Top Christchurch Sightseeing Tours in 2026

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.

You can see the best highlights of Christchurch in one day with great, exciting stories. We will take you to the “MUST SEE” attractions, landscapes, beautiful gardens, sights of Christchurch, and great stories. We will take you to places you won’t find in the guidebooks!

Discover the beautiful landscapes of Christchurch on this half-day tour designed for those who want to experience the city’s highlights in a limited time. Stroll through the tranquil Botanic Gardens, take a scenic drive through the city, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Avon River. With a professional guide, learn about Christchurch's rich history and culture while soaking in stunning views. - Duration: 4-5 hours with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off - Air-conditioned transportation in a modern Mercedes Sprinter - Optional activities include gondola rides and punting on the Avon River - Explore iconic sites like the Christchurch Museum and Cardboard Cathedral

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.

Make the most of a travel day with a 1-way small-group transfer that takes the stress out of traveling between Christchurch and Aoraki Mt. Cook. This tour includes convenient hotel pickup in Christchurch and stops at Geraldine, Lake Tekapo, and the Church of the Good Shepherd. Enjoy a picnic lunch in Geraldine and admire views of Aoraki Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Learn from your guide’s engaging stories.

Journey through New Zealand's natural wonderland on a 7-day road trip through the South Island. Have the chance to explore some of the best spots in Queenstown, the adventure capital! Whether thats Jumping out of a plane, zipling through the trees or relaxing in the city centre with a hot cocoa. Head to Franz Josef to hike the Glacier or visit an iconic, up-close Kiwi in the Wildlife Centre. cruise through the beautiful Milford Sound and discover the spectacular Tekapo through some of its most famous lakes and hikes, then spend the evening relaxing in the Tekapo Hot Springs.

Visit the Christchurch sights that interest you the most on this full-day private customizable tour. Listen to your driver-guide’s stories about local history and culture as you head to a range of landmarks and attractions, such as the Botanic Gardens, Sumner Beach, the Air Force Museum of New Zealand, and much more.

Take a thrilling jet-boat ride on the Waimakariri River from Christchurch, with round-trip hotel transfers included to save you driving yourself to the starting point outside the city. Select a ride duration to suit your needs and schedule. Admire views of the Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains as you zip along the water. An ideal adventure for families and friends that leaves time in your day for other activities.

Soak in the natural beauty of New Zealand with a full-day tour to Kaikoura from Christchurch. Start with transfer to the Coastal Pacific Train for the journey north to Kaikoura, then transfer to a sturdy boat for your whale-watching cruise. Have lunch afterward, then visit a New Zealand fur seal colony on the return drive to Christchurch.

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.

Discover the very best of New Zealand with a fully flexible private custom tour designed entirely around your interests. Your preferences are understood, tailored recommendations are provided, and a balanced itinerary blending travel, exploration, and relaxation is crafted. Enjoy the comfort of a private tour with a dedicated guide driver and exclusive vehicle, starting from Christchurch and finishing anywhere in New Zealand as preferred. Explore iconic destinations anywhere across the country, from Cape Reinga to Stewart Island, based on your chosen number of travel days. Add optional activities that entirely match your interests, from scenic trains to adrenaline skydiving. All logistics including routes, timing, domestic flight or ferry, accommodation bookings, and optional activity bookings are taken care of. No planning stress, no coordination hassle, and no long self driving days. Just relax and enjoy a seamless journey while everything is managed in background.

Explore the stunning landscapes of Mount Hutt in New Zealand, a top ski destination that promises adventure and relaxation in one day. This full-day tour combines exhilarating skiing or snowboarding with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. Enjoy a scenic drive, wildlife spotting, and plenty of photography opportunities. After your day on the slopes, unwind at the region’s highest Alpine Spa, featuring hot pools and saunas for the perfect post-ski recovery. - Full-day tour lasting 8-10 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off - Experience skiing or snowboarding with gear hire available - Scenic Alpine drive with wildlife spotting and photography

Be enchanted by Kaikoura’s marine life on this full-day dolphin-swimming tour from Christchurch without having to drive yourself there and back along winding coastal roads. In Kaikoura, a whale-watching paradise, board a sightseeing boat and jump into the Pacific Ocean with the provided wetsuit and snorkel. Swim alongside dusky dolphins in their natural habitat and enjoy the company of these graceful, curious sea mammals with help from your guides.

