TRAVEL CHRISTCHURCH
(including day tour of Tranzalpine | Kiwirail Scenic Journeys- Kaikoura Whale And DolphinOvernight Tours)
(including day tour of Tranzalpine | Kiwirail Scenic Journeys- Kaikoura Whale And DolphinOvernight Tours)
GENERAL INFORMATION-Located on the east coast of the South Island .Christchurch is New Zealand's second-largest city and the gateway to the South Island. Bordered by hills and the Pacific Ocean, it is situated on the edge of the Canterbury Plains that stretch to the Southern Alps. Under the guidance of the ‘Canterbury Association’, a company that established Anglican colonies in the South Island, 792 settlers known as the ‘Canterbury Pilgrims’ arrived in the region and established a settlement on where Christchurch now stands. The city devastated by earthquakes in 2011. In 2011 when two earthquakes struck at the very heart of Christchurch city, flattening the CBD’s high-rises and most of its inner-urban infrastructure. Over 1,000 buildings within the city’s CBD have been demolished since 2010; and during the 2011 quake, the famous Christchurch Cathedral lost its spire. Two-and-a-half-years later, most of the unrecoverable structures have been pulled down, leaving entire blocks of gravel where buildings used to be.
HISTORY-First people who inhabited the Canterbury area about a thousand years ago. These first inhabitants were moa-hunting tribes and these were followed by the Waitaha who are thought to have migrated from the east coast of the North Island in the 16th century. The first European landed in Canterbury in 1815. In 1840 the first Europeans settled on the plains and whaling ships were operating out of Lyttelton by 1850.During 1850-1851 the first organised groups of English settlers, the founders of Christchurch, arrived on the ‘first four ships’ into Lyttelton Harbour.
POPULATION- 3,62,000
AREA - 1426Km2
TIME ZONE - UTC+12 Summer UTC+13
CO-ORDINATES - 43°31′48″S 172°37′13″E
CLIMATES-
Tem JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
AvM 22 22 20 17 14 11 11 12 15 17 19 21
AvL 12 12 10 7 4 1 1 2 4 6 8 11
AREA - 1426Km2
TIME ZONE - UTC+12 Summer UTC+13
CO-ORDINATES - 43°31′48″S 172°37′13″E
CLIMATES-
Tem JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
AvM 22 22 20 17 14 11 11 12 15 17 19 21
AvL 12 12 10 7 4 1 1 2 4 6 8 11
AIRPORT-Christchurch International Airport is a major transit airport for international and domestic travellers. There are international services to and from Australia, Fiji, Japan, Singapore, Thailand and United Arab Emirates.
SIGHTS & ATTRACTIONS-
001-CHRISTCHURCH GONDOLA- Enjoy breath-taking views of the Christchurch cityscape, over the Canterbury Plains out to the mighty Southern Alps and the dramatic hills of Banks Peninsula. At the summit, experience the Time Tunnel ride, a dramatic reconstruction of the history of the region. The Base station of the Gondola is nestled in Heathcote Valley. The Summit Station including the Time Tunnel, Shop and café is at the top of Mt Cavendish. The Gondola trip up to the summit takes 10 minutes one way at normal speed. The cableway spans 862 horizontal metres.
Price for the Ride-NZ$25.00 (Combo tickets are also availble)
The Gondola is just a 15 minute drive from central Christchurch. The Gondola Shuttle operates daily and departs the central city from outside the Canterbury Museum on Rolleston Avenue at the following times: 9:30am, 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm and 4:00pm. The Shuttle departs the Gondola on the hour during the morning and on the half hour during the afternoon. Adult tickets cost $10 return.
https://www.christchurchattractions.nz/christchurch_gondola/
Price for the Ride-NZ$25.00 (Combo tickets are also availble)
The Gondola is just a 15 minute drive from central Christchurch. The Gondola Shuttle operates daily and departs the central city from outside the Canterbury Museum on Rolleston Avenue at the following times: 9:30am, 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm and 4:00pm. The Shuttle departs the Gondola on the hour during the morning and on the half hour during the afternoon. Adult tickets cost $10 return.
https://www.christchurchattractions.nz/christchurch_gondola/
002-CHRISTCHURCH TRAM-Enjoy a journey in style through the changing face of Christchurch’s city centre on board beautifully restored heritage Trams. The day-long ticket allows you to get on and off the Tram. The journey begins at Cathedral Junction and travels through Cathedral Square before passing the Avon river, Re:START Mall and High Street on our newly-opened track extension. From here the tram re-joins tram loop and passes the Canterbury Museum, Hagley Park, Victoria Square and New Regent Street. Board at any of 17 tram stops, and get on and off with your ticket throughout the day. The trams run every 15-20 minutes.
Summer (September – March) 9am – 6pm daily
Adult - $ 20.00NZ/day (Combo tickets are also availble)
https://www.christchurchattractions.nz/christchurch-tram/
Summer (September – March) 9am – 6pm daily
Adult - $ 20.00NZ/day (Combo tickets are also availble)
https://www.christchurchattractions.nz/christchurch-tram/
003-CHRISTCHURCH BOTANIC GARDENS-Founded in 1863 with the planting of an English oak tree. The Christchurch Botanic Gardens are open every day from 7am and admission is free. The Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, open daily from 8.30am - 5pm.
