All Christchurch Tours & Excursions in 2026

There are plenty of high-quality tours and experiences in Christchurch. According to previous travelers, here are the best tours to book right now:

• Christchurch Hop-On Hop-Off Tram

• TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

• Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch

• Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch

• Christchurch Zipline Tour

Yes, guided tours in and around Christchurch are definitely worth it, especially if you're looking to visit multiple sites during the same day. Leaving logistics to local experts can ensure you save time and often money by paying a package price upfront. Plus, some areas and activities are only accessible to organized tours, such as swimming with wild dolphins at Kaikoura.   

Per one customer who booked the Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch, "The Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo, and Tasman Glacier tour was absolutely breathtaking from start to finish. Every stop felt more beautiful than the last, with scenery that hardly seems real. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing fascinating insights about the landscapes, glaciers, and history that really enhanced the experience. The day was perfectly paced and allowed plenty of time to soak it all in. This tour is a must-do for anyone wanting to experience some of the most stunning scenery New Zealand has to offer."

Guided tours in and around Christchurch come in a wide range of prices, and it's easy to find an option for most budgets. Tram tours start around US$25 per person, while guided walking tours cost at least US$30 per person per hour. Expect to pay at least US$100 per person for wine tastings and excursions outside of city limits. Helicopter tours can cost as much as US$1,000 per person. Private tours and day trips typically cost more.

For an immersive tour at the lower end of the price range, book the Discover Christchurch Sightseeing Tour for around US$59 per person. This 3-hour driving tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and features stops at the Bridge of Remembrance, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Mona Vale, and the Sign of the Takahe. Pricier options include the 9-hour Tranz Alpine Train Tour from US$460 per person: See the Southern Alps from the comfort of a climate-controlled viewing carriage, a gourmet lunch is provided, and you can get out to stretch your legs on a short hike at Arthur's Pass National Park. This pricey, but popular, tour is limited to seven people and includes a guide.

Christchurch tours feature an array of activities, with something for every age, interest, and physical ability. More laidback activities include walking tours, wine tastings, and stargazing. You can also see the sights via cable car, whale-watching boat, helicopter, or scenic train. Those looking for thrills can go caving, hiking, mountain biking, ziplining, jet boating, or even paddling in a traditional waka (Māori canoe).

All-day or multi-day Christchurch tours will help you pack in as many sights and activities as possible. For example, the Christchurch to Queenstown 2-Day Tour via Franz Josef (One Way) showcases some of the country's top sites, including filming locations for movies such as The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia. While the itinerary covers nearly 300 miles (500 kilometers) in just two days, expect to have time to walk around, take photos, and shop for handmade souvenirs along the way.

Most travelers find that 1–2 days is enough time to explore Christchurch if it’s just a stopover on their way to other destinations on the South Island. In just one day, you can easily take in a bird’s-eye view of the city and beyond from the gondola, learn about the country’s war history at the Air Force Museum, spot a kiwi bird at the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, and enjoy dinner and local wines in the city center. The next day, hit up Riverside Market and swing by the International Antarctic Centre. If you want to be based in Christchurch and take day trips around the South Island, allow at least 5–6 days.

According to travelers, these are the best attractions in Christchurch:

• Lake Tekapo

• Lake Pukaki

• Christchurch Gondola

• TranzAlpine Train

• International Antarctic Centre

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Christchurch.

There are tons of great trips to take from Christchurch. According to traveler reviews, these are the best day trips to book right now:

• TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

• Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch

• Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch

• Arthur's Pass Discovery and TranzAlpine Train - Small Group Tour

• Akaroa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Christchurch

View all of Viator's top Christchurch day trips.

You don't have to spend a fortune to have a great time in Christchurch. Here are some of the best Christchurch activities for US$25 or less per person:

• Christchurch Hop-On Hop-Off Tram

• Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Day Entry

• Christchurch Gondola Ride Ticket

• Chairlift Sightseeing Pass at the Christchurch Adventure Park

• Christchurch's "Local" Earthquake & Historic 1.75hr Walking Tour

Couples will find plenty of romantic tours in Christchurch. Here are some of the top activities to book now, according to previous travelers:

• Akaroa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Christchurch

• Arthur's Pass and TranzAlpine Train Day Tour from Christchurch

• Full Day Guided Walking Tour and Picnic around Godley Head

• Waipara Wine Experience for 2 or more, inc tastings and lunch

• Waipara Wine Tour from Christchurch - including Lunch & Tastings

View all of Viator's top romantic tours in Christchurch.

It's no secret that Christchurch is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top outdoor tours to book right now:

• TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

• Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch

• Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch

• Christchurch Zipline Tour

• Arthur's Pass Discovery and TranzAlpine Train - Small Group Tour

View all of Viator's top outdoor activities in Christchurch.

According to travelers, these are the top museums and cultural attractions in Christchurch:

• Christchurch Botanic Gardens

• Canterbury Museum

• Church of the Good Shepherd

• Christchurch Arts Centre

• Air Force Museum of New Zealand

View all of Viator's top museum tickets and passes in Christchurch.