Top Christchurch Outdoor Activities - page 2

Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Christchurch & Willowbank Tour

6 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Day Entry

1 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

Christchurch Gondola Ride Ticket

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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

Explore Godley Head, Lyttelton & Christchurch (Small Group Tour)

3 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

Make the most of a travel day with a 1-way small-group transfer that takes the stress out of traveling between Christchurch and Aoraki Mt. Cook. This tour includes convenient hotel pickup in Christchurch and stops at Geraldine, Lake Tekapo, and the Church of the Good Shepherd. Enjoy a picnic lunch in Geraldine and admire views of Aoraki Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Learn from your guide’s engaging stories.

Christchurch to Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo One Way Small Group Tour

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Enjoy an authentic Māori tradition—without dealing with any logistics—on this guided waka canoe experience starting at 794 Colombo Street. Learn how to paddle a real wooden waka before setting off on the Otakaro (Avon) River. As you paddle, listen to stories about the river, Christchurch, the Ngai Tahu iwi, and European settlers. Discover Māori culture and heritage in a hands-on, immersive way.

Māori Waka Experience in Christchurch - 75 minutes

1 hour 15 minutesFree Cancellation

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).

Arthurs Pass Jet Boating and TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch

10 hoursFree Cancellation

Adventurous travelers visiting Christchurch can join a small-group guided tour to the Cave Stream Scenic Reserve at Lake Pearson for bouldering and rock climbing. Equipment is included, so you don’t need your own. Explore Cave Stream’s limestone cave and waterfalls with a guide keeping you safe. Opt to include a visit to Castle Hill, and choose between half- or full-day tours. Hotel pickup and transport are included in full-day options.

Cave Stream Caving Adventure with Optional Castle Hill Tour

1 dayFree Cancellation

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.

Kaikōura Whale Watch Tour from Christchurch - Small Group

8 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

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.

International Antarctic Centre General Admission Ticket

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

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 bush walks, and see the limestone rock formations of Castle Hill.

Arthur's Pass National Park Day Tour with TranzAlpine Train

9 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Kaikoura Albatross Encounter Tour from Christchurch

11 hoursFree Cancellation

There’s no need to choose between a train ride to Franz Josef from Christchurch and a sightseeing adventure with this full-day one-way tour. Gaze out at the Southern Alps as you ride the rails to Franz Josef before hopping into the back of a coach for a road trip through the West Coast region, taking in black-sand beaches, turquoise glacier lakes, and enjoying a sit-down picnic lunch with free menu choice.

Christchurch to Franz Josef One Way Day Tour with TranzAlpine

12 hoursFree Cancellation

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.

Christchurch: 3.5hr Scenic highlights, Local guide, food included

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

A thrilling jet boat ride and a scenic helicopter tour are both must-do activities in New Zealand. Save yourself time and hassle by combining them in one easy trip. Departing from Christchurch, you’ll fly over the scenic Canterbury countryside, admiring the pristine braided rivers as you go. Soon you’ll be zipping over them in a jet boat navigated by an expert driver who will keep you safe while you’re having fun.

Helicopter & Jet Boat Tour – Canterbury

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Be enchanted by Kaikoura’s marine life on this full-day dolphin-swimming tour from Christchurch without having to drive yourself there and back along winding coastal roads. In Kaikoura, a whale-watching paradise, board a sightseeing boat and jump into the Pacific Ocean with the provided wetsuit and snorkel. Swim alongside dusky dolphins in their natural habitat and enjoy the company of these graceful, curious sea mammals with help from your guides.

Kaikoura Swim with Dolphins Tour from Christchurch

12 hoursFree Cancellation

Experience an unforgettable day immersed in the great outdoors on a guided Crater Rim Walk along the Godley Head Loop Track. Explore Lyttelton Harbour, nestled within the crater of an extinct volcano, and admire one of New Zealand's most picturesque coastlines. Widely regarded as one of Christchurch’s top hikes, this undulating trail features awe-inspiring coastal views, fascinating WWII landmarks, an Antarctic cabin, a penguin colony, and charming beaches. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and native birds.

