Franz Josef to Christchurch via Arthur's Pass & Castle Hill | Cheeky Kiwi Travel | Shaara Deals

Castle Hill's weathered limestone boulders — recognisable from Narnia and Lord of the Rings — are one of the last stops on this all-road, one-way tour from Franz Josef to Christchurch, run by Cheeky Kiwi Travel and listed on Shaara Deals from $290. Unlike its TranzAlpine sister tour, this version stays on the road the whole way, crossing Arthur's Pass by Mercedes Sprinter.

Franz Josef to Hokitika

The tour leaves Franz Josef and stops first at Lake Ianthe, home to wetland birds including the endangered Great Crested Grebe, before continuing to Hokitika Gorge for its turquoise water, and then into Hokitika itself for a wander along the black-sand beach.

Greymouth and the coast

The group stops in Greymouth for lunch, with a free choice from a set menu, then continues to Cobden Breakwater to see its standout beach break before turning inland toward the Southern Alps.

Over Arthur's Pass

The road climbs to the Otira Gorge Lookout — known locally as Deaths Corner — for a view over the 440-metre Otira Viaduct and a chance to spot a Kea, the alpine parrot. From there the tour reaches Arthur's Pass Village, with time to walk to the Devil's Punchbowl or browse the local shop, before continuing to Castle Hill, where ancient, wind-carved limestone rocks are open to explore on your own.

Into Christchurch

The final stretch runs into Christchurch, where the guide drops guests at their accommodation. Please note additional stops are built in for toilet breaks along the way.

What's included

• Small group tour

• Lunch

• Fully guided tour

• Bottled water and snacks

Tour details

• Price: From NZD $290.00

• Duration: Approximately 12 hours

• Departs: Franz Josef, West Coast

• Finishes: Christchurch (drop-off at accommodation)

• Operator: Cheeky Kiwi Travel

FAQ: Franz Josef to Christchurch via Arthur's Pass

Does this tour include the TranzAlpine train? No — this is the all-road version. Cheeky Kiwi Travel runs a separate Franz Josef to Christchurch tour that includes the TranzAlpine train as an optional extra.

Is lunch included? Yes — lunch in Greymouth is included, with a free choice from a set menu.

Is Castle Hill a guided walk? No — Castle Hill is self-guided, so you're free to explore the rock formations at your own pace.

Book the Franz Josef to Christchurch via Arthur's Pass tour with Cheeky Kiwi Travel directly through Shaara Deals: https://shaaradeals.co.nz/deal/6a94b1547e52fe600370bfeb