Walking Tours Christchurch

Port Hills Panorama, City Charm and Culinary Delights

Embark on an exhilarating full-day journey that beautifully blends breathtaking natural beauty, invigorating activity, and the vibrant culture of Christchurch.

Designed for those who appreciate both luxury and the thrill of discovery, this exclusive tour invites you to experience the very best of our stunning region.

Morning: Port Hills Walking Adventure

Your adventure begins amidst the spectacular Port Hills, offering panoramic views of Christchurch, Lyttelton Harbour, and the vast Canterbury Plains. Under the guidance of our expert local guides, you'll traverse the renowned Godley Head Track.

The trail offers unparalleled coastal vistas. Our expert guides will adapt the route based on weather conditions and your group's fitness, ensuring an enjoyable and rewarding experience).

This 3-4 hour (approximately 8km) journey on well-formed tracks provides a superb opportunity to stretch your legs, breathe in the invigorating sea air, and capture stunning panoramic views of Lyttelton Harbour, Pegasus Bay, and the distant Southern Alps.

Discover historical WW II gun emplacements, along with a hut used by Scott in the Antarctic, all while soaking in the dramatic natural beauty that defines this volcanic landscape.

Following your exhilarating morning, we'll whisk you away to a charming local café. Here, you'll savour a delectable lunch crafted from the freshest seasonal ingredients, enjoying a relaxed atmosphere and a taste of local hospitality.

Afternoon: Christchurch City Exploration

The afternoon unfolds with a bespoke city tour of Christchurch. Discover the resilience and innovation of the Garden City as your guide shares insightful commentary on its revitalisation,
stunning street art, and iconic landmarks.

From the serene Botanic Gardens to the architectural marvels of the city centre, you'll gain a deep appreciation for Christchurch's unique character and its ongoing story.

This full-day experience is meticulously designed for discerning travellers who seek to engage actively with their surroundings while enjoying the unparalleled comfort and personalised service that defines Canterbury Trails.

Tour Inclusions:

• Hotel pick up and drop off
• Maximum of 8 guests per trip
• Travel by luxury vehicle
• Picnic style morning or afternoon tea (if weather permits).
• Your guide will select appropriate walks for both fitness levels and weather conditions.
• Cafe lunch.
• Fully escorted tour with local knowledgeable guide.

Departure time: 8:30 am
Return: Approx 5.30 pm.

Tour Code: CTHike

Depart Queenstown – Adventure Begins
Escape the ordinary and embark on an exclusive private tour from Queenstown to Christchurch, savouring the South Island's breathtaking beauty at your own leisurely pace. This personalised journey offers a unique alternative to standard coach transfers or flights, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the region's diverse landscapes and hidden gems.
Rugged Gorges and Otago Gold:
Travel through the historic Kawarau Gorge, the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping! Feel the thrill of adventure resonate as you wind your way through this rugged and scenic canyon. As you traverse the dramatic Lindis Pass into the Central Otago region, witness the transformation of the landscape from mountain peaks to expansive goldfields steeped in rich mining history.
Legends and Landscapes of the Mackenzie Basin:
Enter the heart of the Mackenzie Country, a vast high-altitude basin with an air of otherworldly beauty. Hear the captivating legend of a notorious sheep rustler who once roamed these lands.
Glacial Gems and Towering Peaks:
Stand in awe as you encounter the mesmerizing turquoise hues of Lake Pukaki (and Lake Tekapo,) their vibrant colors a testament to their glacial origins. Continue onwards to the breathtaking Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, the realm of New Zealand's
tallest mountain.
Alpine Exploration and Glacier Adventures:
Immerse yourself in the majestic grandeur of the Southern Alps. If weather and time permit, embark on a short walk within this incredible alpine landscape. For an unforgettable experience, choose to take a scenic glacier flight with a thrilling landing on the mighty Tasman Glacier (an additional cost).
Traverse the Canterbury Plains:
Bid farewell to the towering peaks as you journey across the Mackenzie Country towards the expansive Canterbury Plains. After a day filled with extraordinary discoveries, your tour concludes in the vibrant city of Christchurch.


Tour Inclusions:

• Travel by luxury vehicle
• Picnic morning or afternoon tea
• Café lunch
• Fully escorted with local knowledgeable guide

Not included:

• Optional activities
• Accommodation and meals (unless otherwise stated)
• Flights

Journey from Canterbury Plains to Alpine Peaks: Begin your adventure in the heart of the Canterbury Plains, their vast expanse stretching before you. Set off westward, leaving the flatlands behind as you venture towards the rising foothills of the Southern Alps.

Charming Encounters and Legendary Tales: Discover the delightful town of Geraldine, nestled amidst rolling hills. As you continue, delve into the fascinating tale of a legendary sheep rustler as we wind our way through the breathtaking Mackenzie Country, a high-altitude basin of otherworldly beauty.

Glacial Wonders and Mighty Peaks: Be captivated by the vibrant turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, a dazzling testament to their glacial origins. Ascend towards the awe-inspiring presence of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, realm of New Zealand's highest mountain.

Alpine Exploration: If time and weather permit, lose yourself in the alpine grandeur with a short walk amidst breathtaking vistas. For an unforgettable experience, consider embarking on a scenic glacier flight, soaring above the ice and landing upon the mighty Tasman Glacier (additional cost).

Landscapes Transformed: Departing Aoraki/Mount Cook, traverse the remarkable Mackenzie Country and ascend the dramatic Lindis Pass, crossing into the rugged landscapes of the Otago Province. Witness the awe-inspiring transformation from vast basins to rugged mountain peaks.

Adventure's Birthplace and Journey's End: Descend into the historic Kawarau Gorge, where the spirit of adventure resonates as bungy jumping was born. After a day brimming with unforgettable moments, your journey concludes in vibrant Queenstown, nestled alongside picturesque Lake Wakatipu. We'll deliver you to your accommodation, leaving you with lasting memories of New Zealand's extraordinary beauty.

• Travel by luxury vehicle
• Picnic morning or afternoon tea
• Café lunches on each day
• Fully escorted with local knowledgeable guide

Not included:

• Optional activities
• Accommodation and meals (unless otherwise stated)
• Flights