Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps All day Discovery Tour

Christchurch , New Zealand

Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps All day Discovery Tour

Active

10h - 12h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Immerse yourself in luxury and embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps with our exclusive tour. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to providing a seamless and indulgent experience from start to finish.

Travel in style and comfort aboard one of our professionally chauffeured European vehicles, where every detail is meticulously curated for your enjoyment. Indulge your senses with gourmet delights from the renowned Sheffield Pie Shop, and savor a picnic lunch amidst the stunning backdrop of Arthur's Pass National Park.

Explore the hidden gems of the national park with expert guidance, and marvel at the natural wonders that await around every corner. With panoramic views from the Otira Viaduct Lookout and a memorable dining experience at a cozy restaurant to conclude your journey, our luxury tour promises to exceed your expectations and create lasting memories of New Zealand's extraordinary landscapes.

Available options

Luxury Van - 6 passengers

Luxury Van: Travel in our Mercedes V Class that holds up to 6 passengers <br/>Pickup included

Luxury Sedan

Luxury Sedan: Travel in our Luxury BMW's that seat up to 4 passengers. <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Embark on an extraordinary journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps with our luxury tour departing from Christchurch. Experience unparalleled comfort and elegance as you traverse the scenic wonders of New Zealand's South Island in one of our professionally chauffeured European vehicles.

Depart from Christchurch in the lap of luxury and head northwest towards the picturesque Canterbury Plains.

En route, tantalize your taste buds with a stop at the renowned Sheffield Pie Shop, where you'll indulge in delectable gourmet pies, the perfect start to your day of exploration.

As you continue your journey, immerse yourself in the stunning vistas of the Canterbury countryside, with rolling green hills stretching as far as the eye can see. Marvel at the majestic beauty of the Southern Alps looming on the horizon as you make your way towards Arthur's Pass National Park.

Stop 4

Delight in a gourmet picnic lunch amidst the natural splendor of Arthur's Pass, surrounded by towering mountains and lush alpine meadows. Alternatively, opt to dine at one of the charming local cafes in Arthur's Pass Village, where you can savor delicious cuisine while soaking in the tranquil ambiance of the village.

Stop 5

Embark on an exhilarating exploration of Arthur's Pass National Park, where a myriad of walking tracks beckon you to discover their hidden treasures. Traverse the enchanting trails of the Devil's Punchbowl Track or the Bridal Veil Falls Track, where cascading waterfalls and verdant forests await around every bend.

Venture deeper into the heart of the national park to visit the iconic Otira Viaduct Lookout. From this vantage point, marvel at the awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Otira Viaduct and the rugged mountain terrain that surrounds it, a testament to the engineering marvels of New Zealand's alpine landscapes.

As the sun begins to set, commence your journey back towards Christchurch, serenaded by the tranquil beauty of the countryside. Indulge in a memorable dining experience at a cozy restaurant nestled in one of the charming towns along the way, such as Darfield or Rolleston, where you can savor gourmet cuisine and reflect on the unforgettable moments of your luxury tour.

Reflect on your day of unforgettable memories as our driver safely returns you to Christchurch.

What's not included

Gratuities

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Important notes

If there are any issues with your transfer or you have any inquires please call +64 9 884 1200.

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