Mount Cook Day Tour

7:00 AM – Depart from Christchurch Your day begins with a scenic drive as we leave the Garden City of Christchurch. As we head south, your knowledgeable driver will share insights into the city's landmarks and highlights, while you watch the vast Canterbury Plains unfold, showcasing farmland, vineyards, and livestock as far as the eye can see.

9:00 AM – Fairlie Bakehouse Stop (10 mins) Our first stop is in the quaint farming town of Fairlie, nestled in the Mackenzie region. Take a quick break to enjoy one of the world-famous meat pies from the Fairlie Bakehouse, and pick up your lunch to keep you energized for the day ahead.

10:00 AM – Lake Tekapo/Church of the Good Shepherd (15 mins) Arriving in the picturesque Lake Tekapo region, we pause at the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a must-see photo spot. Marvel at the turquoise waters of the alpine lake, and during the right season, enjoy the sight of blooming lupins along the shore.

11:00 AM – Lake Pukaki Scenic Stop (10 mins) We continue our journey with a brief stop at Lake Pukaki, renowned for its glacier-fed waters. Depending on the weather, the lake’s color can range from ice blue to deep blue, and on clear days, you'll have spectacular views of Mt Cook rising majestically at the head of the lake.

12:00 PM – Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park (2.5 hrs) Arrive at Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s tallest mountain. You’ll have several options here:

• Hooker Valley - where you will walk alongside an ice-covered cliff face all the way to an ice filled lake with Mt Cook at its end. This track is one of the highest rated day walks in New Zealand.  Please note it takes 3hrs round trip to complete this track.
• Tasman  - 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) – 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.explore the famous Hooker Valley Track or the Tasman Glacier Walk, or simply relax at the Mt Cook Information Centre. For those seeking something extra special, optional helicopter rides over the mountains can also be arranged.

2:30 PM – Departure from Mt Cook National Park After an unforgettable time in the park, we begin our return journey, leaving the majestic peaks behind.

4:00 PM – Lake Tekapo Scenic Stop (10 mins) We stop briefly at Lake Tekapo for one last chance to capture the stunning evening views of the Church of the Good Shepherd and the lake.

8:00 PM – Arrival in Christchurch We return to Christchurch, completing a full day of exploring some of the South Island’s most beautiful landscapes. While you may be tired, you’ll be leaving with wonderful memories and plenty of photos from this breathtaking adventure.