6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch
Active
6d
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This signature 6-day tour offers a perfect blend of travel per day covering the majority of top attractions in New Zealand's South Island, optional handpicked activities and accommodations. Experience the best of the South Island without the hassle of planning which attractions to visit, where to stay, what to do, all without driving long distances on your own. The itinerary ensures a relaxed experience.
Enjoy the luxury of a private tour for your group. Benefit from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour.
Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 9-10 optional activities, like a helicopter ride, TranzAlpine train ride, stargazing, jet boating, a Gondola ride, Kiwi park or Hot Pool Soak, Milford or Doubtful Sound cruise, a tour of Te Anau Glowworm caves, and Guided Kayaking or a Whale Cruise, or a Nature Cruise & an Alpaca farm visit. Choose to finish at Queenstown or Christchurch.
Available options
Hotel + Ticket | No Dep Flight
With Accommodations: Includes accommodation for 5 nights in 4 to 5-star handpicked hotels with breakfast based on availability and season.<br/>With Entry Tickets: Includes Entry Tickets for mentioned 10 activities.<br/>Without Departure Flight: This option excludes departure flight from Queenstown to Christchurch. Tour ends in Queenstown.<br/>Pickup included
Hotel + Ticket + Dep Flight
With Accommodations: Includes accommodation for 5 nights in 4 to 5-star handpicked hotels with breakfast based on availability and season.<br/>With Entry Tickets: Includes Entry tickets for mentioned 10 activities.<br/>With Departure Flight: Includes standard economy departure flight ticket from Queenstown to Christchurch.<br/>Pickup included
Ticket | No Hotel & Dep Flight
Without Accommodations: This option excludes accommodations. Travelers must book their own accommodation. Date-specific location guidance provided.<br/>With Entry Tickets: Includes Entry Tickets for mentioned 10 activities.<br/>Without Departure Flight: This option excludes departure flight from Queenstown to Christchurch. Tour ends in Queenstown.<br/>Pickup included
No Hotel, Ticket & Dep Flight
Without Accommodations: This option excludes accommodations. Travelers must book their own accommodation. Date-specific location guidance provided.<br/>Without Entry Tickets: This options excludes entry tickets for activities. Travelers book their own desired activities. Timeslot guidance provided.<br/>Without Departure Flight: This option excludes departure flight from Queenstown to Christchurch. Tour ends in Queenstown.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Guide-driver exclusively for your group
Private transportation
If any optional activity is canceled by activity provider or unavailable, alternatives are provided
Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Scenic Helicopter ride ticket at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Alpaca Farm Tour & Nature Cruise Ticket at Akaroa
Use of charging cables & emergency rain gear
Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Cruise Ticket at Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound
Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Glowworm Caves Tour Ticket at Te Anau
Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Stargazing Activity Ticket at Lake Tekapo
Optional: Standard Economy Departure Flight from Queenstown to Christchurch
WiFi on board
Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Gondola with luge rides & Thrill Jet Boating Ticket at Queenstown
Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Guided Kayaking or Whale Watching Cruise Ticket at Kaikōura
Packaged snacks & chocolates
Optional ("With Hotels" Option): Accommodation for 5 nights in 4 to 5-star hotels with breakfast
Optional ("With Tickets" Option): TranzAlpine Scenic Train Ticket - Christchurch to Arthur's Pass
Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Kiwi Park or 1 hour of Private Hot Pool Soak Ticket at Queenstown
Packaged water bottles
What's not included
Food & Drinks (except 5 x breakfast with "With Hotels" option)
Travel Insurance
Anything not described in the inclusions
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
11 reviews
5★
11
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Travelers should have their own comprehensive travel insurance
Following your booking, the operator will get in touch to confirm your preferences, as applicable
With the "With Tickets" option, traveler(s) may swap any of the included activities for alternatives of interest such as Skydiving, Horse Trekking, Scenic Flights, Swimming with Dolphins, Heli-hiking, Relaxing Spa Treatments, Ziplining, etc., subject to availability, cost differences, and route or schedule feasibility
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
