Experience dramatic glacier lakes, snow-capped mountains, and beautiful alpine walks on a small-group day trip from Christchurch. After pick-up from your hotel, journey to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, located a 4 hours' drive through spectacular and breathtaking landscapes. Visit the historic town of Geraldine. Then discover the heart of Mackenzie Country, the captivatingly turquoise Lake Tekapo, the iconic Church of Good Shepherd, and the well-recognized statue of Sheepdog. Travel through Lake Pukaki and admire stunning views of Mt. Cook from a distance. Enjoy a short scenic hike in the National Park to view the 23.5kms long Tasman Glacier which is the longest glacier in New Zealand before returning to Christchurch.

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.

Hop onboard a 4 wheel drive jeep from Lake Tekapo township and explore one of New Zealand's most breathtaking river valleys. Travel comfortably up an alpine river valley northwest of Lake Tekapo through stream crossings and fields of roaming wild Merino sheep. Travel through the steep mountainous walls of the river valley where old Musterer's huts still stand and age-old glaciers are omnipresent. Hear your guide explain the unique history and geology that has formed this stunning part of New Zealand, and why it is famed for offering some of the best scenery in the South Island. Stop in for a fresh cup of tea and snacks, and enjoy fabulous vantage points for the best photography opportunities in Lake Tekapo. Return through golden tussock high lands overlooking the turquoise colours of Lake Tekapo.

Aoraki Mount Cook – The mountain that prepared Sir Edmund Hillary for his conquest of Everest, and the tallest mountain in New Zealand. Lying deep in the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is New Zealand’s longest glacier – Haupapa/Tasman Glacier. Lake Tekapo - famous for its crystal clear waters with the majesty of the mountains as a backdrop. These are the places you will discover or rediscover on this tour, so escape the hustle and bustle and head out on an adventure that takes place in some of the most beautiful parts of New Zealand. Plus lunch is at the simply stunning Hermitage in the Mount Cook National Park, what is a better place to eat with a view! You will be driven in comfort in our modern, comfortable minibuses 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! This tour is one way from Christchurch to Mt Cook only Highlights Fairle Bakehouse Church of the Good Shepherd – Lake Tekapo Mt Cook and Aoraki National Park Tasman Glacier, Lake Pukaki (optional) Hooker Valley Track (optional)