Top Christchurch Nature and Wildlife Tours

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

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.

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.

Discover the stunning Botanic Gardens from the comfort of an eco-friendly electric shuttle on this guided tour. Over 50 minutes, enjoy live commentary as you explore this expansive 21-hectare haven, showcasing seasonal highlights that cater to garden lovers and those with limited time or mobility. - 50-minute guided tour of the Botanic Gardens on an electric shuttle - Live commentary detailing seasonal highlights during your journey - Departures are available daily in summer, with winter departures on Thursdays to Sundays - Our electric shuttles use clear plastic sides to keep our guests dry on rainy days. - A small stepstool is available for guests who need assistance boarding. -Please note we are unable to accommodate wheelchairs on the tour at this time.

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.

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.

Explore Christchurch in style with the all-day ticket for the iconic Christchurch Trams and the breathtaking Gondola. Hop on and off the restored heritage trams for a delightful city tour, enriched by live commentary from local drivers. Enjoy the ticket as a hop on and off tour or just complete the 50 minute circuit. Then, ascend the Gondola for stunning views over the city, Lyttelton Harbour, and the Pacific Ocean. At the summit station, enjoy walking tracks, the Christchurch Discovery Ride, and a café offering local fare. The 852 horizonal metre trip to the summit takes around 10 minutes and offers stunning views in all directions. This experience is perfect for families and those seeking a memorable sightseeing adventure in Christchurch. Customers can do the attractions on different days if they wish.

Travel deep into the Southern Alps on a small-group day trip from Christchurch. Admire views of Lake Tekapo, the Tasman Glacier, and Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park while traveling comfortably on an air-conditioned minibus with included hotel pickup and lunch. Learn more from your guide than you would going alone, and receive personalized attention in a small group.

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.

Experience an award-winning attraction, enjoy a 45-minute guided tour through the native section of Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, led by an expert guide. See kiwi in a natural nocturnal setting, meet kea, tuatara, and other native species, and learn about local conservation efforts. After the guided tour, explore the rest of the reserve at your own pace, with opportunities to see farm animals and other wildlife. Highlights: 45-minute guided walk through native habitats Kiwi viewing in a natural nocturnal environment See NZ's Big 5 wildlife (kea, kākā, takahē, tuatara and kiwi ) all in one location Explore the rest of the reserve at your own pace Learn about wildlife conservation and restoration

The scenic TranzAlpine train travels from Christchurch to Greymouth. But if you don’t have the time, or the need, to travel so far, you can enjoy a shorter version of the journey. Boarding the train in Christchurch, travel to Arthur’s Pass, in the middle of the Southern Alps. Spend some free time there, then board a small-group guided tour for the return journey that stops at other top attractions.

Discover the fascinating world of Antarctica on this immersive two-hour guided tour led by expert Antarctic Guides. Gain insights into the history, science, and human spirit of Antarctic exploration. From the thrill of a Hägglunds ride to the chilling experience of the Storm Room, this tour offers unique opportunities to connect with the icy continent. Encounter captivating stories about research stations and penguin conservation while enjoying full access to the Antarctic Centre. - Two-hour fully guided experience with expert insights - Thrilling Hägglunds ride and Storm Room experience - Exclusive talks about Little Blue Penguins and Antarctic research - Full General Admission access included with the ticket - Please note this experience is not suitable for children under 16 years of age.

A serene 30-minute punt ride awaits you on the iconic Avon River, nestled in the heart of Christchurch. Glide through the lush scenery of the Botanic Gardens guided by a knowledgeable punter dressed in classic attire. This eco-friendly experience offers a unique perspective of local wildlife and flora, making it perfect for families and nature lovers alike. Enjoy a relaxing escape as you learn about the sights along the way—an ideal way to unwind while soaking in the beauty of Christchurch’s waterways.

Make the most of a travel day and let someone else do the driving so you can admire the views. This small-group, fully guided tour takes you from Christchurch to Queenstown via Tekapo and Aoraki Mt. Cook. Instead of just sitting in a bus all day, get out and explore Geraldine, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park, and other points of interest along the way.

Join us as we travel from Ōtautahi Christchurch to the wild West Coast. Your morning to midday will be spent aboard the world famous TranzAlpine, travelling across braided rivers and the Canterbury plains, past majestic mountains and Lake Brunner, and through the 8km long Otira tunnel before arriving in Greymouth. Travelling via the Great Alpine Highway on your return, we will stop to explore the jaw dropping geology and geography of Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass. You will be driven in comfort by your modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by your fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget! As this tour operates in an alpine region, the weather can be unpredictable so please prepare for all conditions.

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.

Fly along a series of high-speed ziplines at the Christchurch Adventure Park, soaring high in the air for sweeping views of the Southern Alps and Pacific Ocean that you can’t get any other way. Zipline guides and fitted protective equipment ensure a safe, fun adventure through the Port Hills. Ride four dual ziplines that soar more than 518 feet (150 meters) above the ground for a thrilling experience.

Discover New Zealand's marine wildlife capital on this whale watching day tour from Christchurch to Kaikōura. Journey along a spectacular coastal route to witness giant sperm whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat. Travel through Canterbury with your expert Kiwi guide, stopping at Cheviot and Hundalee Hills where fur seals bask on rocks. Board your whale watching vessel with naturalist guides. The Kaikōura Canyon creates nutrient-rich waters attracting incredible marine diversity. Search for sperm whales, humpbacks, orcas, and dolphins using hydrophone tracking technology. When time permits, stop at Waipara wine region for tastings. Travel carbon-neutral in a Mercedes Sprinter with WiFi and USB charging. With maximum 16 guests, enjoy personalized attention and lunch included on this ultimate whale watching experience.

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

Embark on an unforgettable journey through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes with Cheeky Kiwi Travel. This two-day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz Josef offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes and hidden gems. You’ll enjoy personalized service, small group sizes, and expert local guides who will ensure your journey is as informative as it is exhilarating. Book your adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Make the most of a short time on land on a shore excursion deep into the Southern Alps. You’ll be picked up from the port in Lyttelton and driven to Arthur’s Pass Village, a handy base for exploring the mountains of the central South Island. Enjoy lunch available for purchase with a view and time to explore the village and surrounding alpine scenery.

Enjoy a day out of Christchurch without having to drive yourself through the mountains on this handy day trip. Start your adventure with an exciting jet boat ride at Thrillseekers Canyon, then visit the mountain resort village of Hanmer Springs, where you melt your stress away with a relaxing soak. Refuel with the included lunch at the on-site café and enjoy the convenience of hotel transfers from Christchurch.

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.

This full-day albatross-watching tour in Kaikoura takes you on a narrated boat ride from the rugged coastline. Kaikoura may be famous for its whale and dolphin sightings, but it’s also one of the world's most abundant regions for oceangoing birds, including various species of albatross. Also look out for petrels, shearwaters, terns, shags, and gulls, as well as a fur seal colony.