The walking guide provides eight short routes to explore the Gardens and Hagley Park. Use the guide to discover the feature trees, artworks, plant collections as well as learn more about the history of the area.
i-Flowering Garden-There are numerous flowering gardens within the Christchurch Botanic Gardens ranging in size, theme and design. Azalea and Magnolia Garden-Central Rose Garden-Fragrant Garden-Herb Garden-Herbaceous Border-Heritage Rose Garden-Temperate Asian Border-Water Garden.
ii-Art in the Gardens-There is an extensive collection of art works on display around the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
iii-Conservatories- There are numerous conservatories-Garrick House-Cuningham House-Fern House-Townend House-Foweraker House-Gilpin House.
iv-Caterpillar Tours-There is so much to see at the Botanic Gardens so you may like to consider taking a guided tour on a Caterpillar, a solar powered electric vehicle.
Tours begin at 10am (summer only), 11am, 12pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm, and 3.30pm from the Canterbury Museum entrance to the Botanic Gardens on Rolleston Avenue, and at 10.30am (summer only), 11.30am, 2pm, and 3pm from outside the new Botanic Gardens Visitors Centre. The full circuit, with commentary by our expert tour guide and driver, takes approximately one hour. A single ticket is valid for two consecutive days. Each of our Caterpillar shuttles holds up to 20 people, and the shuttles make frequent stops.
Tour Price-NZ$20.00 (Combo tickets are also availble)
The walking guide provides eight short routes to explore the Gardens and Hagley Park. Use the guide to discover the feature trees, artworks, plant collections as well as learn more about the history of the area.
i-Flowering Garden-There are numerous flowering gardens within the Christchurch Botanic Gardens ranging in size, theme and design. Azalea and Magnolia Garden-Central Rose Garden-Fragrant Garden-Herb Garden-Herbaceous Border-Heritage Rose Garden-Temperate Asian Border-Water Garden.
ii-Art in the Gardens-There is an extensive collection of art works on display around the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
iii-Conservatories- There are numerous conservatories-Garrick House-Cuningham House-Fern House-Townend House-Foweraker House-Gilpin House.
iv-Caterpillar Tours-There is so much to see at the Botanic Gardens so you may like to consider taking a guided tour on a Caterpillar, a solar powered electric vehicle.
Tours begin at 10am (summer only), 11am, 12pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm, and 3.30pm from the Canterbury Museum entrance to the Botanic Gardens on Rolleston Avenue, and at 10.30am (summer only), 11.30am, 2pm, and 3pm from outside the new Botanic Gardens Visitors Centre. The full circuit, with commentary by our expert tour guide and driver, takes approximately one hour. A single ticket is valid for two consecutive days. Each of our Caterpillar shuttles holds up to 20 people, and the shuttles make frequent stops.
Tour Price-NZ$20.00 (Combo tickets are also availble)
004-HAGLEY PARK- Hagley Park is the most significant central city park in Christchurch. Hagley Park comprises North and South Hagley Park, separated by Riccarton Avenue. The area is 407 acres. North Hagley perimeter is 4.5km and South Hagley 3.7km.
005-CATHEDRAL SQUARE- Cathedral Square is regarded as the very centre of Christchurch, attached to the historic Worcester Boulevard, the metropolis Colombo St, and sits close to the meandering Avon River. The images and text below show how it was before the earthquakes. The Square formed the perfect space for public art. Sitting right at the centre is the statue of John Robert Godley, the founder of Christchurch and Canterbury. Recently, to commemorate the new millennium and its coincidence with the 150th Anniversary of this Foundation, an 18m high sculpture was erected in the square.
006- CASHEL STREET "POP-UP" MALL/RE:START-It is an outdoor retail space consisting of temporary buildings made from shipping containers. Opened in October 2011, Re:START has been steadily growing to approximately 40 retailers, a number of food caravans and a market on the weekend.
Quake City -Located in Re:START, Quake City is a multi-media attraction that tells the stories of the Christchurch and Canterbury earthquakes. Entry is $20 per adult. Open from 10am - 5pm.
Quake City -Located in Re:START, Quake City is a multi-media attraction that tells the stories of the Christchurch and Canterbury earthquakes. Entry is $20 per adult. Open from 10am - 5pm.
007-CANTERBURY MUSEUM-Experience New Zealand's rich cultural and natural heritage. Rare Maori artefacts and the stories behind them will fascinate you. Antarctic Gallery celebrates the heroic age of discovery and exploration.
Opening- 9.00 am - 5.30 pm (October - March).
General admission to the Museum is free.
Opening- 9.00 am - 5.30 pm (October - March).
General admission to the Museum is free.
008-AIRFORCE MUSEUM-Discover one of the world's premier military aviation collections at the Air Force Museum of New Zealand. Marvel at the collection of 28 classic aircraft, fly a simulator, experience life in the Air Force.
