Inland Canterbury & Castle Hill Tour (Lyttelton Shore Excursion)
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This scenic small-group tour includes lunch, transport, and a local guide to Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti.
Visit country towns, mountain passes, alpine lakes, and the amazing boulder fields at Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti—a day trip from Christchurch City into the mountains and back again.
Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti is an amazing labyrinth of giant limestone boulders. The area is rich with cultural and recreational significance and has been granted Tōpuni status, “a symbolic cloak of protection.”
Your guide will show you around. If you like, you can try bouldering and test your climbing skills or use your time to explore the endless maze of boulders.
Available options
Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti- Guided tour from Christchurch
What's included
Private transportation
Snacks
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Visit the small farming town of Darfield. and get an inside to rural life in New Zealand.
2
Stop for morning Tea in the quant township of Springfield. Famous for its oversized Donut sculpture that was donated to the town as a publicity stunt for the release of the cartoon movie 'The Simpsons Movie'.
3
Explore the natural beauty of Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti Senic reserve. Your guide will show you around the maze of massive limestone boulders. We will have a picnic lunch here inamounst the rocks.
4
Drive through the city centre and see Christchurch City on your way through town.
5
Drive from Port to Mountains following "The Great Alpine Highway" also known as State Highway 73. Along the way you will pass through Christchurch, small farming towns and over an alpine pass before reaching Castle Hill, Kura Tawhiti.
6
Photograph opportunity.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
4 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
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Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Travel time is included in the tour duration.
Meeting point
The cruise ship shuttle will stop in Lyttelton at the Norwich Quay bus stop (opposite Independent Provedoring Co, no 20 Norwich Quay) before heading into Christchurch.
A white branded car or minivan will collect you at Norwich Quay bus stop, and your guide will be wearing a branded uniform.
About Christchurch
Christchurch is known for its English heritage, vibrant arts scene, and extensive parks and gardens. The city is a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the South Island, including the Southern Alps and Kaikoura's coastal wonders.
Top Attractions
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
A beautiful 30-hectare garden located in the city center, featuring a diverse range of plants, a duck pond, and a conservatory.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (conservatory entry is NZD 10 for adults, NZD 5 for children)
Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu
The largest public art gallery in New Zealand, showcasing a diverse collection of New Zealand and international art.
Museum
1-2 hours
Free (some special exhibitions may have an entry fee)
Quake City
An interactive museum dedicated to the 2010 and 2011 Canterbury earthquakes, providing a unique insight into the events and their impact on the city.
Historical
1 hour
NZD 25 for adults, NZD 10 for children (under 13 free)
Lyttelton
A charming port town with a rich history, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic buildings, and beautiful coastal views.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore, some attractions may have entry fees
Akaroa
A picturesque French-inspired settlement located on the Banks Peninsula, known for its beautiful harbor, wildlife, and historic charm.
Nature
Full day
Free to explore, some attractions and tours may have entry fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Whitebait Fritters
A traditional New Zealand dish made from tiny whitebait fish mixed with egg and flour, then fried in a patty form.
Snack
Contains fish and eggs, not suitable for vegetarians or those with fish allergies
Hokey Pokey Ice Cream
A popular New Zealand ice cream flavor made with vanilla ice cream and crunchy honeycomb pieces.
Dessert
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies
Lamb Rack
A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served with seasonal vegetables and a rich sauce.
Dinner
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Skiing
Whale watching
Dolphin encounters
Hot springs
Spa treatments
Beach relaxation
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and plenty of outdoor activities. The city hosts various festivals and events during this time.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori, New Zealand Sign Language
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time) or GMT+13 (New Zealand Daylight Time during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Christchurch is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of the ongoing earthquake recovery and redevelopment, which may present some challenges and hazards.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis and tour operators
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Getting there
By air
- Christchurch International Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center
By bus
Christchurch Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Metro bus network is the primary mode of public transport in Christchurch. Buses are frequent and cover most areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Free Ride
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central City
Riccarton
Sumner
Lyttelton
Day trips
Arthur's Pass National Park
130 km (81 miles) from Christchurch • Full day
A stunning national park in the Southern Alps, offering a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting.
Kaikoura
180 km (112 miles) from Christchurch • Full day
A coastal town known for its stunning scenery, wildlife, and outdoor activities, including whale watching, dolphin encounters, and hiking.
Hanmer Springs
130 km (81 miles) from Christchurch • Full day
A popular hot spring and spa town, offering a range of relaxation and outdoor activities, including hot pools, hiking, and mountain biking.
Festivals
Christchurch Arts Festival • Every two years in August
Christchurch International Jazz Festival • Annually in November
Lyttelton Arts Festival • Annually in November
Pro tips
- Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens for a peaceful and relaxing experience, especially during spring and summer
- Explore the city's vibrant arts and culture scene by visiting the Christchurch Art Gallery, Ōtautahi Creative Spaces, and other local galleries and studios
- Take a day trip to Arthur's Pass National Park, Kaikoura, or Hanmer Springs for a taste of the stunning landscapes and outdoor activities available in the surrounding region
- Try local foods and dishes, such as whitebait fritters, hokey pokey ice cream, and lamb rack, as well as the city's thriving coffee culture
- Be aware of the ongoing earthquake recovery and redevelopment, and follow local safety guidelines and warnings
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