Full-Day Godley Head Coastal Hike with Picnic Lunch

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Christchurch Hop-On Hop-Off Tram

1 dayFree Cancellation

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

Godley Head & Lyttelton Scenic Drive & Guided Walk (Private Tour)

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Fly over Christchurch and the Banks Peninsula on a 20-minute helicopter tour that takes in city sights. From an aerial view, you’ll appreciate the scale of Christchurch’s devastation and recovery following the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes. Soar above the ruins of ChristChurch Cathedral and see the new sports stadium while the pilot comments on rebuilding efforts. See the suburbs of Sumner and Redcliffe, and view the port of Lyttelton.

Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour

20 minutesFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Ride a train through the Southern Alps on a remarkable scenic journey aboard the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth. Enjoy views of native beech forest, snow-sprinkled mountains, the powerful Waimakariri River, and Arthur's Pass National Park from a comfortable carriage and open viewing deck. For getting the history and context of the landmarks along the railway, GPS-triggered audio commentary is available through headphones at every seat.

TranzAlpine Train Journey: Christchurch to Greymouth

4 hours 50 minutes

4.3

(357)

from $139

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.

Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Godley Head Coastal Hike with Picnic

Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Godley Head Coastal Hike with Picnic

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Godley Head is an exciting and wild 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 east coast of the South Island. 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. - 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

Lyttelton Shore Ex: 3.5 hr Guided Scenic Hike. Transport & Food

3 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

Self-driving through New Zealand’s mountainous South Island can be distracting, and public transportation links are limited. Travel between Christchurch and Queenstown with ease during this 2-day small-group transfer service that stops overnight in Franz Josef (accommodation own expense). Journey from the plains to the mountains while admiring the scenery rather than watching the road. Also stop at Hokitika and Wānaka en route for more sightseeing opportunities.

Christchurch to Queenstown 2-Day Transfer Via Franz Josef

2 daysFree Cancellation

1 2 3

...

Must-Dos in Christchurch

1 / 2

What are people saying about Christchurch

Mt Cook & Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch (lunch included)

Marceena_L, Aug 2026

Awesome trip

It was 1 of the best tours i have been on. The driver,Logan, was fantastic. He was a very good driver and a knowledgeable one. He gave the group plenty of stops for photos and plenty of time. One good thing,it was only a small group,and the food/lunch supplied,plus snacks,was wonderful. I would highly recommend this tour as well as cheeky kiwi. They are a very good tour operator

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Day Entry

APRIL_W, Aug 2026

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Arriving early is the best way to see the wildlife at its most active and to secure encounter feeding times throughout the day. Spoon-feeding eels and geese, plus catching a glimpse of a native kiwi, made my day. Stopping at the café for some delicious treats also gave me a chance to feed the deer up close. Highly recommend!

Christchurch to Queenstown One-Way Tour via Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo

YueIda_Z, Aug 2026

Great way to travel from Christchurch to Queenstown!

A great way to get from Christchurch to Queenstown while getting a quick look at the sights along the way. Our guide Rosie was lovely and very knowledgeable, giving us interesting insights about the towns and sights we passed by, and about conservation in NZ. I definitely felt like this added to the experience and made it a lot more worthwhile. It felt like I learned a lot about the places we passed by, info that I wouldn’t have known if I was self-driving. We had many stops at viewpoints (lake tekapo & pukaki) and could do two short but very scenic walks at Aoraki Mt Cook (45mins +1hr). It was a long day but we were never in the van for more than about 1.5 hours at a time, with plenty of opportunities for bathroom breaks and to stretch our legs. We made a stop at a lovely cafe to get breakfast in the morning about 2hrs out, and a packed lunch with delicious hot soup was provided midday. We changed coaches at Aoraki Mt Cook and continued with another driver. In Queenstown, we got dropped off at our accomodations. We made good time, about 12.5 hrs in total.

