Animal Encounter Christchurch

Nestled on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula (Te Pataka o Rakaihautū), the charming French influenced village of Akaroa is a popular day trip with Cantabrians and tourists alike. The surrounding bays and the peninsula's distinct shape were created by volcanic eruptions by two now extinct volcanoes, leaving behind a stunning waterfront with sweeping views and spectacular wildlife. It hosts the beauty of being equal parts bustling, tranquil, and picturesque.  

So why not join us as we explore the waterfront and some of the gorgeous heritage buildings of Akaroa. Including a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese, you will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides and including a trip to the award winning Giant’s House, this journey is one you will never forget.

Highlights and inclusions: 

• Small group size
• Carbon neutral tour of Akaroa from Christchurch
• Breath taking views of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula
• Little River Township
• Barry’s Bay Cheese
• Akaroa Lighthouse and Harbour
• Admission to the Giant’s House
• Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks
• WiFi and USB charging
• Commentary
• 100% Kiwi as experience

Itinerary:

Christchurch - We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head towards Banks Peninsula, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights.

Little River (25 minutes) - Before continuing over the hill, you will be greeted by the hidden gem that is Little River. Nestled deep amongst streams, springs, and farms, it is at this delightful small town that you will have the opportunity to stretch your legs and grab a coffee for the day ahead. This is only unfortunately a brief stop, but one that will certainly be memorable with its popular store, cafe, and gallery.

Hilltop Lookout (5 minutes) - At the top of the summit, we will stop briefly at the Hilltop Lookout for a photo opportunity of sweeping panoramic views of Banks Peninsula and the surrounding bays.

Barry’s Bay Cheese (20 minutes) - Driving down the other side of Hilltop, we will make a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese to sample some of their delicious cheeses. Founded and producing artisan cheese since 1895, to this day their handcrafted cheeses are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Akaroa + Giant’s House (4 hours approx) - After departing Barry’s Bay, we continue past Duvauchelles, Robinson’s Bay, and Takamatua before arriving at our destination: Akaroa. Once in the village, we will enjoy lunch and take in some of the local sights, such as the Lighthouse and waterfront, before we drop you at the Giant’s House*; the one-of-a-kind unique garden filled with mosaic sculptures. Recognised as a ‘Garden of International Significance’, the house is full of splendore, charm, and beautiful and brightly coloured artwork. Our guide will leave you to explore this iconic location - with photo opportunities galore! - before picking you up as we head back to Ōtautahi.

*Please note that this product is purely for those interested in the Giant’s House. It is highly unlikely that there will be time for additional walks or local shopping.

Christchurch - After the Giant’s House, we make our way back to the Garden City. Sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring Akaroa and Te Pataka o Rakaihautū. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!

Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks.

We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. 

See More, Do More, Spend Less.

Nestled on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula (Te Pataka o Rakaihautū), the charming French influenced village of Akaroa is a popular day trip with Cantabrians and tourists alike. The surrounding bays and the peninsula's distinct shape were created by volcanic eruptions by two now extinct volcanoes, leaving behind a stunning waterfront with sweeping views and spectacular wildlife. It hosts the beauty of being equal parts bustling, tranquil, and picturesque.
So why not join us as we explore the waterfront and some of the gorgeous heritage buildings of Akaroa. Including a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese, you will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides and including a trip to the award winning Giant’s House, this journey is one you will never forget.

Highlights and inclusions: Small group size Carbon neutral tour of Akaroa from Christchurch Breath taking views of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Little River Township Barry’s Bay Cheese Akaroa Lighthouse and Harbour Admission to the Giant’s House Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks WiFi and USB charging Commentary 100% Kiwi as experience

Itinerary:

Christchurch - We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head towards Banks Peninsula, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights.

