Bungee jumping Otago

At 3724 metres, Aoraki Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak. Located in the heart of the ruggedly beautiful Mackenzie District, it was first summited in 1894 by Tom Fyfe, Jack Clarke, and George Graham and remains a popular ascent to this day. However, as a sacred ancestor for local Ngā Tahu iwi, Aoraki is more than just a mountain. He and his brothers’ story is arguably one of the South Island’s most important Māori legends, speaking to the dramatic formation of Kā Tiritiri o te Moana (Southern Alps) which have since become home to one of Aotearoa’s most beautiful National Parks.

Escaping the hustle and bustle of Queenstown, we head north via Wānaka - home to #thatWanāka Tree - the Crowne Range, and the tussocked valleys of the Lindis Pass on route to Mt Cook. With additional sweeping views of Kawarau Gorge, Haupapa (Tasman Glacier) - our country’s longest glacier - Lake Pukaki, and Omarama’s famous Clay Cliffs, this tour combines several of New Zealand’s most coveted destinations into one action-packed day. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that little bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget! 

Highlights and inclusions:

• Small group size
• Carbon neutral tour of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park
• Picture perfect scenery and panoramic views
• Unique photo opportunities at Wānaka (including #ThatWānakaTree), Cardrona, and Ōmārama’s famous Clay Cliffs
• Lookout over Lake Pukaki
• Aoraki Mt Cook Village and National Park - including optional walks
• Travel through all the three main scenic routes around the Queenstown basin - Kawarau Gorge, the Crown Range, and the Lindis Pass
• Lunch, bottled water and Kiwi snacks
• WiFi and USB charging
• Commentary
• 100% Kiwi as experience

Itinerary:

Queenstown - We start by leaving Tāhuna Queenstown; New Zealand’s adventure capital. Heading north, our knowledgeable guide will share insights into the local region as we pass several prominent landscapes and wineries on our way to the Kawarau Gorge.

Kawarau Gorge and Suspension Bridge - As we round the bend on State Highway 6, we follow the mighty Kawarau Gorge. This is widely considered the origin of New Zealand’s rich bungee jumping history, with the nearby Suspension Bridge still used today for those brave enough to give it a go. While we unfortunately won’t have time to stop here, the icy blue water is certainly a beautiful sight to behold.

Cromwell - Famous for its rich horticultural (especially cherries, apricots, and other summer stone fruits) and viticultural industries, we pass by this classic Central Otago township on our way to Wānaka. On route, enjoy panoramic views of Lake Dunstan.

Wānaka (15 minutes) - It is here that we make our first official stop of the tour. While your guide picks up your lunch and fellow travellers joining us from this beautiful alpine township, enjoy the lakefront views towards Mt Aspiring National Park and the sights surrounding #ThatWānakaTree.

Ōmārama - After our morning ventures, we make a stop in Ōmārama. Translating to ‘the place of light’ in te reo Māori, the town is an important hub of the broader Waitaki district. This region, and the nearby Ahuriri Valley was even used as the setting for Disney’s live action re-make of Mulan.

Twizel and Lake Ruataniwha - We make a brief stop at Twizel to take in the sight of Lake Ruataniwha. Famous for its blue water and rowing regattas, this man-made lake is indicative of the area's hydro-electricity projects and is supported by the Ben Ohau and Pukaki canal networks. The area is also popular in the summer for water skiing, fishing, and other recreational activities. 

Lake Pukaki - Our final stop before arriving in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park is Lake Pukaki. With its shifting colours ranging from ice to deep blue depending on the weather, this glacier-fed lake stands out from other alpine lakes in the region. On clear days, enjoy uninterrupted views of Aoraki rising from the lake’s edge.

Aoraki Mt Cook National Park (2 - 2.5 hours*) - Welcome to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park! Established in 1953, roughly 40% of the park is covered by glaciers, with Haupapa being the longest at approximately 23 kilometres. Impressively, 19 mountains - including Aoraki - within the area also stand at over 3000 metres tall. Once you arrive, you have the option to embark on the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track or explore Mt Cook Village, taking in sights such as the Visitor Centre and Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. Alternatively, if you’d prefer an aerial view of the mountains, we can arrange a scenic flight for you and your group (booked and sold separately).

Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track - Leading through old terminal moraines of the Haupapa, this track offers incredible views of the glacier, surrounding river and Tasman Lake.

