The 15 Most Popular Tours & Experiences In Christchurch

Christchurch offers an unusually rich selection of Tours & Experiences that showcase its stunning landscapes, cultural depth, and unique wildlife. Whether you’re exploring the towering mountains, wandering through historic streets, or reliving scenes from Lord of the Rings, the city has something for every kind of traveler. We particularly love the Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour for its breathtaking scenery and chances to hike on glaciers, or the TranzAlpine Train for one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. If you’re a film fan, the Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the movies brought New Zealand’s landscapes to life.

Christchurch’s diverse offerings make it a perfect hub for outdoor adventures, cultural explorations, and even wildlife encounters. The city’s combination of natural beauty and innovative reconstruction after the 2011 earthquakes means your experience will be both inspiring and practical. Now, let’s explore each of these top tours in detail.

1. Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch

Enjoy a small-group day trip to the iconic Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, with a visit to the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd on Lake Tekapo. This tour also includes a scenic walk to see the Tasman Glacier, the longest glacier in New Zealand. It’s a full 13-hour adventure that’s perfect for those craving dramatic alpine scenery and glacier walks without the hassle of planning transport. The highlights include stops at Lake Pukaki, famous for its vivid blue waters, and the icebergs floating in the glacier-fed lakes. With a rating of 4.9/5 based on 483 reviews and a competitive price of $146, this tour offers excellent value for a comprehensive day in the heart of the Southern Alps.

Tour guide expertise and small-group intimacy ensure a personal experience, perfect for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone eager to see New Zealand’s alpine crown jewel. Expect scenic walks, stunning vistas, and plenty of time to soak in the mountain air. If you’re after a hassle-free, immersive day with a knowledgeable guide, this is a top pick.

Bottom Line: A fantastic, full-day experience that combines glacier exploration, mountain views, and charming lakeside stops, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and scenery lovers.

2. TranzAlpine Train, Arthur’s Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip

Often called “one of the greatest train journeys in the world,” this tour combines the world-famous TranzAlpine train with exploration of Arthur’s Pass National Park. Starting with hotel pickup, you’ll relax aboard the comfortable, panoramic train as it crosses the Canterbury Plains, climbs into the Southern Alps, and passes the Otira Viaduct with its striking views. The tour includes stops at the Devils Punchbowl, where you can walk and admire waterfalls, and at Castle Hill, famous for its limestone boulders used in many movies. The day’s highlights are the breathtaking scenery and the chance to see Keas, the cheeky alpine parrots.

With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 426 reviews and a price of $254.44, this tour offers exceptional value, especially since it handles all transport and logistics. The knowledgeable guide will point out wildlife and scenery along the way, adding layers to the visual feast.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to experience one of the most scenic train journeys and explore Arthur’s Pass in a single day, with no planning stress.

3. Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch

Fans of The Lord of the Rings will find this tour a highlight. It offers a trip by 4WD to the filming location of Edoras on Mount Sunday, with 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. Your guide shares behind-the-scenes stories and exclusive photos of Edoras under construction, making this more than just a scenic tour. The day includes stops at Lake Clearwater for photos and a picnic lunch with sparkling wine—a rare treat.

Rated 5.0/5 by 353 travelers and costing around $201.69, the tour is praised for its engaging commentary and the challenge of the uphill hike to Mount Sunday. Guides like Cheryl are noted for their patience and wealth of knowledge about both LOTR filming and local geology.

Bottom Line: Perfect for LOTR fans and outdoor lovers willing to hike for spectacular panoramic views; it’s a full-day adventure with movie magic.

4. Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch

This 13-hour tour hits many highlights with photo opportunities of Aoraki Mount Cook, visits to Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, and a glacier walk. It includes transfers from Christchurch hotels, making it easy to enjoy the scenery without driving. The tour features options for independent hikes in Mount Cook National Park and a delicious lunch at The Hermitage Hotel. The Tasman Glacier walk offers a chance to see icebergs up close, blending adventure with awe-inspiring views.

Rated perfect 5.0/5 from 353 reviews and priced at $155.14, it offers great value for those who want comprehensive scenery, glacier views, and flexibility to explore on their own. Guests particularly appreciate the unobstructed mountain vistas and the expert guides who make the experience memorable.

