Top South Island Bus Tours - page 21

Explore the stunning Kaikōura coast on this full-day small-group tour from Christchurch. We'll pick you up from your hotel or a central meeting point, then set off along State Highway 1, where dramatic cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and rolling farmland create the perfect backdrop for a day of adventure. Stop along the way for morning tea before arriving in Kaikōura for lunch. Then stroll the scenic Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, visit seal colonies, or explore the charming township at your own pace. For wildlife enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, upgrade to include a whale-watching cruise, dolphin or albatross encounter, scenic flight, or an eco-zipline adventure. *Please note: Independent third-party providers operate these activities, and availability is not guaranteed, particularly for last-minute bookings. Our standard tour cancellation policy applies. After your Kaikōura adventure, relax on the scenic drive back to Christchurch, where you'll be dropped at your hotel or in the city.

Discover the stunning landscapes of Kaikōura on this private guided day tour from Christchurch. Travel along the picturesque State Highway 1, stopping at iconic sights such as the Ohau Point Seal Colony and the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway. Enjoy a delicious lunch and refreshments en route, with the option to add additional experiences in Kaikoura This tour is ideal for nature lovers and those looking to experience New Zealand's unique wildlife. - Full-day private guided tour with a maximum of 8 travellers for a personalised experience - Take a stroll along the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway - Get up close and personal with New Zealand Fur Seals at Ohau Point Seal Colony - Enjoy local cuisine with Lunch and refreshments included. - Additional experiences can be added in Kaikōura, including: + Whale Watch Kaikōura + Dolphin Encounter + Wings Over Whales Scenic flights + Eco Zip Ziplining *Optional activities are subject to availability and weather conditions.

The Vineyards Nobody Else Can Show You The great wine regions of the world have two kinds of producers — those who sell to tourists and those who sell to collectors. We take you to the second kind. Every vineyard on this tour has been personally handpicked by Aaron. They produce between 800 and 50,000 bottles per year. They do not advertise. Buses cannot reach them. And they do not open their cellar doors to just anyone. Because you are with us, they will open them for you. Choose your own journey through 4 extraordinary venues between Cromwell and the Gibbston Valley. At each one, you will be welcomed not as a tourist but as a serious buyer — by the winemaker, the owner, or a trained sommelier who knows every vine in the vineyard. and because great wine deserves to be enjoyed at home as much as on tour, every single venue can arrange international delivery directly to your door. Arrive home to find the best of Central Otago waiting in your hallway.

Your day begins in the heart of Marlborough with guided visits to two hand-picked tasting rooms, where you’ll sample a range of the region’s acclaimed wines — from bright, zesty Sauvignon Blancs to elegant Pinot Noirs. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the region’s wine history, vineyards, and winemaking styles. At midday, enjoy a leisurely seasonal lunch at Saint Clair, showcasing fresh, regional ingredients and thoughtfully chosen wines available for purchase by the glass. After lunch, take part in a sommelier-curated comparative tasting featuring standout wines from across New Zealand wine country. This guided session highlights the nuances of different regions — from Marlborough to Waipara to Central Otago — offering a deeper understanding of terroir, style, and craftsmanship. To cap off the day, enjoy a sweet final stop at Makana Confections, a local favourite known for handcrafted chocolates, before returning to base.

Your journey begins at the doorstep of your accommodation or port. This amazing scenic tour we will take you through the most beauiful sights of our area. We first drive atop the Port Hills for the best views of Christchurch City, the Southern Alps and Lyttelton Harbour. Learn about the local Māori and European history as we drive around the bays of picturesque Lyttelton Harbour. On this section, we will drive through the Rapaki settlement, home to the Rapaki Marae (traditional Māori meeting house). In Christchruch City we will have stops at the quirky and unique Cardboard Cathedral and Christchurch Arts Centre OR Botanic Gardens (your choice). Next we arrive at the locals favourite beach town of Sumner. Here you can have some free time to walk on the beach and enjoy an ice cream. Upon conclusion of the tour, you will be dropped back at your preferred location. Please note: This tour may run in a different order depending what your start point is.

Set off on a scenic coach journey from Te Anau to the breathtaking Milford Sound, renowned for its towering peaks and cascading waterfalls. Enjoy engaging commentary from local drivers, who share insights about Fiordland's history and wildlife. This day trip includes a memorable cruise through the fiord, showcasing stunning views and opportunities to spot wildlife like dolphins and seals. With glass-roofed coaches and well-timed stops at iconic sights like Mirror Lakes, this tour promises a comfortable and enriching experience in one of New Zealand's most remarkable landscapes. - Full-day coach and cruise experience from Te Anau to Milford Sound - Scenic stops at Mirror Lakes, Eglinton Valley, and more - Wildlife watching opportunities including seals and dolphins - Comfortable glass-roofed coaches for unparalleled views

