Top Christchurch Art & Culture

While lots of tours help you experience Christchurch’s sights and sounds, not many include first-hand anecdotes from the 2011 earthquake that rocked the city. On this small-group walking tour, explore local landmarks and hidden gems that most travelers miss while listening to personal stories of the city’s rich culture and heritage.

Explore the rich Maori heritage of Christchurch on the Te Ara Walking Tour. This engaging 60-minute journey along the Otakaro Avon River reveals the stories, landmarks, and cultural significance tied to the area. Led by knowledgeable local guides, participants will enjoy a traditional Māori welcome and interactive storytelling that highlights the importance of community-led initiatives and sustainable practices in the region. Ideal for families and cultural enthusiasts, this tour offers a deeper understanding of the city’s history and landscape while supporting ongoing restoration efforts. - 60-minute guided walking tour through central Christchurch - Discover Māori stories, traditional carvings, and cultural landmarks - Family-friendly experience suitable for all ages and fitness levels - Every booking supports the restoration of the Ōtākaro Avon River

Experience the beauty of New Zealand’s Southern Alps on a full-day tour to Arthur's Pass from Christchurch. Travel into the mountains by car, then return in the afternoon on the TranzAlpine scenic train, which runs in reverse in winter. At Arthur’s Pass visit Castle Hill, Lake Pearson, and the Otira Viaduct, explore the national park, and walk to the Devils Punchbowl waterfall. Lunch, snacks, and Christchurch hotel transfers add convenience.

Get out of Christchurch for half a day on a North Canterbury boutique wineries tour with a platter lunch. After a short drive from Christchurch, stop at three wineries, where you taste a selection of quality wines in the up-and-coming Waipara wine region. Possible stops include Pegasus Bay, Waipara Hills, Torlesse Wines, and Waipara Springs. Learn about Waipara’s unique terroir as you sip a range of superior reds and whites.

Enjoy unobstructed views of New Zealand’s tallest mountain—Aoraki Mt. Cook—as well as some of the South Island’s most beautiful natural landscapes without having to drive yourself. Join an easy guided full-day tour from Christchurch that takes you past Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, fields of lavender (summer season only), and to hiking trails in Mt. Cook National Park to see the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest. End back in Christchurch.

Discover volcanic landscapes and breathtaking scenery on New Zealand’s South Island on this Akaroa day trip from Christchurch and avoid the need to self-drive. Ascend the Banks Peninsula for beautiful views over Akaroa Harbour and the volcanic crater. Sample locally made cheeses and admire colonial architecture around Akaroa. Cruise by catamaran into the harbor, where diverse marine and bird life thrives, including rare Hector’s dolphins. Hotel transfers are included.

Experience the charm, culture, and beauty of Christchurch on a guided day tour through New Zealand's Garden City. Enjoy panoramic views stretching from the coastline across Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps, offering a unique perspective of the region's stunning natural beauty. Along the way, discover the stories and heritage that have shaped the city, with fascinating local commentary and excellent photo opportunities. The tour also includes a visit to the Greenstone Shop, where you can learn about New Zealand pounamu (greenstone) and browse authentic local products. A perfect introduction to Christchurch, combining the city's highlights, culture, and spectacular scenery in one memorable experience. Join your local and knowledgable guide and feel good supporting a small local family owned business.

Explore the stunning sights of Christchurch in a convenient 4-hour private tour. Discover picturesque locations such as the Cashmere Hills Lookout, Sumner Beach, the Sign of the Kiwi, and the serene Christchurch Botanic Gardens. A knowledgeable local guide shares captivating stories about the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. This tour includes hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors, families, or anyone looking to experience the essence of Christchurch in a short time. - Visit iconic scenic spots like Cashmere Hills Lookout and Sumner Beach - Enjoy engaging insights from a local guide about the city’s transformation - Comfortable transport with hotel pickup and drop-off included - Perfect for first-time visitors, families, and those with limited time