Akaroa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Christchurch

Jackie_B, Jun 2026

Wonderful day out

Fabulous day out. Started with a stop at the cheese factory, where I bought a lot of cheese. It was then onto Akaroa. A beautiful little town. The shops are lovely and everyone was very welcoming. The lunch was great, so much food. We were very lucky on the cruise to see a pod of Hectors Dolphins. It was a a fantastic day out.

Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Arthur's Pass National Park Day Tour

Janet_A, Apr 2026

Terry drove a small group...

Terry drove a small group of us from Lyttelton to a sheep farm owned by an award-winning sheep shearer and his wife where the farmer and his sheepdog gave us a brief demonstration of the dog's herding ability. The shearer sheared a lamb for us and explained how the fleeces are sorted and packed up for processing. After the farm, we were taken to Arthur's Pass National Park in the Southern Alps of the South Island. The scenery was beautiful, and we went on a short hike in Arthur's Pass Village. Terry was very informative and kept us entertained through the somewhat long drive there and back to Lyttelton. We thoroughly enjoyed the excursion!

Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Godley Head Coastal Hike with Picnic

Susan_R, Apr 2026

Thrill of a lifetime crater hike.

This is a hike - 5 miles - around the crater rim and includes some steep hills and climbing rocky stairs. Our guide was fantastic. Emma was knowledgeable about the area and kept checking with us on hike options to either up the difficulty or adjust to simpler pathways. The scenery is breathtaking and you see ocean views from 3 different directions as you navigate the rim! People need to follow the physical recommendations and understand you should be in good shape without mobility restrictions to make this trek. Lunch and snacks were included. Everything was healthy and delicious!

International Antarctic Centre General Admission Ticket

Danica_G, Mar 2026

A Wonderful Experience

This was such a lovely experience!! The Hagglund ride was so much fun and then my friend and I braved the storm room without jackets which gave us such a laugh. The highlight for me was the penguins, I loved all their individual stories and the fact that they're mostly rescues. My favourite is Toa because he had to be rescued just because he is terrible at being a penguin. Toa forever.

Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Christchurch & Willowbank Tour

Thomas_K, Mar 2026

Viator tour of Lyttelton and Christchurch

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.

Waipara Wine Experience for 2 or more, inc tastings and lunch

Emma_S, Mar 2026

Brilliant Tour! Fascinating information.

What a fantastic experience with Giles on this tour. What he doesn't know about wines probably isn't worth knowing! We visited some fantastic wineries, and it was great seeing the vines just about to be harvested. Giles' was brilliant in adding so much to the information being shared from the winery staff. The wines were brilliant, and a lovely platter lunch was included. What a fantastic day, comfortable, interesting, delicious and well-hosted by Giles.

Full-Day Godley Head Coastal Hike with Picnic Lunch

Laura_S, Feb 2026

Attention to Detail

Attention to detail is top-notch on this hike. From ponchos to snacks to lunch and a keepsake water bottle - they think of everything! Ita is an excellent guide. She is knowledgeable about history, plants, and the area. We were lucky enough to be the only two on the hike and thoroughly enjoyed our hike and the time with Ita. She treated us like we were her personal guests.

TranzAlpine Train Journey: Christchurch to Greymouth

Sharon_A, Jan 2026

Amazing experience!!

What an amazing experience !! Worked like clock work 😊 with easy to board, staff were great! We did the lunch and train ride and were fortunate enough to have a lovely UK couple share the table we were on. The food was fantastic!! We thought it was just lunch but you get a lovely A la carte menu which also includes a light breakfast which was totally delicious with drinks being alcohol and juices or cool drinks and coffee and teas. We would definitely do it again! You won’t be disappointed!! 😊😊