The 10 Best Cultural Tours in Christchurch, South Island

November 21, 2021 Terina Blouin

Christchurch abounds with arts, adventure, and optimism. It's the gateway to the beautiful Canterbury region, featuring dramatic vistas and adventure sports set against a backdrop of lofty peaks. In the central city, more and more attractions and businesses reopen to the public each day.
Restaurants in Christchurch

1. Private Tour Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo Including Lunch

Christchurch, New Zealand NZSI Tours & Travel
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Travel in a luxurious minivan with this tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt.cook and Lake Tekapo, and reach your destination relaxed & refreshed. It is a great alternative to enjoying New Zealand landscape, making frequent stops for photos on the way. Highlights • Private tour means more personal service from the guide • Visit the iconic Church of Good Shepherd and Bronze Sheepdog Statue in Lake Tekapo • Admire Lake Pukaki, the largest lake in Mackenzie region, and stunning alpine scenery • Savor a delicious buffet lunch with spectacular views at the Hermitage Hotel • Explore one of the many alpine walks in Mount Cook National Park

Inclusions: Private tour (i.e. only for one party), Transport in luxurious van (2017 or late model Mercedes Benz), Professional guide., Hotel pickup and drop-off., Buffet lunch at Hermitage Hotel (if option selected), Complimentary Hotspot WIFI provided., Complimentary light refreshments provided., Lunch, Snacks, Bottled water, Coffee and/or Tea

Exclusions: Scenic flight with glacier landing (at own expense)

Reviewed By AbigailCC

The Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, and Mt. Cook views were just simply spectacular. So lucky to have a nice, warm weather today. Our tour guide/driver, Anujk, was excellent! He was very kind, friendly, and knowledgeable. The service he provided was superb from pick up to drop off. We will definitely come back to South Island and do more tours with NZSI. If you are making an itinerary, I highly recommend you include this full day tour on your to do list. It was 100% the highlight of our South Island trip! :-)

2. Christchurch City Sightseeing Tour

Canterbury Museum (Christchurch), Canterbury 8013, New Zealand Carolines Kombi Tours in Christchurch
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5.0 based on 13 reviews

Caroline’s Kombi will take you on a fun filled sightseeing tour of Christchurch/Otautahi. You will experience a guided tour which is the only kind of tour on offer here in Christchurch. If you are looking for an experience then come on this tour.  You will meet locals, taste some Kiwiana, hear wonderful stories and have fun along the way. Learn about our famous New Zealanders, experience street art that has become world recognised, visit a cathedral made out of cardboard and see the best views in town. As an added bonus food and drinks will be provided on the tour. We will provide an experience whilst sharing wonderful stories and fun facts, along with our extensive local knowledge. “We love new experiences and meeting new people, both locals and people from all over the world. And we take great pride in providing our customers the best possible experience.” So come and book now....................

Inclusions: Have lunch together at the Sign of the Kiwi , On board snacks and drinks, Free pictures and video of your tour, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Bottled water, Coffee and/or Tea, Anzac biscuits

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By Q1427AQtonyr

Fantastic morning travelling around Christchurch in Judy (VW combi) to see the cities vibrant street art. Caroline made the trip a fun fact journey pointing out art that we’d walk passed and not noticed. Not only was the time filled with sights and sounds but we were treated to home ANZAC biscuits and coffee. Excellent tour and highly recommend

3. 23-Day Epic New Zealand Tour

No. 9 Hotel, 9 Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland 1023, New Zealand Haka Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Over 24 unforgettable days you will experience it all: secluded beaches, jaw-dropping scenery, Māori culture, mountainous ranges, lush rainforests and more adventure activities than you could ever wish for. As with all our tours, we do include a few 'must-do' events, ranging from a Māori cultural night to learning to paddle a waka (Māori war canoe), and even a greenstone carving experience. You will see a massive range of optional activities available to add, from bungy jumping and dolphin swimming to jet boating and scenic flights. None of these are compulsory; just add the ones you want. Activities can also be purchased on the road – just let your tour guide know. We can't always guarantee availability when booking on the road, so we suggest pre-booking any activities you especially want to do.

