Top Christchurch Tickets & Passes

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.

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.

Learn about Antarctic landscapes, wildlife, and explorers with convenient pre-purchased tickets to the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch. Brave a harsh Antarctic storm, learn about life on remote Scott Base, and check out adorable little blue penguins. Enjoy Hägglund rides (height restrictions apply) and 4D shows, and enter the “cuddle zone,” where you can meet fluffy huskies that explorers historically used to pull their Antarctic dog sleds.

Book advance tickets to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve for guaranteed kiwi sightings and up-close access to native New Zealand species. Booking Willowbank Wildlife Reserve tickets online combines the convenience of advance planning with the flexibility to arrive at any time of day, making it easy to fit this wildlife experience into a full day of travel or sightseeing.

Travel by TranzAlpine train to Arthur's Pass National Park, riding across the Canterbury Plains, then winding through the Waimakariri Gorge and into the heart of the Southern Alps on a day trip from Christchurch. Disembark at Arthur’s Pass Village, where you’ll explore the rainforests and mountains on short walks. This small-group tour limits the group size, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Travel the full circuit of the Christchurch Tram, which departs about every 15 minutes from stops around the central city. Use your ticket to hop on and hop off at 18 stops and create your own sightseeing itinerary, or stay onboard for a comprehensive tour with live commentary. The ticket lasts all day so you can get on and off where you want.

View Christchurch’s highlights on a half-day sightseeing tour introducing the architecture, gardens, and waterways of “The Garden City” without the hassle of self-driving or catching public transportation. Pass city center landmarks, meander around perennial gardens, visit the seaside, and marvel at views over the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps. Choose a morning or afternoon departure, and opt to upgrade to include the International Antarctic Centre.

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.

Wildlife enthusiasts will love this full-day nature-focused tour to Kaikoura from Christchurch that avoids the need to self-drive along winding coastal roads. Look out for sperm whales, migrating humpbacks, southern right whales, orcas, and dolphins on a cruise with live commentary. Visit a fur seal colony on land, glimpse the snowy peaks of the Kaikoura Ranges during your free time, and top off the day with wine tasting (time permitting).

Experience the Waipara wine valley and the city of Christchurch during this full-day, guided, small-group tour with transportation in a luxury mini-van. See the city sights as your guide provides commentary and recommendations of what to do in New Zealand’s largest city. Look out at Lyttelton Port and the Canterbury farmlands from atop Port Hills and head north to the region’s wine country to visit boutique vineyards.

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.

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 walks, and visit a farm before returning to Christchurch.

Make the most of your time in port in Christchurch with a half-day shore excursion that takes in all the highlights. Explore downtown Christchurch, stroll around Monavale Gardens, and learn how the city was rebuilt after the devasting earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. Continue along the scenic Summit Road, stopping to admire the views from the Sign of the Takahe, and stop at Riverside Market for a lunch break (own expense).

Make the most of a short time in Christchurch on a full-day shore excursion after your cruise ship docks in Lyttelton. Head into the city and learn about its rebuild post-earthquake. Travel into the Port Hills to get a view over the Canterbury Plains, then speed up the weaving waterways of the braided Waimakariri River on a jet boat. This tour is designed especially to work with cruise ship timings.

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. Combine a visit to the renowned International Antarctic Centre with a narrated, air-conditioned excursion around several of the Garden City’s most historic and picturesque sites, plus learn about the devastating 2010 and 2011 earthquakes as you travel. Food and drinks are not included.

When your cruise ship docks in Lyttelton, make the most of a day on land with a full-day tour combining a half-day Christchurch city tour with a visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Take in the city’s historical landmarks and rebuilding efforts since devastating earthquakes. Then head to the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve for a guided tour that includes viewing of endangered kiwi birds and other New Zealand wildlife—ideal for families.

Begin your day with a complimentary Fairlie Bakehouse breakfast, including their famous fresh pie and a barista-made coffee. Continue to the turquoise shores of Lake Tekapo and visit its must-see photo spots before traveling to Lake Pukaki, framed by sweeping views of Aoraki / Mount Cook. Enjoy free time in the Mount Cook region for sightseeing, short walks, or photography. The journey continues through the Mackenzie Basin and Lindis Pass, showcasing dramatic alpine scenery all the way to Queenstown. With comfortable transport, curated stops, and expert commentary, this is the most scenic and relaxed way to travel between the two cities.

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 .

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Tailored 3 Private Tours for Cruise Ship Passengers Arriving in Lyttleton, Christchurch. We offer these tour options, specially designed for only cruise ship passengers: Option 1: Half-Day Christchurch & Half-Day Akaroa Explorer Option 2: Arthur’s Pass with Castle Hill – Full-Day Return Tour Option 3: Kaikoura Whale Watching – Full-Day Return Tour When making a booking, guests are required to specify which tour option they are selecting. Please note: Due to time constraints related to cruise ship arrival and departure schedules, guests may book only one tour option per day. These are single-day excursions and cannot be combined.

Embark on an unforgettable journey along Kaikoura's stunning coastline. This small-group kayaking tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty and encounter playful seals in their natural habitat. Paddle through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by majestic cliffs and towering mountains. Discover hidden coves and sea caves as you navigate the coastline. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and penguins, adding an extra touch of magic to your adventure. No kayaking experience is necessary. Our expert guides provide instruction and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. After your kayaking adventure, savor a delicious lunch at a charming cafe, where you can relax and soak in the stunning coastal atmosphere.