Top Christchurch Walking Tours

Fly along a series of high-speed ziplines at the Christchurch Adventure Park, soaring high in the air for sweeping views of the Southern Alps and Pacific Ocean that you can’t get any other way. Zipline guides and fitted protective equipment ensure a safe, fun adventure through the Port Hills. Ride four dual ziplines that soar more than 518 feet (150 meters) above the ground for a thrilling experience.

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

Step into the heart of Ōtautahi Christchurch and join us for a lively walking adventure through the city we proudly call home. Along the way you’ll discover iconic landmarks, fascinating insights, and the stories that have helped shape this vibrant and special place. Our city trail weaves through more than 40 sites, blending history, culture, and local flavour to reveal the character and spirit of Christchurch. Since the earthquakes of 2010–2011, our city has undergone a remarkable transformation. As we walk, you’ll experience innovative new spaces alongside treasured historic landmarks, each one reflecting the resilience, creativity, and hospitality that continues to shape the city today. - Explore Christchurch's iconic landmarks and hidden gems - Gain insights from knowledgeable local guides - Ideal for travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience

While lots of tours help you experience Christchurch’s sights and sounds, not many include first-hand anecdotes from the 2011 earthquake that rocked the city. On this small-group walking tour, explore local landmarks and hidden gems that most travelers miss while listening to personal stories of the city’s rich culture and heritage.

Like many New Zealand cities, Christchurch has a dual history shared between Māori and European peoples. Explore the city on this small-group walking tour, taking in landmarks and hidden gems that reveal an often forgotten heritage. Along the way, enjoy local food, drinks, and lunch tastings, connecting you to the people and places you’ll see.

Discover volcanic landscapes and breathtaking scenery on New Zealand’s South Island on this Akaroa day trip from Christchurch and avoid the need to self-drive. Ascend the Banks Peninsula for beautiful views over Akaroa Harbour and the volcanic crater. Sample locally made cheeses and admire colonial architecture around Akaroa. Cruise by catamaran into the harbor, where diverse marine and bird life thrives, including rare Hector’s dolphins. Hotel transfers are included.

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.

Make the most of a travel day and let someone else do the driving so you can admire the views. This small-group, fully guided tour takes you from Christchurch to Queenstown via Tekapo and Aoraki Mt. Cook. Instead of just sitting in a bus all day, get out and explore Geraldine, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park, and other points of interest along the way.

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.

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.

Sheep farming is an important activity in New Zealand but it can be hard for tourists to experience this first-hand. Visit a working sheep farm in rural Canterbury on a day trip from Christchurch to learn more. Enjoy morning or afternoon tea and watch a sheep-shearing demonstration. Upgrade to include wine tasting at a local vineyard, where you can sip various vintages. Includes hotel transfers from centrally located hotels.

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.

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.

Explore the rich Maori heritage of Christchurch on the Te Ara Walking Tour. This engaging 60-minute journey along the Otakaro Avon River reveals the stories, landmarks, and cultural significance tied to the area. Led by knowledgeable local guides, participants will enjoy a traditional Māori welcome and interactive storytelling that highlights the importance of community-led initiatives and sustainable practices in the region. Ideal for families and cultural enthusiasts, this tour offers a deeper understanding of the city’s history and landscape while supporting ongoing restoration efforts. - 60-minute guided walking tour through central Christchurch - Discover Māori stories, traditional carvings, and cultural landmarks - Family-friendly experience suitable for all ages and fitness levels - Every booking supports the restoration of the Ōtākaro Avon River

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.

Enjoy unobstructed views of New Zealand’s tallest mountain—Aoraki Mt. Cook—as well as some of the South Island’s most beautiful natural landscapes without having to drive yourself. Join an easy guided full-day tour from Christchurch that takes you past Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, fields of lavender (summer season only), and to hiking trails in Mt. Cook National Park to see the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest. End back in Christchurch.

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.

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.

Get out of Christchurch for the day and explore some of the most majestic landscapes in the South Island on an easy small-group day tour. Leaving Christchurch early in the morning, you’ll head to the mountains. Stop to enjoy the views at Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, and take short walks on the Hooker Track and the Tasman Glacier (New Zealand’s longest). See and do a lot on a full-day tour.

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. The tour also includes a visit to the Greenstone Shop, where you can learn about New Zealand pounamu (greenstone) and browse authentic local products. 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 transfer that’s designed to take the stress out of traveling between Christchurch and Aoraki Mt. Cook. This small-group tour includes convenient hotel pickup in Christchurch and stops at Geraldine, Lake Tekapo, and the Church of the Good Shepherd. Enjoy lunch in Geraldine and admire the views of Aoraki Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Learn more from your guide’s engaging stories.

The Green Kiwi Tours 'Private Christchurch Walking Tour' is an informative and entertaining way to get the express history of Christchurch! From Māori and European history to modern day locals. From geography, culture, architecture and the 2011 earthquake, we cover it. As we unravel the the story of Christchurch, be amazed at the hidden gems of the city! Join one of our passionate and knowledgeable local guides for the best express history of Christchurch City!

Shore Excursion: Small Group Scenic Tour of Christchurch This half-day, very small group tour (max 8 people) is designed specifically for cruise ship passengers and fits perfectly into your ship’s schedule. Led by a friendly local guide, you'll explore some of Christchurch’s most scenic and historic locations: - Lyttelton – Historic port town with local charm. - Evans Pass Lookout – Stunning views over Lyttelton Harbour. - Sumner Beach – Relax by the sea or explore the coastal village. - Cass Bay - Short snack and beautiful views. - Governors Bay Jetty – Peaceful harbour views and photo opportunities. - Sign of the Bellbird – Panoramic views of the harbour and hills. - Sign of the Takahe – Grand heritage building with panoramic city views. At the end of the tour, you can choose to be dropped off in Christchurch city centre or back at the port. Shuttle buses run continuously between the port and the city centre for cruise passengers, making it easy to return to your ship.