Christchurch

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth

Your early morning departure is rewarded with incredible scenery today onboard the TranzAlpine Scenic Train, considered one of the world's great train journeys. It travels between Christchurch and Greymouth, from one coast of New Zealand to the other. From your carriage you'll see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. Your train then climbs into the Southern Alps before descending through the lush beech rain forest to the West Coast town of Greymouth, a great base for visits to Punakaiki and the West Coast glaciers.

Lord of the Rings Edoras Tour

Journey to the remote and beautiful Mt Potts high country station, home of Mt Sunday. See how this spectacular mountain was transformed into Edoras, the capital city of the Rohan people from the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Marvel at its rugged unspoiled beauty and breathe in the clear mountain air, while you indulge in a gourmet sparkling wine picnic.

International Antarctic Centre

The International Antarctic Centre aims to recreate the atmosphere and environment of Antarctica, providing visitors with an interactive, fun and educational experience. Feel the full Four Seasons of Antarctica, where you'll experience a custom-built snow and ice experience, then warm up in the Scott Base interior exhibit, a replica Antarctic field camp or other informative displays in the gallery. You'll also learn about life in modern-day Antarctica, view real little blue penguins and experience a thrilling ride in a Hagglund all-terrain vehicle.

Christchurch Gondola

In the Heathcote Valley, just fifteen minutes from the heart of Christchurch City, ride the Christchurch Gondola for nearly a kilometer to the collapsed rim of an extinct volcano, which exploded six million years ago. Take in the spectacular panoramic views of the central city, Lyttelton Harbour, Banks Peninsula, Canterbury Plains, and the distant peaks of the Southern Alps. Wander the summit complex, enjoy a coffee or lunch in the cafe, and choose one of many nature walks to explore or visit the Christchurch Discovery Rice, a dramatic reconstruction of the history of the Port Hills and Christchurch. 

Christchurch Triple Pass - Tram, Punting and Gondola

Experience three of Christchurch's iconic attractions in one day: the Christchurch Tram, Christchurch Gondola, and Punting on the Avon River. The historic tram is a delightful way to explore the evolving inner city, taking in the various sights with the hop-on hop-off pass and learning about the city from the live commentary. You'll also enjoy a bird's eye view of Christchurch and the Canterbury region including the distant peaks of the Southern Alps when you ride the gondola cableway to the top of the Port Hills in Heathcote Valley. Punting on the Avon River takes you through the city's green belt: a relaxing way to explore what is affectionately known as the 'Garden City'.

Dinner onboard the Christchurch Restaurant Tram

A truly unique dining experience in the heart of Christchurch. You'll board New Zealand's only dining tram for an unforgettable moving four-course restaurant experience. Enjoy a curated fine dining-style menu while taking in the city sights on your journey through the streets of central Christchurch. This experience includes a meal with multiple courses as the tramway route passes New Regent Street, the Avon River, High Street, and Victoria Square.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth Scenic Plus with Great Journeys NZ

Great Journeys New Zealand's Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views, making our TranzAlpine scenic train journey the perfect way to explore coast-to-coast through the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand's South Island. Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience on the unique TranzAlpine scenic rail journey to invigorate all the senses! Feast your eyes on epic scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer all from the comfort of your luxurious seat – a hosted dining experience like no other. Quite simply, we have done everything we can to ensure you feel at peace as you sink back in your seat and soak up the scenery.

Christchurch Trams

Trams played an important role in transporting the people of Christchurch until 1954 when they were phased out. In 1995 the city council and Tramway Historical Society brought the beautiful trams back to the city centre for the public to enjoy. Take the delightful journey throughout the central city, including sights such as Riverside Market, the Avon River, the Arts Precinct including the Christchurch Art Gallery and Arts Centre, the Botanic Gardens, and New Regent Street with its Spanish-style buildings and sunny cafes. A commentary is given by the tram driver and you can hop on and off at the various stops as you please throughout the day. It's a great way to see and explore the main city centre attractions.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Nowhere else in New Zealand will you find such a wide range of New Zealand wildlife so close to you. Willowbank provides you with a "Kiwi Guarantee" and is home to New Zealand's largest and most accessible kiwi viewing area. With this unique experience, you will see New Zealand's natural splendour first hand, and view Kiwis that are not hidden behind glass.  You will explore one of the most complete selections of New Zealand native and introduced wildlife in natural bush surroundings. Much of the Willowbank wildlife wander free and is able to be petted and fed.

