Top South Island Shore Excursions

Dunedin City is a wildlife wonderland, and this morning or afternoon cruise is a great way to see these native birds and marine animals close-up. Instead of wearing yourself out on a tramp across the peninsula, cruise through the Otago Harbour and past Taiaroa Head in a custom-built boat with a heated cabin and open deck for scenic photos. Look out for albatross, blue penguins, sea lions, dolphins, and more while listening to onboard commentary from your skipper/guide.

Make the most of a short time in Christchurch on a full-day shore excursion after your cruise ship docks in Lyttelton. Head into the city and learn about its rebuild post-earthquake. Travel into the Port Hills to get a view over the Canterbury Plains, then speed up the weaving waterways of the braided Waimakariri River on a jet boat. This tour is designed especially to work with cruise ship timings.

An air tour is an ideal way to see the vast area of the Marlborough Sounds, much of which has no road access. Many visitors only see the relatively developed Queen Charlotte Sound, but on this tour by light aircraft you’ll fly above all four sounds. Be amazed by the views of mountains rising out of sunken river valleys, and even land at a remote, pristine beach in the outer sounds for 20 minutes.

This is a tour by bus around some of the main attractions of Dunedin. It is aimed at cruise ship passengers and only runs on cruise ship days The tour stops at all locations mentioned with a chance to get off and have a walk around. Comfortable vehicles with Aircon and a commentary is provided. A full refund is offered if at the conclusion of the tour the customer is dissatisfied with any part of the experience that is an error or omission within the operator's control so long as the issue is raised first with the operator before any other party. (Subject to tripadvisor complying with operator request) Operator reserves the right, without liability, to alter or amend the tour time and destinations to fit in with the time window available for the ship's visit.

Lift off from Kaikōura's beachfront helipad on a scenic helicopter tour over the deep-sea canyon and coastline. Look out for sperm whales, humpbacks, Hector's dolphins, and New Zealand fur seals in their natural habitat while enjoying panoramic views of the Seaward Kaikōura mountain range and Kaikōura Peninsula. Headsets with microphones provide live commentary and the chance to ask questions during this unforgettable aerial whale-watching experience.

Travel in a comfortable van, relax and watch the countryside out the window as we go from location to location. Guide lives locally and will tell you all about the region. Family friendly tour. Can take groups of up to 9 people. Tours can be altered to suit you.

See some of Dunedin’s main attractions on this short city tour. Designed for those arriving into Port Chalmers on cruise ships, this tour is open to everyone and only operates on cruise ship days. Take in the views of the city from Signal Hill, visit the Botanic Gardens and see Baldwin Street - the steepest residential street in the world. See impressive architecture including the iconic Octagon and the Railway Station.

Cruise port time in Akaroa is limited, and it can be hard to fit in something truly memorable without worrying about logistics. This active shore excursion makes it easy to get straight on the water for a guided sea kayaking experience just steps from the port. Paddle through sheltered bays and inlets inside the basin of an extinct volcano, an area known for its calm conditions and scenic coastline. As you explore, watch for local wildlife such as penguins, orcas, and the rare Hector’s dolphin.

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.

Make the most of your time in port in Christchurch with a half-day shore excursion that takes in all the highlights. Explore downtown Christchurch, stroll around Monavale Gardens, and learn how the city was rebuilt after the devasting earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. Continue along the scenic Summit Road, stopping to admire the views from the Sign of the Takahe, and stop at Riverside Market for a lunch break (own expense).

Learn the secrets to great wine on this full-day wineries tour of Marlborough, guided by a winemaker. Visit 4–6 wineries in New Zealand’s largest wine region, including a behind-the-scenes winery tour and tastings at every stage. Wine-tasting fees are included and you can purchase lunch at a top winery restaurant. Transfers and hotel pickup from the Blenheim and Renwick areas are included.

Travel in a comfortable van, watch the beautiful countryside go by as we drive from location to location. Sample 4 different local wines at either 3 or 4 different cellar doors. Everything is all arranged and booked for you. Do you have a sweet tooth? We can also call into the Chocolate Factory as a free extra if you like. ARRIVING ON A CRUISE SHIP, PLEASE NOTE: -Shuttle buses will bring you from the cruise ship to the Picton Information Centre, and this is where I will be waiting for you. Start times/meeting time may change, so please do keep in contact. This is due to evey cruise ships arrival time is different.

Make the most of a short time on land on a shore excursion deep into the Southern Alps. You’ll be picked up from the port in Lyttelton and driven to Arthur’s Pass Village, a handy base for exploring the mountains of the central South Island. Visit a sheep farm with morning tea included and enjoy lunch available for purchase with a view.

Explore New Zealand’s only castle—Larnach Castle—on this half-day small-group tour around Dunedin. Hop aboard an air-conditioned minivan and discover some of the city’s most popular sights, from the steepest street in the world to New Zealand’s most photographed building, before enjoying coastal views of the Pacific Ocean from the scenic Highcliff Road.

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.

Visit several wineries in the Marlborough wine region on a half-day tour from Picton. Enjoy wine tasting at each location, and learn about New Zealand's prolific wine industry from your guide on this comprehensive wine tour. Includes transfers from central Picton or Picton accommodation, plus all wine-tasting fees. Eat before the tour to fully enjoy the wine-tasting experience.

Explore Dunedin highlights on a half-day, small-group tour that goes from the city's historic landmarks to the beaches of the Otago Peninsula. You'll see the University of Otago, the Dunedin Railway Station, and more, then continue to the beautiful Otago Peninsula, pausing en route for a walk on St. Clair Beach and esplanade. This tour includes transfers from Port Chalmers, with departure times to suit cruise ship arrivals.

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.

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 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

Like most New Zealand cities, Dunedin has a colonial history filled with exchanges between the Māori people and Western settlers. Discover dark tales of murder and shipwrecks, as well as stories of the influential people who shaped the city’s culture on this half-day small-group tour of several of Dunedin’s most popular tourist spots, including Larnach Castle and gardens.

On this full-day small-group shore excursion, tour Larnach Castle and look out for local birds and wildlife on a cruise. After a pickup from your cruise ship in Port Chalmers, admire the views on the drive around to the Otago Peninsula. Warm jackets and binoculars are available for your use while spotting royal albatross and New Zealand fur seals on the cruise. Learn more from your guide’s live commentary.

Make the most of your time at shore and discover Akaroa on this fun shore excursion. Alongside a private guide, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of the township and its inner bays. Visit a local cheese factory, drive along the volcanic rim, and visit the famous Giants House in just a few hours.