Southern Highlights - 9 Day Self Drive Tour. Canterbury Trails - Day Tours (Christchurch) - All You Need to Know The tour ends in Queenstown. Departing Christchurch, youll taste a quality selection of wines in the up-and-coming Waipara wine region, including stops at Pegasus Bay,WaiparaHills, Torlesse Wines and Waipara Springs. Leaving Christchurch early in the morning, youll head to the mountains. A full day small group Lord of the Rings tour from Christchurch lasts around 9 hours including travelling time and a lunch stop. ", Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo & Tasman Glacier(Small Group Day Tour From Christchurch), "Short hike to watch Tasman Glacier was nice. This is a superb choice for hiking fans. Begin your amazing day with a pickup from one of our very friendly team members. Covered three wineries and a really nice lunch was included. Enjoy a hotel lunch and light refreshments before the return trip via Waimak Gorge. {{place.Description | striphtml | truncate(37, '')}}. Located on the shore of Lake Tekapo, this area is often overlooked by tourists for the neighboring Mount Cook National Park, however, has some great secluded hiking trails and a very relaxed atmosphere within the main town. Soar above the ruins of ChristChurch Cathedral and see the new sports stadium while the pilot comments on rebuilding efforts. Visit four boutique wineries of North Canterbury on a half-day wine-tasting tour with optional lunch. This is a superb choice for hiking fans. 3+ days. Catering exclusively for cruise ship passengers, this half-day all-inclusive coach tour of Christchurch fits in more than most visitors can see or do in a weekend on their own. Take in the citys historical landmarks and rebuilding efforts underway since the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. You can even purchase some local handicrafts, which make much more unique gifts than the usual Kiwiana from tourist stores. From an aerial view, youll appreciate the scale of Christchurchs devastation and recovery following the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes. We offer day tours from Christchuch to Akaroa NZ, Arthur's Pass with TranzAlpine train and Kaikoura Whale Watching. We have, therefore, introduced some two and three-day Canterbury tour options. Overall a good experience. Well worth the price! The best tours in Christchurch according to Viator travelers are: These Christchurch experiences are providing additional COVID-19 safety measures: These hidden gems in Christchurch may have limited interaction with crowds: What tours in Christchurch are taking additional safety precautions? Christchurch is the gateway to the South Island's natural wonders. Top Day Trips from Christchurch - ChristchurchNZ.com Numbers are limited to eight people for a personalized experience. By Leisure Tours. Motor over a backcountry route of winding trails, grassy slopes and the Haumuri Bluffs with views of the Pacific Ocean. As the largest city in New Zealands South Island, Christchurch acts as a gateway to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Explore the hidden gems of the Hurunui District. Hop aboard your TranzAlpine train and journey through the Waimakariri Gorge. Just a whole of fun!! Includes round-trip hotel transport from Christchurch plus a picnic lunch with sparkling wine. The National Kiwi Centre is also a fun place to try and spot a native Kiwi bird, as well as learn about the other unique animals found across both islands. Nevertheless, it is worth the trip and most of the main sites can be covered in a day. Full Day Tour from Christchurch - Shore Excursion Full Day Wine Tasting Tour (1) Private Shore Excursion From Lyttelton - Christchurch Private Tour to a Merino Hill Country,. Enjoy lunch at the Hermitage Hotel in UNESCO-listed Mt Cook/Aoraki National Park. Fly over Christchurch and the Banks Peninsula on a 20-minute helicopter tour that takes in city sights. The seaside township ofAkaroa, whose harbour was created by a crater, oozes charm. He is very knowledgeable and passionate about the Mount Cook National Park. See many of the central citys highlights, including riding the scenic tramways, punting on the River Avon, and riding the gondola for sweeping views. Start with a scenic drive through the magnificent Banks Peninsula where youre treated to summit views of Akaroa Harbour, the Canterbury Plains and the distant Southern Alps. Day Trips from Christchurch | New Zealand Free Cancellation up to 7 days in advance. Akaroa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Christchurch 2023 - Viator Travel deep into the heart of the Southern Alps on an easy full-day trip from Christchurch. Pickup offered