Top Christchurch Outdoor Activities

The day started cloudy but ended up absolutely perfect. Our driver, Craig, was on time, friendly, and very well informed. His commentary was very interesting and peppered with personal stories. Just really great. Lunch was beautiful and the “long harbor” cruise was terrific. We did see dolphins so well done boat team. The commentary on the boat was excellent as well and much was learned and appreciated.

A full exciting day exploring Arthur’s Pass National Park in the heart of the Southern Alps of New Zealand. En route we saw majestic mountains, braided rivers, steep gorges, waterfalls, sheep farms, sunflower fields, deer farms, Castle Rock where scenes from “Lord of the Rings” were filmed and walked lush trails. The sheep farm owner was ill that day, so the sheep farm portion was cancelled. Lunch was optional at Arthur's Pass. Jude was a fantastic tour guide and driver! We had excitement on the return ride to the ship as our group, consisting of three couples, was delayed three hours due to a serious traffic accident. The ship's own tour was also delayed and the ship waited for their group. Quite the adventure!

If you have a choice, Joseph was an excellent guide. We stopped at an old wagon stop out of Lyttelton and if you enjoy old buildings this one will delight you. The stop at Mona Vale park was fun and we liked the walk along the river. Following this, Joseph stoped at a downtown collection of restaurants, called the Riverside Market. There were many choices in this food court area. The Barbecue was quite good. We stopped at the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve and took the 45 minute guided tour which was included on the tour. If you haven't seen a kiwi bitd you will see one here. Our guide was a Wildlife Environmental Biologist and knowledgeable. The time here was well spent. Joseph took us back through the highway tunnel and got us back on time at the cruise ship. It was somewhat confusing as to where to meet the tour. You take the free shuttle from the cruise ship dock and get off at the first stop. You will be met by the tour representative who will assist you to the correct bus. Don't get on the bus to Christchurch, that is the wrong shuttle to meet the correct bus.