Our 8 Favorite Hokitika Tours

Hokitika stands out as a hub of natural beauty and creative spirit, making it a perfect starting point for memorable tours on New Zealand’s South Island. Whether you’re after a scenic train journey through the Southern Alps, a nature walk along Hokitika Gorge, or an active day on a self-guided eBike, this town offers something for every traveler. The region’s dramatic landscapes, combined with authentic local charm—like the famous Hokitika Sign—make it a standout. We especially love the Christchurch to Franz Josef inc TranzAlpine Train for its unforgettable scenic train ride that captures New Zealand’s rugged beauty.

Hokitika’s diverse tours include scenic train adventures, guided walks, cycling excursions, and comprehensive multi-day trips, all designed to showcase the West Coast’s wild landscapes. Whether you prefer a relaxed stroll or an active eBike ride, you’ll find options that highlight the area’s unique features and highlight its artsy, laid-back vibe.

Quick Overview

Our list covers 8 of the best Tours in Hokitika, featuring a range of experiences from scenic train rides like the Christchurch to Franz Josef to adventurous Hokitika Gorge Walks. For those who want a full immersion, the 47-Day South Island Tour offers an extensive exploration. For more active visitors, a self-guided eBike tour around Lake Kaniere provides a leisurely yet immersive experience. Now, let’s look at each tour in detail.

1. Christchurch to Franz Josef 1 Way Tour inc TranzAlpine Train

This tour offers a spectacular 12-hour journey from Christchurch to Franz Josef, combining New Zealand’s iconic TranzAlpine train ride with a guided West Coast road trip. The scenic train from Christchurch to Greymouth is considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, with sweeping views of the Southern Alps and lush valleys. After arriving in Greymouth, you’ll explore the vibrant town of Hokitika and its famous Hokitika Gorge—a must-see for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs.

What sets this tour apart is the small-group transfer to Franz Josef with a guide who shares local stories and insights. You’ll also visit the Hokitika Sign, a driftwood sculpture symbolizing the town’s creative community. Reviews highlight the five-star rating and praise for the seamless itinerary that combines stunning scenery with authentic cultural stops. The tour is perfect for travelers wanting a deep, visual experience of the West Coast’s highlights in one day.

Bottom Line: A fantastic, all-in-one day trip for those who want to see the Southern Alps, experience a world-famous train ride, and explore Hokitika’s artsy vibe.

2. Franz Josef to Christchurch via Hokitika 1 Way Day Tour

This 12-hour day trip takes you from Franz Josef back to Christchurch, with a focus on exploring the West Coast’s natural wonders along the way. Starting with a trip through Castle Hill—famous for its limestone rock formations—your journey then includes a visit to the Devils Punchbowl Waterfall, where water plunges 131 meters into lush rainforest below. The tour continues through Arthur’s Pass Village, a charming spot to stretch your legs and soak in alpine scenery, and the Otira Lookout offers panoramic views of the rugged terrain.

The highlight is Hokitika, where you’ll have free time for shopping and sightseeing, plus a scenic stop at the Hokitika Gorge. Travel is by comfortable coach, with commentary highlighting regional geology and history. The reviews are mixed but generally positive, especially praising the diverse stops and the balance of scenic and cultural experiences.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a full day of diverse sights on their way from Franz Josef to Christchurch, with plenty of opportunities to stretch and explore.

3. Christchurch to Franz Josef Tour with TranzAlpine (1 way)

This one-day tour offers a carbon-neutral journey from Christchurch to Franz Josef, wrapping the scenic TranzAlpine train into a comprehensive experience. The trip includes a scenic ride from Christchurch to Greymouth, with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and dense native forests. Once in Hokitika, you have the option to visit the Hokitika Gorge, known for its translucent waters and towering cliffs.

The itinerary includes a stop at Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass, plus a visit to the Hokitika Sign. The tour provides lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks, making it a well-rounded day. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 from four reviews, travelers appreciate the smooth logistics and the chance to enjoy New Zealand’s natural beauty in a single day.

Bottom Line: Perfect for eco-conscious travelers wanting a scenic, efficient way to travel and see key West Coast sights with minimal hassle.

4. Greymouth to Franz Josef via Hokitika small group tour

This 6-hour small group journey from Greymouth to Franz Josef emphasizes comfort and personalized attention. Starting in Greymouth, your trip includes a visit to the Hokitika Gorge, where turquoise waters and lush surroundings are hard to beat, and a Lake Ianthe stop for quick photos. En route, you’ll enjoy the scenic drive along State Highway 6, famed for its sweeping views.