Choose to explore the reserve yourself, or for an up-close Kiwi experience, you can take a guided tour.

Waipara Valley Wine Trail and lunch with Leisure Tours

This tour explores 4 of North Canterbury’s boutique vineyards. Travel 45 minutes north of Christchurch through the New Zealand countryside to the Waipara Valley, well known for its warm, dry climate and rich alluvial soils, ideal for superior wine production. Over 40 vineyards and wineries pepper the landscape of the valley, with Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc dominating local plantings. You will stop for tastings at Pegasus Bay, Waipara Springs, Greystone Winery and Waipara Hills Winery. If for any reason one of these wineries is closed on the day or your tour an alternative winery in the Waipara Valley will be included. This activity also includes lunch at Waipara Springs Winery. The platter lunch includes tastes of both a regional and New Zealand flavour and is the perfect accompaniment to some of these wineries fine wines.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Daytrip Christchurch to Moana and return

Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train travels between Christchurch and Greymouth, from one coast of New Zealand to the other. From your carriage you'll see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River.

Great Journeys Coastal Pacific Train: Christchurch to Picton

The Coastal Pacific train journey travels between Christchurch, the South Island's largest city and the delightful port of Picton. This journey is a scenic feast of New Zealand, with the Kaikoura mountain ranges on one side of your train and the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline on the other. Along the way you pass though the town of Kaikoura world famous for its resident whale population and its whale watching tours.
Travel through some of New Zealand's finest horticultural and farmland areas, and see amazing wildlife such as dolphins, seals and penguins from the comfort of your train carriage.
One of the world's most scenic train journeys, the Coastal Pacific travels through 22 tunnels and crosses 175 bridges. As on The TranzAlpine, The Coastal Pacific includes an open air viewing carriage where all your senses are awakened with the clean, fresh, sea air.

Punting on the Christchurch Avon River

Relax and enjoy the tranquil Christchurch Botanic Gardens as you are expertly guided along the Avon River on a classic punting tour. You will be set aboard a handcrafted flat-bottomed boat, poled along by your punter in Edwardian attire from the platform at the rear of the boat. You will enjoy the spectacular flora that the Garden City is famous for from a unique perspective amidst fresh air.

Private Punting on the Christchurch Avon River

Relax and enjoy the tranquil Christchurch Botanic Gardens as you are expertly guided along the Avon River on a classic punting tour. You will be set aboard a handcrafted flat-bottomed boat, poled along by your punter in Edwardian attire from the platform at the rear of the boat. This private punt allows you to have the boat to yourselves for a 30-minute romantic ride offering an extra special experience. You will enjoy the spectacular flora that the Garden City is famous for from a unique perspective amidst fresh air.

Christchurch Combo Pass - Tram and Punting

Experience two of Christchurch's iconic attractions in one day, Tram and Punting on the Avon River. The historic tram is a delightful way to explore the inner city, through the Spanish-style buildings of New Regent St and the regenerating city centre. Punting on the Avon River takes you through the city's green belt, a relaxing way to explore what is affectionately known as the 'Garden City'.

Exclusive Penguin Backstage Tour

The International Antarctic Centre aims to re-create the atmosphere and environment of Antarctica, providing visitors with an interactive, fun and exciting experience of the "Great White South".
You will be hosted by an Antarctic Guide and taken through backstage areas. See how the quarantine area works, learn about Penguin feeding and husbandry and take your Penguin knowledge to the next level.
The centre only house's rescue penguins. These are birds that have got into trouble in the big wide world or may be suffering from physical disabilities. Expert veterinarians assess each bird and those that don’t have the ability to defend themselves will find themselves amongst feathered friends at this penguin sanctuary.

