Top Christchurch Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

Travel the full circuit of the Christchurch Tram, which departs about every 15 minutes from stops around the central city. Use your ticket to hop on and hop off at 18 stops and create your own sightseeing itinerary, or stay onboard for a comprehensive tour with live commentary. The ticket lasts all day so you can get on and off where you want.

Take an aerial journey on the Christchurch Gondola to the Port Hills crater rim and Mt. Cavendish summit. At the summit complex—revamped since the 2011 earthquake—you’re rewarded with views of the cityscape, the Canterbury Plains, and Lyttelton Harbour. Return tickets are included. Upgrade to include punting by flat-bottomed boat on the central-city Avon River.

First-time visitors to Christchurch will enjoy a fun, small-group overview tour of the city. Experience many of the central city’s highlights, including riding the scenic tramway and punting on the Avon River, and then get out of the city to ride the gondola for sweeping views over the countryside. Learn more about Christchurch than you would touring independently, and fit a lot into a day. Hotel pickup is included for added convenience.

View Christchurch’s highlights on a half-day city sightseeing tour that introduces you to the architecture, gardens, and waterways of “The Garden City.” You’ll drive past significant landmarks in the city center, meander around ponds and perennial gardens, visit the seaside, and marvel at views over the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps. Choose a morning or afternoon departure, and upgrade to include the International Antarctic Centre if you like.

Visit three top attractions in the "Garden City" with a Christchurch sightseeing pass. Explore at your leisure and see the city from above on a 10-minute Christchurch Gondola ride, including the Discovery Ride exhibit. Enjoy a 30-minute ride in a flat-bottomed punt on the serene Avon River, or discover 18 stops during a hop-on hop-off Christchurch Tram tour all day pass—what you do first is totally up to you.

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 a minibus without needing to drive. Enjoy an included lunch and hotel pickup for a seamless experience. Learn more from your guide than you would going alone, and receive personalized attention in a small group.

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

With Local Guides, you'll understand how devastating the 2011 earthquakes were but how the city has reorganised and regenerated since. This is a1.75-hour guided walking tour. Starting from the iconic Bridge of Remembrance, this tour offers a deep dive into Christchurch's rich history, from Māori tales to English settler stories and the impact of the 2010/11 earthquakes. Perfect for anyone looking to connect with authentic Christchurch people in learning why Christchurch has become NZ's fastest growing city with people moving into Christchurch from both overseas and from within New Zealand. - Duration: 1.75 hours of walking and exploration - Tours start daily at 10am and 1pm from the Bridge of Remembrance - Gain insights into the city’s transformation and future potential - Enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of stops for discussion and questions

A half-day tour for first-time visitors to Christchurch. Perfect for travelers short on time or those who want to see the city’s top attractions without missing a thing. Plus, get a chance to meet the iconic Kiwi bird, a rare sight in New Zealand. Explore Christchurch in depth with a private, small-group tour and an expert guide. Choose a half-day tour for the flexibility to enjoy additional activities.

Catering exclusively for cruise ship passengers, this half-day all-inclusive coach tour of Christchurch fits in more than most visitors can see or do in a weekend on their own. Combine a visit to the renowned International Antarctic Centre with a narrated, air-conditioned excursion around several of the Garden City’s most historic and picturesque sites, plus learn about the devastating 2010 and 2011 earthquakes as you travel. Food and drinks are not included.

Wildlife and nature enthusiasts will love this Kaikoura full-day trip from Christchurch. Look for impressive sperm whales along with 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, and top off the day with wine tasting (time permitting).

Get out of Christchurch for half a day on a North Canterbury boutique wineries tour with a platter lunch. After a short drive from Christchurch, stop at three wineries, where you taste a selection of quality wines in the up-and-coming Waipara wine region. Possible stops include Pegasus Bay, Waipara Hills, Torlesse Wines, and Waipara Springs. Learn about Waipara’s unique terroir as you sip a range of superior reds and whites.

It's all about the experience! Exhilarating! Sightseeing has never been so much fun. Standard tour or made-to-measure, you are sure to enjoy your ride on our V8 trike. We can easily customize something just for you.

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. Arrive in Kaikōura for fish and chips lunch in this coastal town recognized by Condé Nast Traveler. 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.

The area surrounding Christchurch has so much to see that it can be tough to know how best to take it all in on your own. Instead, on this full-day guided tour, explore a curated selection of activities and attractions, including wandering through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, an ocean-view picnic at Louise’s Lookout, and even a visit to a working sheep farm.

When your cruise ship docks in Christchurch, benefit from a full-day tour that combines a half-day city tour of Christchurch with a visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Take in the city’s historical landmarks and rebuilding efforts underway since the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. Then head to the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve for a guided tour that includes viewing of endangered kiwi birds and other New Zealand wildlife.

This private guided tour to Arthur's Pass includes lunch, transport, and a local guide. Begin your scenic one-day tour from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass, taking in the stunning Southern Alps along the way. **Optional Upgrade – TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Travel in style with a one-way trip on the TranzAlpine Train, enjoying spectacular mountain views before joining the tour. (This replaces the road journey; all other inclusions remain the same.) You'll reach the charming village of Arthur's Pass and have the option for a guided walk to the impressive Devil's Punchbowl Waterfall or a wander around this quaint village. On the return to Christchurch, we'll stop at the iconic Castle Hill Boulders for exploration and photography amidst dramatic limestone formations. This trip combines natural beauty, adventure, and unforgettable scenery.

Discover Christchurch in a Day – A Private Coastal & City Escape Experience the best of Christchurch in one unforgettable day. Begin your journey with a warm welcome at Lyttelton Port and a taste of She Universe artisan chocolate. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Beach Café in Sumner, overlooking the sparkling sea. Explore the boutique charm of The Tannery, then immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant heart – from the bustling Riverside Market to lush Botanical Gardens. Those seeking more can ride the historic tram or try the serene punting on the Avon River. Savor a delicious lunch of your choice, then take in breathtaking 360° views from the Christchurch Gondola before returning to port. Perfect for travelers who want a rich mix of coastal beauty, culture, and unforgettable moments – all in one day.

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.

Join us on a scenic day trip from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass, where you’ll journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Southern Alps. Travel by road through picturesque countryside before arriving at the alpine village of Arthur’s Pass. Here, you can explore the area or join an optional guided walk to the spectacular Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall. On the return trip to Christchurch, enjoy a stop at the dramatic Castle Hill Boulders, a stunning natural playground of towering limestone formations perfect for exploring and photography. Optional Upgrade: TranzAlpine Scenic Train - Pickup Time: 7:30 am Start your adventure in style by upgrading to a one-way journey on the world-renowned TranzAlpine Train. Travel from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass by rail, soaking in spectacular mountain and valley views before joining the rest of the tour. (This replaces the road journey to Arthur’s Pass; all other inclusions remain the same.) *This is subject to availability on your travel dates.

Get out of Christchurch for the day and explore some of the most majestic landscapes in the South Island on an easy small-group day tour. Leaving Christchurch early in the morning, you’ll head to the mountains. Stop to enjoy the views at Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, and take short walks on the Hooker Track and the Tasman Glacier (New Zealand’s longest). See and do a lot on a full-day tour.

Get views of Christchurch Adventure Park from the vantage point of a chairlift with this pass. Purchase your ticket in advance to guarantee a smooth experience; hop on the lift and head to the summit for a short walk and some photo ops. Enjoy views over the Pacific Ocean and New Zealand's Southern Alps before descending on your own time.

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. 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