This tour is ideal if you prefer a shorter, more relaxed experience that still hits all the high points. The small group format means fewer crowds and more tailored commentary, making it great for travelers who want a more intimate experience. The reviews mention the friendly guides and the stunning scenery as highlights.

Bottom Line: A compact, comfortable option for those short on time but still eager to see Hokitika Gorge and enjoy scenic West Coast drives.

5. Franz Josef to Christchurch 1 Way Tour inc TranzAlpine Train

This 12-hour tour offers a return trip from Franz Josef to Christchurch, combining a scenic coach journey with the world-famous TranzAlpine train. Starting with a short van ride, you’ll make stops at Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass, exploring stunning limestone formations and alpine vistas. The journey includes lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks, making it convenient and enjoyable for travelers.

The highlight is the scenic train ride, which many describe as a must-do experience, with views of native forests, river valleys, and snow-capped peaks. The tour has a flexible cancellation policy and is best suited for travelers who want to maximize scenery in a single day. The reviews note the well-organized itinerary and the quality of the train experience.

Bottom Line: A top pick for those wanting a comprehensive, scenic return trip that combines train travel with diverse West Coast scenery.

6. Franz Josef to Greymouth via Hokitika small group tour

This 6-hour guided tour from Franz Josef to Greymouth emphasizes a relaxed pace with plenty of scenic stops. Starting with the Lake Ianthe photo opportunity, the trip then heads through Hokitika, where you can explore the town’s shops and art scene. The Hokitika Gorge visit allows for a leisurely walk with stunning views, followed by a scenic drive along the coast.

The tour is praised for its small group setting and friendly guides, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking personal attention. The route showcases the rugged beauty of the West Coast, with plenty of photo stops and opportunities to soak in the scenery.

Bottom Line: An excellent option for travelers who want a relaxed, guided trip with a focus on scenery and local culture.

7. Hokitika: Wilderness Trail eBike Tour & Hokitika Gorge Walk

This 6-hour tour combines self-guided eBike riding with a guided walk at Hokitika Gorge. Starting at Kiwi Journeys West Coast, you’ll cycle around Lake Kaniere, enjoying a leisurely ride through native bush and scenic landscapes. Then, you’ll walk along the Hokitika Gorge, marveling at its stunning waters and cliffs—an experience that’s both relaxing and invigorating.

Ideal for active travelers and families, the tour emphasizes a leisurely route with flat or downhill terrain, making it accessible for most fitness levels. Reviewers highlight the professional guidance, the beautiful scenery, and the family-friendly atmosphere.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a mix of cycling and walking, with the flexibility to explore at a relaxed pace.

8. New Zealand: Guided 47-Day South Island Tour with Camping

For travelers with ample time and a love of camping, this 47-day guided tour covers the whole South Island, including Queenstown, Kaikoura, Fiordland, and Abel Tasman National Park. The trip features walking, sailing, kayaking, and exploring some of New Zealand’s most iconic spots. It’s perfect for those seeking a comprehensive, adventure-filled experience that combines sightseeing with outdoor activities.

While not specific to Hokitika, this tour offers a chance to see Glacier Country, Marlborough Sounds, and more, making it ideal for dedicated explorers. The detailed itinerary ensures you visit the best of New Zealand’s wild landscapes in comfort, with guides handling logistics and accommodations.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for multi-week adventurers wanting an all-encompassing South Island trip, with plenty of outdoor activity.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Hokitika

When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, time available, and your interests. For a quick, scenic overview, the Christchurch to Franz Josef inc TranzAlpine Train provides an excellent introduction. If you want a more active experience, the Hokitika Wilderness Trail eBike offers cycling combined with scenic walks.

For travelers with several days, the 47-Day South Island Tour delivers a comprehensive adventure. Those on a tighter schedule might prefer the shorter small group tours, which balance scenery with comfort.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, and always check for cancellation policies and inclusions like meals or equipment.

Final Thoughts

Hokitika offers a surprising variety of tours that showcase its stunning landscapes and rich local culture. For a quick scenic fix, the Scenic Train and Gorge Tours are hard to beat. For those seeking active adventures, the eBike Tour is perfect. And if you have time for a deep dive into New Zealand’s wild South Island, the 47-Day Camping Tour promises an unforgettable journey.

No matter your travel style, Hokitika’s tours deliver memorable experiences—so pick the one that fits your interests and start planning early.