Little River (25 minutes) - Before continuing over the hill, you will be greeted by the hidden gem that is Little River. Nestled deep amongst streams, springs, and farms, it is at this delightful small town that you will have the opportunity to stretch your legs and grab a coffee for the day ahead. This is only unfortunately a brief stop, but one that will certainly be memorable with its popular store, cafe, and gallery.

Hilltop Lookout (5 minutes) - At the top of the summit, we will stop briefly at the Hilltop Lookout for a photo opportunity of sweeping panoramic views of Banks Peninsula and the surrounding bays.

Barry’s Bay Cheese (20 minutes) - Driving down the other side of Hilltop, we will make a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese to sample some of their delicious cheeses. Founded and producing artisan cheese since 1895, to this day their handcrafted cheeses are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Akaroa + Giant’s House (4 hours approx) - After departing Barry’s Bay, we continue past Duvauchelles, Robinson’s Bay, and Takamatua before arriving at our destination: Akaroa. Once in the village, we will enjoy lunch and take in some of the local sights, such as the Lighthouse and waterfront, before we drop you at the Giant’s House*; the one-of-a-kind unique garden filled with mosaic sculptures. Recognised as a ‘Garden of International Significance’, the house is full of splendore, charm, and beautiful and brightly coloured artwork. Our guide will leave you to explore this iconic location - with photo opportunities galore! - before picking you up as we head back to Ōtautahi.

*Please note that this product is purely for those interested in the Giant’s House. It is highly unlikely that there will be time for additional walks or local shopping.

Christchurch - After the Giant’s House, we make our way back to the Garden City. Sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring Akaroa and Te Pataka o Rakaihautū. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!

Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks.

We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.
See More, Do More, Spend Less.

Nestled on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula (Te Pataka o Rakaihautū), the charming French influenced village of Akaroa is a popular day trip with Cantabrians and tourists alike. The surrounding bays and the peninsula's distinct shape were created by volcanic eruptions by two now extinct volcanoes, leaving behind a stunning waterfront with sweeping views and spectacular wildlife. It hosts the beauty of being equal parts bustling, tranquil, and picturesque.  

So why not join us as we explore the waterfront and some of the gorgeous heritage buildings of Akaroa. Including a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese, you will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides and including a once-in-a-lifetime Akaroa Nature Cruise, this journey is one you will never forget:

Highlights and inclusions: 

• Small group size
• Carbon neutral tour of Akaroa from Christchurch
• Breath taking views of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula
• Little River Township
• Barry’s Bay Cheese
• Akaroa Lighthouse and Harbour
• Akaroa Nature Cruise
• Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks
• WiFi and USB charging
• Commentary
• 100% Kiwi as experience

Itinerary:

Christchurch - We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head towards Banks Peninsula, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights.

Little River (25 minutes) - Before continuing over the hill, you will be greeted by the hidden gem that is Little River. Nestled deep amongst streams, springs, and farms, it is at this delightful small town that you will have the opportunity to stretch your legs and grab a coffee for the day ahead. This is only unfortunately a brief stop, but one that will certainly be memorable with its popular store, cafe, and gallery.

Hilltop Lookout (5 minutes) - At the top of the summit, we will stop briefly at the Hilltop Lookout for a photo opportunity of sweeping panoramic views of Banks Peninsula and the surrounding bays.

Barry’s Bay Cheese (20 minutes) - Driving down the other side of Hilltop, we will make a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese to sample some of their delicious cheeses. Founded and producing artisan cheese since 1895, to this day their handcrafted cheeses are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Akaroa + Nature Cruise (4 hours approx) - After departing the summit and Hilltop Lookout, we continue inland and drive through Barry’s Bay), Duvauchelles, Robinson’s Bay, and Takamatua before arriving at our destination: Akaroa. Once in the village, we will enjoy lunch and take in some of the local sights, such as the Lighthouse and waterfront, before we drop you at your pre-booked Nature Cruise of Akaroa Harbour. While on board, you will see sea caves, cliffs, and volcanic rock formations which have helped the bay as we know it today. Keep your eyes peeled for the chance to spot fur seals, white-flippered penguins, sea birds, and of course Hector’s dolphins. Making this journey extra special are the team’s expert dolphin-spotting dogs! There is no doubt that this experience is pretty special!

