Top Things to do in Canterbury Region
Countries
Things to do in Canterbury Region, South Island: The Best Cultural Tours
Christchurch, the Garden City, and the Canterbury region are the perfect destination for daredevils. From northern Kaikoura to Waimate in the south, Canterbury is an adventure sports paradise. Hangliding, helibiking, bungee jumping, snowboarding, jetboating, rafting and skydiving get the adrenaline going. Golfing, flightseeing, swimming with dolphins and soaking in thermal pools are more laid-back temptations. Christchurch, a city of parks and gardens, is the countrys third largest urban area.
Restaurants in Canterbury Region
1. Private Tour Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook & Tekapo Including Lunch
Overall Ratings
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
Overall Ratings
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. Ultimate South - Hiking New Zealand - 15 days
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Four multi-day hikes » Golden sands of Abel Tasman Coastal Track » Crystal clear rivers and limestone canyons of the West Coast » Cycling the West Coast Wilderness Trail » Cruising the magnificent Milford Sound
Inclusions: Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Air-conditioned vehicle, Use of bicycle, Waka experience and boat cruise
Exclusions:
Reviewed By Discover820406
I completed a four-day hike in Arthurs Pass with Hiking NZ. Not having a lot of hiking experience I was apprehensive about what to expect. However, the trip exceeded expectations, the scenery was stunning, the days although long were rewarding and our guide let us take our time. Couldn't recommend more
4. 23-Day Epic New Zealand Tour
Overall Ratings
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
5. 9 Day - South Island Tour (All inclusive)
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Spectacular scenery and lots of opportunity for adventure, this 8 day South Island adventure starts and finishes in the diverse city of Christchurch. Turquoise lakes, majestic glaciers, dramatic mountain peaks and the picture-perfect towns of Queenstown, Wanaka and Franz Josef are all a part of this epic road trip. With accommodation and some activities included (see below), our all-inclusive tours are hassle-free, authentic experiences for those short on time.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Air-conditioned vehicle, Accommodation (8 nights), All Fees and Taxes
Exclusions:
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.
6. Christchurch Private Luxury Full Day Tour
Overall Ratings
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
7. Dark Sky Experience
Overall Ratings
4.4 based on 22 reviews
Get ready to embark on a journey 13.8 billion years in the making. A treat for the senses, the Dark Sky Experience brings science, tātai aroraki (Māori astronomy) and fascinating multi-media installations together in a ‘Big Bang’ of awe and inspiration. Thought-provoking, educational and entertaining, this journey is sure to change your outlook in the best possible way. A world first – this indoor experience is a must on all itineraries whether you’re staying in Takapō (Tekapo) or just stopping by.
Inclusions: 45 minutes guided tour
Exclusions:
Reviewed By JamesGOamaru
The weather for our visit was just about perfect--viewing conditions were pristine and while it was reported that it'd be chilly up on the mountain, with the coats we were given (and the layers we wore underneath, as instructed) I hardly felt the cold. Plus, the information provided by Adrian and Dan was so interesting, and extremely well presented, that you had no time to feel the cold. We got to look through three telescopes (the largest one, in the dome, was being used and was not available for the tour, so a discount was given to us) and we saw some amazing things, from the binary star of Alpha Centauri, to the Sombrero Galaxy, the Jewel Box Cluster, and a globular cluster (NGC 3951?). Truly fascinating!
8. Christchurch Sheep Farm Visit
Overall Ratings
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.
9. Crater Experience at Cowan's Observatory
Overall Ratings
3.8 based on 31 reviews
The ultimate stargazing experience. Enjoy maximum time under the stars whilst enhancing your knowledge of the Southern skies at our private observatory. Designed specifically with stargazing in mind, Cowan’s Observatory is the perfect introductory stargazing experience. Nestled in a giant purpose-built crater to provide maximum wind protection and minimum light pollution, our expert astronomy guides will enhance your knowledge and understanding of our Southern Skies as you admire and ponder the possibilities through our powerful optical telescopes.
Inclusions: GST (Goods and Services Tax), Professional guide
Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Hotel pickup and drop-off
Reviewed By JamesGOamaru
The weather for our visit was just about perfect--viewing conditions were pristine and while it was reported that it'd be chilly up on the mountain, with the coats we were given (and the layers we wore underneath, as instructed) I hardly felt the cold. Plus, the information provided by Adrian and Dan was so interesting, and extremely well presented, that you had no time to feel the cold. We got to look through three telescopes (the largest one, in the dome, was being used and was not available for the tour, so a discount was given to us) and we saw some amazing things, from the binary star of Alpha Centauri, to the Sombrero Galaxy, the Jewel Box Cluster, and a globular cluster (NGC 3951?). Truly fascinating!
10. Christchurch Maori Concert and Kiwi Viewing
Overall Ratings
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.
