Top Christchurch In the Air

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.

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.

Wildlife enthusiasts will love this full-day nature-focused tour to Kaikoura from Christchurch that avoids the need to self-drive along winding coastal roads. Look out for sperm whales, 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 to know the real untouched New Zealand as you take off over the Canterbury Plains towards the well-known braided Waimakariri River. Notice the Craigieburn Basin come into view, a distinguished blockbuster film set, followed by the curious rockscape of Castle Hill. See the glisten of Lake Pearson as you fly by the Southern Alps' main divide, climbing up & over the ridgeline, to debut at the mighty Rakaia River. Without another aircraft in sight come to two of Canterbury's best kept secrets, the rarely visited Lyell & Ramsay Glaciers due to their inaccessibility. Touch down to overwhelming 360 degree views, filled with staggeringly sharp mountaintops & turquoise waters of the the glacier lakes. Enjoy lunch in the amphitheatre of the outdoors without a single disruption. Rise over the depths of Lake Coleridge and return over the Canterbury Plains, inbound for Christchurch. Please note we are unable to guarantee snow at any time particularly during Summer months (November – February)

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 walks, and visit a farm before returning to Christchurch.

This private helicopter flight for couples is designed with romantic getaways in mind. Skip the hours of hiking and land on Mount Herbert in Christchurch’s Port Hills. Admire the sprawling Canterbury landscape, with Lyttleton Harbor, Quail Island, and more visible from the summit. You’ll have plenty of time to snack on a tasty platter, sip sparkling wine, and enjoy the views and each others’ company before the return flight.

Experience something new during your time in Christchurch with an opportunity to take control of a helicopter. Working with a qualified instructor, jump in and learn the basics of piloting, including take-off, landing, low flying and more. As well as enjoying the experience of flying, take the chance to marvel at the magnificent scenery of the Canterbury region.

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.

New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery, including intricate river systems and fast-flowing rapids. This tour takes you on an amazing scenic flight over the Canterbury Plains before arriving at the Waimakariri Gorge for an adrenalin-packed Jet Boat ride. It’s the ultimate Kiwi experience. Our pilots will personalise this experience for you by sharing their local knowledge and insights of our big backyard as you fly over remarkable sights and landmarks, including; Waimakariri Gorge and Claxby. We have plenty to share with you and can’t wait for you to experience it. *Price includes Jet Boat adventure ride.

Take off from Christchurch & fly over the Canterbury Plains towards the spectacular Rangitata Gorge, side by side with the Southern Alps. Sidle up to Forest Creek through to the expansive Mackenzie Basin & down to the aquamarine glow of Lake Tekapo to touch down & soak in the spectacular vista. Feast your eyes on the unforgettable azure of Lake Pukaki & head up to the famous Aoraki, Mount Cook as the Tasman Glacier comes into full view. Fly towards the Murchison Glacier to the head of the Rangitata River Valley. Sour along Mount Arrowsmith & touch down at the top of the interweaving braids of Rakaia River. Settle in for a picnic served with unobstructed views, overlooking two of Canterbury's glaciers only accessible by helicopter. After lunch, follow the wandering braids of the stony river, past Lake Coleridge & into the blockbuster scenery of the Craigieburn Basin. Please note we are unable to guarantee snow at any time particularly during Summer months (November – February)

Tour one of New Zealand’s up-and-coming wine regions the easy way from Christchurch on this hassle-free day trip. Leaving the city behind, you’ll be driven to the scenic Waipara Valley region, which is dotted with vineyards. Visit several of the best and sample a range of red and white wines. Don’t worry about who is going to drive as transfers are taken care of.

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.

Get set for an incredible experience with this helicopter ride, taking you to land on the 6,500ft mountain of Chest Peak. Fly through the majestic Southern Alps, see the amazing braided Waimakariri River and finally take in 360 degree views of the region from this amazing mountain. Your lpilots will share local knowledge and personal stories with you throughout the flight, making the experience even more memorable.

Discover Christchurch from a whole new perspective when you fly over the city. See the progress of the massive rebuild and the abandoned suburbs from the 2010/2011 earthquakes. Christchurch is known as the Garden City and there is no better way to see this other than by the air. Take in the breath-taking views of Pegasus Bay as it sweeps north towards Kaikoura and view the southern alps stretch as far north and south as the eye can see. Our pilots will personalise this experience for you by sharing their local knowledge and insights of our big backyard as you fly over remarkable sights and landmarks.

Take flight with a 20-minute helicopter ride from Christchurch and arrive in style for a lunch date at a delightful regional winery. There, you can dine at your own expense before taking to the air once more. A maximum of five travelers is allowed, although the ride requires good weather.

As a country recognised for its hiking opportunities and stunning scenery, take your pick of an untouched landscape to explore. If you would rather leave the planning up to us, we recommend lifting off from Christchurch and enjoying an incredible scenic flight of braided rivers, towering mountain ranges and high-country lakes inbound for the famous Aoraki National Park. Land at Glentanner airfield to meet your guide and get briefed before flying up onto New Zealand’s largest Glacier, the mighty Tasman. Explore the gently undulating terrain, as your crampons bite into ancient 2-million-year-old ice. The highest peaks of the Southern Alps, Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman will tower above you. When your legs become tired and your heart becomes full, fly back down to Glentanner airport to drop off your guide and equipment before heading North via some incredible Canterbury landscapes inbound for Christchurch. We have plenty to share with you and can’t wait for you to experience it.

Travel by TranzAlpine train to Arthur's Pass National Park, riding across the Canterbury Plains, then winding through the Waimakariri Gorge and into the heart of the Southern Alps on a day trip from Christchurch. Disembark at Arthur’s Pass Village, where you’ll explore the rainforests and mountains on short walks. This small-group tour limits the group size, ensuring a more personalized experience.

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.

Take in sweeping views of New Zealand’s mountains and Lord of The Rings backdrops during a 2.5-hour scenic helicopter flight from Christchurch. Fly over Canterbury Plains, the Southern Alps, Aoraki Mount Cook, and the Tasman Glacier during this epic helicopter tour.

Travelers short on time in Christchurch don’t have to miss out on one of North Canterbury’s finest attractions: whale watching at Kaikoura. Taking a helicopter flight from Christchurch makes it easy to spot sperm whales in the ocean without having to spend hours sitting in a car. Also look out for dolphins and seals, which are also abundant in the area.

Surround yourself with the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, including Aoraki/Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain, on this day trip from Christchurch. There’s no need to self-drive and be distracted by the views. Travel by coach into the MacKenzie Basin, stop at Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki, and enjoy views of the Tasman Glacier on a short hike. Includes lunch at the Hermitage Hotel, plus morning and afternoon tea.

Travel through the skies to a North Canterbury winery of your choice with this helicopter excursion. Departing Christchurch, fly past incredible scenery including the Southern Alps mountain range, the magnificent Pacific Ocean, farms, local towns and more before arriving at a local winery. For an additional cost you can enjoy a wine tasting session and lunch here, before heading back to the city.

Fly from Christchurch to takes in views of extinct volcanoes, rugged coastline and bays filled with the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. Explore Akaroa by foot, its heritage and distinct French feel,reflected in the names of the streets and local bays. Waste no time in this quaint seaside village. Walk the streets, visit the shops, cafés and restaurants. Take one of the many nature walks around the village