Tours Christchurch

Christchurch: Where Gardens Flourish and Vistas Enchant

Embark on a captivating journey from Christchurch, a city renowned for its exquisite gardens and vibrant floral displays. Venture through the heart of the revitalized city, where innovative architecture and lush green spaces intertwine.

Enjoy the exclusivity of a small-group adventure, limited to 8 guests, allowing for a more immersive and tailored experience as you explore the wonders of the ‘Garden City’.

Explore the Port Hills and a Historic Private Garden:

Ascend the picturesque Port Hills, a vantage point offering breathtaking panoramas of Christchurch, the vast Canterbury Plains, the shimmering Lyttelton Harbour, and the majestic Southern Alps in the distance. Descend into the charming Lyttelton Harbour, where a hidden gem awaits – a private garden established in 1865. Wander through this botanical wonderland, marveling at the diverse collection of exotic trees, vibrant shrub rhododendrons, elegant camellias, and a rich assortment of native New Zealand plants.

Botanic Gardens: A Symphony of Colors and Sculptures:

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a horticultural haven showcasing exotic trees that rank among the largest, tallest, or oldest of their kind in New Zealand. Delight in a symphony of colors as you stroll through vibrant flowerbeds, discover intriguing sculptures, and encounter memorial plantings that pay homage to the city's rich history. Here, you'll pause for a leisurely lunch, savoring delectable local cuisine amidst the serene beauty of the gardens.

Uncover a Hidden Treasure:

Continue your botanical exploration with a visit to a hidden treasure, a property that celebrates the life and legacy of Kate Sheppard, a prominent suffragist and a key figure in New Zealand's women's suffrage movement. Learn about her remarkable achievements and the enduring impact of her work.

A Farewell to Remember:

As your journey through Christchurch's gardens concludes, your knowledgeable guide will escort you back to your accommodation, leaving you with cherished memories of a city where nature's artistry and human ingenuity intertwine.

Tour Inclusions: 

• Hotel pick up
• Travel by luxury vehicle with maximum of 8 passengers.
• Cafe lunch included.
• Fully escorted tour with local knowledgeable guide.
• Hotel drop off

Pick up time: 9:30 am

Return: approx. 4.30 pm.

Arthur's Pass National Park: An Insider's Journey with a Passionate Guide

Embark on an unforgettable small-group adventure (maximum of 8 guests) through the stunning landscapes of the Canterbury Plains to the breathtaking Arthur’s Pass National Park. Our passionate and knowledgeable local guide will lead you on an immersive journey, sharing their expertise and love for this pristine wilderness.

Travel in style in a luxury vehicle, as your guide regales you with fascinating stories and insights about the region's unique flora, fauna, and history. We'll make scenic stops along the way to capture breathtaking photos of the rugged mountain ranges of the Southern Alps, the lush valleys, and the expansive Canterbury Plains.

Upon arrival at Arthur's Pass village, take in the mesmerising views before delving deeper into the national park. Your guide will lead you on a series of short walks, tailored to your group's interests and abilities, through ancient beech forests, alongside crystal-clear rivers, and to stunning viewpoints that showcase the area's natural wonders.

After working up an appetite, indulge in a delicious lunch at a local café, soaking in the picturesque surroundings while your guide shares captivating tales of the region's rich past.

Conclude your journey with a leisurely drive back to Christchurch, traversing the sub-alpine beauty of Porter's Pass and the idyllic Canterbury Plains. Your guide will ensure you make the most of every photo opportunity, capturing the essence of this remarkable landscape.

This personalised small-group tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Arthur's Pass National Park through the eyes of a local expert. With their passion for the region and dedication to providing an unforgettable experience, your guide will make this journey truly special.

Tour Inclusions:

• Hotel pick up
• Maximum of 8 guests per trip
• Travel by luxury vehicle
• Picnic style morning or afternoon tea (if weather permits).
• Your guide will select appropriate walks for both fitness levels and weather conditions.
• Cafe lunch in Arthurs Pass.
• Fully escorted tour with local knowledgeable guide.
• Hotel Drop off
  

Departure time: 8:30 am
Return: Approx. 5-5.30 pm.

The harbour town of Akaroa is approximately 90 minutes driving time from Christchurch. Akaroa sits within the eroded crater of an extinct volcano, a small town set in a dramatic landscape of harbour and hills, rich in both French and Māori history. Akaroa waters are home to Hector’s Dolphins, the world’s smallest dolphin.
The journey from Christchurch explores the volcanic Summit Road which (on a clear day) affords spectacular views of Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains, Lyttleton and Akaroa harbours. The highway passes through the historic and arty town of Little River and runs alongside unique wetlands.
During the day you will have the opportunity to explore Akaroa’s art and craft shops, or wander through the Museum which is full of Settler’s history. You will also visit a Banks Peninsula sheep farm where you can marvel at working sheep dogs doing what they love and watch a sheep shearing demonstration. Lunch is enjoyed at an award winning harbourside café and a farm style morning or afternoon tea is included.
If time permits on the journey to/from Christchurch we visit the Cheese Factory at Barry’s Bay and the Little River Art Store.
Please note that the order of events are subject to the timing of the Alpaca Farm visit.