Top Christchurch Nature and Wildlife Tours - page 4

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.

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.

Godley Head is an exciting and beautiful headland 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. This tour requires no minimum numbers to run. It is perfectly suited to individuals, couples, and small groups looking for a relaxing and exclusive tour. 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

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.

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.

Admire gorgeous fiords, magnificent glaciers, and towering mountains on this 6-day semi-independent South Island tour. Travel round-trip from Christchurch via coach and scenic railways, some of which are narrated. Cruise on Milford Sound, ride the Queenstown Skyline Gondola above Lake Wakatipu, and view the Franz Josef or Fox Glaciers from up close. Overnight stays allow plenty of free time to explore at your own pace.

See some of the most impressive scenery the South Island has to offer on this full-day tour departing Christchurch. See the beautiful Lake Tekapo, marvel at the amazing blue hue of Lake Pukaki, take a small trek to see the Tasman Glacier and finally arrive at Mt Cook: New Zealand’s highest peak. Here you will take a short walk (approximately one hour), enjoying magnificent scenery on the way.

Fly from Christchurch to takes in views of extinct volcanoes, rugged coastline and bays filled with the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. Explore Akaroa by foot, its heritage and distinct French feel,reflected in the names of the streets and local bays. Waste no time in this quaint seaside village. Walk the streets, visit the shops, cafés and restaurants. Take one of the many nature walks around the village

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

See the South Island by coach and railway on a semi-independent 5-day tour, traveling round-trip from Christchurch. Hear informative commentary on your sightseeing coach, gaze at the scenic Southern Alps while aboard the TranzAlpine train, and visit the World Heritage–listed Fiordland on a Milford Sound cruise with lunch. Overnight stays in Fox Glacier and Queenstown allow for plenty of free time to explore New Zealand’s magnificent glaciers and national parks.

Wanting to explore Aoraki National Park and Lake Tekapo, but want a more personalised and tailored experience? Look no further than our private Mt Cook day tour from Christchurch. 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 (the Southern Alps). Escaping the hustle and bustle of Christchurch, this 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 fully customisable and is one you will never forget!

Discover Aoraki Mount Cook on a scenic private journey for up to 3–4 people. Your day begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Queenstown, Christchurch, or Dunedin. For Queenstown Pickup: Pass by Kawarau Suspension Bridge, Roaring Meg & Cromwell. Stop at Lindis Pass, and High Country Salmon. For Christchurch Pickup: Pass through Geraldine and Fairlie, stop at Fairlie Bakehouse, and visit Lake Tekapo. For Dunedin Pickup: Travel via Waitaki River and Omarama, with stops at Oamaru and High Country Salmon. Enjoy panoramic stops at Lake Pukaki and a scenic drive to Mount Cook. Take in stunning views, walk the Hooker Valley Track with its swing bridges and Hooker Lake, spot alpine kea, or engage in Tasman Glacier View Walks. Visit the Mount Cook Visitor Centre to learn about the area’s history. Choose to finish at Queenstown, Christchurch, Dunedin or end journey at Mount Cook. Total road time will be approximately 8.5 hours.

See some of New Zealand’s most iconic natural vistas on this 2-day multi-stop adventure from Christchurch to Queenstown. Travel on the TranzAlpine train on a journey to see the blue-tinted frozen glaciers on New Zealand’s west coast, before stopping off overnight in Franz Josef. Once rested up, continue on to see the stunning crystal blue waters of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea before finally arriving in the bustling town of Queenstown.

Christchurch has been voted as one of the best city’s to visit in the world. Since the earthquakes, the city has a real buzz and is very popular. On the tour, I’ll show you all the best parts of our city, port hills and anything you’d love to see! I was born in Christchurch, and have grown up in the city and in the surrounding area. I have been tour guiding around New Zealand since 2012 and even had a stint as a TV Presenter for a farming show on our local network, CTV. On a Scotty B Tour you can rest easy knowing you're going to get great service, I put my name on it! I've travelled to more than 40 countries and I know that meeting & travelling with a local guide can make for a great experience. Our city has been reborn and I want to make sure you have the best experience in our beautiful city and see as much as you can. Both New, old and get you exploring our nature! Get in touch for you want to customise this experience Scotty

Embark on an expedition across New Zealand's South Island, commencing from the historic Christchurch Railway Station. Prepare for an unforgettable day of exploration aboard the renowned TranzAlpine Railway, renowned as one of the world's most scenic train journeys. Highlights: Panoramic Train Journey: Departing from Christchurch, indulge in sweeping vistas of Canterbury's plains and distant peaks. Otira Viaduct Lookout: Witness the Otira Viaduct, an engineering marvel spanning the rugged Otira Gorge, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. Devil's Punchbowl Waterfall: Guided hike to witness the majestic Devil's Punchbowl waterfall, where crystal-clear waters cascade down sheer rock faces. Visitor Centre Exploration: Dive into the fascinating history and natural wonders of Arthur's Pass at the visitor center, uncovering insights into the region's flora, fauna, and Maori legends. Kea Encounter: Keep a lookout for the playful kea, the world's sole alpine parrot.

Embark on an unforgettable overnight journey from Christchurch to the serenity of Hurunui Hut along the Harpers Pass Track. This exclusive expedition promises a perfect fusion of adventure, relaxation, and immersion in the untamed wilderness. Depart from Christchurch and embark on a picturesque drive to the start point of Harpers Pass Track. Along the way, soak in the breathtaking vistas that set the stage for the adventure ahead. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes with a trek through the wilderness, or embrace the thrill of an exhilarating fat biking experience. Spend the night at the welcoming embrace of Hurunui Hut, nestled amidst the rugged beauty of the wilderness. After settling into the cozy hut, indulge in a rejuvenating escape to nearby natural hot springs. Let their therapeutic waters melt away the stresses of everyday life. As night falls, bask in the peaceful ambiance of Hurunui Hut, sharing stories and laughter with fellow adventurers under the stars.

This tour is a commitment to delivering a premium, personalised travel experience across New Zealand’s stunning South Island. The carefully crafted itineraries combine iconic destinations with hidden gems, allowing guests to experience breathtaking landscapes, local culture, and unforgettable moments at a relaxed pace. With experienced local guides, comfortable transportation, flexible service, and attention to detail, this provides more than just a tour, it creates a seamless and memorable journey tailored to each traveller.