*Please note that this product is purely for those interested in the Nature Cruise. There will be no time for additional walks or local shopping unfortunately. 

Christchurch - After a day on the water, we make our way back to the Garden City. Sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring Akaroa and Te Pataka o Rakaihautū. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!

Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks.

We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. 

See More, Do More, Spend Less.

Nestled on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula (Te Pataka o Rakaihautū), the charming French influenced village of Akaroa is a popular day trip with Cantabrians and tourists alike. The surrounding bays and the peninsula's distinct shape were created by volcanic eruptions by two now extinct volcanoes, leaving behind a stunning waterfront with sweeping views and spectacular wildlife. It hosts the beauty of being equal parts bustling, tranquil, and picturesque.
So why not join us as we explore the waterfront and some of the gorgeous heritage buildings of Akaroa. Including a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese, you will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides and including a once-in-a-lifetime Akaroa Nature Cruise, this journey is one you will never forget:

Highlights and inclusions: Small group size Carbon neutral tour of Akaroa from Christchurch Breath taking views of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Little River Township Barry’s Bay Cheese Akaroa Lighthouse and Harbour Akaroa Nature Cruise Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks WiFi and USB charging Commentary 100% Kiwi as experience

Itinerary:

Christchurch - We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head towards Banks Peninsula, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights.

Little River (25 minutes) - Before continuing over the hill, you will be greeted by the hidden gem that is Little River. Nestled deep amongst streams, springs, and farms, it is at this delightful small town that you will have the opportunity to stretch your legs and grab a coffee for the day ahead. This is only unfortunately a brief stop, but one that will certainly be memorable with its popular store, cafe, and gallery.

Hilltop Lookout (5 minutes) - At the top of the summit, we will stop briefly at the Hilltop Lookout for a photo opportunity of sweeping panoramic views of Banks Peninsula and the surrounding bays.

Barry’s Bay Cheese (20 minutes) - Driving down the other side of Hilltop, we will make a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese to sample some of their delicious cheeses. Founded and producing artisan cheese since 1895, to this day their handcrafted cheeses are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Akaroa + Nature Cruise (4 hours approx) - After departing the summit and Hilltop Lookout, we continue inland and drive through Barry’s Bay), Duvauchelles, Robinson’s Bay, and Takamatua before arriving at our destination: Akaroa. Once in the village, we will enjoy lunch and take in some of the local sights, such as the Lighthouse and waterfront, before we drop you at your pre-booked Nature Cruise of Akaroa Harbour. While on board, you will see sea caves, cliffs, and volcanic rock formations which have helped the bay as we know it today. Keep your eyes peeled for the chance to spot fur seals, white-flippered penguins, sea birds, and of course Hector’s dolphins. Making this journey extra special are the team’s expert dolphin-spotting dogs! There is no doubt that this experience is pretty special!

*Please note that this product is purely for those interested in the Nature Cruise. There will be no time for additional walks or local shopping unfortunately.

Christchurch - After a day on the water, we make our way back to the Garden City. Sit back and relax after a wonderful day exploring Akaroa and Te Pataka o Rakaihautū. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!

Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks.

We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.
See More, Do More, Spend Less.

Highlights:

• Lake Matheson 
• Bruce Bay
• Ship Creek
• Thunder Creek Falls
• Blue pools (Temporarily Closed)
• Lake Hawea & Lake Wanaka (includes the Wanaka Tree) 
• Cardrona Hotel 

Itinerary:

1.    Franz Josef - Your tour starts in the stunning village of Franz Josef. We will be heading south down the coast on our fully guided adventure to Queenstown.   

