3 day West Coast Glaciers and TranzAlpine to Christchurch
From Queenstown you’ll travel the Kawarau Gorge and spectacular Haast Pass to the pristine wilderness of the West Coast. With 2 nights in Franz Josef you have time for a glacier adventure of your choosing. From there continue north on the rugged West Coast road to Greymouth where you’ll catch the world renowned Tranz Alpine Scenic Train to Christchurch.
Quick Itinerary Details
New Zealand Independent Tour
This suggested tour costs from NZD$2,790 per person (twin share, low season)
Starts in Queenstown, finishes in Christchurch
3 days/2 nights
Hotel 4 star
Customisable? YES
Viewed 216 times in the last 7 days
NZD$2,790
NZD$2,790
Leaving Queenstown, travel past picturesque scenery of massive mountain peaks and crystal-clear blue lakes. Journey across the Haast Pass to the other side of the Southern Alps, the landscape changes dramatically. Enter the wild and wonderful West Coast, a remote and unspoiled region. Wind your way past native rainforest, rocky coastlines and powerful waterfalls. Your journey concludes in the village of Franz Josef, your next base for exploration.
You’ll be transferred up the Franz Josef Valley to the road end, where you’ll have the opportunity to walk to a viewing platform with views of the glacier. Alternatively, you can enjoy one of the other scenic short walks in the area.
Your accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Only a breath away from the Franz Josef Glacier, Scenic Hotel is located in the heart of Franz Josef Village. Here you will find all of the amenities you would expect, as well as being close to the shops, restaurants and activities on offer in the beautiful Westland region.
Franz Josef is a small yet lively town in the heart of New Zealand’s West Coast, best known for its spectacular 12 km-long glacier. The township is surrounded by lush, rainforest-clad mountains and has a vibrant atmosphere with plenty to explore. A variety of scenic walking trails offer incredible views of the glacier, but for a truly up-close experience, a licensed helicopter tour is the only way to set foot on the ice. Beyond the glacier, unwind in the rejuvenating Hot Pools or visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre to spot rare kiwi birds. If you’re in the mood for a more relaxed day, the township is home to charming souvenir and gift shops, as well as great dining spots like SnakeBite Brewery and King Tiger. Whether you're chasing adventure or relaxation, Franz Josef is a stunning blend of wild beauty and welcoming hospitality.
A spectacular scenic flight soaring over two of New Zealand's most famous glaciers, Fox and Franz Josef. Landing at the head of one and view the incredible sight of this frozen river as it winds its way through ancient carved valleys.
It is important to read and understand the risks associated with this activity. A full risk disclosure can be found here.
After a thrilling scenic flight, high above the rugged terrain, you will land on the glacier, ready to undertake a guided glacier hike. Your friendly guide will lead you through some of the most pristine and awe-inspiring glacial scenery in the world. Your guide will choose your route carefully as you go and, with an eye for the most spectacular ice formations, you’ll soon be making your way through an extraordinary landscape of towering peaks and glistening blue ice.
It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity prior to travel. For more information please see here.
Your accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Only a breath away from the Franz Josef Glacier, Scenic Hotel is located in the heart of Franz Josef Village. Here you will find all of the amenities you would expect, as well as being close to the shops, restaurants and activities on offer in the beautiful Westland region.
Head north from Franz Josef through to the historic gold mining region of Hokitika. Known for its Pounamu (New Zealand Greenstone) this seaside town has a rich history dating back to the 1860’s. Continue on to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast and the starting point for the next leg of your journey - the TranzAlpine Scenic Train.
Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch. Travel across the South Island from the west to the east coast through Arthur's Pass National Park. From the comfort of your carriage see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving in the city of Christchurch.
| Starts | Status | Double (2 people sharing) | Single occupancy | You save | ||
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Dec 10, 2025
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 11, 2025
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 12, 2025
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 13, 2025
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 14, 2025
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 15, 2025
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 16, 2025
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 17, 2025
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 18, 2025
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 19, 2025
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 20, 2025
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 21, 2025
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 22, 2025
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 23, 2025
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 24, 2025
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 25, 2025
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 26, 2025
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 27, 2025
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 28, 2025
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 29, 2025
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 30, 2025
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 | |||
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Dec 31, 2025
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,790 | NZD$5,090 |
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