Bottom Line: If you want to combine sightseeing, glacier walks, and some free time, this fully guided day trip is a top choice.

5. Christchurch Zipline Tour

For thrill-seekers, the Christchurch Zipline Tour delivers adrenaline with high-speed ziplines over the forest. With two departure options and guides to keep you safe, the 3-hour experience lets you fly through the canopy at heights up to 150 meters. The longest zipline is an impressive 1.1 kilometers, offering sweeping views of the Southern Alps and Pacific Ocean. After zipping through the treetops, you’ll have free time to relax in the park and soak in the natural surroundings.

Rated 5.0/5 by 276 reviews and costing $155.14, this tour is praised for its excitement, friendly guides, and safety. It’s a wonderful option for active travelers looking for a quick, fun outdoor adventure.

Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers craving an adrenaline rush in a beautiful forest setting, with professional guides ensuring safety.

6. Arthur’s Pass Discovery and TranzAlpine Train – Small Group Tour

This 9-hour tour offers a luxurious small-group experience riding the TranzAlpine train, combined with guided exploration of Arthur’s Pass. It includes lunch at a country hotel and private transportation around the village. The guide takes you on short walks and points out Cave Stream, Otira Gorge, and mountain vistas, making it a relaxed yet enriching way to experience the area.

Rated 5.0/5 from 272 reviews and priced at $555.41, it suits travelers who value personalized service and a more intimate experience. The combination of train journey and nature walks makes it a balanced and comfortable day out, especially for those who prefer a calmer pace.

Bottom Line: A luxurious, guided way to see Arthur’s Pass and take the train without the hassle, ideal for small groups and those seeking comfort.

7. Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram

Explore Christchurch’s post-earthquake reconstruction and modern attractions on this full-day vintage tram tour. With an all-day ticket, you can hop on and off at 18 stops, including the Canterbury Museum and the Botanic Gardens. The tram provides live commentary, making it a practical and engaging way to get an overview of the city’s evolving landscape.

Rated 4.7/5 from 656 reviews, this tour gives you flexibility and a sense of Christchurch’s resilience. It’s perfect for visitors with limited time or those wanting to see a mix of history and new architecture.

Bottom Line: An easy, entertaining way to explore Christchurch at your own pace, especially suitable for first-time visitors.

8. Christchurch: Tram, Punt and Gondola Ride Combo Ticket

This full-day combo combines the vintage tram, a punt ride on the Avon River, and a gondola trip to Port Hills. You’ll enjoy 360-degree views of Christchurch and its surroundings, along with the relaxing experience of a punt gliding through the city’s riverside areas. The gondola offers a panoramic perspective of the city and nearby mountains, making it a well-rounded day for sightseeing in style.

Rated 4.7/5 from 586 reviews, the combo offers a balanced mix of land, water, and sky adventures, perfect for travelers who want a rundown with a touch of relaxation.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a varied day exploring Christchurch from multiple perspectives, combining history, scenery, and leisure.

9. Christchurch Hop-On Hop-Off Tram

This classic hop-on hop-off tram offers a flexible way to explore Christchurch at your own pace. With 18 stops and live commentary, you can visit the museum, Botanic Gardens, or Re:START mall. The service runs every 15 minutes, making it easy to plan your day around your interests.

Rated 4.5/5 from 841 reviews and costing $24.82, it’s an economical way to learn about Christchurch’s rebuilding efforts and historic sites. It’s suitable for travelers who prefer self-guided exploration but want structure and local insights.

Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, informative option for those wanting to see significant sights with minimal planning.

10. Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo

Combine the heritage tram with a gondola ride for panoramic views of Christchurch and Port Hills. This full-day ticket allows you to hop between land and aerial perspectives, with options to walk around Mount Cavendish or relax in the Botanic Gardens. It’s a versatile way to experience the city for those who want both scenic views and cultural insights.

Rated 4.5/5 from 686 reviews, it’s a popular choice for visitors wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed day in Christchurch.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to combine city sights with mountain vistas in one seamless outing.

11. Christchurch International Antarctic Centre Entry Tickets

For something uniquely different, the Antarctic Centre immerses you in the icy continent’s environment. Experience a simulated Antarctic storm, see Little Blue Penguins, ride an all-terrain Hägglund, and learn about Husky dogs. It’s a fun, educational, and interactive experience suited for families and winter enthusiasts.