Free admission.
Open daily 10am to 5pm.
Free admission.
Open daily 10am to 5pm.
009-INTERNATIONAL ANTARCTIC CENTRE-This place is full on, interactive & tactile Antarctic fun for everyone. Journey through modern day Antarctica and experience a taste of this unique and breath-taking continent. 'Antarctica' the Snow and Ice experience is some really ‘cool’ fun with icy slides, a 'polar plunge' ice water challenge, a cave and an Antarctic storm.
I-Penguin Rescue
II-Antartic Gallery
III-Penguin Back Stage Pass
IV-4D Theater-experience a magical simulated Antarctic Cruise in the 4D Extreme Theatre.
V-Storm Dome-This safe, fun-for-all-ages indoor polar room is chilled to -8 degrees Celsius and buffeted by a -18°Celsius wind chill machine. Every hour a chillingly realistic Antarctic storm blows through and you’ll be happy to shelter in an ice cave (make sure you have brought a warm jacket) – and we’ll provided you overshoes.
VI-Hagglund Field Trip-Get an exciting ride on the all-terrain, amphibious Hagglund.You’ll be aboard the Hägglund, an amazing all-terrain amphibious Antarctic vehicle that’s been built to conquer the rough terrain on the ice.This unique machine delivers an incomparable passenger experience. You’ll feel what it’s like for scientists in Antarctica as they travel across the ice, up and down hills, over crevasses and through water.
VII-Husky Zone-Husky Zone has been set up to give visitors a true hands-on experience with these incredible animals. Beautiful, intelligent and friendly.
Located next to Christchurch International Airport and open every day of the year from 9am – 5.30pm.
Opening-9am-5.30pm
General Admission-NZ$59.00
Search Results
Web results
www.iceberg.co.nz
I-Penguin Rescue
II-Antartic Gallery
III-Penguin Back Stage Pass
IV-4D Theater-experience a magical simulated Antarctic Cruise in the 4D Extreme Theatre.
V-Storm Dome-This safe, fun-for-all-ages indoor polar room is chilled to -8 degrees Celsius and buffeted by a -18°Celsius wind chill machine. Every hour a chillingly realistic Antarctic storm blows through and you’ll be happy to shelter in an ice cave (make sure you have brought a warm jacket) – and we’ll provided you overshoes.
VI-Hagglund Field Trip-Get an exciting ride on the all-terrain, amphibious Hagglund.You’ll be aboard the Hägglund, an amazing all-terrain amphibious Antarctic vehicle that’s been built to conquer the rough terrain on the ice.This unique machine delivers an incomparable passenger experience. You’ll feel what it’s like for scientists in Antarctica as they travel across the ice, up and down hills, over crevasses and through water.
VII-Husky Zone-Husky Zone has been set up to give visitors a true hands-on experience with these incredible animals. Beautiful, intelligent and friendly.
Located next to Christchurch International Airport and open every day of the year from 9am – 5.30pm.
Opening-9am-5.30pm
General Admission-NZ$59.00
Search Results
Web results
www.iceberg.co.nz
010-PUNTING ON THE AVON RIVER-Glide along the tranquil Avon River in Christchurch. Avon River Punting tours are set aboard handcrafted flat-bottomed boats, poled along by your punter from the platform till at the rear end of the boat. An ideal group or family activity, Punting on the Avon is an eco-friendly way to relax and enjoy Christchurch. Park departure point travel leisurely from the historic Antigua Boat sheds, through the Botanic Gardens, and enjoy the spectacular flora that our ‘Garden City’ is famous for. The return trip from either departure point takes approximately 30 minutes.
Summer Hours: 9am – 6pm (1st October to 31st March)
Park Landing Site: Antigua Boat Sheds, 2 Cambridge Terrace.
Price- NZ$ 25.00 (Combo tickets are also availble)
Summer Hours: 9am – 6pm (1st October to 31st March)
Park Landing Site: Antigua Boat Sheds, 2 Cambridge Terrace.
Price- NZ$ 25.00 (Combo tickets are also availble)
011-CHRISTCHURCH CASINO -Providing all your entertainment needs under one roof, experience the latest in gaming technology on 500 gaming machines and 36 table games or enjoy plenty of fine dining options in four restaurants and three bars.
Monday - Thursday 11am to 3am (the following day)
Friday 11am open right through the weekend to Monday 3am
Monday - Thursday 11am to 3am (the following day)
Friday 11am open right through the weekend to Monday 3am
012-ART CENTER- The Arts Centre is an easy five minute walk from Cathedral Square and is located directly across from the main entrance to Christchurch Botanic gardens. One of the best and most extensive examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the country, the former University of Canterbury now houses a complex of shops, studios and art galleries. Public art installations, regular arts and crafts workshops and street performers create a buzz and the chance for discovery through every arch and alleyway.
