From Christchurch: Mt Cook Day Tour via Lake Tekapo w/ Lunch
ID: GYG448707-806101
Category:
Country: New Zealand
Duration:
13:00 hours
Description
Admire the natural scenery of Aoraki Mount Cook, the tallest mountain in New Zealand, on a private tour from Christchurch. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and see Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki.
Itinerary
Christchurch - We start by leaving Garden City/Christchurch and
heading south towards our destination, while our knowledgeable driver points out
some of the Garden City’s highlights.
Canterbury Plains - Wrapped around Christchurch are the Canterbury Plains filled with farmland as far as the eye can see. Most types of farming you can think of will be found on the plains such as crops, vineyards, dairy and livestock production.
Fairlie Bakehouse (10mins) - A Classic New Zealand farming town hidden away in Mackenzie. Fairlie goes through some stunning colour changes especially come Autum, this is truly one of the best locations to sit and relax with one of their world-famous meat Pies from the Bakehouse. And this stop is also where we will pick up your lunch to keep you full of energy for the rest of the day.
Lake Tekapo/ Church of the Good Shepherd (15mins) – An alpine lake region like no other in the heart of Mackenzie. At the right time of year, you will find clusters of wild lupins along the lake edge. Once we arrive in Tekapo we head towards the most popular photo spots in the country The Church of The Good Shepard for those social media worthy pictures.
Lake Pukaki (10mins) - This glacier fed lake is unique compared to its alpine partners. The colours can change from ice blue to a dark deep blue depending on the weather conditions. On a clear day enjoy undisturbed views right up to Mt Cook which appears to extend out of the head of the lake.
Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park (2.5hrs) – AND HERE WE ARE!
Named after the famous explorer James Cook, Aoraki/Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak. Once here you will have the choice to embark on either The Hooker Valley or The Tasman Glacier walk. If a flight overlooking the mountains is more your thing, we are happy to arrange Helicopter rides for you and the family to enjoy instead.
• Hooker Valley (2.5-3hrs) The Hooker valley track is one of the highest rated day walks in New Zealand. It’s not hard to see why as you walk alongside an ice-covered cliff face (Listen carefully you may hear it moving) all the way to an ice filled lake with Mt Cook at its end.
• Tasman Glacier (2.5 – 3hrs) This track leads through the glacier’s old terminal moraines, and there you will find amazing views of the glacier, river, and lake.
• Mt Cook Information Centre (DOC) – You are more than welcome to take it all in by spending the day in the information centre with a coffee. Learn the history of the national park, ask questions and just be in moment.
At 2:30 our driver will collect you from your chosen destinations for the day to head back home.
Lake Tekapo (10mins) -We stop briefly in Lake Tekapo for one last time to take those last minute late evening photos of the Church and the Lake.
Christchurch – After what has been a simply beautiful day, we
will head back to the Garden City. Its bittersweet as you’ll be exhausted but filled with new memories.
Highlights
- Fairlie Bakehouse - Best pies in the country. A kiwi delicacy
- Church of the Good Shepard - One of the most photographed locations in NZ
- Lake Pukaki - Unique and beautiful colours with Mt Cook as the back drop
- Mt Cook - Highest peak in New Zealand, Stunning views
- Hooker Valley Track - Voted one of the best day walks in New Zeland
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
This tour operates in all weather except for when there are road closures. Customers are asked to check the weather 24hrs before hand and cancel if they are not happy
Full walks might not be achievable due to time restraints
Notify us of any dietary requirements
Please bring comfortable clothing along with something warm
Be aware this tour is a long day 13hrs in total with 8hrs driving
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.