Discover the very best of Christchurch and Canterbury with small group day tours, private tours and personalised New Zealand travel experiences. From iconic Christchurch attractions and cruise ship shore excursions to jet boating, hot pools and fully escorted multi-day holidays, Discover Christchurch creates memorable journeys led by passionate local guides.
Whether you’re visiting for a day, arriving by cruise ship or planning a longer New Zealand adventure, enjoy relaxed touring, comfortable transport and carefully selected experiences that showcase the very best of the South Island.
Why Choose Discover Christchurch?
- Small group tours with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere
- Christchurch’s signature full-day city tour
- Exclusive Mid Canterbury Spin & Soak Tour
- Cruise ship shore excursions from Lyttelton
- Private tours throughout New Zealand
- Experienced local guides with extensive knowledge
- Comfortable modern transport
- Airport, hotel and cruise terminal pickups available
- Multi-day escorted holidays across New Zealand
- Direct booking discounts available on selected tours
Christchurch Day Tours
Experience the city’s leading attractions in one unforgettable day. The Discover Christchurch Tour combines history, culture, stunning scenery and local food into one carefully planned itinerary.
Highlights include:
- Punting on the Avon River
- Christchurch Tram ride
- Christchurch Botanic Gardens
- Lunch at The Curator’s House
- Christchurch Gondola
- Sumner Beach
- Lyttelton Harbour
- Scenic city sightseeing
- Hotel and cruise ship pickups
Ideal for visitors wanting to see the highlights of Christchurch without hiring a car.
Mid Canterbury Spin & Soak Tour
Escape the city and discover one of Canterbury’s newest and most unique day tours.
Travel through beautiful rural Canterbury before enjoying:
- 45-minute Rakaia Gorge Jet Boat ride
- Spectacular limestone cliffs and glacial rivers
- Lunch at Ōpuke Hot Pools
- Two-hour soak in the Tranquility Pools
- Complimentary drink at the famous Blue Pub
- Comfortable return transport from Christchurch
Perfect for travellers wanting adventure and relaxation in one incredible day.
Cruise Ship Shore Excursions
Arriving into Lyttelton on a cruise?
Discover Christchurch offers small group shore excursions designed around cruise schedules. Explore Christchurch’s top attractions before returning comfortably to your ship.
Cruise guests enjoy:
- Lyttelton pickup and return
- Small group touring
- Local guides
- Christchurch Gondola
- Tram
- Avon River punting
- Lunch included
Private Tours Throughout New Zealand
Looking for something completely personalised?
Discover Christchurch designs private itineraries throughout both the North and South Islands, from one-day sightseeing tours to extended holidays.
Popular destinations include:
- Christchurch
- Queenstown
- Aoraki / Mt Cook
- Milford Sound
- Rotorua
- Wellington
- Bay of Islands
- Stewart Island
- West Coast
- Marlborough
- Nelson
- Fiordland
Every itinerary is tailored to your interests, pace and budget.
Escorted Multi-Day Tours
Travel New Zealand without the stress of planning.
Discover Christchurch operates a range of escorted small group holidays including:
- Ride the Rails
- Central Heritage Tour
- A Taste of the South
- The Antipodean Explorer
- Custom private group tours
These carefully planned holidays combine accommodation, transport and unforgettable experiences into seamless New Zealand adventures.
Book Direct
Book direct with Discover Christchurch for friendly local service, personalised advice and access to exclusive direct booking discounts on selected tours. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, family, cruise passenger or private group, the team can help you choose the perfect Christchurch or New Zealand touring experience.
Explore More of Canterbury
Planning to explore more of the region? Read our Canterbury Travel Guide for more attractions, scenic drives and places to visit throughout Canterbury.
FAQs
What is included on the Discover Christchurch Tour?
The tour includes hotel or cruise ship pickup, punting on the Avon, Christchurch Tram, Christchurch Gondola, lunch at The Curator’s House, sightseeing and all transport.
Do you offer Christchurch cruise ship tours?
Yes. Cruise passengers are collected from Lyttelton Port and returned in time for their ship’s departure.
Are your tours suitable for small groups?
Yes. Most tours operate with small groups, creating a relaxed and personal experience.
Can I book a private tour?
Absolutely. Private guided tours can be customised throughout Christchurch, Canterbury and anywhere in New Zealand.
Do you provide airport pickups?
Yes. Airport pickups and drop-offs can be arranged for selected tours (additional charges may apply).
Do you operate tours outside Christchurch?
Yes. Tours include Canterbury day trips and fully escorted multi-day holidays throughout New Zealand.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is included on the Discover Christchurch Tour and the Mid Canterbury Spin & Soak Tour. Drinks are additional unless otherwise stated.
Can I combine tours?
Yes. A discounted two-day package combines the Discover Christchurch Tour and the Mid Canterbury Spin & Soak Tour.
