Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour)
Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour)

Outty Ranking 46 5.0 · 1 traveler reviews12 hoursFrom $5,823
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Outty Ranking

46/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 1 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour) worth booking?

Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour) is a 12-hour experience in Christchurch, New Zealand, from $5,823 per person. It scores 46 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 1 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
46 / 100
Rating
5/5 (1)
Duration
12 hours
From
$5,823 per person

This action-packed private tour is the perfect way to discover the outdoor beauty between Christchurch and Queenstown.Travel in a luxurious Mercedes Benz minivan with your private guide from Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt.cook and Lake Tekapo, and reach your destination relaxed & refreshed. It is a great alternative to enjoying New Zealand landscape, making frequent stops for photos on the way. HIGHLIGHTS: •Private Tour (i.e. Only for one party) means more personal service from the guide •Visit the iconic Church of Good Shepherd and Bronze Sheepdog Statue in Lake Tekapo •Admire Lake Pukaki, the largest lake in Mackenzie region, and stunning alpine scenery •Savor a delicious lunch with spectacular views at the Hermitage Hotel(POA) •Explore one of the many alpine walks in Mount Cook National Park

What you get

    About this experience

    This action-packed private tour is the perfect way to discover the outdoor beauty between Christchurch and Queenstown.Travel in a luxurious Mercedes Benz minivan with your private guide from Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt.cook and Lake Tekapo, and reach your destination relaxed & refreshed. It is a great alternative to enjoying New Zealand landscape, making frequent stops for photos on the way. HIGHLIGHTS: •Private Tour (i.e. Only for one party) means more personal service from the guide •Visit the iconic Church of Good Shepherd and Bronze Sheepdog Statue in Lake Tekapo •Admire Lake Pukaki, the largest lake in Mackenzie region, and stunning alpine scenery •Savor a delicious lunch with spectacular views at the Hermitage Hotel(POA) •Explore one of the many alpine walks in Mount Cook National Park

    What's included

    Included

    • Lunch (POA)
    • Bottled water
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off.
    • Professional guide.
    • Transport in luxurious van (2017 or late model Mercedes Benz)
    • Private tour (i.e. only for one party)

    Not included

    • Scenic flight with glacier landing (at own expense)
    • Lunch

    What you'll see and do

    1. Geraldine

      Set at the heart of the Canterbury region at the foot of the Southern Alps, Geraldine is the gateway to the lakes in the central Mackenzie Basin and the beginning of the Starlight Highway to Tekapo's world renowned UNESCO Aoraki McKenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Geraldine is the perfect place to stop for refreshments and break your journey.

      20 minutes here

    2. Lake Tekapo

      Visit captivatingly turquoise Lake Tekapo, the iconic Church of Good Shepherd, and the well-recognized statue of Sheepdog.

      20 minutes here

    3. Lake Pukaki

      Lake Pukaki is a shimmering blue jewel set into a grand alpine playground - an iconic New Zealand landscape of high mountain peaks, glacier fed alpine lakes and golden tussocks stretched beneath an endless sky. Sir Peter Jackson chose this part of the Southern Alps - the main divide stretching north-south the length of New Zealand's South Island - as the setting for ‘Lake-town’ in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.

      20 minutes here · Admission included

    4. Arrive at Mount Cook national park where you'll savor a scrumptious lunch at Hermitage Hotel.

      60 minutes here

    5. Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier walks

      At around 27 km long, the Tasman Glacier is the longest glacier in New Zealand. This hike require moderate fitness and is approximately a 60 min return hike. There are good views of the Tasman Glacier and terminal lake, icebergs and the mountains at the head of the valley.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    6. High Country Salmon

      The Salmon Shop offers a wide range of salmon products for customers to take home. Choose from fresh, smoked or cured salmon in a variety of cuts. You can also enjoy throwing some fish feed pellets into the pen on the deck and watching the hungry salmon splash about.

      20 minutes here · Admission included

    7. Lindis Pass

      Quick stop at the Lindis Pass Summit scenic lookout for some pictures.

      5 minutes here · Admission included

    8. Mrs Jones Fruit Orchard

      Jones Family Fruit Stall is one of the best-known fruit stalls in Central Otago, with people coming from all over New Zealand and the world to visit. The fruit stall stocks a huge array of fresh fruits, dried fruits, nuts, honey products and vegetables.

      20 minutes here · Admission included

    9. Queenstown

      Arrive at your final destination Queenstown where your guide will drop you at your accommodation.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Christchurch

    Your preferred pick-up location In Christchurch.

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    Drop of at your preferred location in Queenstown.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 10 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    NZSI Tours & Travel

    Know before you go

    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Oversized or excessive luggage (e.g. surfboards, golf clubs or bikes) may have certain restrictions, please inquire with the operator prior to travel to confirm if your excess luggage is acceptable

    Photos

    Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour), photo 2Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour), photo 3Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour), photo 4Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour), photo 5Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour), photo 6Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour), photo 7

    Traveler reviews

    1 verified traveler reviews for Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour). Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    1
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Marie_M · March 2020

    Great way to see more of the South Island

    Great way to see more of the island vs flying from major city to city. The stop at Mt Cook was lovely. Our driver/guide, Anuj, did a great job. We are a quiet group and it was the perfect balance of learning about what was around us and chill time.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    12 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $5,823 to $10,000
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    0
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by NZSI Tours & Travel, who run 12 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 54.6 and 1 in the 90+ Club.

    See everything NZSI Tours & Travel runs

    Why this scores 46

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)79
    Review evidence (18% weight)11
    Booking momentum (14% weight)0
    Value for money (12% weight)0
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)52
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour): questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Christchurch.

    How much does Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour) cost?

    +

    Prices start at $5,823 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Christchurch usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour) take?

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    Plan for about 12 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Christchurch is not rushed.

    Is Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour) worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 46 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 1 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Christchurch, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour)?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour) suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour)?

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    Around 0 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Christchurch can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Christchurch and add a light layer if any part of the 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour) start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Christchurch within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Christchurch?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Christchurch experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip, Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch, Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Christchurch?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Christchurch?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour)?

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    Included: Lunch (POA); Bottled water; Hotel pickup and drop-off; Professional guide; and Transport in luxurious van (2017 or late model Mercedes Benz). Not included: Scenic flight with glacier landing (at own expense); and Lunch. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour) include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 152 listed pickup locations in and around Christchurch. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour) offered in?

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    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour)?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour) wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour) if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Christchurch. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo (Private Tour).

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