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Day 1: Christchurch Botanic Gardens - suggested activity (photo 4), The Wild West Coast
South Island · Independent coach travel (self guided)

The Wild West Coast

  • 5 days, 4 nights
  • Starts and ends in Christchurch
  • Hotel 4 star
Fromper person, twin share

Where you will go

2 places you sleep in over 4 nights. Select a place in the list to find it on the map.

Overnight stop, in route orderVisited on the wayScheduled coach, no guideStarts and ends in Christchurch. 2 overnight stops across 5 days, about 740 km of driving. Select a marker to open that day.

Overview

Independent coach travel (self guided). You travel on your own on scheduled coach services. Your seats and hotels are reserved; no guide travels with you. You are not left to it: your whole trip is in a travel app, and our New Zealand support team is a message or call away, seven days a week.

Please be advised that certain aspects of this tour may operate on specific days of the week during the winter months. 5 days through the South Island, starting and finishing in Christchurch. Along the way: Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Triple Pass - Tram, Punting and Gondola, TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth Scenic Plus. Every night is booked and the travelling is handled, so the itinerary below is what you actually do rather than a list of things you could arrange yourself.

  • 4 nights accommodation
  • 3 included activities
  • 6 meals included
  • 2 optional experiences

Explore more:South Island toursRail and scenic trainsSolo travellersLuxuryChristchurch toursFranz Josef Glacier toursGreymouth tours

What is included, and what is not

Included in the price

  • 4 nights of accommodation, hotel 4 star
  • Scheduled coach travel between destinations, seats reserved
  • Scenic rail sectors with seats reserved
  • 3 included activities and entries along the way
  • A detailed day by day itinerary with every booking reference
  • Support from a New Zealand based specialist while you travel
Included activities
  • Christchurch Botanic Gardens
  • Christchurch Triple Pass - Tram, Punting and Gondola
  • TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth Scenic Plus
  • Walking tracks in and around Franz Josef
  • TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch Scenic Plus

Not included

  • International flights to and from New Zealand
  • Travel insurance, which we recommend arranging on the day you pay your deposit
  • Meals other than the 6 meals listed in the itinerary
  • 2 optional experiences, each priced, which you can
  • Personal spending, tips and anything not listed as included

Anything here can be added. Extra nights, room upgrades, more activities or a different vehicle: tell us what you would change and we re-quote, no obligation.

Day by day

Christchurchview on Google Maps

Located just 15 minutes from the city centre, Christchurch’s 75-acre Botanic Gardens boast the finest collection of exotic and indigenous plants in New Zealand. This impressive collection creates a tranquil oasis, with spring daffodils, stunning summer roses and herbaceous borders, vibrant autumn foliage, and cozy conservatories to warm up in during winter. There’s something to enjoy in every season. The New Zealand Garden also offers a unique glimpse into the country’s wilderness, providing a peaceful escape throughout the year.

Christchurch Triple Pass - Tram, Punting and Gondola

Experience three of Christchurch’s iconic attractions in one day: the Christchurch Tram, Christchurch Gondola, and Punting on the Avon River. The historic tram is a delightful way to explore the evolving inner city, taking in the various sights with the hop-on hop-off pass and learning about the city from the live commentary. You’ll also enjoy a bird’s eye view of Christchurch and the Canterbury region including the distant peaks of the Southern Alps when you ride the gondola cableway to the top of the Port Hills in Heathcote Valley. Punting on the Avon River takes you through the city’s green belt: a relaxing way to explore what is affectionately known as the 'Garden City'.

Welcome to Christchurch City

Welcome to Ōtautahi / Christchurch, the South Island’s garden city, where historic heritage meets contemporary urban design. Whether you’re exploring the Avon River, wandering through expansive botanical gardens, or discovering contemporary art galleries, Christchurch offers plenty to uncover. As the gateway to the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps, the city is also the perfect base for refined farm-to-table dining, scenic adventures, and alpine escapes

ChristchurchTourism New Zealand
TonightSudima Christchurch CityBreakfast

Sudima Christchurch City is a brand new 5-star boutique hotel, ideally located on Victoria Street. Amidst an array of cafes, restaurants and bars, stay only a martini olive pips’ throw from beautiful Hagley Park and Christchurch’s CBD. Experience the garden city in comfort and style.

Franz Josefview on Google Maps

Franz Josef, named after both the local village and the nearby glacier, holds special significance in Māori culture as "Ko Roimata o Hine Hukatere", The Tears of the Ice Maiden. This rare glacier is one of only three in the world that descends from alpine heights into a temperate rainforest, almost reaching sea level. New Zealand is home to two of these unique glaciers, Franz Josef and Fox Glacier, both highly accessible and popular with visitors. The best ways to experience the glacier are through scenic flights or, for the adventurous, a heli-hike. You can also enjoy glacier views with a short drive from the village and walking tracks. Beyond the glacier, Franz Josef offers a wealth of adventure activities and beautiful forest and alpine walks, making it a must-visit destination.

Private Transfer with Glacier Shuttles

You will be met at the Greymouth Train Station by a representative from Glacier Shuttles and driven to your accommodation in Franz Josef.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth Scenic Plus

's Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views, making our TranzAlpine scenic train journey the perfect way to explore coast-to-coast through the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand’s South Island. Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience on the unique TranzAlpine scenic rail journey to invigorate all the senses! Feast your eyes on epic scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer all from the comfort of your luxurious seat, a hosted dining experience like no other. Quite simply, we have done everything we can to ensure you feel at peace as you sink back in your seat and soak up the scenery.