Inclusions: Continental Breakfast Every Day - heaps of options for everyone (you too, vegans!), Orientation Tours - we give you the low-down on every location, Comfortable Transport - with plenty of room to spread out, High-End Hostel Accommodation - dorm share, upgrades available, Experienced Local Guide , Small Groups - Max 16 people. You are more than just a number, Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the birthplace of New Zealand, 2 dinners Fish'n'Chips in Paihia and a traditional cooked hangi in Murupara to full your puku! (belly), Experience a Māori cultural performance in Rotorua during the Cultural Experience Night, Visit Te Puia - cultural centre about traditional Māori culture and Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, Learn to paddle a waka (Māori war canoe) along the Abel Tasman coastline, Iconic ferry ride between the North and South Islands across the Cook Strait, Optional transport back from Wellington to Auckland on Day 24

Exclusions: Additional activities - such as bungy jumping, Lunch and dinner are own costs - unless specified

Reviewed By Elizabeth K

I booked a trip scheduled 2nd April, the company notified me that due Covid 19 pandemic the tour would be cancelled. I was offered options of a refund or get credits. I chose refund as I was not gonna get any other time which they concurred. After 2 weeks I was contacted by one rude Eva Lawrence who stayed that the business was not doing well due to the pandemic hence they would not refund back the money?! So is that how you treat your customers? Was it my fault that you cancelled the trip due to the pandemic??! I need a refund ASAP. [email protected] +61450753569

4. Christchurch Private Luxury Full Day Tour

Legend Tours and Travels Day Tours
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4.5 based on 2 reviews

This private Full Day Tour explores complete Christchurch city from one edge to another with your private Driver/Guide. Christchurch, known for its English heritage, is located on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Flat-bottomed punts glide on the Avon River, which meanders through the city centre. On its banks are cycling paths, the green expanse of Hagley Park and Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Highlights: • Sumner Village • Port Hills • Cardboard Cathedral • Bridge of Remembrance • Punting on the Avon River • Botanic Gardens • Antarctic Center (Optional)

Inclusions: Private driver/guide, Transport by private luxury vehicle, WiFi on board, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Light refreshments and bottled water

Exclusions: Entrance Tickets / Activities Tickets, Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By K7293HPjosephh

Wonderful day trip to the glow worms and the Hobbit farm Driver was the best and took great care of us Long day but worth the expense of a private car

5. Christchurch Sheep Farm Visit

Leisure Tours
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4.1 based on 9 reviews

Visit a working sheep farms set in a tranquil and picturesque location in the heart of Canterbury's sheep farm land on this tour. On your return from the sheep farm visit , you can also choose to either upgrade to include a visit to one of North Canterbury / Waipara vineyard, where you can enjoy tasting various vintages. Or, take thrilling jet boat ride on the Waimakariri River.

Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Sheep farm tour, with either morning or afternoon tea, Winery visit and tasting (If option selected at time of booking), Jet Boat Ride (if option selected at time of booking)

Exclusions: Gratuities, Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By ClosesOnTour

Graham from Leisure Tours picked four of us up from our hotel for a half day wine tour, visiting four wineries with lunch included. He was friendly, very knowledgeable and pointed out places of interest as he drove us to the Waipara Valley. We were very comfortable in his people mover with plenty of room for us all. Lunch at Waipara Springs Winery was delicious and the staff were friendly and helpful. The three other wineries had knowledgeable and friendly staff telling us all about their wines. We tasted several varieties and they were delicious. Graham had a good rapport with each winery and took us into each of the tasting rooms. We would certainly recommend this tour. We look forward to visiting Christchurch again and would contact Leisure Tours regarding the other tours they offer.

6. Christchurch Maori Concert and Kiwi Viewing

Leisure Tours
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3.6 based on 10 reviews

Complete your New Zealand experience with a traditional Maori Concert. On this evening tour from Christchurch, visit the Nga Hau E Wha National Marae, where you will view a cultural performance of Maori dance and song including the famous haka!

Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop off, Maori concert, GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Exclusions: Food and drinks

Reviewed By ClosesOnTour

Graham from Leisure Tours picked four of us up from our hotel for a half day wine tour, visiting four wineries with lunch included. He was friendly, very knowledgeable and pointed out places of interest as he drove us to the Waipara Valley. We were very comfortable in his people mover with plenty of room for us all. Lunch at Waipara Springs Winery was delicious and the staff were friendly and helpful. The three other wineries had knowledgeable and friendly staff telling us all about their wines. We tasted several varieties and they were delicious. Graham had a good rapport with each winery and took us into each of the tasting rooms. We would certainly recommend this tour. We look forward to visiting Christchurch again and would contact Leisure Tours regarding the other tours they offer.

7. Willowbank Kiwi Tour and Maori Concert Including Hangi Dinner from Christchurch

Leisure Tours
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3.6 based on 12 reviews

Immerse yourself in the fascinating life of New Zealand and enjoy two of the most popular attractions in Christchurch! After a guided tour of the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, where you’ll see a great variety of birds and animals, both native to and introduced to New Zealand, continue your evening with an exciting Maori cultural experience at Ko Tane.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Local guide, Buffet dinner, Willowbank nature reserve tour, Maori concert, Christchurch city highlights night tour, GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By ClosesOnTour

Graham from Leisure Tours picked four of us up from our hotel for a half day wine tour, visiting four wineries with lunch included. He was friendly, very knowledgeable and pointed out places of interest as he drove us to the Waipara Valley. We were very comfortable in his people mover with plenty of room for us all. Lunch at Waipara Springs Winery was delicious and the staff were friendly and helpful. The three other wineries had knowledgeable and friendly staff telling us all about their wines. We tasted several varieties and they were delicious. Graham had a good rapport with each winery and took us into each of the tasting rooms. We would certainly recommend this tour. We look forward to visiting Christchurch again and would contact Leisure Tours regarding the other tours they offer.

