From Christchurch: 2 day tour to Queenstown via Franz Josef

If you’re dreaming of the ultimate South Island road trip, this 2-day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz Josef Glacier offers an immersive taste of New Zealand’s most iconic scenery. For around $340 per person, you get a well-rounded experience packed with stunning vistas, charming towns, and memorable photo stops. Guided by local experts, the journey highlights everything from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines—perfect for those who value both comfort and authentic adventure.

We particularly love the balance of structured sightseeing and free time, allowing you to savor the landscapes at your own pace. The inclusion of landmarks like Lake Matheson and the famous Wanaka Tree makes this journey feel special. Plus, the small-group setting ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, making your experience more personal and engaging.

A potential consideration is that accommodation in Franz Josef is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own stay, giving you some flexibility but also requiring advance planning. This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, great photography opportunities, and guided insights into New Zealand’s diverse environments. If you’re traveling on a tight schedule but want a taste of the South Island’s highlights, this trip will suit you well.

Key Points

• Scenic Highlights: Includes stops at Lake Matheson, Wanaka, and Arthurs Pass for unforgettable photo moments.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides enrich your understanding of the regions.
• Flexibility: Choose your own Franz Josef accommodation and relax after a full day of sightseeing.
• Small Groups: Personalized service and a less hurried, more intimate experience.
• Value for Money: Well-curated itinerary packed with sights, scenery, and local insights.
• Who It’s For: Ideal for first-time visitors, photography lovers, and those eager to explore New Zealand’s scenic diversity without self-driving.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering South Island’s Scenic Treasures

This tour offers a well-structured approach to seeing some of the South Island’s most stunning landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple transport connections. It’s designed for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one package that covers key sights and provides plenty of storytelling along the way.

Starting in Christchurch, the journey begins with a pickup and a drive across the Canterbury Plains, a patchwork quilt of farmland framed by distant mountains. As we leave behind the city, the landscape quickly shifts to a tapestry of rolling hills, lush farmland, and rugged coastlines, setting the tone for what’s to come. The drive itself is part of the experience, with panoramic views that change with every mile.

Day 1: From Christchurch to Franz Josef via Hokitika and Arthurs Pass

The first day is a careful blend of scenic stops and cultural insights. We love the way the tour balances nature and local character. Our guides—whose reviews praise their knowledge and friendly nature—provide context at each stop, helping us appreciate the landscape’s significance.

Our first major stop is Lake Lyndon, a tranquil spot perfect for stretching our legs and capturing reflections of the surrounding mountains. Next, we move to Castle Hill, famous for its bizarre limestone formations that look like sculptures left behind by giants. Here, some travelers choose to do an optional walk, a great chance to stretch your legs and soak in the scenery.

Then comes a visit to Arthurs Pass Village, the gateway to the Southern Alps. The highlight here is an optional walk to Devils Punchbowl, a 131-meter waterfall that roars with power and offers fantastic photo opportunities. The view from Otira Lookout provides sweeping vistas of the rugged mountain range, making it a favorite stop for many.

Midway through the day, the journey takes us to Hokitika, a vibrant coastal town with a reputation for its arts scene and Maori crafts. Visiting a jade factory here, you’ll get a crash course in pounamu (greenstone), and perhaps pick up a meaningful souvenir. Reviewers love this stop for its authenticity—one said, “We had two guides and both were perfect! They showed us a lot of amazing places and were knowledgeable about the country.”

After Hokitika, it’s a scenic drive south along the wild west coast, where dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, and waterfalls come into view. Once in Franz Josef Village, the day winds down with time to relax at your chosen accommodation—an important feature for those wanting to rest before the next day’s adventures.

Day 2: From Franz Josef to Queenstown through Haast Pass

The second day is equally packed with scenic drives and highlights. We love the way the route takes us through the Haast Pass, an area renowned for its dense rainforests, raging rivers, and towering peaks. The scenery here can change quickly, and each stop feels like a new postcard.

First on the list is Lake Matheson, famous for its mirror-like surface reflecting Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. The walk around the lake is short but rewarding—think of it as a perfect warm-up for more stunning views ahead. From there, the journey continues through Bruce Bay, Ships Creek, Thunder Creek Falls, and the Blue Pools, each offering unique perspectives on New Zealand’s natural beauty.