Mobile ticket Offered in: English Akaroa day trip from Christchurch including cheese tasting Drive past natural attractions with an informative guide See Hector's dolphins on a 2-hour nature cruise on Akaroa Harbour Upgrade to include a restaurant lunch This is one of New Zealands premier wine regions where pinot noir and riesling grapes do very well here. See and do a lot on a full-day tour. We enjoyed the tour very much. Wander the charming village of Akaroa, and opt for either a harbor cruise or dolphin swim on this small-group tour from Christchurch. Lunch, tastings, and snacks and photographer are included so all you need to do is join us, seat and enjoy your day. From stunning natural landscapes to adrenaline-pumping activities and relaxed eateries in the CBD, you'll find something special in Canterbury. There's no rush like many other tours. Learn more. You can learn all about the impact on local lives as well as the geology behind the earthquakes whilst in town. This cool little town is off the radar for many tourists but absolutely should not be missed. Of course, there's the option to do your chosen activities along the way. 12 Day Southern Alps Spectacular Fully Guided Motorcycle Tour - 2024 ", Arthur's Pass National Park with TranzAlpine Train Tour from Christchurch, "Had a wonderful day with this tour - not to be missed if you are in Christchurch with a day to spare. The destruction of several landmark historic buildings, such as the Christchurch Cathedral, has led to the development of new city plans, a bold public art programme and innovative use of space. We had excellent coffee, hot chocolate and delicious pies at Fairlie Bakehouse on a cold morn (before the long queues formed). Ascend the Banks Peninsula for beautiful views over Akaroa Harbour and the volcanic crater. Visit several of the best and sample a range of red and white wines. His personality and professionalism made for a most enjoyable day! Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti is an amazing labyrinth of giant limestone boulders. Pose with replica props from the popular trilogy, such as Aragorns sword, Gimlis axe and the flag of Rohan. See more Virtual Experiences around the globe. Small Group Tours & Day Trips from Christchurch | Canterbury Trails Spend a day exploring Banks Peninsula with the convenience of having a guide to navigate. Includes round-trip hotel transport from Christchurch plus a picnic lunch with sparkling wine. Our guide Nicole has bright, friendly and delighted in sharing her knowledge of the area, the historical and environmental. * Guides are licensed and have passed all Police checks. Stop to admire the views of Lake Tekapo, check out the Tasman Glacier, and hike in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Lunch, tastings, and snacks and photographer are included so all you need to do is join us, seat and enjoy your day. THE TOP 10 Christchurch Day Trips (w/Prices) - Viator It is the modern hub for jade products known locally as greenstone which is the most common material used for carving Maori pounamu. Home Travel Guides New Zealand 15 Best Day Trips from Christchurch. We also got to stop by Lake Tekapo for half an hour to walk along the water and soak in that fresh air and picture perfect landscape, before heading to chomp on salmon sashimi along the benches at Lake Pukaki. Experience our top of the line luxury Mercedes Benz 4WD mini-coach with expert (but fun . Typical Kiwi cafs, filled with award-winning pies, are spread across the town, and there are many Kiwiana shops for you to pick up some souvenirs to take back home. You are viewing Virtual Experiences in Christchurch. Our travel recommendations are based on our personal experiences and research, written by locals and travel experts with deep familiarity with the destination. Travel by TranzAlpine railway to Arthur's Pass National Park, riding across the Canterbury Plains, then winding through Waimakariri Gorge and into the heart of the Southern Alps on this day trip from Christchurch. Ascend the Banks Peninsula for beautiful views over Akaroa Harbour and the volcanic crater. The TranzAlpine is a long-distance train between Christchurch and Greymouth, from one coast of New Zealand to the other. To add more items, please delete some old ones. South Pacific Motorcycle Tours is offering spaces to join us on this fantastic 12 Day Trip of a lifetime. Hassle-free Tours - Day Tours from Christchurch, New Zealand ", "The instructors were the most memorable part of the experience, they made me feel comfortable and at ease and it is nowhere as scary as I first thought it would be. Learn from a knowledgeable guide about Waiparas unique terroir