DAY TOUR FROM CHIRSTCHURCH-
001-TRANZALPINE | KIWIRAIL SCENIC JOURNEYS-The Tranz Alpine scenic train journeys between Christchurch and Greymouth, crossing from one coast of New Zealand to the other. Deep gorges and high viaducts, braided rivers and looming tunnels, native beech forest and majestic mountain peaks all combine to make every turn in the tracks a magical drama, see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. The train climbs into the majestic Southern Alps to Arthurs Pass National Park, before descending through lush beech rainforest to the West Coast town of Greymouth – a great base for exploring this unspoiled region with its mighty glaciers, wild rivers and famous Punakaiki pancake rocks. The rear car of the train is a highlight, as it's an open-air carriage that makes for the perfect spot to grab some amazing travel snaps of the rolling farmland, rocky coast or the peaks of the Kaikoura mountain ranges which you'll pass by at various points along the way. The Alps are crossed by a rail line passing through the Otira Tunnel 8.6 km long at Arthur’s Pass.
(Christchurch/Greymouth 0815/1245 or Greymouth/Christchurch 1345/1805).
Ticket-NZ$179.00 (oneway)
i-Arthurs Pass- Arthur's Pass is the highest pass over the Southern Alps. Long before surveyor Arthur Dudley Dobson found his way over the pass in 1864, it was known to Maori hunting parties as a route between east and west. The eastern side of Arthur's Pass National Park is characterised by wide, shingle-filled riverbeds and vast beech forests. The western side of the park, where wet weather is more common than dry, has deeply gorged rivers flowing through dense rainforest. Down the middle of 'the great divide' is an alpine dreamland of snow-covered peaks, glaciers and scree slopes. The park includes many peaks over 2000 metres - the highest is Mount Murchison at 2,400 metres.
Arthur's Pass township is about 5 km south of the mountain pass. Its elevation is 740 metres above sea level surrounded by beech forest. It is a popular base for exploring Arthur's Pass National Park. Arthur's Pass village is in the centre of the park. In the village there is a bar, restaurant, cafe and shops selling souvenirs, basic groceries and fuel. Arthur's Pass National Park offers a range of walks, from short easy strolls to demanding climbs. There are many to choose from - tracks lead you through rich forest, to waterfalls, alpine meadows and mountain tops. Snow and icicles on the tracks from July to October give them a magical charm. The Devil's Punchbowl Falls at 131 metres is a popular one hour return walk from the village. Steep tracks starting from the village take you to high peaks with 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains.
iii-Greymouth- Greymouth is the largest town on the South Island’s west coast. The area has a history of gold mining, which can be appreciated at the local museum and nearby Shantytown. The local brewery is something of a New Zealand legend, it runs tours that include a tasting session. Hiking the Elizabeth Track, which passes through a scenic reserve and old goldmining sites.
Christchurch Departs -8.15AM and Arrival at Greymouth-12.45PM
https://www.seat61.com/NewZealand.htm
(Christchurch/Greymouth 0815/1245 or Greymouth/Christchurch 1345/1805).
Ticket-NZ$179.00 (oneway)
i-Arthurs Pass- Arthur's Pass is the highest pass over the Southern Alps. Long before surveyor Arthur Dudley Dobson found his way over the pass in 1864, it was known to Maori hunting parties as a route between east and west. The eastern side of Arthur's Pass National Park is characterised by wide, shingle-filled riverbeds and vast beech forests. The western side of the park, where wet weather is more common than dry, has deeply gorged rivers flowing through dense rainforest. Down the middle of 'the great divide' is an alpine dreamland of snow-covered peaks, glaciers and scree slopes. The park includes many peaks over 2000 metres - the highest is Mount Murchison at 2,400 metres.
Arthur's Pass township is about 5 km south of the mountain pass. Its elevation is 740 metres above sea level surrounded by beech forest. It is a popular base for exploring Arthur's Pass National Park. Arthur's Pass village is in the centre of the park. In the village there is a bar, restaurant, cafe and shops selling souvenirs, basic groceries and fuel. Arthur's Pass National Park offers a range of walks, from short easy strolls to demanding climbs. There are many to choose from - tracks lead you through rich forest, to waterfalls, alpine meadows and mountain tops. Snow and icicles on the tracks from July to October give them a magical charm. The Devil's Punchbowl Falls at 131 metres is a popular one hour return walk from the village. Steep tracks starting from the village take you to high peaks with 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains.
iii-Greymouth- Greymouth is the largest town on the South Island’s west coast. The area has a history of gold mining, which can be appreciated at the local museum and nearby Shantytown. The local brewery is something of a New Zealand legend, it runs tours that include a tasting session. Hiking the Elizabeth Track, which passes through a scenic reserve and old goldmining sites.
