Glaciers and TranzAlpine Adventure
Journey from Queenstown through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge and the breathtaking Haast Pass, leading to the pristine wilderness of the West Coast. With two nights in Franz Josef, you'll have ample time to choose your perfect glacier adventure. From there, travel north along the ruggedly beautiful West Coast road to Greymouth, where you’ll board the world-famous TranzAlpine Scenic Train for an unforgettable journey to Christchurch.
Independent Tours
This suggested tour costs from NZD$2,130 per person (twin share, low season)
Starts in Queenstown, finishes in Christchurch
3 days/2 nights
Motels
Customisable? YES
Viewed 350 times in the last 7 days
Tour Inclusions
At a glance - Glaciers and TranzAlpine Adventure
Day 1: Journey from Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Day 2: Explore the West Coast Glacier region
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Day 3: Travel from Franz Josef to Greymouth, then take the Tranz Alpine train to Christchurch
Detailed itinerary
Day 1 - Journey from Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier
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: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Punga Grove is right in the heart of Franz Josef Glacier village stylish accommodation in a beautiful rainforest setting.
Day 2 - Explore the West Coast Glacier 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.
Nature has combined three ingredients to create the stunning vista of Lake Matheson. Explore the crystal clear waters and learn about the flora, fauna...
Read moreNature has combined three ingredients to create the stunning vista of Lake Matheson. Explore the crystal clear waters and learn about the flora, fauna, glaciation, geology, and natural history of this beautiful area. Enjoy the stunning Lake Matheson, where you'll walk the 3km gentle track that follows the lake edge. Along the way, you'll take in the reflective qualities of the lake and the surrounding lush rainforest, which make for fantastic photo opportunities.
HideA 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 incre...
Read moreA 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.
HideYour accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Punga Grove is right in the heart of Franz Josef Glacier village stylish accommodation in a beautiful rainforest setting.Day 3 - Travel from Franz Josef to Greymouth, then take the Tranz Alpine train to Christchurch
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.
Feel like luxurious service, exclusive meals, inclusive drinks and priority check-in and boarding? The Scenic Plus add-on option is for you. Enjoy per...
Read moreFeel like luxurious service, exclusive meals, inclusive drinks and priority check-in and boarding? The Scenic Plus add-on option is for you. Enjoy personal service with panoramic windows, spacious carriages and comfortable seating. The exclusive open-air viewing carriage is available if you feel like capturing the ultimate photo or simply wish to experience the great outdoors whilst travelling through the Southern Alps. Your food is prepared exclusively in a kitchen carriage, with paired drinks and a paddock-to-plate regionally inspired food menu all your senses will be fully engaged on this journey.
HideBid farewell to Aotearoa / New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Māori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!
| Starts | Status | Double (2 people sharing) | Single occupancy | You save | ||
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Dec 11, 2025
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 12, 2025
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 13, 2025
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 14, 2025
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 15, 2025
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 16, 2025
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 17, 2025
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 18, 2025
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 19, 2025
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 20, 2025
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 21, 2025
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 22, 2025
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 23, 2025
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 24, 2025
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 25, 2025
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 26, 2025
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 27, 2025
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 28, 2025
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 29, 2025
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 30, 2025
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Dec 31, 2025
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Jan 1, 2026
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Jan 2, 2026
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Jan 3, 2026
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Jan 4, 2026
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Jan 5, 2026
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Jan 6, 2026
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Jan 7, 2026
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Jan 8, 2026
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Jan 9, 2026
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 | |||
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Jan 10, 2026
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$2,130 | NZD$3,920 |