# New Zealand’s West Coast and southern lakes · More time in the middle and at the far end

[Canonical itinerary](<https://zukio.com/trips/oceania/open-jaw/new-zealand-s-west-coast-and-southern-lakes-z0783/>)

More time in the middle and at the far end

- Region: Oceania
- Trip format: Open jaw
- Nights: 13
- Interests: Food & Drink, Arts & Theatre, Nature, Science, Design, History, Sport

## Route and nights

- Christchurch · 3 night(s)
- Franz Josef · 5 night(s)
- Queenstown · 5 night(s)

Tradeoff: The middle base gets time of its own. Book the last gateway separately and compare the total transport cost.

Compare: Drive or intercity coach combinations

## Day-by-day agenda

Suggested schedule. Times are local. Check hours and availability for your dates.

### Day 1 · Christchurch

Check in and keep the first evening near your base.
Overnight: Christchurch

### Day 2 · Christchurch

Riverside Market and neighborhood cafés
Overnight: Christchurch

### Day 3 · Christchurch

Christchurch Art Gallery
Overnight: Christchurch

### Day 4 · Franz Josef

Transfer from Christchurch to Franz Josef. Allow time for luggage, check-in and any connections.
Overnight: Franz Josef

### Day 5 · Franz Josef

Glacier valley viewpoint with conditions and access check
Overnight: Franz Josef

### Day 6 · Franz Josef

Interpretation of changing glaciers and rivers
Overnight: Franz Josef

### Day 7 · Franz Josef

Village meal and weather buffer
Overnight: Franz Josef

### Day 8 · Franz Josef

Keep the day open for a missed visit, a slower neighborhood outing or a rest before the next move.
Overnight: Franz Josef

### Day 9 · Queenstown

Transfer from Franz Josef to Queenstown. Allow time for luggage, check-in and any connections.
Overnight: Queenstown

### Day 10 · Queenstown

Lakefront public spaces and hillside streets
Overnight: Queenstown

### Day 11 · Arrowtown

Gold-rush streets and riverside walking
Overnight: Queenstown

### Day 12 · Queenstown

Choose one guided outdoor activity if conditions suit
Overnight: Queenstown

### Day 13 · Queenstown

Local lunch and regional produce
Overnight: Queenstown

### Day 14 · Queenstown

Check out and leave time for the trip to your departure point.