Christchurch Departs -8.15AM and Arrival at Greymouth-12.45PM
https://www.seat61.com/NewZealand.htm
002-KAIKOURA WHALE AND DOLPHIN OVERNIGHT TOUR FROM CHRISTCHURCH-Kaikoura, on the east coast, is one of the only places in the world where you can easily see sperm whales. Sperm whales, the largest of the toothed whales, grow to over 15 metres in length. They dive deep into the ocean to feed. The resident population of sperm whales at Kaikoura can be seen all year round. Orca (killer whales) may be seen from December to March, and humpback whales in June and July. Several dolphin species are seen almost daily in the area. Whales thrive close to Kaikoura because of its unusual submarine landscape. The continental shelf drops quickly into a number of extremely deep underwater canyons. In addition, a warm current from the north meets a colder one from the south. This causes nutrients from deep within the ocean to be carried upward, a phenomenon that helps to support all types of marine life from plankton and krill to dolphins and whales.
Day 1: Christchurch – Kaikoura (180kms/three hour drive)
Travel by coach through the rolling hill country of North Canterbury, enjoying the beauty of its rural pastoral scenes, to Kaikoura . Kaikoura is world renowned for the variety of marine mammals which can be seen. On arrival in Kaikoura you will be transferred to a whale watch tour by boat. This afternoon is free to explore Kaikoura. Overnight Accommodation.
Day 2: Kaikoura / Christchurch
This morning join the Swim with Dolphins Cruise with Dolphin Encounter. You will be fully equipped with wet suit, mask, snorkel and flippers in order to swim in the sea with the Dusky Dolphins. There will be the opportunity during the day to visit a seal colony where fur seals may be viewed at close quarters. Returning to Christchurch this afternoon (a journey of approximately three hours by coach), a stop will be made at a North Canterbury vineyard where a wine tasting has been arranged for your pleasure.
Price-NZ$385.00
a-http://www.nz.com/new-zealand/activities/christchurch/kaikoura-whale-and-dolphin-overnight-tour-from-christchurch.aspx-2days tour
b-https://www.viator.com/tours/Kaikoura/Kaikoura-Whale-Watch-Day-Tour-from-Christchurch -1 day tour
Day 1: Christchurch – Kaikoura (180kms/three hour drive)
Travel by coach through the rolling hill country of North Canterbury, enjoying the beauty of its rural pastoral scenes, to Kaikoura . Kaikoura is world renowned for the variety of marine mammals which can be seen. On arrival in Kaikoura you will be transferred to a whale watch tour by boat. This afternoon is free to explore Kaikoura. Overnight Accommodation.
Day 2: Kaikoura / Christchurch
This morning join the Swim with Dolphins Cruise with Dolphin Encounter. You will be fully equipped with wet suit, mask, snorkel and flippers in order to swim in the sea with the Dusky Dolphins. There will be the opportunity during the day to visit a seal colony where fur seals may be viewed at close quarters. Returning to Christchurch this afternoon (a journey of approximately three hours by coach), a stop will be made at a North Canterbury vineyard where a wine tasting has been arranged for your pleasure.
Price-NZ$385.00
a-http://www.nz.com/new-zealand/activities/christchurch/kaikoura-whale-and-dolphin-overnight-tour-from-christchurch.aspx-2days tour
b-https://www.viator.com/tours/Kaikoura/Kaikoura-Whale-Watch-Day-Tour-from-Christchurch -1 day tour
003-CHRISTCHURCH TO QUEENSTOWN COACH VIA MT COOK- Departing Christchurch you travel south through the villages of Ashburton and Geraldine before a brief stop at Tekapo (Lunch Break). (From Tekapo optional scenic flights are available over the glaciers and Mt Cook). Then you pass the Glentanner High Country Station before reaching Mount Cook Village. You can enjoy the beautiful mountain and glacier views or one of the many short walks this area has to offer. Travel further south into the Mackenzie Country, passing through Omarama (Break) and Cromwell townships (Tea Break), then it's through the tussock clad hills of the Lindis Pass to Cromwell, From here we travel through the craggy Kawarau Gorge, past the famous Bungy Jump bridge, before reaching stunning Queenstown, overlooking beautiful Lake Wakatipu. Early evening.
i-Ashburton- Ashburton lies in the middle of the fertile alluvial Canterbury Plains which permits agricultural activity such as dairying provided irrigation is used. Ashburton is on State Highway-1 86 km south of Christchurch. Ashburton offers fly fishing in the Rakaia River, hot air ballooning over the Canterbury plains.
ii- Lake Tekapo- It covers an area of 83 square kilometres and is at an altitude of 700 metres above sea level. The lake is fed at its northern end by the braided Godley River, which has its source in the Southern Alps to the north. Lake Tekapo is located exactly half-way between Christchurch and Queenstown. Lake Tekapo is about three hours’ drive south-west of Christchurch in the Mackenzie Basin. The township faces north across the remarkable turquoise coloured lake to the mountainous drama of the Southern Alps. Lake Tekapo gets its intense milky-turquoise colour from the fine rock-flour (ground by glaciers) which is suspended in the water. On the shores on the lake you'll see the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd. The church was built in 1935 for the pioneer families of the Mackenzie district, and it's a popular photo spot for visitors. Close to the Church of the Good Shepherd is a well-known bronze statue of a New Zealand Collie sheepdog. Lake Tekapo in the foreground and the Mount Cook National Park with Mount Cook, Mount Tasman and neighbouring mountain ranges of the southern Alps dominating the entire scenery before you. Popular visitor attractions on the lake are the stone Church of the Good Shepherd and right beside it is the bronze statue of a sheepdog dedicated to New Zealand’s hard working sheep dogs. The 55 km drive in the high country on Route # 80 along Lake Punakaki takes you to the Hermitage and the closest you can get by vehicle to Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain at 3754 metres.