We also pass by Lake Hawea, and then stop in Wanaka for a quick visit. This is your chance to snap the iconic “Wanaka Tree”, a lone pine that stands in the water and has become a favorite among photographers worldwide. A reviewer from the UK noted, “Had 2 different guides and both were very knowledgeable and friendly; the second day was all flat hikes but just as stunning.”

Before reaching Queenstown, a visit to the Historic Cardrona Valley Pub offers a taste of local history and a chance to reflect on the journey. Finally, the tour drops you in Queenstown, the “adventure capital,” where you can immediately dive into activities or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

The Experience and Its Value

This tour’s real strength lies in its mix of guided commentary, scenic stops, and free time. You’ll learn about the land, the Maori significance of jade, and the stories behind each viewpoint—making each stop more meaningful than just a photo opportunity.

The small-group format ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd. We appreciated the personal touch and flexibility; reviews highlight guides as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. One reviewer said, “The guide and his explanation on the second day from Franz Josef to Queenstown was great. He gave us time to see everything.”

Pricing at $340 covers all scenic stops, lunch, water, and snacks, providing good value given the amount packed into two days. Accommodation isn’t included, so you have some flexibility to choose a place that suits your style and budget in Franz Josef and Queenstown.

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Practical Details and Considerations

Timing is important—pickup times vary based on your accommodation, so be sure to confirm your slot in advance. The tour is designed for those comfortable with a fair amount of driving and walking, although the walks are optional.

Weather can influence the experience—pack rain gear and weather-appropriate clothing. The route’s highlights, like Lake Matheson and Thunder Creek Falls, are weather-dependent but always photogenic when conditions cooperate.

The tour is not suitable for people with back problems or unaccompanied minors under 8 unless a booster seat is supplied. The group size and guided format make it ideal for travelers who prefer a structured, informative trip but still want moments for personal exploration.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to South Island’s landscapes, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a good overview without the stress of self-driving, especially if you appreciate guides who share their local knowledge. Photographers and nature lovers will find plenty to love here, thanks to stops at iconic spots like Lake Matheson and Wanaka.

Travelers with limited time will appreciate that this tour condenses some of the best scenery into just two days. It’s also an excellent choice if you want to meet fellow travelers in an intimate setting. However, those seeking luxury accommodations or extended free time in each location might want to consider other options.

This 2-day Christchurch to Queenstown tour via Franz Josef offers an engaging, scenic, and well-paced way to experience the South Island’s highlights. With expert guides, gorgeous photo stops, and a mix of cultural and natural insights, it provides a solid foundation for any first-time visitor or seasoned explorer looking to maximize their time.

The careful balance of guided storytelling and free exploration means you’ll leave with personal memories and plenty of stunning photos. The small-group setup adds a friendly vibe, making the experience feel more personal and less rushed.

While accommodations are not included, this gives you the flexibility to choose where to stay and cater to your style. Overall, it’s a great value for anyone wanting a memorable snapshot of New Zealand’s diverse landscapes, especially if you’re eager to see mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and charming towns all in just two days.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
You should advise the ages of children when booking. Children below age 8 need a booster seat, which can be supplied for NZ$20. The tour involves some walking, so consider your child’s comfort with that.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a guided small group experience, lunch, water, snacks, and scenic stops. Accommodation in Franz Josef is not included.

Are the scenic stops worth the time?
Absolutely. Stops like Lake Matheson and Wanaka are iconic, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs in breathtaking settings.

Can I book my own accommodation?
Yes, you can choose your own stay in Franz Josef and Queenstown. This flexibility allows you to select accommodations that fit your preferences and budget.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, rain gear, weather-appropriate clothing, and a reusable water bottle are recommended.

Is there a guide on both days?
The first day is guided by a partner company, Cheeky Kea, while the second day is guided by the tour operator. Both guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

How long are the scenic walks?
Walks are generally short, with optional hikes like Devils Punchbowl. The Lake Matheson walk is manageable and suitable for most fitness levels.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the experience, but many of the stops are visually striking even in rain. Pack rain gear to stay comfortable.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The stops are fixed, but guides are usually receptive to making additional stops if time permits and if you request.

Is this tour good for photography?
Yes. Stops at Lake Matheson, Wanaka, and other viewpoints are perfect for capturing New Zealand’s stunning scenery. Be sure to bring your camera!

This detailed, balanced review should help you decide whether this Christchurch to Queenstown adventure fits your travel style—whether you’re after a well-organized way to see the highlights or simply want to make the most of your short time on South Island.

You can check availability for your dates here: