Christchurch Gondola Ride Ticket
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
See the city of Christchurch from above by taking a trip aboard the Christchurch Gondola. The cable car takes you on a scenic journey to the Port Hills crater rim and Mt Cavendish summit, giving you fabulous views of Christchurch's dramatically changed cityscape. See Canterbury Plains and Lyttelton Harbour unfold as you rise to the summit complex, on the crater rim of Christchurch's famous extinct volcano.
Please note the Christchurch Gondola is a 15 minute drive from the city centre and a ten minute drive from the port of Lyttelton.
To see even more of Christchurch, go Punting on the Avon River. If the combo package is purchased. Please book your Punting timeslot prior to arrival by contacting the supplier directly.
• Please note our attractions do get very busy sometimes, especially if a cruise ship is in port and there may be a wait time at the Gondola due to increased demand
Available options
Gondola Ride & Avon River
Round-trip Gondola ride ticket plus 30-minute Avon River punt ride. The Gondola operates 10am to 5pm. Punting operates 10am to 4pm May to September or 9am to 6pm October to April
Gondola Ride
Round-trip Gondola ticket. The Gondola operates from 10am to 5pm
What's included
Return Gondola ride
30-minute Avon River punt ride (if option selected at time of booking)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Take in views over the city of Christchurch, damaged but recovering from the 2011 earthquake, and see all the way to the snowcapped Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains. As you rise more than half a mile (almost a kilometer) to the crater summit, the suburbs of Christchurch recede below you and panoramic views take in Lyttelton Harbour. From up here it’s easy to see how the harbor was formed by a collapsed volcanic crater.
At the summit, ride the Discovery ride to see a video of Christchurch, its history, people and volatile geology. Enjoy a snack or meal at the Red Rock Cafe (not included), and browse the Shop at the Top retail experience.
Add a Punt ride on the Avon River and glide along in a flat bottomed boat. Relax as a Punter, traditionally dressed in straw hat and blazer, propels you past a romantic setting of boat sheds, trees and riverside paths. See the wildlife float by, and be prepared for all weather with blankets and umbrellas provided.
What's not included
Transport to/from the attractions
Food and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
150 reviews
5★
90
4★
47
3★
8
2★
2
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.4
112 reviews
5★
72
4★
22
3★
10
2★
5
1★
3
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The Gondola cabins can accommodate wheelchairs up to 600cm wide
If the Punting combo upgrade is selected, you will need to contact the supplier directly to prebook a Punting timeslot.
Please note our attractions do get very busy sometimes, especially if a cruise ship is in port and there may be a wait time at the Gondola entry due to increased demand
Meeting point
Public bus #8 towards Lyttleton from the Central City Bus Interchange brings you directly to the Christchurch Gondola which is a 20 minute drive from the city centre
Please prebook your Punting timeslot prior to arrival by contacting the supplier directly
Important notes
This ticket provides direct entry into the attraction
This operator requires you to contact them directly prior to this tour/activity.
Departure Point: Christchurch Gondola Base Station
Address: Heathcote Valley
Punting on the Avon River option: Antigua Boatsheds, 2 Cambridge Terrace
CallSend SMSAdd to SkypeYou'll need Skype CreditFree via Skype
Dates: See Availability
Return point: Returns to the original departure point
NOTE: Once the combo package is purchased, please note that a time slot does need to be pre-booked for Punting on the Avon by calling +64 3 366 0337
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
Instant confirmation