2.      Lake Matheson -This spot is every photographers dream. On a calm day you can capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This 4.4km / 90 minute easy bushwalk will reward you with breathtaking views across the southern alps.   

3.      Bruce Bay -  At this location you will see where the thick native rainforest meets a seemingly endless open ocean of the Tasman Sea. This beautiful beach really is the best of the west.  

4.      Ship Creek – As we make our way south along the boarder where ancient rainforest meets the ocean we will make a stop at Ship Creek. Dig your toes in the sand and feel the crash of the relenting waves of the Tasman Sea. Explore the dunes via an easy 1km walking track. 

5.      Thunder Creek Falls – This easy 5 minute walk will reward you with the spectacular view of Thunder Creek Falls. This 28 meter waterfall is the remanence of a once great glacier that pours from a hanging valley into the Haast River below.

6.      Blue Pools (Temporarily Closed) – Located in Mt Aspiring National Park is the aptly named Blue Pools. This easy 3km round trip is well worth the effort to see the breathtaking blue waters of the Makarora River.

7.      Lake Hawea –  As we leave the national park behind make sure to keep your eyes open as we make our way westwards and past stunning Lake Hawea. We will stop for a quick photo at a lookout point between Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea.    

8.      Wanaka – Stretch your legs take a walk down to the lakeside for that iconic photo of the Wanaka Tree. Soak in the beauty of this expansive lake backdropped by Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps. This is truly a photo opportunity that you do not want to miss!

9.      Cardrona Hotel – From Wanaka we head over the Crown Range Road that connects Queenstown and Wanaka. We do a quick stop here to see the Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic hotels. Its rustic charm, spectacular mountain setting and rich history make it a must see while in Central Otago.

10.      Queenstown - Your tour concludes in the stunning town of Queenstown. As we drive into the town your guide will point out key sites and any local highlights before dropping you off to your central Queenstown accommodation. 

Inclusions:

• Small Group
• Lunch
• Fully Guided Tour
• Bottled Water & Snacks

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

Highlights:
Lake Matheson Bruce Bay Ship Creek Thunder Creek Falls Blue pools (Temporarily Closed) Lake Hawea & Lake Wanaka (includes the Wanaka Tree) Cardrona Hotel

Itinerary:
1. Franz Josef - Your tour starts in the stunning village of Franz Josef. We will be heading south down the coast on our fully guided adventure to Queenstown.

2. Lake Matheson - This spot is every photographers dream. On a calm day you can capture Mt Cook reflected elegantly across this picturesque lake. This 4.4km / 90 minute easy bushwalk will reward you with breathtaking views across the southern alps.

3. Bruce Bay - At this location you will see where the thick native rainforest meets a seemingly endless open ocean of the Tasman Sea. This beautiful beach really is the best of the west.

4. Ship Creek – As we make our way south along the boarder where ancient rainforest meets the ocean we will make a stop at Ship Creek. Dig your toes in the sand and feel the crash of the relenting waves of the Tasman Sea. Explore the dunes via an easy 1km walking track.

5. Thunder Creek Falls – This easy 5 minute walk will reward you with the spectacular view of Thunder Creek Falls. This 28 meter waterfall is the remanence of a once great glacier that pours from a hanging valley into the Haast River below.

6. Blue Pools (Temporarily Closed) – Located in Mt Aspiring National Park is the aptly named Blue Pools. This easy 3km round trip is well worth the effort to see the breathtaking blue waters of the Makarora River.
7. Lake Hawea – As we leave the national park behind make sure to keep your eyes open as we make our way westwards and past stunning Lake Hawea. We will stop for a quick photo at a lookout point between Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea.

8. Wanaka – Stretch your legs take a walk down to the lakeside for that iconic photo of the Wanaka Tree. Soak in the beauty of this expansive lake backdropped by Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps. This is truly a photo opportunity that you do not want to miss!