*Please note that due to potential delays from other customers or road conditions, the allocated time in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to explore may be less than advertised. This may mean that you might be unable to fully complete walks etc. Your friendly guide will be able to assist you on the day with the best options available. At 2:15pm, please follow their instructions as they will provide the collection time to start the return journey to Queenstown.

The Salmon Stop (time dependent activity) - The Mackenzie District is famous for its host of premium salmon. Depending on time, we will stop at a local farm where you will have the opportunity to learn more and purchase some delicious freshwater salmon for yourself.

Ōmārama Clay Cliffs (10-15 minutes) - Departing Mt Cook National Park, we return down State Highway 80 to Ōmārama; this time stopping for a quick photo opportunity at the town’s famous clay cliffs. These unique structures are the product of repeated ancient glacial flows, which over time, have built up to the craggy pinnacles you see today. 

Lindis Pass - Returning back through the Lindis Pass, we stop at a scenic lookout. The breathtaking tussocked valleys are a sight to behold year round, warranting a photo stop. With many stations in the area running Merino sheep, keep your eyes peeled as it is not uncommon to see these on route. 

Wānaka - We return home via Wānaka to drop off our fellow Wānaka based travellers, before turning towards the famous Crown Range. 

Cardrona (5 minutes) - Our final stop of the day is at the iconic Cardrona Hotel. Established in 1863 to service Otago’s famous Gold Rush, the historic building still carries its unique charm thanks to restoration efforts during the 1980s through to the early 2000s, facilitating its gradual re-opening. In addition to being a popular bar, restaurant, and hotel, the Cardrona Hotel remains a popular photo stop for locals and tourists alike.

Crown Range - As the highest main road in Aotearoa, this spectacular range offers amazing views. Similar to the landscape of the Lindis, the Crowne Range is tussocked and jaw dropping year-round. We will make a stop at a popular lookout point overlooking Queenstown and the Remarkables, giving perspective as to the magnitude of the work that went into engineering this iconic Kiwi road. After a quick photo opportunity, we continue into the Wakatipu Basin and head for home.

Queenstown - As we make our way back to New Zealand’s adrenaline capital, sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring Wānaka, Ōmārama, and Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!

Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks.

We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. 

See More, Do More, Spend Less.

At 3724 metres, Aoraki Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak. Located in the heart of the ruggedly beautiful Mackenzie District, it was first summited in 1894 by Tom Fyfe, Jack Clarke, and George Graham and remains a popular ascent to this day. However, as a sacred ancestor for local Ngā Tahu iwi, Aoraki is more than just a mountain. He and his brothers’ story is arguably one of the South Island’s most important Māori legends, speaking to the dramatic formation of Kā Tiritiri o te Moana (Southern Alps) which have since become home to one of Aotearoa’s most beautiful National Parks.
Escaping the hustle and bustle of Queenstown, we head north via Wānaka - home to #thatWanāka Tree - the Crowne Range, and the tussocked valleys of the Lindis Pass on route to Mt Cook. With additional sweeping views of Kawarau Gorge, Haupapa (Tasman Glacier) - our country’s longest glacier - Lake Pukaki, and Omarama’s famous Clay Cliffs, this tour combines several of New Zealand’s most coveted destinations into one action-packed day. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that little bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget!


Highlights and inclusions: Small group size Carbon neutral tour of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park Picture perfect scenery and panoramic views Unique photo opportunities at Wānaka (including #ThatWānakaTree), Cardrona, and Ōmārama’s famous Clay Cliffs Lookout over Lake Pukaki Aoraki Mt Cook Village and National Park - including optional walks Travel through all the three main scenic routes around the Queenstown basin - Kawarau Gorge, the Crown Range, and the Lindis Pass Lunch, bottled water and Kiwi snacks WiFi and USB charging Commentary 100% Kiwi as experience

Itinerary:
Queenstown - We start by leaving Tāhuna Queenstown; New Zealand’s adventure capital. Heading north, our knowledgeable guide will share insights into the local region as we pass several prominent landscapes and wineries on our way to the Kawarau Gorge.


Kawarau Gorge and Suspension Bridge - As we round the bend on State Highway 6, we follow the mighty Kawarau Gorge. This is widely considered the origin of New Zealand’s rich bungee jumping history, with the nearby Suspension Bridge still used today for those brave enough to give it a go. While we unfortunately won’t have time to stop here, the icy blue water is certainly a beautiful sight to behold.


