Join us for pristine, clear, cold rivers, waterfalls, bird life, and some of New Zealand’s most magnificent mountain scenes

Duration

2 Days

About

Almost a step back in time and a slow down as we savor the sights, sounds, and nature that is inherent in this amazing alpine area. We take our time and inhale deeply of the mountain air while watching Kea parrots and exploring ancient forests and clear cold waters in the nearby rivers and waterfalls

Itinerary:

Day 1:

Departing Christchurch CBD we head west on SH 73 via the town of Darfield. Stops along the way include Five Brothers Corner for Alpine views before arriving at Porters Pass for our first full photography opportunity. Carrying on over Porters Pass we soon arrive at Lake Lyndon, where on a good day, photography chances abound. It is here that we stop for morning tea. Carrying on further up the road, we head directly for and through Arthur’s Pass settlement, over the top, and down the other side to the historic and photogenic Stagecoach Hotel in the hamlet of Otira.

Back tracking, we now work our way up the Otira Gorge hill admiring and photographing the sights along the way, the stops at such photogenic locations as the Otira Gorge, and Otira Falls Lookout points, before crossing back over the Otira Viaduct and heading up to the Otira Viaduct Lookout, high above the viaduct. Watch out for the ultra friendly and generally unafraid native parrot, the Kea. Please do not feed them no matter how much they ask – its actually very unhealthy for them

Working our way back into Arthur’s Pass settlement, we settle into one of the cafes in the town for a hearty lunch before exploring some of the local walking tracks and sights such as The Devils Punchbowl waterfall track, before making our way back to Klondyke Corner where we watch the mighty Waimakariri River surge under the long one lane bridge while enjoying afternoon tea. Another very photogenic spot for us to get acquainted with before heading to our accommodation for the evening.

Day 2:

After a leisurely breakfast, we leave Arthurs Pass for Bealey, where we will walk up the Bealey Spur as far as the bushline (where the track comes out of the trees) for incredible panoramic views across the Upper Waimakariri River catchment area. Superb views and plenty of “wow” factor. This track is moderately steep so we recommend good footwear and a moderate level of fitness. Please let us know if you have any concerns. Once back down the hill, we start working our way back towards Porters Pass with a couple of stops along the way, notably at Lake Pearson, and the Cave Stream Scenic Reserve.

Once back over Porters Pass we head for the Waimakariri Gorge viewing point and enjoy the views as the river is squeezed between the granite cliffs while enjoying a picnic lunch. If we’re in luck, we will be faced with one of two options: A Jet boat thundering its way up or down the river, or a beautiful calm day, with reflections off the glassy waters for us to enjoy before we make our way towards Kaiapoi and the Waimakariri River Regional Park for last stop before returning to Christchurch City

Inclusions:

• Pickup from some of the main hotels within Christchurch, or alternately from the Canterbury Museum
• Expert, knowledgeable guide
• Activities and Permits
• Photography tuition (if required)
• Late model, air conditioned transport
• All meals including lunch, dinner, breakfast
• Accommodation
• Snacks, beverages, and drinks
• Scenic stops