Explore Christchurch on foot and uncover a city reborn from the 2011 earthquakes into a vibrant mix of heritage and innovation. From the quirky Cardboard Cathedral to Gothic Revival gems, from buzzing New Regent Street to tranquil riverside terraces, every stop reveals resilience, creativity, and charm. Wander through playful spaces like the Margaret Mahy Playground, pause at moving memorials like the Bridge of Remembrance, and soak up art, culture, and flavors at Riverside Market. Along the way you’ll see stunning street art, heritage façades, modern marvels like Te Pae Convention Centre, and lush sanctuaries like the Botanic Gardens. This tour isn’t just about sights it’s a journey through history, recovery, and the unique spirit of Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Visit Edoras of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ fame on this full-day excursion by 4WD vehicle to the peak of New Zealand’s Mt Sunday. Get a look at exclusive photos of Edoras under construction and learn from a knowledgeable LOTR guide about its transformation from tranquil countryside to mythical capital city of the Rohan people. Pose with replica props from the popular trilogy, such as Aragorn’s sword, Gimli’s axe and the flag of Rohan. Includes round-trip hotel transport from Christchurch plus a picnic lunch with sparkling wine.

Morning - Cave Stream It will take us approximately 45 minutes to navigate the 594-meter limestone cave. Our route follows crystal-clear water through winding chambers and small waterfalls. Not interested in caving? Not a problem. You're welcome to explore the paths and trails in the area or sit and relax with some afternoon tea in this very peaceful landscape instead of going through the cave. Afternoon - Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti is an amazing labyrinth of giant limestone boulders. The area is rich with cultural and recreational significance and has been granted Tōpuni status - “A symbolic cloak of protection”. Your guide will show you around and if you like, you can have a go at bouldering and test your climbing skills. Or use your time here to explore the endless maze of boulders.

Discover Christchurch's true spirit with The Nature's Trail! Our immersive city tour offers more than just sightseeing. Knowledgeable local guides share deep insights into Ōtautahi's rich history, unique culture, and its inspiring journey of recovery and innovation following the 2011 earthquake. We take you to key sites: experience panoramic views from the Christchurch Gondola, explore the wonders of the International Antarctic Centre, delve into aviation history at the Air Force Museum, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere at the Avon River Food Market (Riverside Market). Witness firsthand the city's incredible transformation, its creative urban design, and its resilient heart. The Nature's Trail offers a unique and engaging journey through a city reborn, connecting you to its powerful story. Join us to explore the highlights and understand the soul of Christchurch. NOTE : Tickets For Any activites are not included .

This private guided tour to Arthur's Pass includes lunch, transport, and a local guide. Begin your scenic one-day tour from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass, taking in the stunning Southern Alps along the way. **Optional Upgrade – TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Travel in style with a one-way trip on the TranzAlpine Train, enjoying spectacular mountain views before joining the tour. (This replaces the road journey; all other inclusions remain the same.) You'll reach the charming village of Arthur's Pass and have the option for a guided walk to the impressive Devil's Punchbowl Waterfall or a wander around this quaint village. On the return to Christchurch, we'll stop at the iconic Castle Hill Boulders for exploration and photography amidst dramatic limestone formations. This trip combines natural beauty, adventure, and unforgettable scenery.

Looking for something different to do in Christchurch? Southern Escape Tours offers a self-guided, outdoor puzzle tour that takes you around Christchurch's city centre. Solve cryptic puzzles and riddles, see iconic buildings, and stroll along the river. At your own pace, but make sure to score enough points to end up on the leaderboard. Combines walking tour, scavenger hunt, and escape room in one. No guides or groups — just you, your team, and the adventure. Score points and get on the leaderboard. Family-friendly, perfect for couples, friends, or team building. Easy to start — just book, receive instructions, and play anytime. Wheelchair, service animal, and pet friendly.

Tour one of New Zealand’s up-and-coming wine regions the easy way from Christchurch on this hassle-free day trip. Leaving the city behind, you’ll be driven to the scenic Waipara Valley region, which is dotted with vineyards. Visit several of the best and sample a range of red and white wines. Don’t worry about who is going to drive as transfers are taken care of.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! A day trip to Arthur's National Park offers a variety of green fields to rugged mountain ranges, lush forest, and ice-fed lakes and rivers and an optional guided walk with your guide to explore, biggest waterfall. Travel along the Great Alpine Highway through the ever-changing landscapes. Explore Lake Lyndon, castle Hill (famous for massive limestone boulders and rocks), Otira Viaduct Lookout (famous piece of infrastructure for scenic view), Arthur’s Pass National Park, Powerfull Devils Punchbowl Waterfall and Cave Stream Scenic Reserve.