Air Force Museum of New Zealand

Explore one of the world’s premier military aviation collections at the Air Force Museum of New Zealand. Since 1987 the museum has preserved and presented the history of New Zealand Military Aviation for commemoration, inspiration, learning and enjoyment. The collection items number in the millions – from aircraft, engines and assorted parts to medals, weapons, pin-ups and parachute-silk wedding dresses. At the Air Force Museum you can marvel at the collection of 28 classic aircraft, be inspired by the bravery of present and past servicemen, servicewomen and their families, fly a simulator, experience life in the Air Force and step back in time into a replica 1940’s home. 

Clearwater Golf Course - suggested activity

The par 72 championship course is home to the HSBC NZ PGA Championship. Designed by John Darby in consultation with New Zealand golfing legend, Sir Bob Charles, the course combines elements of links golf inspired by the great Scottish courses with parkland golf, more reminiscent of Florida. Playable year-round, the course meanders around a succession of spring-fed lakes and trout-filled streams, with uninterrupted views of the spectacular Southern Alps. There are five tee positions to suit players of all abilities.

To book, please organise with Clearwater Golf directly here.

Exclusive Penguin Backstage Tour

The International Antarctic Centre aims to re-create the atmosphere and environment of Antarctica, providing visitors with an interactive, fun and exciting experience of the "Great White South".
You will be hosted by an Antarctic Guide and taken through backstage areas. See how the quarantine area works, learn about Penguin feeding and husbandry and take your Penguin knowledge to the next level.
The centre only house's rescue penguins. These are birds that have got into trouble in the big wide world or may be suffering from physical disabilities. Expert veterinarians assess each bird and those that don’t have the ability to defend themselves will find themselves amongst feathered friends at this penguin sanctuary.

Great Journeys Coastal Pacific Train: Christchurch to Picton Scenic Plus

Great Journeys New Zealand's Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views as you journey between Christchurch, the South Island's largest city and the delightful port of Picton. This journey is a scenic feast of New Zealand, with the Kaikoura mountain ranges on one side of your train and the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline on the other. Along the way you pass though the town of Kaikoura world famous for its resident whale population and its whale watching tours.
Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience and the dedicated Scenic Plus carriage features large panoramic windows giving sweeping views as you travel through some of New Zealand's finest horticultural and farmland areas, and see amazing wildlife such as dolphins, seals and penguins from the comfort of your train carriage. Enjoy epic scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer, all from the comfort of your luxurious seat—a hosted dining experience like no other.
One of the world's most scenic train journeys, the Coastal Pacific travels through 22 tunnels and crosses 175 bridges. As on The TranzAlpine, The Coastal Pacific includes an open air viewing carriage where all your senses are awakened with the clean, fresh, sea air.

International Antarctic Centre

The International Antarctic Centre aims to recreate the atmosphere and environment of Antarctica, providing visitors with an interactive, fun and educational experience. Feel the full Four Seasons of Antarctica, where you'll experience a custom-built snow and ice experience, then warm up in the Scott Base interior exhibit, a replica Antarctic field camp or other informative displays in the gallery. You'll also learn about life in modern-day Antarctica, view real little blue penguins and experience a thrilling ride in a Hagglund all-terrain vehicle.

Orana Wildlife Park

Set in 80 hectares of tranquil grounds, within a 15 minute drive from Christchurch Airport, Orana Wildlife Park is New Zealand’s only open range zoo. Orana specialises in providing unique animal encounters in an open range setting. Get up close and personal with the wonderful animals! Experience the thrill of hand feeding a majestic giraffe, seeing a tiger search for food, or travelling through a pride of lions. Visitors can meet endangered New Zealand native wildlife such as kiwi (New Zealand’s national icon), tuatara (a unique native reptile) and kea (the world’s only mountain parrot). View a wide range of native gecko species and pet friendly domestic animals in the Farmyard area. Fifteen scheduled animal feeds occur daily and each presentation is accompanied by a talk from a wildlife guide. At Orana Wildlife Park there is something to entertain everyone.