Experience the journey from Queenstown to Aoraki/Mt Cook with a private guide. It's not about ticking off sights quickly – it’s about creating memories that last. Unlike crowded van tours, this itinerary is built around photography and can depart in the early hours for a sunrise or leave later in the day to capture a fiery alpine sunset. You’ll have full control over the itinerary. Tailor‑made departure times – want to be on the shores of Lake Pukaki at dawn or at the end of the Hooker Valley Track when the last light glows? We adjust the schedule and stop sequence to suit the season and your goals. Private transport and guide – a comfortable vehicle with a local guide/photographer means you can decide when and where to stop. Photography‑focused – we build in extra time at scenic locations rather than rushing through. You can shoot long exposures, change lenses or wait for the clouds to lift. Optional hikes and detours – choose a three hour hike or skip the walking altogether.

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.

Discover the best of Christchurch on this unforgettable highlights tour, featuring three of the city's most iconic attractions. Step aboard the heritage Tram, glide along the picturesque Avon River on a traditional punt, and soar above the city on the Christchurch Gondola for spectacular panoramic views. Combining history, scenery, and local charm, this tour is the perfect way to experience Christchurch's top sights in one memorable day.

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s unique West Coast Glacier Country, Franz Josef is only one of two places in the entire world where you can view glaciers surrounded by native alpine forest. As a popular midpoint for those travelling between Christchurch and Queenstown, this 1 way tour showcases the very best of what the Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana) and rugged West Coast have to offer. So why not join as we travel the Great Alpine Highway from New Zealand’s east to west coast. From the jaw dropping geology and geography of Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass to the picturesque Hokitika Gorge and Lake Ianthe, there will be panoramic views from every angle. 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 one you will never forget!

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s unique West Coast Glacier Country, Franz Josef is only one of two places in the entire world where you can view glaciers surrounded by native alpine forest. As a popular midpoint for those travelling between Christchurch and Queenstown, this 1 way tour showcases the very best of what the Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana) and rugged West Coast have to offer. So why not join as we travel the Great Alpine Highway from New Zealand’s east to west coast. 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 and including transfer from Christchurch to Greymouth aboard the world famous TranzAlpine, this journey is one you will never forget!

Nestled on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula (Te Pataka o Rakaihautū), the charming French influenced village of Akaroa is a popular day trip with Cantabrians and tourists alike. The surrounding bays and the peninsula's distinct shape were created by volcanic eruptions by two now extinct volcanoes, leaving behind a stunning waterfront with sweeping views and spectacular wildlife. It hosts the beauty of being equal parts bustling, tranquil, and picturesque. So why not join us as we explore the waterfront and some of the gorgeous heritage buildings of Akaroa. Including a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese, you will be driven in comfort by modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget.

Nestled on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula (Te Pataka o Rakaihautū), the charming French influenced village of Akaroa is a popular day trip with Cantabrians and tourists alike. The surrounding bays and the peninsula's distinct shape were created by volcanic eruptions by two now extinct volcanoes, leaving behind a stunning waterfront with sweeping views and spectacular wildlife. It hosts the beauty of being equal parts bustling, tranquil, and picturesque. So why not join us as we explore the waterfront and some of the gorgeous heritage buildings of Akaroa. Including a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese, you will be driven in comfort by your modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by your fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides and including a trip to the award winning Giant’s House, this journey is one you will never forget.

Most Akaroa day tours take you to the village. This one takes you into the harbour, with expert dolphin-spotting dogs on board to help find them. The 2-hour Akaroa Nature Cruise is included in the tour price. You cruise Akaroa Harbour in search of Hector's dolphins, fur seals, white-flippered penguins, and sea birds. Hector's dolphins are found only in New Zealand's coastal waters. The dolphin-spotting dogs on board are trained to help the crew locate them. Your group is capped at 15 people. En route, the tour stops at Little River for a coffee break, the Hilltop Lookout above Akaroa for panoramic views of the harbour and the volcanic crater, and Barry's Bay Traditional Cheese for an included tasting. Lunch, bottled water and Kiwi snacks are included. WiFi and USB charging on board. Carbon neutral tour. Note: this tour is built around the Nature Cruise. There will not be time for additional walking tracks or extended shopping in Akaroa.

Kaikōura, whose name translates to ‘eat crayfish’ in English, is a small coastal town often overlooked by tourists. However, we at Cheeky Kea Tours feel it is an absolute "must-see"! Caught between the Kaikōura Ranges - which in the winter are snowcapped and a sight to behold - and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean (Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa), this area is truly breathtaking. Join us as we venture north to the Kaikōura Peninsula, which was the seat where Māui sat when he fished the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui) up from the depths of the ocean. What can we say except you’re welcome to soak in the panoramic views and spot all the marine wildlife this town has to offer. 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, and including a 30 minute Whale Watching Flight, this journey is one you will never forget.