Rated 4.7/5 from 328 reviews, it offers a cool contrast to the outdoor adventures and an inside look at one of the planet’s most extreme environments.

Bottom Line: Best for those traveling with kids or who want a fun, hands-on learning experience about Antarctica’s wildlife and climate.

12. Full Day Guided Walking Tour and Picnic around Godley Head

This small-group tour takes you on a 6-hour hike along the Godley Head Loop Track, famed for stunning coastal views, WWII gun emplacements, and penguin colonies. It includes refreshments, a gourmet picnic, and hotel pickup. Guided by a local, you’ll walk about 8 kilometers, with options for all fitness levels, enjoying the diverse scenery of Lyttelton Harbour and Sumner Beach.

Rated 5.0/5 from 147 reviews and costing $186.17, it’s a perfect choice for active travelers seeking a mix of exercise and spectacular scenery.

Bottom Line: A memorable, outdoor experience that combines challenging hiking with breathtaking shoreline views—great for nature lovers.

13. Waipara Wine Experience for 2 or more, inc tastings and lunch

Explore the Waipara Valley, one of New Zealand’s emerging wine regions, with a small-group tour that features visits to Pegasus Bay Winery, Torlesse Wines, and Georges Road Wines. Tasting a variety of red and white wines, plus a lunch at a boutique winery, makes this an excellent choice for wine lovers. The tour is intimate, with a maximum of 6 guests, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

Rated 5.0/5 from 147 reviews and costing about $123.49, it offers exceptional value—not just for wine tasting but also for learning about New Zealand’s up-and-coming vineyards.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting to enjoy scenic vineyards and sample top wines in a small, personal setting.

14. Arthur’s Pass: TranzAlpine Train and Castle Hill Day Tour

This 10-hour tour combines the scenic TranzAlpine train with a guided walk through Castle Hill, famous for its limestone boulders and dramatic landscapes. Traveling from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass, you’ll enjoy mountain views, waterfalls, and the chance to see alpine parrots at Otira Viaduct. The walk in Castle Hill allows for close-up views of the iconic rocks, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Rated 4.8/5 from 261 reviews, it’s a well-organized way to see the South Island’s diverse terrain without extensive planning.

Bottom Line: Perfect for visitors who want both scenic train travel and a hands-on outdoor experience with geological wonders.

15. From Christchurch: Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour & Lunch

This 13-hour tour covers Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo, and Lake Pukaki with flexible glacier walk options. Starting with hotel pickup, the day includes stops at Fairlie Bakehouse, Lake Tekapo, and Mount Cook National Park. Travelers can choose between Hooker Valley or Tasman Glacier Walks, making it adaptable to different fitness levels and interests. The tour incorporates lunch and offers a chance to see some of New Zealand’s most photographed scenery, including the Church of the Good Shepherd.

Rated 4.6/5 by 381 reviews, this tour offers a great balance of sightseeing, outdoor activity, and relaxation, all in an economical package.

Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a customizable glacier experience combined with iconic landscapes, this is a versatile day trip.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Christchurch

When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, interest, and fitness level. For instance, if you love film and scenery, the Lord of the Rings tour is unmatched. For scenic train rides and ease, the TranzAlpine options are perfect. Those seeking outdoor exercise and coastal scenery will enjoy the Godley Head hike. Budget travelers might pick the hop-on hop-off tram, while families or groups wanting indoor fun could opt for the Antarctic Centre.

Thinking about time? A full-day trip like the Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Tour offers a comprehensive experience, while shorter activities like the zipline are ideal if you’re limited. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, to ensure availability.

Final Thoughts

Christchurch offers an outstanding array of Tours & Experiences that highlight its natural beauty, film fame, and resilience. For those who love mountain scenery and glacier adventures, the Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo day trips are superb choices. If you prefer a relaxing yet scenic ride, the TranzAlpine train is a must. For film buffs and hikers, the Journey to Edoras provides a unique peek into Middle-earth.

No matter your interests or fitness level, this list has options to match. Think about what excites you most—whether it’s the thrill of ziplining, the serenity of vineyards, or exploring historic streets—and book your favorite early to secure the best experience in Christchurch.