Exclusive Alpine Explorer -Ex port of Timaru -March 11 2025

We traveling in a private mercedes coach from the Port of Timaru through the varied farming landscape past, cropping, sheep, and 
beef farms until we reach the Mackenzie basin where the landscape and farming changes dramatically. 
This is the domain of merino sheep, iconic high-country stations but the landscape is dominated by 
the Southern Alps and its glacial lakes that we’ve come to see. First stop is Lake Tekapo, a small town 
that faces north over this remarkable turquoise lake with stunning views of the glacial valleys that feed 
it. On the shores of the lake, you'll see the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd, where the altar 
window frames a perfect view of the Southern Alps beyond the lake. The church was built in 1935 for 
the pioneer families of the Mackenzie district and is still used as a place of worship. 
There is an option to purchase coffees or refreshments in Tekapo Township. Travelling to Lake Pukaki 
we cross one of the many hydro canals that flow across Mackenzie Basin before reaching the shores of 
Lake Pukaki. 
Lake Pukaki is surrounded by big country. Sourced from the Tasman Glacier (New Zealand's longest at 
29km), the lake borders the eastern slopes of New Zealand's greatest alpine park - Aoraki Mount Cook 
National Park. It is the largest of three lakes in the region which also encompasses the country's 
highest mountains (19 peaks over 3000 metres) and a series of glaciers that cover 40 per cent of the 
park. Travelling from Lake Pukaki we return to Tekapo for a relaxed lunch with a lakeside vista. There 
should be some time to stroll on the lakeside trail before returning to Port of Timaru 1 hr before 
scheduled departure. 
Groups of 4 to 8 passengers. 
Includes light lunch comp wine or beer and is a fully guided tour.