(MT) Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour From Christchurch

Christchurch , New Zealand

(MT) Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour From Christchurch

Active

13h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join our top-rated Mount Cook Group Day Tour from Christchurch and experience one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking alpine journeys. This full-day tour is perfect for travelers who want to explore Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Lake Tekapo, and Lake Pukaki without the hassle of planning or self-driving. Our professional driver-guide ensures a smooth and informative ride through the Canterbury Plains, with photo stops and local insights along the way.

What makes this tour unique? We start the day with a comfort break in Geraldine, a charming rural town with artisan food stores and crafts. From November to March, we visit the stunning NZ Alpine Lavender Farm, where you can enjoy fresh lavender ice cream, browse locally made lavender products, and take beautiful photos in vibrant purple fields. At Mount Cook, enjoy up to 1.5 hours of free time—hike to the Tasman Glacier view, relax at The Hermitage Hotel, or take an optional scenic flight over the Southern Alps.

Available options

(MT) Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour From Christchurch

Pickup included

What's included

Air Conditiooned and Clean Vehicle

Bottled Water

What you'll see

Start: Christchurch Hotel Pickup
Begin with a private hotel pickup. Travel in a clean, modern vehicle with child seats available on request.

Stop 1: Geraldine – A Friendly Rural Stop
Pause in Geraldine, a welcoming town with great food, arts, and a relaxed vibe. Use the restrooms, grab a snack or coffee, or browse for local crafts and produce.

Stop 2: Lake Tekapo – Picture-Perfect Views
Take in the unforgettable views of Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd—a peaceful setting for the perfect family photo.

Stop 3: Lake Pukaki – Nature’s Blue Masterpiece
Stop at Lake Pukaki, where glacier-fed waters and alpine peaks create breathtaking scenery.

Seasonal Highlight (Nov–Mar): NZ Alpine Lavender
Between November and March, stop at the NZ Alpine Lavender Farm to enjoy:

Lavender ice cream the kids will love

Shopping for locally made lavender products

Beautiful lavender fields for family pictures

Main Destination: Mount Cook National Park
Arrive at Aoraki/Mt Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain. Have lunch at the Hermitage Hotel, then enjoy activities like:

The Tasman Glacier Walk (easy 60-min round trip)

Optional scenic flight (weather permitting)

Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Centre for educational fun

Return to Christchurch
Wind down your day as your private guide brings you back to Christchurch by evening.

What's not included

Additional Activities

Food and Drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Christchurch

Christchurch is known for its English heritage, vibrant arts scene, and extensive parks and gardens. The city is a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the South Island, including the Southern Alps and Kaikoura's coastal wonders.

Top Attractions

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

A beautiful 30-hectare garden located in the city center, featuring a diverse range of plants, a duck pond, and a conservatory.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (conservatory entry is NZD 10 for adults, NZD 5 for children)

Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu

The largest public art gallery in New Zealand, showcasing a diverse collection of New Zealand and international art.

Museum 1-2 hours Free (some special exhibitions may have an entry fee)

Quake City

An interactive museum dedicated to the 2010 and 2011 Canterbury earthquakes, providing a unique insight into the events and their impact on the city.

Historical 1 hour NZD 25 for adults, NZD 10 for children (under 13 free)

Lyttelton

A charming port town with a rich history, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic buildings, and beautiful coastal views.

Historical Half day Free to explore, some attractions may have entry fees

Akaroa

A picturesque French-inspired settlement located on the Banks Peninsula, known for its beautiful harbor, wildlife, and historic charm.

Nature Full day Free to explore, some attractions and tours may have entry fees

Must-Try Local Dishes

Whitebait Fritters

A traditional New Zealand dish made from tiny whitebait fish mixed with egg and flour, then fried in a patty form.

Snack Contains fish and eggs, not suitable for vegetarians or those with fish allergies

Hokey Pokey Ice Cream

A popular New Zealand ice cream flavor made with vanilla ice cream and crunchy honeycomb pieces.

Dessert Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies

Lamb Rack

A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served with seasonal vegetables and a rich sauce.

Dinner Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Skiing Whale watching Dolphin encounters Hot springs Spa treatments Beach relaxation

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and plenty of outdoor activities. The city hosts various festivals and events during this time.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori, New Zealand Sign Language
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time) or GMT+13 (New Zealand Daylight Time during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Christchurch is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of the ongoing earthquake recovery and redevelopment, which may present some challenges and hazards.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis and tour operators
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Christchurch International Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center

By bus

Christchurch Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Metro bus network is the primary mode of public transport in Christchurch. Buses are frequent and cover most areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Free Ride

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central City Riccarton Sumner Lyttelton

Day trips

Arthur's Pass National Park

130 km (81 miles) from Christchurch • Full day

A stunning national park in the Southern Alps, offering a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting.

Kaikoura

180 km (112 miles) from Christchurch • Full day

A coastal town known for its stunning scenery, wildlife, and outdoor activities, including whale watching, dolphin encounters, and hiking.

Hanmer Springs

130 km (81 miles) from Christchurch • Full day

A popular hot spring and spa town, offering a range of relaxation and outdoor activities, including hot pools, hiking, and mountain biking.

Festivals

Christchurch Arts Festival • Every two years in August Christchurch International Jazz Festival • Annually in November Lyttelton Arts Festival • Annually in November

Pro tips

Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens for a peaceful and relaxing experience, especially during spring and summer
Explore the city's vibrant arts and culture scene by visiting the Christchurch Art Gallery, Ōtautahi Creative Spaces, and other local galleries and studios
Take a day trip to Arthur's Pass National Park, Kaikoura, or Hanmer Springs for a taste of the stunning landscapes and outdoor activities available in the surrounding region
Try local foods and dishes, such as whitebait fritters, hokey pokey ice cream, and lamb rack, as well as the city's thriving coffee culture
Be aware of the ongoing earthquake recovery and redevelopment, and follow local safety guidelines and warnings