Christchurch to Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo Half-Day Tour (One-Way)

Christchurch , New Zealand

Christchurch to Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo Half-Day Tour (One-Way)

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(17 reviews)

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

Christchurch to Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo Small Group Tour (1 way). This small group, fully-guided day transfer allows you to travel in style to Mt Cook while seeing all the key highlight along the way. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

Available options

Mt Cook Adventure - Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Small Group and Fully Guided Tour

Kindly advise dietary requirements at time of booking

Water & snacks

Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person

Detailed itinerary

Your tour starts in the stunning city of Christchurch. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventurous day but also point out and guide you past some of the area’s top highlights.

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.

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.

Stop 4

We head towards the famous blue lakes of Lake Tekapo but to get there first we must go through some impressive alpine passes with amazing views. As we come over the hill to Tekapo you will be stunned by amazing view of the lake. Stop for a photo at the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd.

Stop 5

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 many Lord of the Rings scene were filmed nearby and we will point them out for you.

Unfortunately, our tour must come to an end. 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 acclimatisation whatsoever from the village which is just 750m above sea level.

What's not included

Gratuities

Restroom on board

You can hire child seats, or you can provide your own

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own

A moderate amount of walking is involved.

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.

If you have dietary requirements. Please kindly indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking

Meeting point

Pickup time: 6:25am. If your accommodation is yet to be confirmed, we ask that you select the Christchurch Bus Interchange (InterCity Stop on Litchfield Street) for now. You can update this later

Important notes

Hotel Pick ups start 20 mins before the tour time. Please check your pick up time to ensure you do not miss your pickup. We are unable to wait for late guests.

You will be picked up in a minibus with Cheeky Kiwi Travel sign-writing on it.

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