Top Christchurch Private Sightseeing Tours

There’s a lot to see and do in Christchurch, but some of the most interesting stories may not be obvious when you wander around on your own. Learn about Christchurch’s history and culture—including the effects of the destructive earthquakes in 2010 and 2011—on a private walking tour. See central-city highlights, including the Botanic Gardens, New Regent Street, and the Cardboard Cathedral, while listening to illuminating stories from your guide.

Experience the charm, culture, and beauty of Christchurch on a guided day tour through New Zealand's Garden City. Enjoy panoramic views stretching from the coastline across Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps, offering a unique perspective of the region's stunning natural beauty. Along the way, discover the stories and heritage that have shaped the city, with fascinating local commentary and excellent photo opportunities. This tour includes a stop at our favourite Greenstone Shop, where you will get a short behind the scenes tour with a professional carver and learn about New Zealand pounamu (greenstone) and how it is made. You will also have time to browse these authentic carvings in the shop. A perfect introduction to Christchurch, combining the city's highlights, culture, and spectacular scenery in one memorable experience. Join your local and knowledgable guide and feel good supporting a small local family owned business.

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.

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

Presenting the highlights of Christchurch City and surrounding suburbs, and also featuring some of the lesser known but equally appealing sights. Our smaller group size and choice of vehicle make moving around the inner city effortless, and you're always front of queue because on our tours there isn't one.

Explore Christchurch on foot and uncover a city reborn from the 2011 earthquakes into a vibrant mix of heritage and innovation. From the quirky Cardboard Cathedral to Gothic Revival gems, from buzzing New Regent Street to tranquil riverside terraces, every stop reveals resilience, creativity, and charm. Wander through playful spaces like the Margaret Mahy Playground, pause at moving memorials like the Bridge of Remembrance, and soak up art, culture, and flavors at Riverside Market. Along the way you’ll see stunning street art, heritage façades, modern marvels like Te Pae Convention Centre, and lush sanctuaries like the Botanic Gardens. This tour isn’t just about sights it’s a journey through history, recovery, and the unique spirit of Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Discover the charm of Akaroa, a beautiful seaside town known for its French heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Enjoy dolphin watching experiences featuring the rare Hector's Dolphins while soaking in breathtaking views of Lyttelton Harbour. Experience the local café culture in Little River and delight in culinary adventures tailored to all dietary preferences. This intimate tour provides you with comfortable private transport and expert guidance, ensuring a memorable journey through the scenic Canterbury region. - Dolphin watching experience featuring rare Hector's Dolphins - Explore Lyttelton Harbour and Little River's charming cafés - Private transport with a professional driver for a personalized experience - Tour duration: Full day, starting from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

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.

Discover Christchurch on a personalized full-day tour combining city highlights, coastal beauty, and scenic hilltop views. Travel in a comfortable vehicle with a friendly local driver-guide who shares insights into the region’s history, culture, and hidden gems. Enjoy flexible stops at iconic landmarks, peaceful gardens, and stunning beaches, with plenty of time for photos and short walks. This experience offers a relaxed pace, avoiding large crowds and rigid schedules. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included, you can explore stress-free and make the most of your time in Christchurch with a memorable and authentic local experience tailored to your interests.

The first stop on this private half-day tour is at the Sign of Takahe (a Historic stone building), where you can enjoy scenic views and capture some memorable photos. Next, you'll head to the Sign of the Bellbird Scenic Reserve and take in breathtaking views of the Canterbury Plains and Lyttelton Harbour. Afterwards, you'll visit the Governors Bay Jetty, allowing you to explore the serene surroundings of the seaside settlement. Following the coastal road, the journey continues to Cass Bay, where there is time to relax over morning or afternoon tea In Lyttelton Township, you'll have some time to explore the quaint shops and appreciate the town's historic charm. The tour then takes you to the Evans Pass lookout, where you can learn about the operations of Lyttelton Port and its links to Antarctic exploration. The final stop is Sumner Beach, where you can wander through the charming village. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your accommodation or in the city centre.

