Queenstown to Christchurch One Way Tour
Highlights & inclusions
1. Select date
June 2026
2. Select participants
What you can expect
Travel from Queenstown to Christchurch on a one-way small group tour that stops at some of the most iconic locations in the South Island, including Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park and Lake Tekapo. This fully guided scenic tour includes commentary, stops for short walks and photo opportunities, and free time to explore Mt Cook Village at your own pace.
The journey begins in Queenstown and follows a route through Kawarau Gorge, Cromwell, Lindis Pass and Omarama before arriving at the shores of Lake Pukaki. From here, you’ll head west into Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, where you’ll have up to 3 hours to enjoy short walks like the Tasman Glacier View Track or simply take in the alpine setting.
In the afternoon, continue north to Lake Tekapo for a quick stop to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd before making your way to Christchurch. This one-way Queenstown to Christchurch tour includes transport in a modern minibus, commentary from your driver-guide, and snacks and water on board.
Whether you’re continuing your New Zealand itinerary or looking for a scenic alternative to a long drive, this small group travel experience offers the perfect balance of sightseeing, flexibility and comfort.
Location
What you need to know
- Small group Queenstown to Christchurch scenic transfer
- Fully guided tour with local commentary
- Stops at Mt Cook, Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki & Lindis Pass
- Water and snacks provided onboard
- Pick up from central Queenstown accommodation
- Queenstown - Your tour starts in the stunning city of Queenstown. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today but also point out and guide you past some of the area’s top highlights.
- Kawarau Suspension Bridge – Departing Queenstown we then make our way north through the stunning Kawarau Gorge passing beautiful views. The Kawarau Suspension Bridge and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout. Time and light permitting we will stop for that first great shot of the tour.
- Cromwell – Exiting the Kawarau Gorge we enter the fruit and wine growing region of Cromwell. Passing huge fields of vines we cross Lake Dunstan and follow this striking lake towards Lindis Pass.
- Lindis Pass (10 mins) – Climbing in altitude, Lindis Pass has amazing views down through the valley. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps, we stop at the Lindis Pass lookout 971m above sea level for an essential photo.
- Omarama (30 mins) – While driving through the endless plains of the Mackenzie district we will spot several of the celebrated Merino breed of sheep before stopping at the quaint township of Omarama. While in Omarama we have time for a break or even to try the best creamy chicken pie in NZ (in our opinion)!
- Lake Pukaki (10 mins) – Turning west we begin to enter the Aoraki National Park and Lake Pukaki begins to emerge in front of us. Lake Pukaki is one of the bluest lakes you will ever see and stunningly framed by the backdrop of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. We stop for some amazing photos and to just marvel the sight that we are beholding.
- Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park (2.5 - 3hrs) – Arriving at Mt Cook Village, weather depending, we should get some amazing shots of the mountain itself. At 3724m, Aoraki/Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak, however, the mountain can be viewed without any acclimatisation whatsoever from the village which is just 750m above sea level. While in the national park you have approximately 2.5 - 3 hours free time to enjoy free walks/hikes or one of the extra optional activities. Some of our recommendations include: Tasman Glacier View walk, or scenic flights – see the region from the air and land on the Tasmin Glacier. Whatever you have decided to do, we will pick you up and drop you off where you need to go and make sure you are well looked after.
- Tekapo (10 minutes) - Farewelling Mt Cook we make our way to Lake Tekapo. This turquoise blue lake is famous world over for its pristine beauty. We have a short time here but long enough to get those Instagram breaking photos explore the Church of the Good Shepard and see the Mackenzie dog before starting to head towards Christchurch.
- Christchurch – upon arriving in Christchurch your guides will point out any highlights we pass while travelling to the drop off locations to complete the tour.
- Allow a full day
- 6:30am departure
- Departs from central Queenstown accommodation
- Operates daily all year
- Child (4-14yrs) and infant (0-3yrs) rates apply
- Small group tour of 16 passengers
- Lunch not included – food available for purchase alone the way, or can bring you own picnic
- Free time at Aoraki/Mt Cook Village for short walks or optional activities
- Luggage is limited to one suitcase and one small carry-on per person
- A minimum number of participants is required for the tour to operate