On reaching the ruggedly beautiful West Coast you will follow the coastline south to Franz Josef where you'll spend the next 2 nights.  From your base in Franz Josef you'll have time to explore the pristine wilderness of Westland Tai Poutini National Park and the fabulous glaciers.  Leaving the glacier region you'll continue south through the stunning Haast Pass to the Southern Lakes region and the 'Adventure Capital' of Queenstown

Day 1:  TranzAlpine Scenic Train to Greymouth
Your early morning departure is rewarded with incredible scenery onboard the TranzAlpine Scenic Train, considered one of the world's great train journeys.  From your carriage view the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River.  Your train then climbs into the Southern Alps before descending through the lush beech rainforest to the West Coast town of Greymouth.
The next stretch of journey is to Franz Josef Glacier by coach from Greymouth Railway Station.  Travelling south enjoy the beautiful landscape of vast rainforests, gushing waterfalls and snow-capped mountains before arriving into the smalll village of Franz Josef.
Accommodation:  Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier x 2 nights

Only a breath away from the Franz Josef Glacier, Scenic Hotel is located in the heart of Franz Josef Village. Here you will find all of the amenities you would expect, as well as being close to the shops, restaurants and activities on offer in the beautiful Westland region.

Day 2:  Explore Franz Josef 
Franz Josef is a small but lively town in the heart of the West Coast, known for its 12 km long glacier.  To see the ice from a viewpoint you can walk along the valley floor to the terminal face without a guide.  However, to go on the glacier itself you must take a licensed helicopter tour.

Day 3:  Franz Josef - Queenstown
Travel from the isolated beauty of Franz Josef to the exciting resort town of Queenstown on a full-day sightseeing tour. See moody mountain ranges, thick native rainforest and wild rocky shores as you travel in comfort, enjoying the commentary from your local driver guide.  Cross over to the East Coast through the Haast Pass, the southernmost pass in the Southern Alps.  On the other side, enjoy picture-postcard views of vibrant blue lakes like Lake Hawea, Lake Wanaka and Lake Dunstan as you make your way into scenic Queenstown, arriving in the late afternoon.

This itinerary can be customised to suit you perfectly

• 2 nights accommodation at Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
• All coach tour transport as specified in this tour package
• Daily breakfasts
• TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Greymouth
• Greymouth Train Station to Franz Josef with Hokitika Scenic Tours