9. Cardrona Hotel – From Wanaka we head over the Crown Range Road that connects Queenstown and Wanaka. We do a quick stop here to see the Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic hotels. Its rustic charm, spectacular mountain setting and rich history make it a must see while in Central Otago.
10. Queenstown - Your tour concludes in the stunning town of Queenstown. As we drive into the town your guide will point out key sites and any local highlights before dropping you off to your central Queenstown accommodation.




Inclusions: Small Group Lunch Fully Guided Tour Bottled Water & Snacks
While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

Kaikōura, whose name translates to ‘eat crayfish’ in English, is a small coastal town often overlooked by tourists. However, we at Cheeky Kea Tours feel it is an absolute "must-see"! Caught between the Kaikōura Ranges - which in the winter are snowcapped and a sight to behold - and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean (Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa), this area is truly breathtaking. Known for the wildlife who love to inhabit this part of Aotearoa’s east coast, the town experienced significant damage and seabed uplift following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in 2016. Almost 10 years on, Kaikōura has come a long way; even being named one of the most beautiful small towns in the world by luxury travel bible, Conde Nast Traveler, in 2023.

So why not join us as we venture north to the Kaikōura Peninsula, (Te Taumanu-o-te-waka-a-Māui) which was the seat where Māui sat when he fished the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui) up from the depths of the ocean. What can we say except you’re welcome to soak in the panoramic views and spot all the marine wildlife this town has to offer. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, and including a Wildlife Kayak Experience (approximately 3 hours) this journey is one you will never forget.

Highlights and Inclusions:

• Small group size
• Carbon neutral tour of Kaikōura from Christchurch
• Picture-perfect scenery and panoramic views spanning the mountains to the sea
• Wildlife sightings
• Scenic lookouts
• Wildlife Kayak Experience (approximately 3 hours) with Kaikōura Kayaks
• Wine tasting (time permitting)
• Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks
• Wi-Fi and USB charging
• Commentary
• 100% Kiwi experience

Itinerary:

Christchurch - We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head north towards Kaikōura, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights and facts about the wider Canterbury region.

Cheviot (15 minutes) - Our first stop is in Cheviot, a hidden gem on one of New Zealand’s largest coastal routes. This is a perfect spot to stretch your legs and refuel. After our brief break, we’ll continue through the stunning Hundalee Hills, where you’ll have a chance to spot surfers and local wildlife, including seals! The scenic drive offers spectacular views all along the way.

Kaikōura with pre-booked Kayak Experience (4.5 hours) - The highlight of the tour! You are guaranteed to view fur seals and take in the sheer cliff faces, craggy tocks and mountain ranges while searching for potential encounters with dusky dolphins and blue penguins - and perhaps even some albatross. This experience is suitable for all abilities and is fully guided, with all equipment provided. 

*Please note that this product is purely for those interested in kayaking. There will be no time for additional walks or local shopping unfortunately. 

If Time Allows: Waipara - If time permits, we’ll stop at Waipara, a renowned wine region surrounded by lush vineyards and green hills. Here, you can taste a selection of locally produced wines from a family-owned vineyard. Don’t worry if wine’s not your thing! Beer and non-alcoholic options are available. 

Christchurch - After a fantastic day in Kaikōura, we’ll head back to the Garden City. Christchurch, Sit back and where you can relax after a day full of and reflect on a day full of stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!

Please note: Additional stops will be made for toilet breaks during the journey.

We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. 

See More, Do More, Spend Less.

