Lake Matheson

Experience the ultimate adventure from Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wānaka. Our small group, fully-guided tour takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Wānaka and Hāwea lakes, over the stunning Haast Pass, and along the beautiful West Coast beaches to Franz Josef. Get ready for a one-of-a-kind authentic Kiwi experience with our famously passionate guides, renowned for their engaging stories and rich local knowledge. Travel in modern, comfortable minibuses, fully equipped with amenities to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the trip.

Franz Joseph to Queenstown via Wanaka. This one way, small group, fully-guided tour takes you along the beautiful beaches of the West Coast, over the Hast Pass, past the stunning lakes of Wanaka and Hawea, plus other must see stops on our way back to Queenstown. 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. Itinerary: 1. Franz Josef - Your tour starts in the stunning village of Franz Josef. We will be heading south down the coast on our fully guided adventure to Queenstown. 2. Lake Matheson -This spot is every photographers dream. On a calm day you can capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This 4.4km / 90 minute easy bushwalk will reward you with breathtaking views across the southern alps. 3. Bruce Bay - At this location you will see where the thick native rainforest meets a seemingly endless open ocean of the Tasman Sea. This beautiful beach really is the best of the west. 4. Ship Creek – As we make our way south along the boarder where ancient rainforest meets the ocean we will make a stop at Ship Creek. Dig your toes in the sand and feel the crash of the relenting waves of the Tasman Sea. Explore the dunes via an easy 1km walking track. 5. Thunder Creek Falls – This easy 5 minute walk will reward you with the spectacular view of Thunder Creek Falls. This 28 meter waterfall is the remanence of a once great glacier that pours from a hanging valley into the Haast River below. 6. Blue Pools – Located in Mt Aspiring National Park is the aptly named Blue Pools. This easy 3km round trip is well worth the effort to see the breathtaking blue waters of the Makarora River. 7. Lake Hawea – As we leave the national park behind make sure to keep your eyes open as we make our way westwards and past stunning Lake Hawea. We will stop for a quick photo at a lookout point between Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea. 8. Wanaka – Stretch your legs take a walk down to the lakeside for that iconic photo of the Wanaka Tree. Soak in the beauty of this expansive lake backdropped by Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps. This is truly a photo opportunity that you do not want to miss! 9. Cardrona Hotel – From Wanaka we head over the Crown Range Road that connects Queenstown and Wanaka. We do a quick stop here to see the Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic hotels. Its rustic charm, spectacular mountain setting and rich history make it a must see while in Central Otago. 10. Queenstown - Your tour concludes in the stunning town of Queenstown. As we drive into the town your guide will point out key sites and any local highlights before dropping you off to your central Queenstown accommodation.

Discover the rugged beauty of New Zealand's West Coast and the tranquility of the Canterbury Plains on a 2-day tour from Queenstown to Christchurch via Franz Josef. Travel with a small group for a more personalized and enjoyable experience. Day 1: Queenstown to Franz Josef Meet your guide and fellow travelers in Queenstown before setting off in a comfortable, modern minibus. Stop at the historic Cardrona Hotel for a photo opportunity before reaching the picturesque town of Wanaka. Stretch your legs and enjoy a stroll along the serene lakefront. Snap a photo of the famous Wanaka Tree, standing majestically in the lake. Continue your journey with stops at the Lake Hawea lookout, Thunder Creek Falls, Bruce Bay, and Ships Creek. Arrive at Lake Matheson, where you can capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This 4.4-kilometer, 90-minute easy walk will reward you with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. Finally, arrive in the quaint village of Franz Josef. Check into your comfortable self booked accommodation, nestled amidst lush greenery with views of the surrounding mountains. The evening is yours to explore at your leisure – perhaps take a dip in the local hot pools, or enjoy a meal at one of the village’s cozy restaurants. Day 2: Franz Josef to Christchurch Leaving Franz Josef, head north to Hokitika Gorge, a treasured gem that consistently inspires awe, with its striking turquoise waters radiating an otherworldly beauty. Afterwards, arrive at the charming town of Hokitika, famous for its rich history of gold mining and greenstone (pounamu) carving. Take some time to explore the local shops and perhaps pick up a beautifully crafted souvenir. After departing Hokitika, continue making your way across the country, stopping at Otira Gorge Lookout before arriving in Arthurs Pass Village. Here you have the option to grab a bite to eat, a coffee, or maybe shop for some souvenirs, or you can walk to the Devils Punch Bowl, a 131-meter waterfall. Fitness is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and forest. The final stop is Castle Hill. Take a self-guided walk among the weathered limestone rocks that once sat in the ocean. It's famed for its striking limestone rock formations and has several highlights that attract visitors: rock climbing, cultural significance, flora and fauna, and maybe most famously, a filming location for several movies. As the tour approaches its end, arrive in the garden city of Christchurch. Reflect on your incredible journey as you’re dropped off at your central city location.

