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Franz Josef to Queenstown Small Group Tour via Wanaka 1 -Way

68 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 68 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers |
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Franz Josef & Fox Glacier, New Zealand
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 22 (0) days in advance.

12 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Explore the untamed beauty of New Zealand's Wild West Coast on this small group, fully-guided tour from Franz Josef to Queenstown. Your journey takes you along the rugged beaches of the West Coast, soaking in the dramatic landscapes that make this region so unique. As you traverse the unforgettable Haast Pass, you'll be captivated by the lush rainforests and coastal plains before arriving at the serene, glacier-fed lakes of Wānaka and Hāwea.

Led by our passionate guides, this tour goes beyond the destinations, offering secret stops, wildlife viewings and delightful surprises along the way. Travel in comfort with modern minibuses, enjoy complimentary refreshments and enjoy a provided lunch as you journey through one of New Zealand’s most picturesque regions.

At Cheeky Kiwi Travel, it's the journey, the stories and the small group experience that truly set our tours apart.

We also offer tours from Queenstown to Franz Josef, Franz Josef to Christchurch or Christchurch to Franz Josef.

What's Included

  • Lunch Sit down - free choice from a set menu
  • Safety/booster seat for children aged 7 & younger (please advise if you prefer to provide your own)
  • Space for luggage - 1 large & 1 small per person
  • Restroom on board
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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

*If no pickup is selected at time of booking, you will be allocated our default meeting point (Scenic Hotel Franz Josef). You are welcome to update this at any time. If your location isn’t listed, please choose your nearest available option & meet us there.*Pick-ups can begin up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time, depending on location. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside 5 minute prior to your specific pickup time.*Pick-up locations are carefully planned for each tour and may vary by day. If your pick-up location changes, kindly inform us in advance.*Our guides make multiple stops and may arrive within a 10-minute window. We are unable to wait for late guests.

OR
Meeting point

36-44 Main Road Franz Josef Glacier
Main Road, Franz Josef / Waiau 7886, New Zealand

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Queenstown
New Zealand

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Lake Matheson Walk

This spot is every photographers dream. On a calm day you can capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This easy bushwalk will reward you with breathtaking views across the southern alps.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Bruce Bay (pass by)

At this location you will see where the thick native rainforest meets a seemingly endless open ocean of the Tasman Sea. This beautiful beach really is the best of the west.
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Ship Creek Walks

As we make our way south along the boarder where ancient rainforest meets the ocean we will make a stop at Ship Creek. Dig your toes in the sand and feel the crash of the relenting waves of the Tasman Sea. Explore the dunes via an easy 1km walking track.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Thunder Creek Falls

This easy 5 minute walk will reward you with the spectacular view of Thunder Creek Falls. This 28 meter waterfall is the remanence of a once great glacier that pours from a hanging valley into the Haast River below.
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20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Blue Pools Track

Located in Mt Aspiring National Park is the aptly named Blue Pools. This easy 3km round trip is well worth the effort to see the breathtaking blue waters of the Makarora River.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Lake Hawea

As we leave the national park behind make sure to keep your eyes open as we make our way westwards and past stunning Lake Hawea. We will stop for a quick photo at a lookout point between Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Wanaka

Stretch your legs take a walk down to the lakeside for that iconic photo of the Wanaka Tree. Soak in the beauty of this expansive lake backdropped by Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps. This is truly a photo opportunity that you do not want to miss!
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Cardrona (pass by)

From Wanaka we head over the Crown Range Road that connects Queenstown and Wanaka. We do a quick stop here to see the Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic hotels. Its rustic charm, spectacular mountain setting and rich history make it a must see while in Central Otago.
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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Guests can bring 1 large & 1 small piece of luggage each
  • Due to uneven surfaces & a moderate amount of walking being involved, this tour is not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, or wheelchair users

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Franz Josef to Queenstown Small Group Tour via Wanaka 1 -Way?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZDT).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-56760P62

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
68 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 68 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
68
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 22 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • LunchSit down - free choice from a set menu
  • Safety/booster seat for children aged 7 & younger (please advise if you prefer to provide your own)
  • Space for luggage - 1 large & 1 small per person
  • Water available & snacks provided
  • Fully guided small group tour with local guide
  • Restroom on board

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Guests can bring 1 large & 1 small piece of luggage each
  • Due to uneven surfaces & a moderate amount of walking being involved, this tour is not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, or wheelchair users
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

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Activity name