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Private Arthurs Pass Scenic Drive from Christchurch

South Island

Canterbury Trails

from
NZ$770
per adult
Book Now
Group of visitors standing at the Arthur’s Pass National Park sign with mountain backdrop

Experiences

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South Island

Start: Christchurch
Duration: 1 day
Travel Time: 9 hours

Details

A Private Scenic Journey into Arthur’s Pass National Park

Travel from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass National Park through one of the South Island’s most awe-inspiring alpine landscapes. Your guide leads the way with expert local knowledge, pointing out geological features, wildlife habitats, and cultural highlights along the scenic route. Photo stops are included throughout the journey, capturing everything from wide-open plains to craggy peaks.

Once in the national park, enjoy a variety of short walks tailored to your group’s pace and interests. Trails wind through ancient beech forests and alongside crystal-clear rivers, with mountain vistas unfolding at every turn. A relaxing café lunch in the heart of Arthur’s Pass village rounds out the day before the return trip through the scenic Porter's Pass.

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Scenic highway through Arthur’s Pass crossing the Bealey River with snowy mountains in the background
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Guided bush walk through native forest in Arthur’s Pass National Park
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Visitors admiring the Waimakariri River from a scenic lookout in Arthur’s Pass
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Gollum-like character in a mossy forest in Arthur’s Pass National Park
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Two people viewing the Devils Punchbowl Falls in Arthur’s Pass National Park
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Person walking a forest track surrounded by native trees in Arthur’s Pass
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Tour guide sharing insights during a nature walk in Arthur’s Pass National Park
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Lake Pearson reflecting surrounding mountains on a clear day in Canterbury, New Zealand
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Group of visitors standing at the Arthur’s Pass National Park sign with mountain backdrop
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Scenic view of Lake Pearson with mountain reflections near Arthur’s Pass, Canterbury
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Open road leading toward the snow-capped Southern Alps in Canterbury, New Zealand
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Tour vans parked with sunlit mountains in the background at Arthur’s Pass scenic stop
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Colourful kea bird mid-flight in the alpine region of Arthur’s Pass
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Forest walk in Arthur’s Pass with tour guide and elderly visitor on gravel track
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Kea parrots interacting near a lookout sign in Arthur’s Pass National Park

Inclusions

  • Hotel pick up
  • Exclusive private tour
  • Travel by luxury vehicle
  • Picnic style morning or afternoon tea (if weather permits).
  • Your guide will select appropriate walks for both fitness levels and weather conditions.
  • Cafe lunch in Arthurs Pass.
  • Fully escorted tour with local knowledgeable guide.
  • Hotel Drop off

Tour Details

  • Departs: Christchurch at 8:30 am
  • Arrives: Christchurch at about 5-5:30 pm

Cancellations & Refunds

  • 8 days or more before departure: Full refund**
  • Between 7 days and 48 hours: 50% refund**
  • Within 48 hours: No refund
  • Shore Excursions: In the event of a tour cancellation due to unsuitable sea or weather conditions, a partial refund may be issued.

Note: **Refunds exclude credit card or booking fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Itinerary

Sample itinerary

Depart Christchurch
Begin your journey with hotel pickup and travel by luxury vehicle across the fertile Canterbury Plains toward the Southern Alps. Your guide shares local stories and insight as the alpine landscape begins to rise ahead.

Scenic Stops Along the Route
Stop at various lookout points for photos of the patchwork plains, braided rivers, and rugged mountain scenery. These moments offer space to stretch, soak in the views, and learn more about the geology of the region.

Arrive in Arthurs Pass Village
Take in the dramatic alpine environment as you arrive at Arthur’s Pass village. The area is steeped in history and surrounded by spectacular natural beauty.

Guided Nature Walks
Your guide will select walks based on group interests and conditions. Possible routes include tracks through beech forests, riverside paths, or viewpoints with panoramic alpine views.

Lunch at a Local Café
Enjoy a casual lunch at a charming café in Arthur’s Pass, with options that reflect local produce and hospitality. Relax and refuel while admiring the high-country surrounds.

Return Drive via Porter's Pass
Wind back through the sub-alpine beauty of Porter's Pass with more photo opportunities along the way. Reflect on a full day of mountain air, native bush and memorable moments before returning to Christchurch.

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