Kiwi Horizons Travel' Christchurch city tour stands out due to its focus on providing a comprehensive and immersive experience of the city. Key aspects that make it unique include: Local Insight: The tour often features knowledgeable local guides who provide deep insights into Christchurch's history, culture, and ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts following the 2011 earthquake. Tailored Experiences: The tour may offer customized options, allowing visitors to choose specific attractions or experiences that interest them, such as visits to the Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, or the innovative Re Mall. Emphasis on Recovery and Innovation: It highlights how Christchurch has transformed and innovated in response to the earthquake, showcasing new developments and creative solutions in urban planning and architecture.

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.

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.

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.

This signature 6-day tour offers a perfect blend of travel per day covering the majority of top attractions in New Zealand's South Island, optional handpicked activities and accommodations. Experience the best of the South Island without the hassle of planning which attractions to visit, where to stay, what to do, all without driving long distances on your own. The itinerary ensures a relaxed experience. Enjoy the luxury of a private tour for your group. Benefit from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 9-10 optional activities, like a helicopter ride, TranzAlpine train ride, stargazing, jet boating, a Gondola ride, Kiwi park or Hot Pool Soak, Milford or Doubtful Sound cruise, a tour of Te Anau Glowworm caves, and Guided Kayaking or a Whale Cruise, or a Nature Cruise & an Alpaca farm visit. Choose to finish at Queenstown or Christchurch.

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.

"Explore Arthur’s Pass & Castle Hill like a local. We skip the crowds, hit secret spots like Lake Lyndon, and let you choose the pace—wild waterfall hikes, ancient limestone landscapes, or chill alpine lake views. Small group. Big views. Zero rush."

Totally Personalized Private Experience! This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region, with a guide providing expert insights into the area's rich history and natural beauty. Key highlights of the tour are passing by Governor’s Bay, Banks Peninsula Views, Akaroa Village, Cheese Tasting, Catamaran Cruise for dolphins watching, Optional Lunch Upgrade. The guides are knowledgeable about local customs and history, ensuring an enriching experience throughout your day. Best Tour with reasonable guaranteed price.

Instead of working out the best way to visit Mount Cook from Christchurch on your own, on this private full-day tour, let your guide handle the itinerary. Customize the tour to your liking, with the opportunity to stop for scenic hikes, visit the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, gaze up at the stars at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, and much more.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Enjoying the scenic views between Christchurch and Queenstown with a fully guided, adventure-filled journey through the breathtaking Southern Alps. Embark on a scenic tour stops at Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, Aoraki/MT.Cook, Tasman Glacier, High Country Salmon, Lindis Pass and Resort town and finally arriving in Queenstown. On your journey explore region’s dramatic landscapes, capture memorable photographs, and learn about the area's natural and cultural significance. The tour concludes in Queenstown, offering a truly enriching and immersive travel experience.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Embark on a memorable 6-hour Akaroa day trip from Christchurch, where you’ll have the opportunity to discover New Zealand’s stunning volcanic landscapes and breathtaking scenery. This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region, with a guide providing expert insights into the area's rich history and natural beauty. Key highlights of the tour are passing by Governor’s Bay, Banks Peninsula Views, Akaroa Village, Cheese Tasting, Catamaran Cruise for dolphins watching, Optional Lunch Upgrade. The guides are knowledgeable about local customs and history, ensuring an enriching experience throughout your day. Best Tour with reasonable guaranteed price. We invite you to consider Kiwi Adventures Tour & Travel as an integral part of your next adventure. Our private tour offers something for everyone.

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.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! A scenic and adventurous day tour to Hanmer Springs serves blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty that the area offers. Travelers can choose between relaxation at the hot springs or adventure activities like jet boating, hiking, access to private thermal pools or behind-the-scenes visits to local attractions, such as the Hanmer Springs Animal Park, hidden trails in the surrounding forest or enjoying a gourmet lunch at a local eatery. Our specialized guide provides you though information about the history of Hanmer Springs, local wildlife and the geology of the hot springs. We always welcome adventures on board with safe and comfortable trip with a customized itineraries based on travelers interest and time flexibility.