iii-Twizel- The town was founded in 1968 to house construction workers on the Upper Waitaki Hydroelectric Scheme.
a-Mount Cook- Aoraki / Mount Cook is the highest mountain in New Zealand. Its height since 2014 is listed as 3724m. Aoraki / Mount Cook consists of three summits lying slightly south and east of the main divide, the Low Peak, Middle Peak and High Peak, with the Tasman Glacier to the east and the Hooker Glacier to the west. The mountain is in the Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, in the Canterbury region.
b-Lake Pukaki- Lake Pukaki (178sqkm) is the largest of three lakes (others are Tekapo and Ohau) occupying ancient glacial valleys in the Mackenzie Basin. The lake’s distinctive deep blue tones are from finely ground minerals carried in the glacier-fed waters.
iv-Omarama- Omarama is a small township at the junction of State Highways 8 and 83.
Start From: Christchurch - departs daily at 7.30am - arriving at 6.30pm at Queenstown.
Tour Duration: Full Day
Price-NZ$287.00
i-Ashburton- Ashburton lies in the middle of the fertile alluvial Canterbury Plains which permits agricultural activity such as dairying provided irrigation is used. Ashburton is on State Highway-1 86 km south of Christchurch. Ashburton offers fly fishing in the Rakaia River, hot air ballooning over the Canterbury plains.
ii- Lake Tekapo- It covers an area of 83 square kilometres and is at an altitude of 700 metres above sea level. The lake is fed at its northern end by the braided Godley River, which has its source in the Southern Alps to the north. Lake Tekapo is located exactly half-way between Christchurch and Queenstown. Lake Tekapo is about three hours’ drive south-west of Christchurch in the Mackenzie Basin. The township faces north across the remarkable turquoise coloured lake to the mountainous drama of the Southern Alps. Lake Tekapo gets its intense milky-turquoise colour from the fine rock-flour (ground by glaciers) which is suspended in the water. On the shores on the lake you'll see the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd. The church was built in 1935 for the pioneer families of the Mackenzie district, and it's a popular photo spot for visitors. Close to the Church of the Good Shepherd is a well-known bronze statue of a New Zealand Collie sheepdog. Lake Tekapo in the foreground and the Mount Cook National Park with Mount Cook, Mount Tasman and neighbouring mountain ranges of the southern Alps dominating the entire scenery before you. Popular visitor attractions on the lake are the stone Church of the Good Shepherd and right beside it is the bronze statue of a sheepdog dedicated to New Zealand’s hard working sheep dogs. The 55 km drive in the high country on Route # 80 along Lake Punakaki takes you to the Hermitage and the closest you can get by vehicle to Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain at 3754 metres.
- Scenic Helicopter Flights (20mts)-Mountain High- Soar alongside the magnificent Lake Tekapo. Go to high into the Joseph mountain range, landing on top of Mt Joseph and taking in the panoramic views of the Southern Alps, The Mackenzie Basin and overlooking the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki. Then descend down past the contrasting colours of Lake Alexandrina and Lake Tekapo back to the Mackenzie Heliport.
- Scenic Helicopter Flight (30mts) - The Alpine Adventure- Fly over the panoramic Mackenzie Basin taking in the views of the turquoise colours of Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo, before turning and heading towards the rugged Mount Cook National Park and the some of the tallest mountains in New Zealand. Where you will land on the snow to take in the panoramic views of Mount Cook and the Southern alps. Before descending back through the rugged mountain tops towards Lake Tekapo.
iii-Twizel- The town was founded in 1968 to house construction workers on the Upper Waitaki Hydroelectric Scheme.
a-Mount Cook- Aoraki / Mount Cook is the highest mountain in New Zealand. Its height since 2014 is listed as 3724m. Aoraki / Mount Cook consists of three summits lying slightly south and east of the main divide, the Low Peak, Middle Peak and High Peak, with the Tasman Glacier to the east and the Hooker Glacier to the west. The mountain is in the Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, in the Canterbury region.
b-Lake Pukaki- Lake Pukaki (178sqkm) is the largest of three lakes (others are Tekapo and Ohau) occupying ancient glacial valleys in the Mackenzie Basin. The lake’s distinctive deep blue tones are from finely ground minerals carried in the glacier-fed waters.
iv-Omarama- Omarama is a small township at the junction of State Highways 8 and 83.
Start From: Christchurch - departs daily at 7.30am - arriving at 6.30pm at Queenstown.