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.

This is a private small group tour for up to 11 people. The route around Christchurch and Lyttelton takes you over the old volcanoes of Banks Peninsula with varied scenery onto some of the smaller, less traveled roads to some uniquely scenic places. With approximately 6 hours 30 min from start to finish we will spend about 5 hours 30 min exploring points of interest etc. and an hour driving from point to point on the itinerary. We are happy to customise your tour to include attractions such as the International Antarctic Centre or Willowbank Wildlife Park (cost extra) , etc. We are locals and give an in-depth commentary covering the volcanoes, NZ and local history, earthquakes etc. and have been proudly sharing our back yard with visitors for over 25 years.

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.

This private tour is specifically designed for cruise ship passengers. Visit Akaroa and explore the Banks Peninsula with one of our friendly and knowledgeable local guides. This excursion, starting and finishing at Lyttleton, is a genuinely scenic experience. Learn about fascinating local history and understand how an enormous extinct volcano shaped this rugged landscape and how the landscape continues to shape the people who live here. In Akaroa, you’ll visit the whimsical Giant’s House; a place filled with vibrant mosaic sculptures. In town, there are opportunities to try the local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, or admire the local artworks. A trip to Akaroa from Lyttelton fits nicely into the cruise ship schedule.

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Tekapo on a full-day tour that showcases New Zealand's natural beauty. Start with hotel pickup in Christchurch, then visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and indulge in a delicious pie at Fairlie Bakehouse. Experience a scenic drive to Lake Pukaki, where the stunning turquoise waters await. Relax at the Tekapo Hot Springs for a rejuvenating soak amidst picturesque views before returning to your hotel. This tour is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing getaway. - Full-day tour lasting 7-8 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off - Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and enjoy scenic drives - Optional relaxation at Tekapo Hot Springs (tickets not included) - Professional English-speaking guide and air-conditioned transport provided

Explore the stunning landscapes of Arthur Pass and Castle Hill on this full-day tour designed for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Marvel at the unique rock formations of Castle Hill, hike to the impressive Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall, and enjoy the picturesque views of Lake Pearson. This comprehensive journey through the Southern Alps includes visits to charming Arthur Pass Village and the Cave Stream Scenic Reserve. With professional guides, comfortable transport, and hotel pickup, this tour ensures an unforgettable experience in New Zealand's natural beauty. - Duration: 7-8 hours of exploration - Enjoy a delicious pie at Sheffield Village - Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Christchurch - Spot native wildlife and take in breathtaking mountain views

Discover Aoraki Mount Cook on a scenic private journey for up to 3–4 people. Your day begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Queenstown, Christchurch, or Dunedin. For Queenstown Pickup: Pass by Kawarau Suspension Bridge, Roaring Meg & Cromwell. Stop at Lindis Pass, and High Country Salmon. For Christchurch Pickup: Pass through Geraldine and Fairlie, stop at Fairlie Bakehouse, and visit Lake Tekapo. For Dunedin Pickup: Travel via Waitaki River and Omarama, with stops at Oamaru and High Country Salmon. Enjoy panoramic stops at Lake Pukaki and a scenic drive to Mount Cook. Take in stunning views, walk the Hooker Valley Track with its swing bridges and Hooker Lake, spot alpine kea, or engage in Tasman Glacier View Walks. Visit the Mount Cook Visitor Centre to learn about the area’s history. Choose to finish at Queenstown, Christchurch, Dunedin or end journey at Mount Cook. Total road time will be approximately 8.5 hours.

Waipara Springs is a unique and iconic family owned and operated award winning boutique winery and cafe. With 29 years' experience in hospitality, we have a wonderful story to share as one of the original wineries and cafes, within the iconic Waipara Valley. Awarded an Excellence rating, Open Tuesday to Sunday, we provide all our guests a relaxing, picturesque and friendly experience.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Let’s explore New Zealand's Tallest Peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook’s Māori Significance, Tasman Glacier – New Zealand's Largest Glacier, Unique Flora and Fauna, Mountaineering History, Icebergs and Ice Caves, Panoramic Helicopter Flights, Photographer’s Paradise, beautiful lakes (Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki) and Lavender farm. We invite you to consider Kiwi Adventures Tour & Travel as an integral part of your next adventure. Our private tour offers something for everyone.

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.

"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."