With Cheeky Kiwi Travel, this two-day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz Josef offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes and hidden gems. You’ll enjoy personalized service, small group sizes, and expert local guides who will ensure your journey is as informative as it is exhilarating. Book your adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime. Day 1 Start your adventure with a convenient pick-up from Christchurch. Departing Christchurch, you will travel through the picturesque Canterbury Plains. Enjoy panoramic views of sprawling farmlands and the majestic Southern Alps in the distance. With stops along the way at Lake Lyndon, Castle Hill, Arthurs Pass Village, an optional walk to Devils Punchbowl, & Otira Lookout, before arriving in Hokitika, a charming coastal town known for its vibrant arts scene and rich history. Visit a local jade factory to learn about the Maori significance of pounamu (jade) and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir or take a photo with the Hokitika beach sign! Then we will continue our journey south along the stunning west coast, with it's dramatic coastline, lush rainforest & hidden waterfalls. Arriving in Franz Josef Village we will drop you off at your self booked accommodation where you can some time to relax. Day 2 Your second day will see us departing Franz Josef and travel through the awe-inspiring Haast Pass. This scenic drive offers stunning views of dense rainforests, crystal-clear rivers, and towering mountains. Before long we will stop for a walk around the stunning Lake Matheson, before continuing onto Bruce Bay, Ships Creek & Thunder Creek Falls. Enjoy short stops to take in the spectacular views and capture unforgettable photos. We will pass by the serene waters of Lake Hawea, before arriving in Wanaka for a quick stop. This is your opportunity to take a photo of the famous "That Wanaka Tree". After you've stretched your legs, we continue onto our final destination, but not before stopping at the Historic Cardrona Valley Pub for a quick look. Finally, arrive in the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown. Enjoy a convenient drop-off at your accommodation, where you can rest or immediately begin exploring the vibrant city.

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Queenstown to Franz Josef with our small group, fully guided adventure tour. Explore the picturesque towns of Wānaka and Hāwea, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes, and marvel at the majestic Haast Pass before arriving on the West Coast, where you'll enjoy the stunning beaches and scenic beauty in route to your final destination in Franz Josef. Join our enthusiastic local guides for an unforgettable adventure, as they will engage you with unforgettable stories and share their insider knowledge of New Zealand's hidden gems. Travel in style with our modern, comfortable minibuses equipped with all the amenities you need to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, complete with premium comfort and scenic views. Highlights: • Cardrona Valley Pub • Lake Hāwea • Lake Wānaka (including the Wānaka Tree) • Blue Pools (Temporarily Closed) • Thunder Falls • Ship Creek • Bruce Bay • Lake Matheson

Franz Josef to Queenstown Tour via Wānaka Embark on a scenic adventure from Franz Joseph to Queenstown via Wanaka with our fully guided tour. Journey along the stunning West Coast beaches, traverse the iconic Haast Pass, and marvel at the breathtaking lakes of Wanaka and Hawea. Join our enthusiastic local guides for an unforgettable adventure, as they will engage you with unforgettable stories and share their insider knowledge of New Zealand's hidden gems. Travel in style with our modern, comfortable minibuses equipped with all the amenities you need to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, complete with premium comfort and scenic views. Highlights: • Lake Matheson • Bruce Bay • Ship Creek • Thunder Creek Falls • Blue pools (Temporarily Closed) • Lake Hawea & Lake Wanaka (includes the Wanaka Tree) • Cardrona Hotel

Explore the hidden gems of New Zealand's South Island on this exclusive tour designed to unveil secret spots cherished by locals. From the secluded beaches in Abel Tasman National Park to the thermal mineral pools in Hanmer Springs and the charming village of Akaroa, this South Island adventure enables you to truly immerse yourself in the essence of New Zealand. For wildlife lovers this is the tour for you, with the opportunity to see dolphins, whales, seals and even penguins, as well as experience rural New Zealand life and hand feed farm animals. With accommodation and some activities included (see below); our tours are hassle-free, authentic experiences for those short on time, so you can see more and plan less.

Experience the ultimate adventure from Franz Josef to Wanaka. Travel from Franz Josef along the beautiful West Coast beaches, over the stunning Haast Pass, and through the picturesque landscapes of Wānaka and Hāwea lakes on a small-group, fully-guided tour. Get ready for a one-of-a-kind authentic Kiwi experience with famously passionate guides, renowned for their engaging stories and rich local knowledge. Travel in modern, comfortable minibuses, fully equipped with amenities to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the trip. Pass many glacial rivers as you journey from Franz Josef past Fox Glacier. Continue to every photographer's dream: Lake Matheson. On a calm day, capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This easy walk will reward you with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. Stop at Bruce Bay, where thick native rainforest meets the seemingly endless open ocean. As you head south along the border where ancient rainforest meets the ocean, stop at Ship Creek. Dig your toes in the sand and feel the crash of the relentless waves of the Tasman Sea. Explore the dunes via an easy 1km walking track. Stop at the Hard Antler in Haast where you have 45 minutes to enjoy your lunch. Then, take an easy 5-minute walk to see the spectacular view of Thunder Creek Falls. This 28-meter waterfall, a remnant of a once-great glacier, pours from a hanging valley. Head eastward past the stunning Lake Hawea, stopping for a quick photo at a lookout point between Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea before crossing the mighty Clutha River. Stroll down to the lakeside for that iconic photo of the Wānaka Tree. Soak in the beauty of this expansive lake, backdropped by Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps—a paradise for photographers, before being dropped off at the Wanaka Lakefront Car Park.

