Hokitika Christchurch Franz Josef South Island Tours

Christchurch to Franz Josef via Hokitika

From NZD$290

(10 reviews)

Departs from: Christchurch

Duration: 12 hours

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Discover New Zealand’s wild West Coast on this unforgettable small group, fully guided day tour from Christchurch to Franz Josef. Journey from the Canterbury Plains through the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass, and continue along the rugged coastline to the glacier country. With breathtaking scenery, short walks, and authentic Kiwi storytelling along the way, this tour is the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and discovery.

Please note

There will be two options once you arrive in Franz Josef Village. Please let our driver know if you prefer to be dropped off straight at your accommodation or if you wish to do the walk towards the famous Franz Josef Glacier and be dropped off after

Why you’ll love this

Travel from Christchurch through the Southern Alps on one of New Zealand’s most scenic routes

Explore natural wonders like Castle Hill, Devil’s Punchbowl, and Hokitika Gorge

Experience the wild beauty of the West Coast’s beaches, lakes, and mountain passes

Enjoy a gourmet packed lunch and plenty of scenic photo stops

Small group comfort with expert guides and modern Mercedes Sprinter transport

Itinerary

What’s included

Small group guided tour

Lunch in Greymouth at a local restaurant

Bottled water and snacks

Modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter transport

Expert local guide with live commentary

Optional Extras

Train from Christchurch to Arthurs Pass , please visit our Christchurch to Franz Josef including TranzAlpine tour page to book!

Why choose us

Famously passionate tour guides

Our guides share stories, laughs, and Kiwi charm on every journey.

Travel in comfort

Small groups, big comfort. Relax in our modern Mercedes minibuses with style and space.

Award-winning tours

Thousands of five-star reviews and top travel awards - experiences loved worldwide.

Kiwi owned. Kiwi operated

Proudly local and passionate about sharing authentic New Zealand with every traveller.

Stories worth sharing

1/14/2026

Highly recommend Cheeky Kiwi - Yew

Really enjoyed the tour with Logan who filled the day with interesting information and responded to questions but never overdid it. The tour was relaxed, Logan didn’t pressure us to maintain a speed and we were able to enjoy the stops and even used leftover time to visit the Franz Josef glacier. Will highly recommend to friends and family, cheers crew.

Tom F

1/13/2026

The Joy is in the Journey

The trip from Christchurch to Franz Josef was enjoyable and informative. We saw heaps of spots that we would have otherwise missed had we driven, and Paul was an excellent guide. Highlights were the Devil’s Punchbowl for the view and opportunity to elevate the heart rate, and the amazing Castle Hill rocks.

craigsI7954AA

12/26/2025

A Journey Through the Heartland of the South Island

If you are looking for the absolute best way to travel from Christchurch to Franz Josef, look no further. This small-group tour via Arthur’s Pass is not just a transfer; it is a full-day immersive experience that showcases the very best of New Zealand’s rugged natural beauty. What truly elevated this trip from "good" to "unforgettable" was our guide, Joel. From the moment we set off, Joel’s expertise was evident. He managed the day with impeccable timing and planning, ensuring we arrived at every scenic spot—from the majestic Devil’s Punchbowl waterfall to the serene shores of Lake Ianthe—just at the right moment to beat the crowds and catch the best light. Navigating the winding roads of the Southern Alps requires a pro, and we felt completely secure in Joel’s hands. His safe, smooth driving allowed us to relax and soak in the views of the Otira Viaduct and the lush rainforests of the West Coast. Beyond his skills behind the wheel, Joel kept the energy high with endless humor and local stories. He has a gift for making everyone on the tour feel like an old friend, turning a long drive into a day of laughter and discovery. Stopping in Hokitika for lunch and a stroll along the beach was the perfect midpoint. This tour hits the perfect balance of adventure and comfort. If you want a stress-free journey packed with stunning landscapes and great company, book this tour—and hope you get Joel!

Maximus

12/14/2025

Smooth journey from Christchurch to Fran Josef - Cheeky Kiwi guide rocks

Smooth ride, bonus scenic stops, and our guide Yanis was fantastic! A great way to travel from Christchurch to Franz Josef.

Frozzy D

11/27/2025

Magical West Coast

Even though the weather wasn't too good, it still was a beautiful drive. The Gorge is stunning, the drive is nice and we could stop in a few beautiful places that we all loved (like the waterfall!). The tour guide Yanis was very helpful giving us interesting facts about the areas. I totally recommend it.

Departure42873358156

1/3/2025

Wonderful tour, must book!

What an amazing experience that went beyond our expectations! The tour covered an impressive number of locations. Clive was an outstanding and friendly guide who enhanced every stop with engaging stories and historical knowledge. His expert driving meant we felt completely safe while making the most of our time. Skip the hassle of navigating yourself and book this tour with Clive - it's the perfect way to experience everything this beautiful region has to offer!

BackPacker821377

1/2/2025

Great road trip

Amazing trip. Absolutely incredible. Great itinerary - lots of stops and hidden gems. Clive was our driver and he could have not been any luckier. Super safe drive even under tough conditions. Very flexible and give us enough time to explore different sights. Allows us to go for a swim at the end of the day at a very beautiful lake. Found some of the best pies for us and was always very cautious and caring. Also great knowledge about the region and local stories. Super worth. Would recommend 1000% and definitely repeat. Thanks a lot!

Coastal30809103596

11/17/2024

Great experience with a local kiwi

I had a great day with Pete and Ann. I was only expecting a tour that make several stops along the way and send me to franz josef from christchurch. It turned out to be amazing journey. Pete and Ann did everything possible to make my trip comfortable and enjoyable. They are not typical touristic tour guides that share information that you can read on Wikipedia, or to tell you this is the best spot for photo. Instead, they are the living Bible of New Zealand nature, they share their life experience and stories, which is way beyond the stops listed in the itinerary. It is 100% kiwi experience and cultural exchange with a local out from a day tour. If I can give 100 stars, I will do so and definitely recommend this.

Angel T

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