Tour Duration: Full Day
Price-NZ$287.00
004- CHRISTCHURCH TO QUEENSTOWN COACH VIA FOX GLACIERS-
Day-01- Christchurch - Arthur's Pass – Greymouth (240Km/3hrs):- The settlement of Arthur’s Pass is a base for climbing, hiking, hunting and skiing adventures in the adjacent national park. There’s a good choice of short walks. Once you’re through the pass, the misty mountains gradually give way to classic west coast river and forest scenery. Rushing water, impressive bridges and tiny towns are soulfully picturesque.
Greymouth has a long gold mining history. The local brewery runs tours or you can try out white water rafting or sea kayaking.
Day-02- Greymouth - Franz Josef - Fox Glacier (200kms/2.50hrs):- Nowhere else in the world have glaciers advanced so close to the sea at this latitude. You can walk to the terminal of Franz Josef Glacier in about 10 minutes. Guided hikes, heli-hikes and scenic flights over the glaciers are popular. After a short drive south, you’ll arrive at Fox Glacier. The glacier’s terminal face is just 5 kilometres from the township.
i-Fox Glaciers- The Fox Glacier down the Fox Valley from the high peaks of the Southern Alps. It surges through temperate rainforest and turns a corner before terminating 250 metres above sea level and only 12 kilometres from the Tasman Sea. It is the longer and the faster moving of the two famous West Coast glaciers. Fed by four alpine glaciers, it falls 2600 metres on its 13-kilometre journey towards the coast. It is 300 metres deep and its terminal face is just 5 kilometres from the township.
The névé or snow catchment area of the Fox Glacier is about 36 square kilometres . Its valley has more 3 000-metre (10 000-feet) peaks presiding over it than any other valley in New Zealand. Douglas Peak, and Mounts Haast, Tasman, Torres, and others, feed snow into the névé and cast their shadows at sunrise.
Fox Glacier is longer and faster moving than the Franz Josef Glacier. Fox Glacier is the name of both the glacier and the nearby village. Fox Glacier village is 3.5 hours’ drive from Wanaka, just under 2 hours from Hokitika and 25 minutes from Franz Josef village. Near Fox Glacier is beautiful Lake Matheson, famous for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, New Zealand’s highest peaks, on a clear day. You can do guided walks on Fox Glacier without having to take a helicopter flight. If you want to get above the glacier there are also several helicopter companies that take you on scenic flights over the glacier with the added bonus of close up views of Aoraki/Mt Cook. You can choose whether to land on the ice awesome photos guaranteed.
ii-Franz Josef- Franz Josef Glacier area has some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand. Just six kilometres from the centre of the village, Franz Josef Glacier descends from the tops of the Southern Alps into rainforest close to sea level. This provides a very rare opportunity to experience a dynamic glacier in a temperate environment, within easy driving and walking distance from the main highway. Franz Josef is the name of both the glacier and the nearby village, though the Maori names are different. The small but lively Franz Josef Waiau village is surrounded by lush rainforest with the high snow-capped Alps above. Within a short distance of the village are a number of options for taking in the natural attractions including a cycleway, walks of varying length, guided walks, kayaking, and action adventures like rafting or skydiving. You can take a visit to the white heron colony or the world’s rarest kiwi. Ten minutes’ drive north of the Franz Josef village on State Highway 6 is the beautiful Lake Mapourika, a great place for fishing, birdwatching and kayaking. Ōkārito Lagoon New Zealand’s largest estuarine lagoon is a 20-minute drive north. It is well known for its walks and coastal birdlife, including the white heron (kōtuku).
Franz Josef village is on State Highway 6 and is 2 hours by car from Hokitika, 5.75 hours from Wanaka and 25 minutes from Fox Glacier village.
iii- Scenic Helicopter Flight -Fox Glacier and Mount Cook (available only from Fox Glacier) 30 Minutes - From Fox Glacier village fly over the legendary Fox Glacier and snowfields and discover the crevasses and ice forms being exposed below you. Land in the snow above the icefalls of the glacier and experience the magnitude of the scenery surrounding you. Then let the impressive presence of Aoraki /Mount Cook amaze you as you explore its majestic west face, before descending into the valleys below. NZ$310.00
Day-03- Fox Glacier – Queenstown(332 KM/4hrs):-
The long one-lane bridge over the Haast River leads you into the settlement of Haast. It’s a town with a touch of the wild west. Enjoy waterfalls and river scenery as you leave the coast and climb up the Haast river valley to Haast Pass. The road snakes through the Aspiring National Park, and the vegetation becomes sparser as you travel inland. Watch for the famous ‘bra fence’ – it’s become a local legend. Lakes Wanaka and Hawea make the last part of your trip beautifully scenic. The lakeside town of Wanaka has a high concentration of cafes, restaurants and interesting shops. From Wanaka, it's just an hour's drive to Queenstown.
Day-01- Christchurch - Arthur's Pass – Greymouth (240Km/3hrs):- The settlement of Arthur’s Pass is a base for climbing, hiking, hunting and skiing adventures in the adjacent national park. There’s a good choice of short walks. Once you’re through the pass, the misty mountains gradually give way to classic west coast river and forest scenery. Rushing water, impressive bridges and tiny towns are soulfully picturesque.
