Top Christchurch Culture

Enjoy an authentic Māori tradition—without dealing with any logistics—on this guided waka canoe experience starting at 794 Colombo Street. Learn how to paddle a real wooden waka before setting off on the Otakaro (Avon) River. As you paddle, listen to stories about the river, Christchurch, the Ngai Tahu iwi, and European settlers. Discover Māori culture and heritage in a hands-on, immersive way.

There’s a lot to see and do in Christchurch, but some of the most interesting stories may not be obvious when you wander around on your own. Learn about Christchurch’s history and culture—including the effects of the destructive earthquakes in 2010 and 2011—on a private walking tour. See central-city highlights, including the Botanic Gardens, New Regent Street, and the Cardboard Cathedral, while listening to illuminating stories from your guide.

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.

Take an aerial journey on the Christchurch Gondola to the Port Hills crater rim and Mt. Cavendish summit. At the summit complex—revamped since the 2011 earthquake—you’re rewarded with views of the cityscape, the Canterbury Plains, and Lyttelton Harbour. Return tickets are included. Upgrade to include punting by flat-bottomed boat on the central-city Avon River.

Enjoy a half-day guided walk on Banks Peninsula, a spectacular extinct volcano only 30 minutes from Christchurch. Experience world-class views and see some of New Zealand's most stunning coastlines with an experienced local guide. Godley Head is a beautiful coastal track with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and also Lyttelton Harbour. It includes historic landmarks from WW2, an Antarctic cabin, and quaint little beaches to boot. The walk is 4 km and takes around 2.5 hours to walk, including a rest stop. The track can be adapted by the guide on the day. If you are short on time, this half-day guided walk is a great option. Both morning and afternoon walks are available, see the highlights and be back in Christchurch in time for lunch or dinner. This walk has less elevation than the full day option, and is suitable for most levels of fitness.

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.

Ride a train through the Southern Alps on a remarkable scenic journey aboard the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth. Enjoy views of native beech forest, snow-sprinkled mountains, the powerful Waimakariri River, and Arthur's Pass National Park from a comfortable carriage and open viewing deck. For getting the history and context of the landmarks along the railway, GPS-triggered audio commentary is available through headphones at every seat.

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

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

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.

Like many New Zealand cities, Christchurch has a dual history shared between Māori and European peoples. Explore the city on this small-group walking tour, taking in landmarks and hidden gems that reveal an often forgotten heritage. Along the way, enjoy local food, drinks, and lunch tastings, connecting you to the people and places you’ll see.

Discover the spectacular scenery of Christchurch and Lyttelton on this nature-focused, small-group half-day tour. Your journey begins at the historic stone building, Sign of the Takahe. Next, marvel at breathtaking views of the Canterbury Plains and Lyttelton Harbour from the Sign of the Bellbird Scenic Reserve. Stroll the Governors Bay Jetty before relaxing over morning or afternoon at Cass Bay. We'll then visit the historic port township of Lyttelton, where you can explore boutique shops and heritage architecture. At Evans Pass lookout, uncover the port's fascinating links to Antarctic exploration. Your tour concludes at beautiful Sumner Beach, with time to wander the waterfront before enjoying a convenient drop-off at your accommodation or the city centre.

You can see the best highlights of Christchurch in one day with great, exciting stories. We will take you to the “MUST SEE” attractions, landscapes, beautiful gardens, sights of Christchurch, and great stories. We will take you to places you won’t find in the guidebooks!

It's all about the experience! Exhilarating! Sightseeing has never been so much fun. Standard tour or made-to-measure, you are sure to enjoy your ride on our V8 trike. We can easily customize something just for you. 2 persons per trip, we may be able to accommodate several people riding together with prior arrangement.

Discover the highlights of Christchurch on this small-group sightseeing tour designed for cruise ship guests visiting Lyttelton Port. Travel through the seaside suburb of Sumner for a coffee stop overlooking the Pacific Ocean and a visit to the iconic Cave Rock. Explore Christchurch with an experienced local guide as you learn about the city's history, resilience, and remarkable rebuild following the 2011 earthquakes. Visit architectural landmarks including the Transitional Cardboard Cathedral, colourful New Regent Street, and Cathedral Square. Stroll through the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens, home to giant trees, vibrant seasonal displays, and the historic Peacock Fountain. Enjoy free time at Riverside Market, where gourmet food stalls, artisan producers, and local boutiques create a lively atmosphere. Complete your day with a relaxing 30-minute punting experience on the Avon River before enjoying scenic views on your return journey to Lyttelton Port.

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.

Experience an unforgettable day immersed in the great outdoors on a guided Crater Rim Walk along the Godley Head Loop Track. Explore Lyttelton Harbour, nestled within the crater of an extinct volcano, and admire one of New Zealand's most picturesque coastlines. Widely regarded as one of Christchurch’s top hikes, this undulating trail features awe-inspiring coastal views, fascinating WWII landmarks, an Antarctic cabin, a penguin colony, and charming beaches. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and native birds.

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.

The TranzAlpine train is often referred to as one of the world’s most scenic train journeys, and this tour will allow you to experience it. Enjoy the convenience of a day trip where all transport is taken care of— round-trip transfers in a luxury minivan, and a TranzAlpine train ticket are included. See Canterbury Plains, the Southern Alps, Lake Pearson, and get the chance to walk in Arthur’s Pass National Park.

Travelers short on time in the South Island won’t miss out on exploring the Southern Alps with this easy day tour from Christchurch. Take the train there and a car on the way back. Hop aboard the TranzAlpine train in Christchurch for the ride through the Canterbury Plains, Waimakariri Gorge, and up to Arthur’s Pass National Park. Explore the village, take bush walks, and see the limestone rock formations of Castle Hill.

Turquoise lakes, majestic glaciers, dramatic mountain peaks and the picture-perfect towns of Queenstown, Wanaka and Franz Josef. With accommodation and some activities included (see below), our all-inclusive tours are hassle-free, authentic experiences for those short on time. This 10 day South Island tour is the ultimate South Island roadie visiting Kaikoura, Christchurch, Tekapo and back across to Christchurch via the famous Arthur’s Pass.

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.

A Half-Day Tour that satisfies all visitors to Christchurch. Recommended for travellers short on time and those eager to see the city’s top attractions. Discover Christchurch as a first-time visitor. Interact with your guide on a private, small-group tour. Select a Half-Day Tour, allowing for additional activities to be enjoyed.