Experience the majestic beauty of New Zealand's diverse landscapes on a 21-day adventure. Take part in unique local activities along the way and end your journey in the city of Christchurch. Day 1: Welcome to Auckland- Arrival at Hostel Welcome evening - Meet your Small Group Tour driver guide and fellow travelers Day 2: Auckland to Coromandel •Explore the stunning Cathedral Cove •Relax at Hot Water Beach by digging your own spa pool Day 3: Coromandel to Waitomo •Hike through the Karangahake Gorge •Admire the magical glowworm caves in Waitomo Day 4: Waitomo to Rotorua •Explore the lush Ruakuri Reserve •Spend the night in a Māori village, where you'll learn about local history and culture •Visit Hobbiton (extra) •Discover the town and lake in Rotorua Day 5: Rotorua Free Day •Immerse yourself in the history and culture at Te Pā Tū Māori Village Day 6: Rotorua to Taupo •Walk the scenic Huka Falls walkway •Soak under a waterfall or in the naturally heated rock pools at Spa Park Day 7: Taupo Free day •Today is at your leisure; feel free to explore; you can book one of the many optional activities online via the Trip Planner. Day 8: Taupo to River Valley •Walk the trail to Taranaki Falls •Spend the day at River Valley Lodge, nestled along the Rangitikei River •Taste an organic roast dinner Day 9: River Valley to Wellington •Take in the vibrant city vibes of Wellington, New Zealand's capital Day 10: Wellington Free Day •Today is yours to do as you wish! Day 11: Wellington to Kaikoura •Board a spacious ferry for a ride across the Cook Strait •Sip on some local wine in the Marlborough region •Visit the impressive Kaikoura seal colony Day 12: Kaikoura to Christchurch •Hike the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway •Admire incredible panoramic views of Kaikoura •Discover hidden gems of Christchurch on a city-street art trail Day 13: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo •Marvel at the stars in the Dark Sky Project •Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd Day 14: Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook •Spend the day inside the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park •Walk through the Hooker Valley track to Hooker Lake Day 15: Lake Tekapo to Queenstown •Feast on a buffet dinner with panoramic views of Queenstown at the Skyline Stratosphere Restaurant Day 16: Queenstown free day •Have the whole day to yourself and explore the wonders of Queenstown Day 17: Queenstown to Milford Sound •2 hour Milford Sound boat cruise Day 18: Queenstown to Lake Hawea via Wanaka •Take in views over Lake Wānaka from Roys Peak (weather dependent) •Visit the famous Wanaka tree Day 19: Lake Hawea to Franz Josef •Discover the Thunder Creek falls in Mt Aspiring National Park •Admire the famous mirror views of Aoraki/Mount Cook from Lake Matheson Day 20: Franz Josef •Design and carve your own Greenstone jewelry in a West Coast workshop •Take on a glacier walk Day 21: Franz Josef to Christchurch •Explore a variety of trails across Arthur's Pass •Walk the Castle Hill track •Stop at the Devils Punchbowl waterfalls

Experience the ultimate adventure from Wanaka to Franz Josef. Travel through the picturesque landscapes of Wānaka and Hāwea lakes, over the stunning Haast Pass, and along the beautiful West Coast beaches to Franz Josef. Enjoy a small-group, fully-guided tour with lunch included. Get ready for a one-of-a-kind authentic Kiwi experience with famously passionate guides, renowned for their engaging stories and rich local knowledge. Travel in modern, comfortable minibuses, fully equipped with amenities to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the trip. Following pickup from the Wanaka Lakefront Car Park, stroll down to the lakeside for that iconic photo of the Wānaka Tree. Soak in the beauty of this expansive lake, backdropped by Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps—a paradise for photographers. After crossing the mighty Clutha River, head westward past the stunning Lake Hawea where you'll stop for a quick photo at a lookout point between Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea. An easy 5-minute walk will reward you with a spectacular view of Thunder Creek Falls. This 28-metre waterfall, a remnant of a once-great glacier, pours from a hanging valley. Stop at the Hard Antler where you have 45 minutes to enjoy your lunch. As you head north along the border where ancient rainforest meets the ocean, stop at Ship Creek. Dig your toes in the sand and feel the crash of the relentless waves of the Tasman Sea. Explore the dunes via an easy 1km walking track. Here, thick native rainforest meets the seemingly endless open ocean. Bruce Bay truly showcases the best of the West Coast. Continue to every photographer's dream: Lake Matheson. On a calm day, capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This easy walk will reward you with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. Pass many glacial rivers as you journey past Fox Glacier and on to Franz Josef, where you will be dropped at your central accommodation.