next adventure awaits.

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

Please note this is a 1 way service and your tour ends in Tekapo.  If you need to organize a departure from Tekapo to your next destination, please get in touch! 

Inclusions:

• Small Group

• Carbon Neutral

• Fully Guided Tour (except walks)

• Bottled Water

• Kiwi Snacks

• Wi-Fi

• USB charging

• Pre-ordered lunch from Fairlie bakehouse

• Commentary

• 100% Kiwi as experience.

 Optional Extras:

• Scenic flights 
• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

As this is a one-way tour luggage is included with your booking. Each person can bring one standard check in bag up to 23kg and 1 carry on type bag. If you have additional or overweight baggage, then additional charges will apply. Please select the number of additional or overweight bags on the extras page while booking.

We at Cheeky Kea Tours believe that it’s in the small things, the hidden surprises, and the secret stops that make your adventure one to remember. With comfortable and specially designed vehicles, and individually packaged refreshments will ensure you enjoy the journey with us!

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