Journey through Canterbury’s alpine lakes and dramatic river gorges on Koru Scenic Tours’ full-day Lakes and Gorges Tour. From reflective mountain lakes to narrow rock chasms, this trip offers a vivid mix of natural beauty and local history.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
13 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels due to bus transport and short walks at stops.
Wildlife
History
The Hakatere Station area reflects Canterbury’s long pastoral farming tradition, with heritage buildings preserved as a small museum site.
Conservation
Koru Scenic Tours emphasizes low-impact visits and supports ongoing conservation efforts to protect Canterbury's delicate lake and river ecosystems.
Koru Scenic Tours
Journey through Canterbury’s alpine lakes and dramatic river gorges on Koru Scenic Tours’ full-day Lakes and Gorges Tour. From reflective mountain lakes to narrow rock chasms, this trip offers a vivid mix of natural beauty and local history.
Koru Scenic Tours is a New Zealand tour operator that offers scenic trips across the South Island.
The company runs curated routes to iconic locations including Aoraki / Mt Cook, Milford Sound, Kaikoura, Akaroa Harbour, Arthurs Pass, Fiordland and Nelson Lakes. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Koru Scenic Tours highlights coastal harbours, alpine passes, glacial lakes and rugged west coast scenery. Tours span a variety of itineraries listed under its name, such as Aoraki Mt Cook, Aoraki Mt Cook Plus, Milford Sound Special, Fiordland Fantasy, Kaikoura and Kaikoura Plus, Akaroa Harbour and Akaroa Harbour Plus, and the South Island Big Loop.
Koru Scenic Tours describes routes that connect harbours, high country, river gorges and mountain passes. Sample trips in the catalogue include Lakes and Gorges, MacKenzie Magic, Central Otago Gold, Lewis Pass - Hanmer Springs, Porters Pass and Lees Valley. The operator also lists shorter harbour-focused options like Lyttelton Harbour/Whakaraupo and Akaroa Harbour, alongside regional samplers including West Coast Sampler and Top of the South.
Information about departures, booking, group size and exact itineraries is available through the operator's published trip listings. Koru Scenic Tours presents clear trip names and route focuses that help travellers choose coastal, alpine or multi-region experiences. Being featured on The Adventure Collective provides an additional reference point for travellers researching reliable South Island scenic tours.
Tours Offered
24 routes
Named South Island itineraries
Featured Peaks
Aoraki / Mt Cook
Iconic alpine destination
Popular Destinations
Aoraki, Milford, Kaikoura
Iconic South Island highlights
Regional Focus
South Island
Coastal to alpine routes
Check itineraries like Aoraki Mt Cook, Milford Sound Special and Kaikoura Plus — view trip details and availability on the published listings.
Bring Weather-Appropriate Layers
Canterbury’s foothills can shift from warm sun to chill winds—dressing in layers helps you stay comfortable all day.
Charge Your Camera
With multiple scenic stops including gorges and alpine lakes, having a full battery ensures you can capture every photo-worthy moment.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Although mostly a bus tour, some stops require short walks on uneven terrain; solid shoes with good grip are recommended.
Stay Hydrated
Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially in warmer months.
Layered Clothing
Allows for adjustment to changing temperatures through the day.
Sturdy Walking Shoes
Provides grip and support on uneven terrain during stops.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the stunning lakes, gorges, and historic sites.
Sunscreen and Hat
Protects against strong UV rays during sunny months.
summer