Arthurs Pass and Southern Alps Day Excursion from Port Lyttelton or Christchurch

Canterbury , New Zealand

Arthurs Pass and Southern Alps Day Excursion from Port Lyttelton or Christchurch

Active

(1 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant_then_manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This day excursion takes us across the Canterbury Plains around 50 miles to Porters Pass (just under 1000 m and higher than Arthurs Pass) and into the Southern Alps. Mountain lakes and wide braided rivers pass through ancient glacial valleys. After about 2.5 hours we reach Arthurs Pass National Park and its beech forests. We drive to the top of the pass and divide looking over into the rainforests of the West Coast, then stop in AP village here for lunch.Time permitting we have a quick tour of Christchurch on the return trip and a short stroll at Castle Hill.

Available options

Arthurs Pass and Southern Alps Day Excursion from Port Lyttelton or Christchurch

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

A centre giving information on the geology, flora and fauna of Arthurs Pass, as well as a souvenir shop

Photo stop

Stop 3 Pass by

Large trees from all over the world and well-maintained gardens....we can stop if time permits. The Arts Centre and Great Hall are also here and worth a visit (Gothic Architecture).

Stop 4

Option to take a stroll in this amazing scenery.....an ancient seafloor that is now giant limestone cliffs and rocks in the middle of the Southern Alps. Ancient giant sharks teeth have been found fossillised in these rocks and Narnia : The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe was filmed across the road. The path is gentle and takes you into a very photogenic land which has been appreciated back into history since the gentle Waitaha people used it as a spiritual centre. Today you may see climbers from across the world making their way up or around these fascinating structures.

Behind this lovely small mountain chapel is the beech forest which covers most of the Southern Alps. A walk of a few minutes takes you to a small bridge and beautiful stream of clear mountain water flowing over a waterfall.

Stop 6

Take a photo by an imposing stone sign which signifies the start of Arthur's Pass National Pass....the route through here was opened up in the mid 1860's as gold was found on the West Coast and a road was hurriedly built in a year to connect east and west.

Stop 7

See a statue of the Giant Moa, the tallest bird to live on earth and hear the story of Paddy Freeny and its possible rediscovery in the 1980's.

Enjoy the limestone of this area....a stream flows under the road at great depth and takes about an hour to go through....but not on this trip.

Stop 9

Traverse the Canterbury Plains from east to west from Christchurch to the skifields of the Cragieburn Range and into the Southern Alps . This fertile plain is one of the most productive on earth boasting world record yields of wheat and barley. This agricultural powerhouse also produces large amounts of the world's seed and provides potatoes, onions, wine, dairy products, animal feed, sheep etc.
Look for the Waimakariri River ...a classic braided river connecting the mountain icefields to the Pacific Ocean.

What's not included

Lunch

Coffee and/or Tea

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Canterbury

Canterbury is a region in the South Island of New Zealand, known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant city life, and rich cultural heritage. It is home to Christchurch, the largest city in the region, and offers a unique blend of urban attractions and outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

A beautiful 30-hectare garden located in the heart of Christchurch, featuring a diverse collection of plants, a conservatory, and the iconic Boatshed Cafe.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Christchurch Art Gallery

A leading art gallery in New Zealand, showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary and historical artworks, including works by renowned New Zealand artists.

Art 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Lyttelton

A historic port town located on the scenic Banks Peninsula, known for its colorful buildings, vibrant arts scene, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Southern Alps.

Historical Half-day trip Free to explore the town, paid activities available

Akaroa

A picturesque French-inspired village located on the Banks Peninsula, known for its charming architecture, dolphin-watching tours, and stunning coastal scenery.

Nature Full-day trip Free to explore the town, paid activities available

Arthur's Pass National Park

A stunning national park located in the Southern Alps, known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, including the endangered kea, the world's only alpine parrot.

Nature Full-day trip or overnight stay Free to enter the park, paid activities available

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hangi

A traditional Maori method of cooking food in an earth oven, using hot stones. The result is tender, smoky meat and vegetables with a unique flavor.

Main Course Contains meat, can be adapted for vegetarian and vegan diets.

Whitebait Fritters

A New Zealand classic made from tiny whitebait fish, mixed with egg and fried into a delicate, crispy fritter.

Appetizer Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Lamb Rump

A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, typically served with seasonal vegetables and a red wine reduction.

Main Course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs, can be adapted for gluten-free diets.

Popular Activities

Hiking and walking trails Skiing and snowboarding Dolphin watching Whale watching Swimming and boating Relaxing in the thermal pools Spa treatments and massages Golfing and other sports

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Canterbury, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities, beach trips, and exploring the region's natural beauty.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Canterbury is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly and welcoming local community. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use reputable tour operators and taxi services, and always agree on the fare before starting your journey.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and payment terminals, and always cover your PIN when entering it.

Getting there

By air

Christchurch International Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Christchurch Station

By bus

Christchurch Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Metro bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and a well-integrated network.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Christchurch Sumner Riccarton Lyttelton

Day trips

Akaroa

85 km from Christchurch • Full-day trip

Akaroa is a picturesque French-inspired village located on the Banks Peninsula, known for its charming architecture, dolphin-watching tours, and stunning coastal scenery.

Arthur's Pass National Park

130 km from Christchurch • Full-day trip or overnight stay

Arthur's Pass National Park is a stunning national park located in the Southern Alps, known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, including the endangered kea, the world's only alpine parrot.

Hanmer Springs

130 km from Christchurch • Full-day trip or overnight stay

Hanmer Springs is a popular resort town located in the Canterbury region, known for its natural hot springs, spa facilities, and a range of outdoor activities.

Festivals

The Christchurch Arts Festival • Every two years in August/September The Canterbury A&P Show • Annually in November The Akaroa French Festival • Annually in November

Pro tips

Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens for a peaceful escape from the city and a chance to see the iconic Palm House and Rose Garden.
Take a dolphin-watching tour in Akaroa to see the rare Hector's dolphins in their natural habitat.
Explore the underground tunnels of the Christchurch Central City for a unique and fascinating insight into the city's history and resilience.
Visit the International Antarctic Centre for an interactive and educational experience that explores the history, science, and wildlife of the frozen continent.
Take a scenic flight over the Southern Alps for breathtaking views of the region's dramatic mountain landscapes.