Things to do in Canterbury Region, South Island: The Best Multi-day Tours

January 5, 2022 Jacquiline Darosa

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 country’s third largest urban area.
Restaurants in Canterbury Region

1. Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour from Christchurch

Leisure Tours
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5.0 based on 4 reviews

Watch whales and swim with dolphins. This is a overnight delight for all those who wish to get close to nature. Journey from Christchurch to Kaikoura, where you will take a whale watch tour. Overnight in this tiny coastal town, before joining your Swim with Dolphins cruise. Dive into the oceans and swim next to these amazing mammals. A marine experience unmatched by any other.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Live commentary on board, Overnight accommodation, Whale watch tour by boat, Fur seal colony viewing, Swim with Dolphins, Use of Snorkelling equipment, North Canterbury vineyard visit and wine tasting, GST (Goods and Services Tax

Exclusions: 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.

2. 5 Day South Island Circut: Trains, Glaciers and Milford Sound from Christchurch

TranzAlpine & Coastal Pacific, Troup Drive, Addington, Addington, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand Discover New Zealand
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Discover the highlights of New Zealand's South Island, from stunning glaciers to vast National Parks there's plenty to explore! Tour highlights include the world-famous TranzAlpine Scenic Train, a glacier Heli Hike, Glacier Hot Pools and an unforgettable day trip to Fiordland for a Milford Sound Nature Cruise. The perfect way to fit the best of the South Island into five day! This is an Independent coach tour, where you travel on a combination of touring coaches and sightseeing services with commentary and/or point to point coaches which may not have commentary. You will be with different people on each part of the tour and different drivers. You have free time to explore on your own and are free to choose where and when to eat, meals are not included unless specified.

Inclusions: Lunch, Air-conditioned vehicles, Return coach transport from Christchurch, Breif commentary on board coaches and tours, 4 nights accommodation, TranzApline Scenic Train, Franz Josef Heli Hike, Glacier Hot Pools, Milford Sound Nature Cruise

Exclusions: Meals unless specified, Pre and post tour accommodation, Gratuities, Travel insurance. We recommend travel insurance for all tours

3. 8-Day Tour: South Island from Christchurch, Franz Josef, Wanaka and Queenstown

The Road Trip New Zealand
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5.0 based on 14 reviews

See the best of New Zealand’s stunning South Island on this unforgettable 8-day tour! Traveling by private luxury vehicle you’ll visit all the highlights of this amazing destination on an counter-clockwise route from Christchurch. Explore Arthur’s Pass, see West Coast rainforests from Franz Josef Glacier, and visit Mount Cook and Queenstown. Customize your tour to your preference with a range of optional activities (own expense) including helicopter rides, mountain walks, bungee jumps and more! The service that we provide is a private luxury tour service, not a large group tour. Other than our friendly tour staff you will not be sharing your tour with anyone outside of your own party so you can rest assured that this is your tour and we’ll do exactly what you want to make it your perfect trip. With a round-trip transfer from Christchurch Airport or your local hotel plus seven nights of accommodation included, this adventure-laden tour enables you to see the South Island with ease.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Private tour, Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), Live commentary on board, Professional tour guide (who is also the driver), Transport by private vehicle and all fuel charges, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Round-trip airport transfer (Christchurch), 7 nights accommodation in your selected category of hotel

Exclusions: Gratuities, Optional activities, Personal expenses, Food and drinks, not specified in the itinerary (lunch and dinner)

Reviewed By Pipnruss

Fiordland Lodge and Doubtful Sound. Fantastic ferry ride across Lake Manapouri and bus ride over the Wilmot Pass to board the Fiordland Navigator for 2 nights. 3 sunny, calm days to relax on board, spoiled by the chef's lovely food and Courtney's very knowledgeable commentary about the Sounds, history, wildlife, birdlife and little things like having complete silence in the Sound to enjoy the peace and look at the amazing mountains and their reflections in the calm water. An unexpected run out into the Tasman Sea was a bonus. The Fiordland Lodge is an American style Lodge built with lots of logs and wood and stone, very spacious. Friendly helpful staff. Located 6km from Te Anau. Our only concern was the lack of food choice for dinner, on a 3 course meal was offered, no light meals. The breakfast (included) was lovely, as was all the food, some interesting variations in tastes.

4. 2-Day Climbing Experience at Aoraki Mt Cook Village from Wanaka

Wanaka, Wanaka, Otago Region, South Island Wanaka Rock Climbing
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Multi-pitch climbing in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. Come and spend a fun and informative two days with our climbing guide at Aoraki/Mt Cook. These trips are designed to be unique climbing experiences that also offer guests to learn a lot about New Zealand and the Local history and culture. Our Mt cook trips are 2 day climbing excursions with a night spent at the NZAC Unwin lodge in Mt Cook Village. Mt Cook Village is a small alpine village at the base of the southern alps. This village is a starting point for all classic New Zealand mountaineering adventures. We climb on the Sebastopol Bluffs, situated above the village.