Quake City - Earthquake Experience

Quake City is a unique multi-sensory attraction aimed at informing, engaging and educating visitors about the Canterbury earthquakes.  See an active liquefaction volcano and learn about the science of earthquakes. Hear about the incredible resilience of our communities. Be captivated by the stories and photographs of emergency service teams during the aftermath of Canterbury’s major earthquakes. View iconic objects such as the Cathedral Spire. Open daily from 10am to 6pm.

Rangitata Gorge Rafting

Your chance to navigate 10kms of one of NZ’s most beautiful rivers, this exhilarating grade 5 adventure will get your heart pounding. Starting off on the calmer upper stretches of the Rangitata river, you’ll have plenty of time to perfect your paddling skills and warm up through the grade 2 & 3 rapids before arriving at the grade 5 section of the Rangitata Gorge. At this point you can choose if you want to continue rafting through the thunderous rapids, tight gaps and rocky outcrops of the Gorge itself or would rather walk around and admire them from the side. To cool off after all the action, there’ll be a chance to go for a surf and take a dip in the calmer sections.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Arthurs Pass Scenic Plus with Great Journeys NZ

Embark on a captivating journey from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass. Great Journeys New Zealand's Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views, making the TranzAlpine scenic train journey the perfect way to explore the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partition New Zealand's South Island. Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience on the unique TranzAlpine scenic rail journey to invigorate all the senses! Enjoy epic scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer, all from the comfort of your luxurious seat—a hosted dining experience like no other. Simply relax, sink back in your seat, and soak up the incredible scenery.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth Return

Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train travels between Christchurch and Greymouth, from one coast of New Zealand to the other. From your carriage you'll see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. Your train then climbs into the Southern Alps before descending through lush beech rain forest to the West Coast town of Greymouth. You'll have a 40-minute wait at the Greymouth Railway Station before checking in for your return journey.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth Return Scenic Plus with Great Journeys NZ

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth Scenic Plus with Great Journeys NZ

Great Journeys New Zealand's Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views, making our TranzAlpine scenic train journey the perfect way to explore coast-to-coast through the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand's South Island. Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience on the unique TranzAlpine scenic rail journey to invigorate all the senses! Feast your eyes on epic scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer all from the comfort of your luxurious seat – a hosted dining experience like no other. Quite simply, we have done everything we can to ensure you feel at peace as you sink back in your seat and soak up the scenery.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth with Great Journeys NZ

Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train travels between Christchurch and Greymouth, from one coast of New Zealand to the other. From your carriage you'll see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. Your train then climbs into the Southern Alps before descending through lush beech rain forest to the West Coast town of Greymouth - a great base for visits to Punakaiki and the West Coast glaciers.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Scenic Plus Upgrade with Great Journeys NZ

Great Journeys New Zealand's Scenic Plus carriage provides comfort and vast panoramic views, making our TranzAlpine scenic train journey the perfect way to explore coast-to-coast through the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand's South Island. Scenic Plus offers an all-inclusive experience on the unique TranzAlpine scenic rail journey to invigorate all the senses! Feast your eyes on epic scenery while you savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with sumptuous wine and beer all from the comfort of your luxurious seat – a hosted dining experience like no other. Quite simply, we have done everything we can to ensure you feel at peace as you sink back in your seat and soak up the scenery.

Waka on the Avon River

Experience the excitement of paddling a hand-crafted waka down the River Avon, and learn about the importance of the waka to Māori culture. Enjoy early stories of Canterbury's Ngāi Tahu iwi and the earliest European settlers, and the positive things they achieved building the city of Christchurch together.