Top Canterbury Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

Embark on the ultimate Kaikōura helicopter whale watching tour for a unique wildlife and scenic adventure. Fly over the Kaikōura Whale Sanctuary and Hikurangi Marine Reserve, where you’ll spot majestic marine life including sperm whales, humpback whales, blue whales, orcas, and other migratory species. The helicopter’s manoeuvrability offers incredible views of the whales and dolphins, with close-up photo opportunities you can’t get from boats. Keep an eye out for playful Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals near the shore. Continue the adventure north along the rugged Kaikōura coastline and land in the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges. From this exclusive mountaintop location, enjoy 360-degree views of Kaikōura Peninsula, the Pacific Ocean, and surrounding mountains—an unforgettable experience for photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.

The mix of warm and cold currents found underwater in Kaikōura Canyon supports a vast diversity of marine life, making it one of New Zealand’s most unique locations. This small-group helicopter journey above the canyon, including a landing in the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges, allows the spotting of humpback, southern right, blue, and sperm whales, as well as the chance to see dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals—all from a vantage point most travelers miss.

On your scenic drive to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park you will pass the famous cool aid looking Lake Pukaki and enjoy the view on New Zealands most beautiful road. Then the fun begins, trekking along the Hooker Valley Track at the base of Mount Cook, surrounded by mountains, glaciers, swing bridges and the flowing Hooker River. Hopefully you spot the native Kea bird too! Relax and enjoy the sights on your way back to Timaru, stopping at Lake Tekapo for the last look at the Southern Alps. Finish your day with a legendary Fairlie Bakehouse pie, fueling you up for a day in the mountains.

Experience the ultimate Kaikōura helicopter tour and witness New Zealand’s incredible marine life from above. Fly over the renowned Kaikōura Canyon to spot Sperm, Humpback, Southern Right, Orca, or even Blue whales, depending on the season. This extended scenic flight gives you more time to enjoy whale sightings and coastal views. Spot Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals as you cruise along the shoreline. Land at a remote site only accessible by South Pacific Helicopters, where you'll take in breathtaking views of the mountains and ocean. This unforgettable whale watching and wildlife experience is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Discover the charm of Oasis Cottage, a private 5-acre country garden nestled near the foothills of the Southern Alps. This exclusive tour offers an intimate glimpse into a historic property, complete with seasonal blooms, formal gardens, and lush natural landscapes. Wander through the enchanting Blue Garden, explore the vegetable allée and orchard, and enjoy the tranquil duck pond with rural views and abundant birdlife. What sets this tour apart is the unique opportunity to visit the Oasis Cottage floral studio and greenhouse. Learn about the art of growing and arranging cut flowers for stunning European-inspired bouquets. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or a lover of floral artistry, this personalised experience is designed to delight and inspire. With breathtaking vistas of Mount Oxford as your backdrop and peaceful pathways to explore, this private tour provides an unforgettable retreat into nature. Book now to experience the beauty and creativity of Oasis Cottage.

Our Merino Farm Experience allows you to enjoy a slice of kiwi (New Zealand) rural life. Be guided by the family owners and operators on the property since 1884. See the sheep and sometimes our cattle roaming the fields. Visit our woolshed and learn more about how we shear our sheep, Touch the super fine wool and see what the product gets made into. Travel to the top of the farm for panoramic views of the southern alps and rivers. Visit our house gardens, both Flowers and vegetables. Meet our working dogs and pet sheep. Feed our friendly sheep, touch their wool and grab a selfie! Private tours can be arranged by request.

Experience the mahi on a one hour guided tour and learn about efforts to restore the land to its pre-European tunga (situation). Experience a one-hour interactive guided tour of the of the property from April to November. Your experienced guide has been sharing the stories of Aotearoa with people from around the globe for many years. At the end of the tour you are welcome to stay on and soak in the sounds, silence and sensations of our place. The opportunity to purchase our lavender products is available, as is the chance to enjoy our famous bush coffee/tea and a "kiwi as" snack. Facilities include an outdoor composting toilet. The income from our farm tours goes directly back into our conservation and regeneration programme. Booking is essential, no walk-ins. Contact us for a group tour bookings or for tours outside advertised hours. The road is not suitable for camper-vans, please phone us to discuss alternative arrangements.

Visitors with limited time in Christchurch don’t need to miss out on experiencing some of the South Island’s most beautiful mountain scenery on this private day tour to Arthurs Pass. Avoid the hassle of self-driving on mountain roads: sit back and enjoy the views while your driver drives. Be amazed by the mountain lakes, braided rivers, glacial valleys, forests, and high passes you’ll see throughout the day.

Experience a seasonal one-hour guided tour of the lavender fields from late November to mid-February. The story of our lavender farm is shared as you walk amongst 5,000 plus lavender plants. The opportunity to purchase lavender products is available, as is the chance to try our famous Lavenade. At the end of the tour, you are free to wander through the lavender fields and on a short track to a picnic area amongst the forest. Facilities include an outdoor composting toilet. The income from our farm tours goes directly back into our conservation and regeneration programme. Booking is essential, no walk-ins. Contact us for a group tour bookings or for tours outside advertised hours.