Queenstown to Christchurch One Way Tour, via Mt Cook

This tour is guided by our Christchurch partners, Cheeky Kea.

PLEASE NOTE: The Hooker Valley Track is currently closed beyond Müller Lookout (located between the first and second swing bridges) while the Department of Conservation replaces one of the bridges. This scenic section still offers stunning views and a rewarding hiking experience. The full track is expected to reopen in Autumn 2026.

Itinerary:

1.   Queenstown – Your tour starts in the stunning city of Queenstown. As we drive out of the city, your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today but also point out and guide you past some of the area’s top highlights.

2.   Kawarau Suspension Bridge – Departing Queenstown, we then make our way north through the stunning Kawarau Gorge, passing beautiful views: the Kawarau Suspension Bridge and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout. Time and light permitting, we will stop for that first great shot of the tour.

3.   Cromwell – Exiting the Kawarau Gorge, we enter the fruit and wine growing region of Cromwell. Passing huge fields of vines, we cross Lake Dunstan and follow this striking lake towards Lindis Pass.

4.   Lindis Pass – Climbing in altitude, Lindis Pass has amazing views down through the valley. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps, we stop at the Lindis Pass lookout 971m above sea level for an essential photo.  

5.   Omarama – While driving through the endless plains of the Mackenzie district, we will spot several of the celebrated Merino breed of sheep before stopping at the quaint township of Omarama. While in Omarama, we have time for a break or even to try the best creamy chicken pie in NZ (in our opinion)!

6.   Lake Pukaki – Turning west, we begin to enter the Aoraki National Park, and Lake Pukaki begins to emerge in front of us. Lake Pukaki is one of the bluest lakes you will ever see and is stunningly framed by the backdrop of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. We stop for some amazing photos and to just marvel at the sight that we are beholding. It’s not hard to see why so many Lord of the Rings scenes were filmed nearby, and we will point them out for you.

7.   Mt Cook Information Center – Arriving at Mt Cook Village, weather depending, we should get some amazing shots of the mountain itself.  At 3724m, Aoraki/Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak; however, the mountain can be viewed without any acclimatization whatsoever from the village, which is just 750m above sea level.

8.   Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park – While in the national park, you have 3 hours free time to enjoy free walks/hikes or one of the extra optional activities. Whatever you have decided to do, we will pick you up and drop you off where you need to go and make sure you are well looked after.

9.   Tekapo – Farewelling Mt Cook, we make our way to Lake Tekapo. This turquoise blue lake is famous worldwide for its pristine beauty. We have a short time here, but long enough to get those Instagram-breaking photos, explore the Church of the Good Shepard, and see the Mackenzie dog before starting to head towards Christchurch.

10.  Geraldine – Departing Tekapo for Christchurch, we will pass through more amazing passes and high country towns before arriving in the peaceful town of Geraldine for a final quick break before heading to your final destination - Christchurch.

11.  Christchurch – Upon arriving in Christchurch, your guides will point out any highlights we pass while traveling to the drop-off locations to complete the tour