Top Christchurch How to Get Around in 2026

Enjoy the beautiful views and scenery on the way by passing through Governor’s Bay, Gebbies Pass, Lake Ellesmere (Te Waihora), and Little River. Spend your full day that includes return transportation. Look for bird life, including Hector’s dolphins, the world’s smallest oceanic dolphin, New Zealand fur seals, blue penguins, yellow-eyed penguins and other wildlife during the Akaroa Nature Cruise and get great views of the volcanic cliffs and remote sea caves (Akaroa Nature Cruise not included in this tour.)

Travel from Christchurch International Airport to the city and surrounding hotels with this transfer. Suitable for up to four people and two sets of suitcases, this service is convenient and comfortable, making travel a breeze. Ride with a professional driver who will get you directly to your accommodation for a fixed fare, allowing for ease of planning. This is a private trip restricted to your group.

Explore the enchanting Waipara Valley, renowned for its boutique wineries and breathtaking landscapes. This 5-6 hour winery tour invites you to taste award-winning wines, learn the intricacies of winemaking from local experts, and savor gourmet food pairings. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, relax in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle as you visit top wineries like Pegasus Bay and Waipara Hills. Ideal for wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike, this tour provides a delightful insight into New Zealand's premier wine country.

From deep turquoise waters to snow-capped mountain peaks, Christchurch offers some of the most stunning views in all of New Zealand. Make the most of your time in the region on this half-day private walking tour over Banks Peninsula. Take in the spectacular vistas on display from the top of the extinct volcano only 30 minutes away from the city.

Escape Christchurch and discover the stunning beauty of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula on a private scenic tour with a local guide. Travel through breathtaking volcanic landscapes, rolling hills, winding roads, and spectacular coastal scenery before arriving in the charming seaside village of Akaroa. Take your time exploring the waterfront, enjoy the village’s unique French inspired character, browse local shops, stop for a coffee or lunch, and capture beautiful photos along the harbour. Scenic viewpoints and photo stops are included along the journey, with additional stops possible depending on your interests and the weather. This private experience is designed to be relaxed and flexible, with no large groups or rushed schedules. Your local guide can adjust the itinerary and pace to suit you, making it a comfortable and memorable way to experience one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal destinations.

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the South Island on a private day tour from Christchurch to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and Lake Tekapo. Travel through the Canterbury Plains with a stop at Fairlie Bakehouse for a quick breakfast or coffee. Visit the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, with an optional seasonal stop at the New Zealand Alpine Lavender Farm. Continue along the stunning Lake Pukaki with incredible views of Aoraki / Mount Cook. At Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, enjoy a short walk to Kea Point / Mueller Glacier Lake Lookout. Explore the renowned Hooker Valley Track/ Tasman Valley to view the impressive Tasman Glacier before returning to Christchurch.

Take in sweeping views of New Zealand’s mountains and Lord of The Rings backdrops during a 2.5-hour scenic helicopter flight from Christchurch. Fly over Canterbury Plains, the Southern Alps, Aoraki Mount Cook, and the Tasman Glacier during this epic helicopter tour.

Fitting the South Island’s highlights into one trip can be a challenge, but this tour makes it simple. Go your own way with a mixture of guided tours and free time to explore. Experience the stunning natural beauty of Fiordland on a Milford Sound cruise, witness magnificent Aoraki Mt. Cook and the dramatic glaciers, live it up in action-packed Queenstown and traverse the mountains on the TranzAlpine train to Christchurch.

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. This tour includes a stop at our favourite Greenstone Shop, where you will get a short behind the scenes tour with a professional carver and learn about New Zealand pounamu (greenstone) and how it is made. You will also have time to browse these authentic carvings in the shop. 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.

Spend a day in the Southern Alps mountains, surrounded by beautiful nature, without having to drive yourself on this easy day tour from Christchurch. After a pickup in the central city, head to the Arthur’s Pass National Park in a comfortable private vehicle. Explore the natural setting—mountains, waterfalls, and hiking trails—and look out for native birds. After lunch, enjoy a thrilling jet-boat ride on braided rivers, before returning to Christchurch.

This scenic small-group tour includes lunch, transport, and a local guide to Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti. Visit country towns, mountain passes, alpine lakes, and the amazing boulder fields at Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti—a day trip from Christchurch City into the mountains and back again. 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. If you like, you can try bouldering and test your climbing skills or use your time to explore the endless maze of boulders.

On this incredibly scenic small group tour, visit Akaroa and explore the Banks Peninsula with one of our friendly and knowledgeable local guides. Visit some of the small settlements around Lyttelton Harbour and Akaroa Harbour. Learn about fascinating local history, how an enormous extinct volcano shaped this rugged landscape and how the landscape continues to shape the people who live here. In Akaroa, you’ll either visit the whimsical Giant’s House—filled with vibrant mosaic sculptures—or enjoy a harbour cruise, where you may spot Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, and seabirds. (Please note: The harbour cruise option is subject to availability and replaces the visit to the Giant’s House.) In town, there are opportunities to try the local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, or admire the local artworks. For those who are more active, a few bush and coastal walks are available along the way. A day trip that can be either busy and active or laid-back and relaxing.

Many travelers enjoy jet boating while in New Zealand, or riding the scenic TranzAlpine train between Christchurch and Arthurs Pass—but few people combine these experiences on one day trip. This handy tour combines both activities. Departing from Christchurch, enjoy zooming along braided rivers on a jet boat. Later, board the TranzAlpine train at Arthurs Pass to ride back to Christchurch (or do the tour in reverse in winter).