Inclusions: Lunch, Dinner, Overnight accommodation, National Park fees, Breakfast, Professional guide, Use of Climbing equipment, Round-trip private transfer, Snacks, Coffee and/or Tea, Alcoholic Beverages

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By EdenGabriel

I took the 3 day course. Was by myself so they turned it into a 2 day course with private guide for the same price, which was very kind. They taught me everything I wanted to know and it felt very professional and very thorough. I learned a lot and had an amazing experience. Would defenitely recommend.

5. New Zealand Uncut - Hiking New Zealand - 13 Days

Queenstown, New Zealand Hiking New Zealand
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Discover the world underground at Waitomo, explore the geothermal delights of Rotorua, hike across active volcanoes and lava valleys in the world-renowned Tongariro National Park and sip coffee in the coolest little capital of the world – Wellington. We have chosen excellent quality hotels and lodges and all rooms have ensuite bathrooms. Every place we stay has something special to offer and your evenings will be just as enjoyable as your days spent outdoors. Wonderful meals are included giving you an opportunity to sample the local cuisine from the restaurants in the cities and towns we stay.

Inclusions: Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Dinner, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast

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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

6. Ultimate New Zealand - Hiking New Zealand - 23 Days

Auckland 1010, New Zealand Hiking New Zealand
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

The Ultimate North is the ideal choice for those who have a little less time but want to experience the very best that the North Island, New Zealand, can offer. Hike into a river-side hut in the middle of Jurassic-like rainforest. Explore thermal areas in Rotorua. Trek the high sections of the remote Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk deep in the magical rain forests of Te Urewera. Relax in lodges in beautiful locations. Discover the surreal volcanic wonderland of Tongariro National Park, staying high above the world in an alpine hut. The Ultimate North has short hikes, as well as two overnight hikes staying in backcountry huts.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner

Exclusions: Personal Hiking Equipment

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

7. Ultimate South - Hiking New Zealand - 15 days

77 Trafalgar Street, Nelson 7010, New Zealand Hiking New Zealand
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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

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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

8. Southern Slice - Hiking New Zealand - 8 days

Queenstown, New Zealand Hiking New Zealand
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Embrace the South Island of New Zealand and visit iconic locations along with enjoying your creature comforts at the end of each satisfying day. From postcard perfect Abel Tasman National Park to Punakaiki’s luscious green rainforests and the majestic Aoraki/Mt Cook. Finish your time in this magical country under the immense peaks of Mt Aspiring National Park before arriving in Queenstown - the adventure capital.

Inclusions: Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner

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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

9. Kakapo 21 Day New Zealand Small Group Tour

Grand Mercure Auckland, 8 Customs Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand MoaTrek
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5.0 based on 41 reviews

Small Groups - Maximum 18 travellers per tour. NZ Family Owned since 1971 - Many NZ tour companies are Australian owned. Off the Beaten Track Destinations - where big coaches can't go. Flexibility - Time to add as many (or few) activities around the country as you like. Walking - For those who would like to, there are lots of short walks all over the country, your guides will help you find them. Kiwi Guides - Our guides are all passionate Kiwis who know the country like the back of their hands.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Private transportation, 20 Included Activities as per itinerary

Exclusions: Flights from your home country to New Zealand, Single Accommodation Supplement for Sole Room Use.

Reviewed By Wander636823

Kudos to Moa Tours for organising such a great trip. Te Wai Poumanu is beautiful in April with all the autumn colours. This was my first trip with Moa and I have already booked a second one. Special mention must be made of our guide Andrew. His knowledge, passion and enthusiasm shone throughout and he has a great sense of humour, much appreciated when dealing with so many diverse customers. He always went the extra mile to make everyone’s journey enjoyable. I would highly recommend both Moa and Andrew for kiwis wanting to experience the beauty of their own country.

10. 7-Day North to South Island Grand Tour from Auckland

Leisure Tours
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4.0 based on 1 reviews

A seven day independent tour exploring some of the best locations in New Zealand. This tour departs Auckland daily with six nights 4 - 4.5 star accommodation including two nights in Rotorua, one night in Wellington, one night in Kaikoura and two nights in Christchurch before concluding in Queenstown. Activities include city sights in Christchurch, whale watching in Kaikoura, travel on the Coastal Pacific Train (October - April) and Interislander Ferry, plus admission and guided tours of Te Puia, Rainbow Springs, Agrodome and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pick-up and drop-off for all destinations listed in itinerary, Commentary by local guides, Four star accommodation in Rotorua, Wellington, Kaikoura & Christchurch, Admission fees and all transport/tour fees listed in itinerary, All transport listed (Note that the train is not available from May through to September)

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities (optional)

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.

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