Shared Transfer from Christchurch CBD Accommodation to Christchurch Train Station with Christchurch Touring Company

You will be met by a driver at your Christchurch Accommodation and transferred to the railway station.

TonightScenic Hotel Franz Josef GlacierBreakfast and lunch

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 Josefview on Google Maps

Franz Josef offers many walks and hikes. Each trail offers a unique perspective of this remarkable region, from easy strolls through lush rainforest to more challenging hikes that lead to awe-inspiring glacier views. Visit the Department of Conservation (DOC) info centre in Franz Josef Village for updates on track conditions, and suitability, and to learn about the area’s natural history and people.

Franz Josef Glacier Helihike with Franz Josef Glacier GuidesOptional pp

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.

Kayak Classic with Franz Josef Wilderness ToursOptional pp

Glide effortlessly across the water taking in the panoramic views of the Southern Alps, glaciers, and untouched Jurassic rainforest reflected on the glassy waters of Lake Mapourika. Paddle into the heart of the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, exploring the protected area with your knowledgeable guide. It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.

TonightScenic Hotel Franz Josef GlacierBreakfast

Christchurchview on Google Maps

On arrival at the Christchurch railway station, you will be met by a driver and transferred to your Christchurch accommodation.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch Scenic Plus

's Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views, making our TranzAlpine scenic train journey the perfect way to explore coast-to-coast through the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand’s South Island. Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience on the unique TranzAlpine scenic rail journey to invigorate all the senses! Feast your eyes on epic scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer all from the comfort of your luxurious seat, a hosted dining experience like no other. Quite simply, we have done everything we can to ensure you feel at peace as you sink back in your seat and soak up the scenery.

Franz Josef to Greymouth with Glacier Shuttles

You will be met at the Greymouth Train Station by a representative from Glacier Shuttles and driven to your accommodation in Franz Josef.

TonightSudima Christchurch CityLunch and dinner

Christchurchview on Google Maps

Enjoy a seamless, private transfer from your Christchurch city accommodation directly to the Christchurch Airport in time for your departing flight.

Keep this itinerary

Email yourself the day by day to read later or pass on, or with every day open.

Optional experiences

2 available

Not in the price, listed under the day each one happens. Tick any you want and every price on this page updates; your quote comes back with them costed. Or leave them and decide once you are here.

Day 3 · Franz Josef

  • 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…

  • Glide effortlessly across the water taking in the panoramic views of the Southern Alps, glaciers, and untouched Jurassic rainforest reflected on the…

Nothing added yet.

Good to know

Departures

This itinerary departs on the dates that suit you, subject to availability. Peak season (December to February) books out early, so enquire well ahead for summer travel.

Make it yours

Add nights, upgrade rooms, swap activities or extend into the other island. Tell us what you would change and we will re-quote, no obligation.

Never travelling alone

Your whole itinerary lives in a smart travel app with live vouchers, maps and daily guidance, and your own travel specialist is reachable seven days a week while you are on the road. If plans change, we rearrange them in real time.

Who you are booking with

Operator
This itinerary is operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand operator. We book it for you and stay your point of contact.
Silver Fern Travel
Tourism New Zealand 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist (Insider), IATA certified, based in Auckland, New Zealand.
Prices
Quoted from the operator's own booking engine and refreshed weekly. The figure on this page is the one you will be quoted.
Paying
A 20% deposit confirms your booking; the balance is due 70 days before travel. How your money is protected.

Watch: Franz Josef on this itinerary

Asked before booking

Something not answered here? , no quote attached.

Still deciding? Worth a read: Is the TranzAlpine worth it? A straight answer · The Cook Strait ferry, without the surprises

Fromper person, twin share
Per day
NZ$867planning included
Travelling solo
single occupancy

No payment to enquire; a firm quote within one working day. Lowest priced travel dates, two sharing. International flights not included. A 20% deposit confirms your booking, with the balance due 70 days before travel. How your money is protected

100% Pure New Zealand InsiderQualmark Gold, the official quality mark of New Zealand tourism

Itineraries operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand operator. Tourism New Zealand 100% Pure Insider.

Request a quote for this trip

No payment, no obligation. A specialist replies with a firm quote within one working day.

When would you like to travel?

You will hear back within one working day. Quotes are free and there is no obligation to book.

How it works

How your money is protected

  1. Tell us about your trip

  2. Get your firm quote

  3. Shape it until it fits

  4. Confirm with a 20% deposit

  5. Everything is booked for you

  6. Travel with us beside you

The Silver Fern Promise

You never hand over more than a small deposit

Nothing to enquire, nothing until your quote is confirmed in writing, and never more than your deposit until the balance falls due 70 days before travel. Deposits can be paid by card, which keeps your card scheme’s protections in play.

How your money is protected

A firm quote within one working day

Availability checked with our New Zealand operations team and confirmed in writing, not an automated estimate.

No booking fees, and nothing to pay to enquire

Quotes are free and carry no obligation. You pay a deposit only once the itinerary is right and you say go.

One person, before and during your trip

The same specialist plans your trip and is reachable while you are travelling, alongside in-country support seven days a week.

100% Pure New Zealand InsiderQualmark Gold, the official quality mark of New Zealand tourismInsider status, Tourism New Zealand 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist Programme. IATA certified. Every itinerary is operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand tour operator.

Questions before you enquire? Email hello@silverferntravel.com and ask. No form required.

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