Carefully timed stops at the Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Pukaki, and NZ Alpine Lavender Farm offer world-class photo opportunities. Travel during lavender bloom season (Nov–Mar) for purple fields framed by snow-capped mountains. A rare addition to any day tour: NZ Alpine Lavender, the largest certified organic lavender farm in the Southern Hemisphere. Enjoy artisan lavender ice cream, high-quality local products, and breathtaking lavender fields—only available Nov to March. Professional, experienced driver lowest price Clean Car

Join our exclusive small-group tour for up to 8 people, designed specifically for cruise ship passengers arriving at Lyttelton Port in Christchurch. Visit Akaroa and explore the Banks Peninsula with one of our friendly and knowledgeable local guides. Morning Tea, Cafe lunch and entry into The Giant's House are included. Starting and finishing in Lyttelton, this excursion offers a genuinely scenic experience. You will learn about the fascinating local history and discover how an enormous extinct volcano shaped this rugged landscape, which in turn continues to influence the lives of the people who live here. In Akaroa, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the whimsical Giant’s House, filled with vibrant mosaic sculptures. While in town, you can enjoy local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, or admire the local artworks. This trip to Akaroa from Lyttelton fits perfectly into your cruise ship schedule, guaranteeing a timely return to Lyttelton with no stress.

This private tour is specifically designed for cruise ship passengers. Visit Akaroa and explore the Banks Peninsula with one of our friendly and knowledgeable local guides. This excursion, starting and finishing at Lyttleton, is a genuinely scenic experience. Learn about fascinating local history and understand how an enormous extinct volcano shaped this rugged landscape and how the landscape continues to shape the people who live here. In Akaroa, you’ll visit the whimsical Giant’s House; a place filled with vibrant mosaic sculptures. In town, there are opportunities to try the local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, or admire the local artworks. A trip to Akaroa from Lyttelton fits nicely into the cruise ship schedule.

At 3724 metres, Aoraki Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak. As a sacred ancestor for local Ngā Tahu iwi, Aoraki is more than just a mountain. He and his brothers’ story is arguably one of the South Island’s most important Māori legends, speaking to the dramatic formation of Kā Tiritiri o te Moana (Southern Alps) which have since become home to one of Aotearoa’s most beautiful National Parks. So why not join us as we travel south to experience the best of what the South Island has to offer. Escaping the hustle and bustle of Ōtautahi Christchurch, this 1 way trip adventures via the Canterbury plains, State Highway 79, the world famous Fairlie Bakehouse, Lake Tekapo, and Lake Pukaki before arriving in Aoraki Mt Cook Village. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget!

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Embark on a memorable 6-hour Akaroa day trip from Christchurch, where you’ll have the opportunity to discover New Zealand’s stunning volcanic landscapes and breathtaking scenery. This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region, with a guide providing expert insights into the area's rich history and natural beauty. Key highlights of the tour are passing by Governor’s Bay, Banks Peninsula Views, Akaroa Village, Cheese Tasting, Catamaran Cruise for dolphins watching, Optional Lunch Upgrade. The guides are knowledgeable about local customs and history, ensuring an enriching experience throughout your day. Best Tour with reasonable guaranteed price. We invite you to consider Kiwi Adventures Tour & Travel as an integral part of your next adventure. Our private tour offers something for everyone.

Travel from Christchurch to Queenstown via majestic Aoraki/Mt. Cook on a fully narrated sightseeing tour that makes the most of a travel day. As well as views of New Zealand’s highest mountain, highlights include the fertile farmland of the Canterbury Plains, glacier-fed Lake Tekapo, and the grandeur of the Southern Alps. Tour departs from central Christchurch and ends in central Queenstown, to align with your South Island travel plans.

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.

Join us for a unique and thrilling experience on a V8 Chevrolet trike as we explore beautiful Christchurch. Designed and built in Canterbury, our awesome trike is powered by 5700cc Chevrolet motor. It’s the ultimate in power and excitement. Pickup at Lyttleton Shuttle drop off. Travel into the city and CBD trip around the city. Photo opportunities at lookout on the way and around the city. Free time in the city. Depending on how long you want to spend in the city the Art Gallery, Arts Centre, Quake City, Ravenscar House, Botanic Gardens, and Earthquake memorial. We then meet up again and transfer you back to Lyttleton by taking you over the Port Hills scenic lookout at The Sign of The Kiwi Café. Photo opportunities from top of the hills.

Wanting to explore Akaroa, but want a more personalised and tailored experience? Look no further than our private Akaroa day tour from Christchurch. Nestled on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula, the charming French influenced village of Akaroa is a popular day trip with Cantabrians and tourists alike. It hosts the beauty of being equal parts bustling, tranquil, and picturesque. So join us as we explore the waterfront and some of the gorgeous heritage buildings of Akaroa. Including a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese, you will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, with the option to add on extra highlights (sold separately), such as a dolphin swim or nature cruise, this journey is fully customisable and is one you will never forget.

Presenting the highlights of Christchurch City and surrounding suburbs, and also featuring some of the lesser known but equally appealing sights. Our smaller group size and choice of vehicle make moving around the inner city effortless, and you're always front of queue because on our tours there isn't one.

This is a private small group tour for up to 11 people. The route around Christchurch and Lyttelton takes you over the old volcanoes of Banks Peninsula with varied scenery onto some of the smaller, less traveled roads to some uniquely scenic places. With approximately 6 hours 30 min from start to finish we will spend about 5 hours 30 min exploring points of interest etc. and an hour driving from point to point on the itinerary. We are happy to customise your tour to include attractions such as the International Antarctic Centre or Willowbank Wildlife Park (cost extra) , etc. We are locals and give an in-depth commentary covering the volcanoes, NZ and local history, earthquakes etc. and have been proudly sharing our back yard with visitors for over 25 years.