Cromwell - Famous for its rich horticultural (especially cherries, apricots, and other summer stone fruits) and viticultural industries, we pass by this classic Central Otago township on our way to Wānaka. On route, enjoy panoramic views of Lake Dunstan.


Wānaka (15 minutes) - It is here that we make our first official stop of the tour. While your guide picks up your lunch and fellow travellers joining us from this beautiful alpine township, enjoy the lakefront views towards Mt Aspiring National Park and the sights surrounding #ThatWānakaTree.


Ōmārama - After our morning ventures, we make a stop in Ōmārama. Translating to ‘the place of light’ in te reo Māori, the town is an important hub of the broader Waitaki district. This region, and the nearby Ahuriri Valley was even used as the setting for Disney’s live action re-make of Mulan.


Twizel and Lake Ruataniwha - We make a brief stop at Twizel to take in the sight of Lake Ruataniwha. Famous for its blue water and rowing regattas, this man-made lake is indicative of the area's hydro-electricity projects and is supported by the Ben Ohau and Pukaki canal networks. The area is also popular in the summer for water skiing, fishing, and other recreational activities.



Lake Pukaki - Our final stop before arriving in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park is Lake Pukaki. With its shifting colours ranging from ice to deep blue depending on the weather, this glacier-fed lake stands out from other alpine lakes in the region. On clear days, enjoy uninterrupted views of Aoraki rising from the lake’s edge.


Aoraki Mt Cook National Park (2 - 2.5 hours*) - Welcome to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park! Established in 1953, roughly 40% of the park is covered by glaciers, with Haupapa being the longest at approximately 23 kilometres. Impressively, 19 mountains - including Aoraki - within the area also stand at over 3000 metres tall. Once you arrive, you have the option to embark on the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track or explore Mt Cook Village, taking in sights such as the Visitor Centre and Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. Alternatively, if you’d prefer an aerial view of the mountains, we can arrange a scenic flight for you and your group (booked and sold separately).
Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Track - Leading through old terminal moraines of the Haupapa, this track offers incredible views of the glacier, surrounding river and Tasman Lake.
*Please note that due to potential delays from other customers or road conditions, the allocated time in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to explore may be less than advertised. This may mean that you might be unable to fully complete walks etc. Your friendly guide will be able to assist you on the day with the best options available. At 2:15pm, please follow their instructions as they will provide the collection time to start the return journey to Queenstown.


The Salmon Stop (time dependent activity) - The Mackenzie District is famous for its host of premium salmon. Depending on time, we will stop at a local farm where you will have the opportunity to learn more and purchase some delicious freshwater salmon for yourself.



Ōmārama Clay Cliffs (10-15 minutes) - Departing Mt Cook National Park, we return down State Highway 80 to Ōmārama; this time stopping for a quick photo opportunity at the town’s famous clay cliffs. These unique structures are the product of repeated ancient glacial flows, which over time, have built up to the craggy pinnacles you see today.


Lindis Pass - Returning back through the Lindis Pass, we stop at a scenic lookout. The breathtaking tussocked valleys are a sight to behold year round, warranting a photo stop. With many stations in the area running Merino sheep, keep your eyes peeled as it is not uncommon to see these on route.


Wānaka - We return home via Wānaka to drop off our fellow Wānaka based travellers, before turning towards the famous Crown Range.


Cardrona (5 minutes) - Our final stop of the day is at the iconic Cardrona Hotel. Established in 1863 to service Otago’s famous Gold Rush, the historic building still carries its unique charm thanks to restoration efforts during the 1980s through to the early 2000s, facilitating its gradual re-opening. In addition to being a popular bar, restaurant, and hotel, the Cardrona Hotel remains a popular photo stop for locals and tourists alike.


Crown Range - As the highest main road in Aotearoa, this spectacular range offers amazing views. Similar to the landscape of the Lindis, the Crowne Range is tussocked and jaw dropping year-round. We will make a stop at a popular lookout point overlooking Queenstown and the Remarkables, giving perspective as to the magnitude of the work that went into engineering this iconic Kiwi road. After a quick photo opportunity, we continue into the Wakatipu Basin and head for home.


Queenstown - As we make our way back to New Zealand’s adrenaline capital, sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring Wānaka, Ōmārama, and Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!


Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks.
We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.
See More, Do More, Spend Less.