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. Join us we travel to this region and beyond, experiencing the best of what Te Wai Pounamu (New Zealand’s South Island) has to offer. Escaping the hustle and bustle of Ōtautahi Christchurch, this 1 way trip adventures via the Canterbury plains, State Highway 79, the world famous Fairlie Bakehouse, Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, and Aoraki Mt Cook Village before dropping you off in Twizel. As this tour showcases some of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations, it is one of the most popular full day experiences. You will be driven in comfort by the modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by a fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget!

At 3724 metres, Aoraki Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak. However, as a sacred ancestor for local Ngā Tahu iwi, Aoraki is more than just a mountain. Escaping Wānaka, we route via the tussocked valleys of the Lindis Pass on our way to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. With additional sweeping views Haupapa (Tasman Glacier) - our country’s longest glacier - Lake Pukaki, and Omarama’s famous Clay Cliffs, this tour combines several of New Zealand’s most coveted destinations into one action-packed day. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that little bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget!

Named after James Mackenzie, an infamous local sheep rustler in the 1850s, New Zealand's South Canterbury and Mackenzie Districts are packed with highlights and scenery for you to explore. This relaxed return trip from Christchurch is the ultimate way to see some of Te Waipounamu's most iconic landscapes without all of the driving. Escaping the hustle and bustle of Christchurch, this trip adventures via the Canterbury plains, Geraldine, State Highway 79, the world famous Fairlie Bakehouse, Lake Pukaki, and Mt John. With optional activities available (including indoor astronomy, horse trekking, and scenic flights) to fully customise your time in Lake Tekapo, this tour is a great way to explore the region in a way that caters to your interests. 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 one you will never forget!

Join us as we travel from Ōtautahi Christchurch to the wild West Coast. Your morning to midday will be spent aboard the world famous TranzAlpine, travelling across braided rivers and the Canterbury plains, past majestic mountains and Lake Brunner, and through the 8km long Otira tunnel before arriving in Greymouth. Travelling via the Great Alpine Highway on your return, we will stop to explore the jaw dropping geology and geography of Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass. You will be driven in comfort by your modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by your fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget! As this tour operates in an alpine region, the weather can be unpredictable so please prepare for all conditions.

Discover the stunning landscapes and rich history of New Zealand’s Otago region on this exclusive 6-7 hour private shore tour, starting and ending at Dunedin Cruise Port. Immerse yourself in nature, wildlife, and Victorian architecture, as you journey from Dunedin to Oamaru and the iconic Moeraki Boulders. This all-inclusive tour offers scenic drives, unique photo opportunities, and fascinating stops, ensuring an unforgettable day exploring the best of New Zealand.

Embark on a 6-hour private shore tour from Dunedin Cruise Port and immerse yourself in the rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique wildlife of Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. This exclusive tour is designed to give you a comprehensive experience of one of New Zealand’s most scenic regions, all while enjoying the comfort of a small group and the expertise of a local guide. From the world-famous Baldwin Street to the majestic Otago Peninsula, this tour includes iconic landmarks, breathtaking views, and fascinating historical insights. Whether you’re an art and culture enthusiast or a nature lover, this private tour offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, making it an unforgettable experience for any traveler.

Embark on an unforgettable journey along Kaikoura's stunning coastline. This small-group kayaking tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty and encounter playful seals in their natural habitat. Paddle through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by majestic cliffs and towering mountains. Discover hidden coves and sea caves as you navigate the coastline. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and penguins, adding an extra touch of magic to your adventure. No kayaking experience is necessary. Our expert guides provide instruction and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. After your kayaking adventure, savor a delicious lunch at a charming cafe, where you can relax and soak in the stunning coastal atmosphere.

Experience our Private Excursion tailored exclusively for you! Embark on a serene journey through the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand as you make your way to the heart of the city. Upon your arrival, meet your seasoned tour guide, ready to lead you on an enchanting tour of Tekapo from Christchurch. Discover the awe-inspiring allure of Geraldine, marvel at the grandeur of Fairlie and capture iconic moments at landmarks like Lake Tekapo, Mt. Cook Village, Lake Pukaki and many more. Our excursions are meticulously designed schedule. We'll greet you directly at the hotel and ensure you return with ample time to relax and relish your day. Leave the details to us as we escort you on an extraordinary adventure, crafting memories that will stand the test of time!

Otepoti/Dunedin was settled by Free Church Presbyterians in 1848. They worked hard and went to church on Sunday. The gold rush in 1861 brought with it a completely different population to the one first envisioned - a much more lively and less law abiding one. Your guide, Gregor Campbell has spent years curating true stories of crime and murder from Dunedin's grim past. He tells the tales expertly with poise and dignity as he drives around the seemingly harmless areas of Dunedin that, over a hundred years ago were more sordid and despairing. Relax back in a brand new Toyota Hiace minibus while Gregor brings our city back to life.... if only temporarily.