as you sip a range of superior reds and whites. These Christchurch experiences are providing additional COVID-19 safety measures: What tours in Christchurch are good for avoiding crowds? To create a new list, please delete some old ones. ", Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Christchurch Sightseeing with Antarctic Center, "Wonderful experiences. Take in top attractions including Governors Bay, Gebbies Pass, Lake Ellesmere and Lake Forsyth with your guide. We have 99 tours of New Zealand that start in Christchurch, New Zealand. Cruise by catamaran into the harbor where diverse marine and bird life thrives, including rare Hectors dolphins. Visit four boutique wineries of North Canterbury on a half-day wine-tasting tour with optional lunch. Visit TranzAlpine for tickets and timetables. Stop to admire the views of Lake Tekapo, check out the Tasman Glacier, and hike in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. The most famous site across the route is Arthurs Pass, affording the most dramatic views available on the island. Admire the views along the way and make plenty of stops. See what was only exposed when the sea went out 30 million years ago leaving limestone formations not seen anywhere else in the world per adult. We are all about the experience, so we want to make sure that you have 100% worry-free tastings of NZ's finest wine. Current tours. Views of the Canterbury Plains are bounded to the south by Lake Ellesmere and the Pacific Ocean. Discover a land of outstanding contrasts in Mid Canterbury. Reviews are 5/5 because of the flexibility this tour offers and the experience of your local guide. 2021 Canterbury Trails All Rights Reserved. 5-Day New Zealand South Island Tour from Christchurch Questions? Based in Christchurch, Canterbury Trails specialises in guided small group and private tours. Oamaru is an excellent place to check out some of New Zealands oldest colonial architecture, inspired by the Edwardian architecture of the United Kingdom. Originally an island formed by two volcanic cones, Banks Peninsula is brimming with natural beauty. Developed by, Time & Trails, North & South Island 8 Day Private Tour, Canterbury Trails Your New Zealand Tour Guides. No results found, please try another search. Learn about the conservation efforts at the Penguin colony and get up close and personal with the furry critters. No results found, please try another filter. DAY TOURS FROM CHRISTCHURCH - Cheeky Kiwi Travel We provide more than just pick up and delivery, we are focused on making the in between a journey to remember. Take in the citys historical landmarks and rebuilding efforts underway since the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. Things to do in New Zealand Things to do in South Island Things to do in Christchurch Christchurch Tours Questions? Mount Cook Day Tour - Ex Christchurch - ChristchurchNZ.com Plus, learn more about the area from your guides fun commentary. 5000 Trees that Count: Whnau day, Waikkriki-Horseshoe Lake ., Waikkriki / Horseshoe Lake Wetland Reserve, Christchurch, Canterbury, 8 July 2023 Here are the 15 best day trips within reasonable traveling distance from Christchurch. Yes, we have a plan so you get back to your ship on time but everything else is decided by you and your expert guide on the day. Look for impressive sperm whales along with migrating humpbacks and southern right whales, and search the waters for orcas and other dolphins as an experienced guide shares informative commentary. Bonus: children up to age 15 travel free. Travel by coach past the foothills of the Southern Alps to the Canterbury Plains and the MacKenzie Basin; stop at Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukari; and enjoy views of Tasman Glacier. Along the way you'll Free cancellation. A private tour for up to eight people takes 7 hours. We can't find that wishlist, please refresh the page and try again. Plus, learn more about the area from your guides fun commentary. We are super flexible and the day is all about you. THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Christchurch (UPDATED 2023) - Tripadvisor Then, sample locally made cheeses and admire colonial architecture around Akaroa. These penguins are native to the southern half of the South Island; this is the closest you can get to them in person. Our tours and day trips are run in modern, comfortable minibuses and led by our tour guides that are well recognized for their rich knowledge and capability to entertain our guests. Also located on the West Coast, Hokitika is a quaint town full of typical New Zealand culture. This makes for a very surprising addition to any New Zealand itinerary. Mount Cook (Aoraki) is the highest mountain in New Zealand at 12,218 feet (3,724 meters) and lies surrounded by some of the South Islands most stunning natural landscapes. Want to make a stop or do something extra just let us know When hues of red and gold start to colour the city, you know it's time we said hello to Autumn in tautahi Christchurch. Enjoy a hotel lunch and light refreshments before the return trip via Waimak Gorge. A wine region known for superb Pinot Noir and Riesling. Visit Edoras of The Lord of the Rings fame on this full-day excursion by 4WD vehicle to the peak of New Zealands Mt Sunday. Canterbury Trails specialises in consulting with guests and agents to design and guide tailor made private tours of New Zealands South Island. 25 years as a driver / guide. This is a bespoke tour. With Cheeky Wine Tours you will alwyas Free Cancellation up to 7 days in advance. Learn more about Christchurch than you would touring independently. Check Tour Details 5-Day New Zealand South Island Itinerary Summary Zipline guides and fitted protective equipment ensure a safe, fun adventure through the Port Hills, where youll ride four dual ziplines thatsoar more than 518 feet (150 mt.) When your cruise ship docks in Christchurch, benefit from a full-day tour that combines a half-day city tour of Christchurch with a visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. No transport planninghotel pickup and drop-off included. Youre driven from Christchurch through the eastern landscapes of the South Island to Kaikoura, where youll take the helm in your own all-terrain vehicle, following your guide in a caravan after some free time to explore the town. Really recommend this tour to anyone - way better than the large group tours because you get a more attentive guide and a less rushed itinerary. Stop to enjoy the views at Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, and take short walks on the Hooker Track and the Tasman Glacier (New Zealands longest). These hidden gems in Christchurch may have limited interaction with crowds: Now, it's time to add your favorite experiences to this list for eligibility. Find tickets & tours worldwide. The town is modeled on Edinburgh in Scotland, with many of the street names taken from the city. Then we were transferred to another van heading towards Queenstown. Akaroa is a small town located on the Banks Peninsula, which is just out of the South Island just east of Christchurch. 0 Reviews. For getting the history and context of the landmarks along the railway, GPS-triggered audio commentary is available on headphones at every seat. Forming part of the Ring of Fire also known as the San Andreas fault line, be swallowed up with the share enormity of this stunning mountain range. Travel deep into the heart of the Southern Alps on an easy full-day trip from Christchurch. Along the way, enjoy fun stories from your local guides. At the summit complex revamped since the 2011 earthquake youre rewarded with views of the cityscape, the Canterbury Plains and Lyttelton Harbour. Also a little off the tourist trail, Geraldine is full of surprises and is a true culmination of all the best parts of the South Island. All of the individual stops were very worthwhile, even in some rain and fog. {{places.length }} results found for "{{activeSearchQuery}}", {{place.SynopsisDescription | striphtml | truncate(37, '')}}. from. Travel the full circuit aboard the Christchurch Tramway, which departsregularly. You wont have to bring heavy equipment with you as a backpack, walking poles, and bottled water are included. from $450.00. Instead of just catching an uninteresting long-distance bus, take a guided tour via Mt. Cook, the Tasman Glacier, and the scenic Mackenzie Country. Upgrade for admission to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens including a caterpillar bus tour, or go punting by flat-bottomed boat on the Avon River. Tour one of New Zealands up-and-coming wine regions the easy way from Christchurch on this hassle-free day trip. Southern Ballet's "A Sleeping Beauty" tells the story of a beautiful princess who must sleep for 100 years until woken by true love's kiss, A Sleeping Beauty dazzles with glittering tutus and most-loved characters, set to Tchaikovsky's hum-along score. The TranzAlpine train is often referred to as one of the worlds most scenic train journeys, and this tour will allow you to experience it. Pickup offered Mobile ticket Offered in: English Journey on the TranzAlpine express train Enjoy lunch and afternoon tea Experience the thrill of a jet-boat ride (if upgrade selected) Hotel pickup and drop-off by coach included Tranz Alpine train journey Lunch (if option chosen) Afternoon tea