Snow Experiences
Snow Experiences
Tranzalpine and Ski
Start: Christchurch
Finish: Christchurch
This pass includes a trip on one of the world’s greatest train journeys. Experience breath-taking scenery from Christchurch to Greymouth on the famous TranzAlpine train, before hitting up Queenstown, for 3 days on Cardrona.
Our traditional hop-on-hop-off passes take you to the most epic ski fields in New Zealand.
As a result of travel restrictions being caused by COVID-19 Kiwi Experience has moved to temporarily suspend bookings for the early ski-season (June- early July) . We will continue to review the situation and update our website and schedule accordingly. Our tour dates will be updated soon.
NZ $969
Day 1Christchurch to Lake Mahinapua
Catch the Tranz Alpine train across the spectacular Southern Alps, before meeting the Kiwi Experience bus in Greymouth. Tonight's unique accommodation is a chance to enjoy a delicious group meal and bond with your bus mates.
Accommodation
- Lake Mahinapua Hotel (not included)
Included Experiences
- Tranzalpine Train
Day 2Lake Mahinapua to Franz Josef
After breakfast at Lake Mahinapua, we hit the road on our way to Franz Josef. Franz Josef is the northern gateway to Te Wahipounamu, the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage area. The region includes Aoraki/Mount Cook, Westland Tai Poutini, Mount Aspiring, the Fiordland National Parks, and surrounding conservation lands.
Accommodation
- Rainforest Retreat (not included)
Day 3Franz Josef (Extra Day)
Today we have a free day in Franz Josef where you have the opportunity to experience a Heli-Hike to New Zealand’s most famous Franz Josef Glacier or you can explore this lush corner of New Zealand (for free) on foot; hitting up the many walking trails in the area.
Accommodation
- Rainforest Retreat (not included)
Day 4Franz Josef to Wanaka
We start out early in order to catch the perfect mirror reflection of Mt Cook and the Southern Alps on Lake Matheson. We then cruise down the last stretch of Highway 6, stopping at popular scenic spots along the way. Then it’s into Mount Aspiring National Park, arriving in the awe-inspiring destination of Wanaka in the afternoon.
Accommodation
- Base Wanaka
Included Experiences
- That Wanaka Tree
- Lake Matheson Lake Walk
Day 5Wanaka to Queenstown
Before we leave Wanaka get your brain working at Puzzling World and then its on to the world’s first commercial bungy site - the Kawarau Bridge. Only the brave will sign themselves up for this iconic New Zealand activity. On arrival in Queenstown, we will head down to the spectacular waterfront before it’s out on the town exploring Queenstown’s infamous nightlife with all the crew!
Accommodation
- Nomads Queenstown
Day 6Ski Day
It's our first day hitting the slopes and it's going to be a very good day. With 3 fields to shred, there is plenty of opportunities to sharpen up old skills or attempt to find new ones.
Accommodation
- Nomads Queenstown (not included)
Included Experiences
- Lift Passes
- Mountain Transfers
Day 7Ski Day
New day, same great pow. Though your body may be feeling the pinch, the mountains won't shred themselves. Head back up to the slopes for another epic day of carving.
Accommodation
- Nomads Queenstown (not included)
Included Experiences
- Lift Passes
- Mountain Transfers
Day 8Ski Day
Push yourself to that run you've been eyeing up and make the most of our final day amongst the white flakes. Now's the time to assess your skill level and test your nerve to the max.
Accommodation
- Nomads Queenstown (not included)
Included Experiences
- Lift Passes
- Mountain Transfers
Day 9Queenstown to Lake Tekapo
We head out of Queenstown, through the Lindis Pass, so get your cameras ready because this is ‘Lord of the Rings’ territory. After stopping to admire Mt Cook at Lake Pukaki, we travel to Lake Tekapo with its amazing location by snow-capped alps and clear starry skies. Lake Tekapo has something for everyone - relaxing at the lakeside and taking in the untouched view, soaking in the hot springs, discovering one of the many scenic walkways or checking out the mind-boggling stars in what is the world’s largest dark sky reserve.
Accommodation
- Lakefront Lodge Tekapo
Included Experiences
- Lake Pukaki
- Church of the Good Shepherd
Day 10Lake Tekapo to Christchurch
We have a straight run into Christchurch, our largest city in the South Island and the 3rd largest in New Zealand. Witness a city rebuilding and flourishing in the wake of the 2011 earthquakes, and explore the street art, see the blooming botanical gardens and learn about the history of a city that’s experienced so much in recent times.
Accommodation
- YMCA Christchurch (not included)
What's Included
- Tranzalpine train
- 1 Day Lift Pass
- Driver Guide
- 1 day Mountain Transfer
- Best price guarantee on activities
Optional Extras
Faq's
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I’m a solo traveller... will I meet other solo travellers?
Absolutely! The majority of our passengers are travelling solo. Kiwi Experience is a social experience guaranteed to leave with new friends from across the globe.
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Am I too old/young for Kiwi Experience?
We welcome the young, and the young at heart aboard our buses, there is no upper limit! There is however a lower limit; you’ll need to be 18 at the time of travel.
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How much luggage am I allowed to bring?
Passengers are allowed one 23kg suitcase/backpack and one day bag, as there are strict weight restrictions on our buses.
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What visas do I need?
Luckily, many nationalities are able to visit New Zealand for less than 3 months without a visa. However, if you are not from one of these countries, obtaining your own visa is your own responsibility. We ask that you check out the Immigration New Zealand website before booking your Kiwi Experience trip.
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Do I need travel insurance?
While not mandatory, travel insurance is recommended and should be taken out when travelling with us. As well as making sure your expensive stuff is covered, you should also get comprehensive travel insurance (covering you for all medical expenses you could incur while travelling).