Kaikōura, whose name translates to ‘eat crayfish’ in English, is a small coastal town often overlooked by tourists. However, we at Cheeky Kea Tours feel it is an absolute "must-see"! Caught between the Kaikōura Ranges - which in the winter are snowcapped and a sight to behold - and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean (Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa), this area is truly breathtaking. Known for the wildlife who love to inhabit this part of Aotearoa’s east coast, the town experienced significant damage and seabed uplift following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in 2016. Almost 10 years on, Kaikōura has come a long way; even being named one of the most beautiful small towns in the world by luxury travel bible, Conde Nast Traveler, in 2023.
So why not join us as we venture north to the Kaikōura Peninsula, (Te Taumanu-o-te-waka-a-Māui) which was the seat where Māui sat when he fished the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui) up from the depths of the ocean. What can we say except you’re welcome to soak in the panoramic views and spot all the marine wildlife this town has to offer. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, and including a Wildlife Kayak Experience (approximately 3 hours) this journey is one you will never forget.




Highlights and Inclusions: Small group size Carbon neutral tour of Kaikōura from Christchurch Picture-perfect scenery and panoramic views spanning the mountains to the sea Wildlife sightings Scenic lookouts Wildlife Kayak Experience (approximately 3 hours) with Kaikōura Kayaks Wine tasting (time permitting) Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks Wi-Fi and USB charging Commentary 100% Kiwi experience


Itinerary:
Christchurch - We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. As we head north towards Kaikōura, our knowledgeable guide will point out some of the central city highlights and facts about the wider Canterbury region.


Cheviot (15 minutes) - Our first stop is in Cheviot, a hidden gem on one of New Zealand’s largest coastal routes. This is a perfect spot to stretch your legs and refuel. After our brief break, we’ll continue through the stunning Hundalee Hills, where you’ll have a chance to spot surfers and local wildlife, including seals! The scenic drive offers spectacular views all along the way.


Kaikōura with pre-booked Kayak Experience (4.5 hours) - The highlight of the tour! You are guaranteed to view fur seals and take in the sheer cliff faces, craggy tocks and mountain ranges while searching for potential encounters with dusky dolphins and blue penguins - and perhaps even some albatross. This experience is suitable for all abilities and is fully guided, with all equipment provided.
*Please note that this product is purely for those interested in kayaking. There will be no time for additional walks or local shopping unfortunately.


If Time Allows: Waipara - If time permits, we’ll stop at Waipara, a renowned wine region surrounded by lush vineyards and green hills. Here, you can taste a selection of locally produced wines from a family-owned vineyard. Don’t worry if wine’s not your thing! Beer and non-alcoholic options are available.


Christchurch - After a fantastic day in Kaikōura, we’ll head back to the Garden City. Christchurch, Sit back and where you can relax after a day full of and reflect on a day full of stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings. With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag about!


Please note: Additional stops will be made for toilet breaks during the journey.


We at Cheeky Kea Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and all those little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other fun surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.
See More, Do More, Spend Less.

With a private tour, you gain access to exclusive insights and insider knowledge that you won’t find on standard tours. Your guide can share fascinating local stories, hidden gems, and personal recommendations, ensuring every stop feels tailored just for you. The best part? You can skip the crowds, enjoying a more intimate, leisurely experience. Whether you want to linger at a stunning viewpoint, take a spontaneous detour to explore something that catches your eye, or simply spend more time in places that captivate you, the flexibility is all yours. This personalized approach transforms your trip into something uniquely yours—stress-free, memorable, and truly unforgettable.

Step into the world of Lord of the Rings and experience the stunning locations that brought this epic movie trilogy to life. Perfect for movie fans and nature lovers alike, this private, customizable tour takes you to some of New Zealand's most iconic filming locations.

This tour is entirely customizable to your preferences. Whether you're part of a small group or have a larger party, we can tailor the tour to meet your needs and create a memorable Lord of the Rings adventure just for you. Travel in comfort in one of our modern Mercedes Sprinter vans (or similar), equipped with all the extras to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Your tour will be led by a passionate and knowledgeable guide who will bring the story to life and ensure your experience is unforgettable.

Itinerary:

Christchurch – Begin your adventure as we depart from Christchurch, with a friendly and knowledgeable guide pointing out highlights of the city along the way.

