Days 18-19 - The Franz Josef Glacier and the TranzAlpine
We travel by coach to the Franz Josef Glacier, enjoying a scenic
journey through Kawarau Gorge to Cromwell. We pause here at Jones
Family Fruit Stall, a locally famous stall known for its excellent
goods. There's free time here to peruse the stall; perhaps purchase
some of the fresh produce, honey, preserves or gifts, or indulge in
one of the delicious real fruit ice creams. You could also take the
time to stroll through the orchards here, where you can admire the
lovely rose and dahlia gardens. We continue, passing Lake Dunstan
and Lake Wanaka before arriving in Franz Josef, home to the Franz
Josef Glacier. We stay here overnight, enjoying the opportunity to
admire the ancient glacier up close.
On Day 19, we visit Hokitika, the centre
for New Zealand jade. We visit Hokitika Greenstone Factory, where
the local stone is crafted into stunning jewellery and ornaments,
both in modern and traditional styles. After lunch, we travel to
Arthur's Pass, nestled in a mountainous National Park of the same
name.
From here, we board the TranzAlpine for our rail journey back to
Christchurch, travelling along what is arguably the most scenic
railway line in New Zealand. The route takes us through the
country's Southern Alps and across the Canterbury Plains,
presenting awe-inspiring views of the country's striking natural
mountainous landscapes along the way.