8. Flexible Fully Guided New Zealand Bus Pass - South Island Loop & Milford Sound

YMCA Christchurch, 12 Hereford Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand Kiwi Experience

Allowing you to see the South Island of New Zealand in a cost friendly and flexible way. This Hop-On Hop-Off flexible bus pass allows you to take your time and see all that the South Island offers! Join in with our friendly driver guide who will show you around, offering activities and some incredible accommodation options that can all be booked in on the bus along the way.   Depart from Christchurch ( main pick-up point YMCA Christchurch 7:15am) and head in a loop around the South Island taking a minimum of 11 days to complete, or up to 365 days if you'd like! This guided tour lets you relax and see all that the South Island of New Zealand has to offer whilst we do the work for you!   • Fully guided flexible tour allowing you to choose what you want to do  • Meet mates from all around the world • Largest and original hop-on hop-off NZ travel network

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), Air-conditioned vehicle, Guaranteed Accommodation (Paid for on arrival at accommodation), Guaranteed bookings on activities (Activities not included in price, can be booked on bus with driver guide), Daily walks and photo stops, Daily cafe/supermarket breaks

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Accommodation (can be booked on the bus with the driver guide daily at an extra cost), Activities (can be booked on the bus with the driver guide daily at an extra cost)

Reviewed By Dimitrisas100

I booked tickets from kiwi to return to my country because of covid. I went to airport and the airline told me that didn't find my name as a passenger there , and after when i called my airline they told me that it looked that i cancelled my flight and i have to call kiwi. I called kiwi and they told me that they couldn't do anything. It was unexeptable i stayed in the airport and kiwi didn't help me , i lost my flight in a condition such as covid. Only stress and anxiety. Kiwi is very bad.

9. Flexible Fully Guided New Zealand Bus Pass - Auckland to Christchurch & Milford

99 Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand Kiwi Experience

This flexible Hop-on Hop-off bus pass allows you to either take your time in each epic stop over, or cruise on through on the minimum time (18 days). We take you to the highlights of New Zealand, as well as some unknown spots that make you feel like you are having a true Kiwi Experience.   Stay overnight in stops such as the famous Franz Josef, discover the underground world of Waitomo, seek out your favourite activities in adrenaline capital of Queenstown, white water rafting through the Rangitikei River, and discover the history of New Zealand in our Capital of Wellington.  • Fully guided flexible tour allowing you to choose what you want to do  • Meet mates from all around the world • Largest and original hop-on hop-off NZ travel network

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), Air-conditioned vehicle, Guaranteed Accommodation (Paid for on arrival at accommodation), Guaranteed bookings on activities (Activities not included in price, can be booked on bus with driver guide), Daily walks and photo stops, Daily cafe/supermarket breaks

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Accommodation, Ferry Ticket, Activities

Reviewed By Dimitrisas100

I booked tickets from kiwi to return to my country because of covid. I went to airport and the airline told me that didn't find my name as a passenger there , and after when i called my airline they told me that it looked that i cancelled my flight and i have to call kiwi. I called kiwi and they told me that they couldn't do anything. It was unexeptable i stayed in the airport and kiwi didn't help me , i lost my flight in a condition such as covid. Only stress and anxiety. Kiwi is very bad.

10. Urban Explorer Tour

Chill - Explore With Us, Awly Building, 287 Durham Street North, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand Chill - Explore With Us

Discover the heart of our revitalised city on a 2 hour Urban Explorer guided cycle tour. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of central Christchurch at a relaxed pace from the comfort of your urban bike as our experienced local guide takes you straight to the best bits. Christchurch is the ideal city to explore by bike, with flat elevation and purpose-built cycleways allowing easy access to the natural features and rapidly evolving urban centre we are so proud of. Let us share with you all the local highlights including heritage sites, cultural icons, hospitality hot spots, parks, gardens and more. This 2 hour guided cycle tour is an excellent way to become familiar with our inner city. Our passionate local guides will proudly pass on their vast local knowledge ensuring you come away with a whole new understanding of Christchurch, a bunch of recommendations for your visit and a truly memorable experience.

Inclusions: Helmet, Local Guide, Use of bicycle

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Reviewed By Stardust1969

Hired a great e bike from CHILL for 9 days and was very happy with it! Great service and super tips on where to go ( red zone ) and the Christchurch bicycle map was included. Batterie lasted longer than 30km going mostly on high support. Had a great holiday and saw lots. Thanks a lot Uwe in Auckland

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