Top Activities on the Ground in Christchurch

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.

The 4th zipline, aka The Long Ride, is the longest in New Zealand at a whopping 1.1 kilometers! It’s the perfect option if you’re short on time or want to experience the adrenaline of ZIP Lining, without committing to the Full Tour.

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.

Visit Edoras of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ fame on this full-day excursion by 4WD vehicle to the peak of New Zealand’s Mt Sunday. Get a look at exclusive photos of Edoras under construction and learn from a knowledgeable LOTR guide about its transformation from tranquil countryside to mythical capital city of the Rohan people. Pose with replica props from the popular trilogy, such as Aragorn’s sword, Gimli’s axe and the flag of Rohan. Includes round-trip hotel transport from Christchurch plus a picnic lunch with sparkling wine.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Christchurch or a local, this photographic scavenger hunt activity in the central city is a fun way to spend time with friends or family while seeing the sights. Search for clues over town and collect points with your team. Check out must-see attractions like Cathedral Square, New Regent Street, and the Avon River along the way.

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.

Enjoy unobstructed views of New Zealand’s tallest mountain—Aoraki Mt. Cook—as well as some of the South Island’s most beautiful natural landscapes without having to drive yourself. Join an easy guided full-day tour from Christchurch that takes you past Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, fields of lavender (summer season only), and to hiking trails in Mt. Cook National Park to see the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest. End back in Christchurch.

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.

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.

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.

The 30 min drive up to the climbing area will take you through some of Christchurch’s most affluent suburbs, affording uninterrupted views from the Pacific Ocean to the Southern Alps in the west. Our climbing areas are scattered across the summit of an enormous extinct volcano that formed Banks Penninsula and Lyttelton Harbour. With over 2000 established climbing routes, Christchurch is one of the largest and most popular climbing areas in New Zealand. Your guide will set up the ropes and give you a safety briefing and belay lesson before you start your first climb. Once you’re feeling confident with the climbing systems your guide will review the abilities of the group and continue to set up some climbs that will be challenging, achievable and safe for the group.

Fly along four dual ziplines at Christchurch Adventure Park, including New Zealand's highest at 492 feet (150 meters) and its longest at 0.7 miles (1.1 kilometers). Enjoy sweeping views of the Southern Alps and Pacific Ocean as you soar above the Port Hills with safety equipment and guides ensuring a secure adventure. The experience lasts about three hours, offering a thrilling experience in a stunning forested setting.

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.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! A day trip to Arthur's National Park offers a variety of green fields to rugged mountain ranges, lush forest, and ice-fed lakes and rivers and an optional guided walk with your guide to explore, biggest waterfall. Travel along the Great Alpine Highway through the ever-changing landscapes. Explore Lake Lyndon, castle Hill (famous for massive limestone boulders and rocks), Otira Viaduct Lookout (famous piece of infrastructure for scenic view), Arthur’s Pass National Park, Powerfull Devils Punchbowl Waterfall and Cave Stream Scenic Reserve.

Morning - Cave Stream It will take us approximately 45 minutes to navigate the 594-meter limestone cave. Our route follows crystal-clear water through winding chambers and small waterfalls. Not interested in caving? Not a problem. You're welcome to explore the paths and trails in the area or sit and relax with some afternoon tea in this very peaceful landscape instead of going through the cave. Afternoon - Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti is an amazing labyrinth of giant limestone boulders. The area is rich with cultural and recreational significance and has been granted Tōpuni status - “A symbolic cloak of protection”. Your guide will show you around and if you like, you can have a go at bouldering and test your climbing skills. Or use your time here to explore the endless maze of boulders.

Embark on a scenic journey from Christchurch to Hanmer Springs, renowned for its therapeutic thermal pools nestled amidst picturesque alpine landscapes. This tour uniquely combines relaxation and adventure, offering activities such as jet boating, hiking, and mountain biking on world-class trails. En route, indulge in local cuisine at charming cafés and opt for a wine tasting at Waipara's esteemed wineries, ensuring a memorable experience that caters to diverse interests

Your adventure, your way! Enjoy a private, fully customized tour with a passionate guide who ensures every moment is unforgettable. Discover breathtaking landscapes, hidden gems, and must-see spots at your own pace, with flexible stops tailored to you. Whether you're into hiking, photography, or simply soaking in the views, we craft the perfect experience. Relax, explore, and make lasting memories—let’s create your dream journey!

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.

Morning - Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti is an amazing labyrinth of giant limestone boulders. The area is rich with cultural and recreational significance and has been granted Tōpuni status “A symbolic cloak of protection”. Your guide will show you around, if you like you can have a go at bouldering and test your climbing skills, or use your time here to explore the endless maze of boulders. We stop here for lunch at Castle Hill. Afternoon - Cave Stream It will take us approximately 45mins to make our way through the 594 meters of the limestone cave. Our route follows the crystal-clear water through the winding chambers and small waterfalls. Not interested in caving? Nom problem your welcome to explore the paths and trails in the area or sit and relax with some afternoon tea in this very peaceful landscape instead of going through the cave.

The 30 min drive up to the climbing area will take you through some of Christchurch’s most affluent suburbs, affording uninterrupted views from the Pacific Ocean to the Southern Alps in the west. Our climbing areas are scattered across the summit of an enormous extinct volcano that formed Banks Penninsula and Lyttelton Harbour. With over 2000 established climbing routes, Christchurch is one of the largest and most popular climbing areas in New Zealand. Your guide will set up the ropes and give you a safety briefing and belay lesson before you start your first climb. Once you’re feeling confident with the climbing systems your guide will review the abilities of the group and continue to set up some climbs that will be challenging, achievable and safe.

Morning - Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti is an amazing labyrinth of giant limestone boulders. The area is rich with cultural and recreational significance and has been granted Tōpuni status “A symbolic cloak of protection”. Your guide will show you around, if you like you can have a go at bouldering and test your climbing skills, or use your time here to explore the endless maze of boulders. We stop here for lunch at Castle Hill. Afternoon - Cave Stream It will take us approximately 45 minutes to make our way through the 594 meters of the limestone cave. Our route follows the crystal-clear water through the winding chambers and small waterfalls. Not interested in caving? No problem; you're welcome to explore the paths and trails in the area or sit and relax with some afternoon tea in this very peaceful landscape instead of going through the cave.