This private shore excursion is designed especially for cruise ship passengers, showcasing the spectacular scenery of Christchurch's hills, harbours and beaches. Your day begins with pick-up from Lyttelton Port and time to explore the township's historic streets, boutique shops and vibrant harbour. From there, travel to Evans Pass lookout for sweeping views across Lyttelton Harbour. The journey continues to Sumner Beach, where you'll have time to enjoy the seaside village and waterfront before travelling through New Zealand's second-longest road tunnel to Cass Bay for a relaxing morning or afternoon tea. The tour then follows the harbour to Governors Bay, where you can visit the historic jetty. The final stops are the Sign of the Bellbird and Sign of the Takahe, both offering panoramic views across Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains and Lyttelton Harbour. The tour concludes with your choice of drop-off in Christchurch city centre or back at Lyttelton Port.

Experience traditional Chinese healing in the heart of Christchurch with this 60-minute Gua Sha Facial — a rare opportunity to enjoy ancient beauty therapy in a modern wellness setting. Unlike standard facials, this immersive ritual uses natural stone tools to gently stimulate circulation and promote lymphatic drainage, helping to de-puff, detoxify, and rejuvenate your skin without chemicals. Perfect for wellness seekers, or those recovering from long travel, this experience combines cultural authenticity with expert care. It’s not just a treatment — it’s a calming ritual for both skin and spirit.

Don’t worry about what to do once you arrive at Lyttelton Harbour. On this small-group tour of the Canterbury countryside surrounding Christchurch, you’ll be transported to Sumner Beach to take in ocean views over coffee before tackling the Godley Head Loop, one of the area’s most popular hikes. Enjoy coastal views and historic World War II landmarks before a picnic lunch at Boulder Bay, surrounded by striking vistas of the Southern Alps.

Sheep farming is an important activity in New Zealand but it can be hard for tourists to experience this first-hand. Visit a working sheep farm in rural Canterbury on a day trip from Christchurch to learn more. Enjoy morning or afternoon tea and watch a sheep-shearing demonstration. Upgrade to include wine tasting at a local vineyard, where you can sip various vintages. Includes hotel transfers from centrally located hotels.

Godley Head is an exciting and beautiful place at the far end of the Port Hills. From Godley Head, you will be treated to uninterrupted and spectacular views of Lyttelton Harbour, Christchurch and the South Island's east coast. Rich in history and scattered with remnants of New Zealand’s WWII defences, this is a must-do location for anyone visiting Christchurch. Join us and explore this unique and unforgettable area with one of our friendly local guides. 1/2-Day Walking Tour: - Track grade: Very easy, 2.5 hrs of walking time - Walking distance: 3-5 km (flexible depending on group ability) - Total elevation gain: ~180 m Full-Day Walking Tour: - Track grade: Easy – Moderate fitness required, 3-4 hrs of walking time. - Walking distance: 6-9 km (flexible depending on group ability) - Total elevation gain: 380-440 m

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Enjoying the scenic views between Christchurch and Queenstown with a fully guided, adventure-filled journey through the breathtaking Southern Alps. Embark on a scenic tour stops at Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, Aoraki/MT.Cook, Tasman Glacier, High Country Salmon, Lindis Pass and Resort town and finally arriving in Queenstown. On your journey explore region’s dramatic landscapes, capture memorable photographs, and learn about the area's natural and cultural significance. The tour concludes in Queenstown, offering a truly enriching and immersive travel experience.

Discover Christchurch’s vibrant arts and heritage scene on a curated walking tour. This immersive journey takes you behind the scenes of The Court Theatre, where the magic of live performances begins. Explore inside the iconic Christ Church Cathedral and learn about its historic significance and restoration efforts. Walk down Worcester Street Boulevard, connecting key cultural landmarks while observing stunning architecture and street art. Visit the Arts Centre Quad, featuring striking sculptures and the Great Hall, before concluding at the Ravenscar House Museum, showcasing exceptional art. Perfect for culture seekers and history enthusiasts, this tour offers exclusive insights and intimate storytelling. - Behind-the-scenes access to The Court Theatre and its creative spaces - Guided entry into Christ Church Cathedral with insights on its history and restoration - Stroll through Worcester Street Boulevard, - Explore Ravenscar House Museum, home to a remarkable private art collection