Greymouth has a long gold mining history. The local brewery runs tours or you can try out white water rafting or sea kayaking.
Day-02- Greymouth - Franz Josef - Fox Glacier (200kms/2.50hrs):- Nowhere else in the world have glaciers advanced so close to the sea at this latitude. You can walk to the terminal of Franz Josef Glacier in about 10 minutes. Guided hikes, heli-hikes and scenic flights over the glaciers are popular. After a short drive south, you’ll arrive at Fox Glacier. The glacier’s terminal face is just 5 kilometres from the township.
i-Fox Glaciers- The Fox Glacier down the Fox Valley from the high peaks of the Southern Alps. It surges through temperate rainforest and turns a corner before terminating 250 metres above sea level and only 12 kilometres from the Tasman Sea. It is the longer and the faster moving of the two famous West Coast glaciers. Fed by four alpine glaciers, it falls 2600 metres on its 13-kilometre journey towards the coast. It is 300 metres deep and its terminal face is just 5 kilometres from the township.
The névé or snow catchment area of the Fox Glacier is about 36 square kilometres . Its valley has more 3 000-metre (10 000-feet) peaks presiding over it than any other valley in New Zealand. Douglas Peak, and Mounts Haast, Tasman, Torres, and others, feed snow into the névé and cast their shadows at sunrise.
Fox Glacier is longer and faster moving than the Franz Josef Glacier. Fox Glacier is the name of both the glacier and the nearby village. Fox Glacier village is 3.5 hours’ drive from Wanaka, just under 2 hours from Hokitika and 25 minutes from Franz Josef village. Near Fox Glacier is beautiful Lake Matheson, famous for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, New Zealand’s highest peaks, on a clear day. You can do guided walks on Fox Glacier without having to take a helicopter flight. If you want to get above the glacier there are also several helicopter companies that take you on scenic flights over the glacier with the added bonus of close up views of Aoraki/Mt Cook. You can choose whether to land on the ice awesome photos guaranteed.
ii-Franz Josef- Franz Josef Glacier area has some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand. Just six kilometres from the centre of the village, Franz Josef Glacier descends from the tops of the Southern Alps into rainforest close to sea level. This provides a very rare opportunity to experience a dynamic glacier in a temperate environment, within easy driving and walking distance from the main highway. Franz Josef is the name of both the glacier and the nearby village, though the Maori names are different. The small but lively Franz Josef Waiau village is surrounded by lush rainforest with the high snow-capped Alps above. Within a short distance of the village are a number of options for taking in the natural attractions including a cycleway, walks of varying length, guided walks, kayaking, and action adventures like rafting or skydiving. You can take a visit to the white heron colony or the world’s rarest kiwi. Ten minutes’ drive north of the Franz Josef village on State Highway 6 is the beautiful Lake Mapourika, a great place for fishing, birdwatching and kayaking. Ōkārito Lagoon New Zealand’s largest estuarine lagoon is a 20-minute drive north. It is well known for its walks and coastal birdlife, including the white heron (kōtuku).
Franz Josef village is on State Highway 6 and is 2 hours by car from Hokitika, 5.75 hours from Wanaka and 25 minutes from Fox Glacier village.
iii- Scenic Helicopter Flight -Fox Glacier and Mount Cook (available only from Fox Glacier) 30 Minutes - From Fox Glacier village fly over the legendary Fox Glacier and snowfields and discover the crevasses and ice forms being exposed below you. Land in the snow above the icefalls of the glacier and experience the magnitude of the scenery surrounding you. Then let the impressive presence of Aoraki /Mount Cook amaze you as you explore its majestic west face, before descending into the valleys below. NZ$310.00
Day-03- Fox Glacier – Queenstown(332 KM/4hrs):-
The long one-lane bridge over the Haast River leads you into the settlement of Haast. It’s a town with a touch of the wild west. Enjoy waterfalls and river scenery as you leave the coast and climb up the Haast river valley to Haast Pass. The road snakes through the Aspiring National Park, and the vegetation becomes sparser as you travel inland. Watch for the famous ‘bra fence’ – it’s become a local legend. Lakes Wanaka and Hawea make the last part of your trip beautifully scenic. The lakeside town of Wanaka has a high concentration of cafes, restaurants and interesting shops. From Wanaka, it's just an hour's drive to Queenstown.
005-OAMARU BLUE PENGUIN COLONY- Oamaru is a gorgeous harbor town centrally located on the South Island’s east coast 3 hours south of Christchurch or 90 minutes north of Dunedin. See the world's smallest penguins. Their colonies are within walking distance of the town center, close to shops, restaurants and accommodation. The day tours take you behind the scenes, into the penguins breeding area, where you may see the penguins up close in their nesting burrows. During the day visitors have the opportunity to enter the breeding colony. Take a casual stroll around part of the colony, seeing the natural habitat of the penguins. You’ll see the most penguins (up to 250) in November and December. From March to August there may be only 10 to 50 birds.
PRESENTED BY - VINOD GUPTA
PRESENTED BY - VINOD GUPTA