Staveley – Our first stop is the scenic village of Staveley, where we’ll enjoy a morning tea break with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and mountains. After stretching our legs and refueling, we’ll continue on to our main destination.

Mt. Sunday – As we approach Mt. Sunday, take in the incredible views of the Misty Mountains, the backdrop for Helms Deep. You’ll also see the dramatic landscape that made Edoras so iconic. Be sure to have your camera ready for stunning photos—this is truly an Instagram-worthy location!

Christchurch – After a day of adventure, we’ll head back to Christchurch, where you can relax and reflect on the unforgettable sights and experiences of the day.

Note: Weather conditions in the alpine regions can be unpredictable. If you are arriving and returning to port, please keep in mind that the tour may need to be adjusted to accommodate your boat's schedule - as this can be booked as an excursion 

Inclusions:

• Private Tour
• Lunch (at an extra cost) Speak to the team
• Bottled Water & Snacks
• Kiwi Snacks
• Wi-Fi & USB Charging
• Expert Commentary
• 100% Kiwi as Experience

At Cheeky Kea Travel, we believe in offering a personalized touch that sets us apart. With small group sizes, experienced guides, and attention to detail, we ensure your tour is unique and memorable. From secret stops to wildlife sightings, specially designed vehicles, and complimentary refreshments, every part of your journey will be an experience to remember.

See More, Do More, Spend Less.

With a private tour, you gain access to exclusive insights and insider knowledge that you won’t find on standard tours. Your guide can share fascinating local stories, hidden gems, and personal recommendations, ensuring every stop feels tailored just for you. The best part? You can skip the crowds, enjoying a more intimate, leisurely experience. Whether you want to linger at a stunning viewpoint, take a spontaneous detour to explore something that catches your eye, or simply spend more time in places that captivate you, the flexibility is all yours. This personalized approach transforms your trip into something uniquely yours—stress-free, memorable, and truly unforgettable.


Step into the world of Lord of the Rings and experience the stunning locations that brought this epic movie trilogy to life. Perfect for movie fans and nature lovers alike, this private, customizable tour takes you to some of New Zealand's most iconic filming locations.
This tour is entirely customizable to your preferences. Whether you're part of a small group or have a larger party, we can tailor the tour to meet your needs and create a memorable Lord of the Rings adventure just for you. Travel in comfort in one of our modern Mercedes Sprinter vans (or similar), equipped with all the extras to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Your tour will be led by a passionate and knowledgeable guide who will bring the story to life and ensure your experience is unforgettable.
Itinerary:
Christchurch – Begin your adventure as we depart from Christchurch, with a friendly and knowledgeable guide pointing out highlights of the city along the way.
Staveley – Our first stop is the scenic village of Staveley, where we’ll enjoy a morning tea break with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and mountains. After stretching our legs and refueling, we’ll continue on to our main destination.
Mt. Sunday – As we approach Mt. Sunday, take in the incredible views of the Misty Mountains, the backdrop for Helms Deep . You’ll also see the dramatic landscape that made Edoras so iconic. Be sure to have your camera ready for stunning photos—this is truly an Instagram-worthy location!
Christchurch – After a day of adventure, we’ll head back to Christchurch, where you can relax and reflect on the unforgettable sights and experiences of the day.
Note : Weather conditions in the alpine regions can be unpredictable. If you are arriving and returning to port, please keep in mind that the tour may need to be adjusted to accommodate your boat's schedule - as this can be booked as an excursion
Inclusions: Private Tour Lunch (at an extra cost) Speak to the team Bottled Water & Snacks Kiwi Snacks Wi-Fi & USB Charging Expert Commentary 100% Kiwi as Experience

At Cheeky Kea Travel , we believe in offering a personalized touch that sets us apart. With small group sizes, experienced guides, and attention to detail, we ensure your tour is unique and memorable. From secret stops to wildlife sightings, specially designed vehicles, and complimentary refreshments, every part of your journey will be an experience to remember.


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