Christchurch offers more than just stunning scenery and friendly faces; it’s a city where your lunch can be a full experience. Standout options include relaxing wine tastings in the Waipara Valley, where you can sample some of New Zealand’s finest reds and whites, all paired with delicious local cuisine. We particularly like the Waipara Wine Experience for 2 or more, inc tastings and lunch, because of its intimate group size, personalized attention, and scenic vineyard visits. Plus, with the hassle-free transfer included, it’s a stress-free way to indulge. For a broader taste of the region, the Waipara Wine Tour from Christchurch – including Lunch & Tastings offers a slightly more economical option with visits to three boutique wineries, perfect for those who want a variety of flavors without sacrificing quality.
Christchurch’s diverse attractions mean your lunch can be more than just a meal; it can be part of a cultural or scenic adventure. Whether you’re after a vineyard experience, a farm visit, or a city walk with local bites, there’s a tour tailored to your interests. If you’re curious about farm life, the Sheep Farm Day Trip from Christchurch + Lunch and Winery visit combines rustic charm with wine tasting, while the Discover Christchurch Tour with Lunch offers a full day exploring the city’s sights with a hearty meal. For those celebrating a special occasion, the Canterbury Winery Heli Lunch provides a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter ride and gourmet lunch in one.
1. Waipara Wine Experience for 2 or more, inc tastings and lunch
At number one, this Waipara Wine Experience is a perfect choice if you want a personalized, small-group tour. Limited to six guests, it offers a relaxed, intimate setting to explore some of the region’s best vineyards. The tour takes you to Pegasus Bay Winery, Torlesse Wines, and Georges Road Wines, where you’ll enjoy tasting a broad spectrum of reds and whites. The highlight is the lunch at Torlesse Wines, a local favorite with a gorgeous vineyard setting.
What makes this tour stand out is the quality of the experience and the detailed attention from your guide. Guests mention Giles’ extensive knowledge and friendly manner, making tastings both informative and fun. The included garden tour at Pegasus Bay adds a touch of tranquility, and the boutique Georges Road Wines are a treat for wine aficionados. The cost, $121.36 per person for 5.5 hours, covers all tastings and meals, offering excellent value. It’s ideal for wine lovers who appreciate a personal touch and scenic surroundings.
Bottom Line: This is a refined, small-group experience that balances wine, scenery, and good food without the crowds. Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed day out.
2. Waipara Wine Tour from Christchurch – including Lunch & Tastings
At number two, the Waipara Wine Tour provides a broader look at the region with visits to three boutique wineries. For around $109.77, you get an immersive five-and-a-half-hour experience sampling roughly 15 different wines at selected vineyards like Pegasus Bay, Torlesse, and Waipara Springs. The tour is flexible — depending on which wineries are open, your guide will tailor the stops.
This tour is well-rated, with guests praising Jude’s friendly guidance and generous tastings. The included lunch at Waipara Springs is a highlight, offering a chance to relax and savor local flavors amid rolling vineyard views. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it especially convenient for visitors staying centrally in Christchurch. It’s a great choice if you want a taste of multiple wineries without the full commitment of a private tour.
Bottom Line: This option offers excellent value and variety, ideal for those who want to try numerous wines and enjoy a relaxed, guided experience.
3. Sheep Farm Day Trip from Christchurch + Lunch and Winery visit
For a uniquely Kiwi experience, the Sheep Farm Day Trip combines a working sheep farm with winery visits and scenic views. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a mix of rural life, farm animals, and wine. The highlight is visiting Glenafric Sheep Farm, where you’ll see sheep shearing, meet farm dogs, and enjoy a family farm experience that’s both authentic and educational.
After the farm visit, the tour continues with a stop at Georges Road Wines, where you’ll taste wine and learn about the region’s terroir. The tour also includes time in Christchurch Botanic Gardens, providing a touch of city culture. At $180.28 for seven hours, it’s a longer, more comprehensive experience that appeals to those interested in farm life and local agriculture.
Guests rave about feeding lambs and interacting with the family, praising the personal touch and the diversity of activities. It’s suitable for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities and wants to see how Kiwi farmers work firsthand.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for families and farm enthusiasts who want a mix of farm life, wine, and city sights.
4. Canterbury Winery Heli Lunch
At number four, the Canterbury Winery Heli Lunch is a truly special way to combine adventure and gourmet dining. For $568.08, you’ll take a 20-minute helicopter flight from Christchurch to one of the region’s top wineries, such as Black Estate or Greystone. Once there, you can enjoy a private lunch at your own expense before flying back in style.
This tour is perfect for celebrating a special occasion or for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. The helicopter ride offers spectacular aerial views of North Canterbury, giving you a bird’s-eye perspective of the vineyards and landscape. The wineries are known for their organic, biodynamic practices, adding an extra layer of interest for eco-conscious wine lovers.
Guests describe it as an “exceptional and exquisite” experience, with the pilot and staff receiving high praise. Because of the price, it’s best suited for those looking to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime outing.
Bottom Line: If budget isn’t a concern and you want a memorable, luxurious adventure, this heli-lunch combines scenic flight with fine wines and gourmet food.
5. Lyttelton Shore Excursion – Waipara Wine Tour With Lunch
The Lyttelton Shore Excursion is tailored for cruise travelers, offering a relaxed, scenic way to see North Canterbury’s vineyards. For $150.80, your group will enjoy a comfortable drive with local commentary, visiting three wineries including the renowned Greystone Vineyard for a three-course lunch and tastings.
It’s a great way to maximize your limited time in port, with flexible scheduling and an intimate group size. Reviews point out how smoothly the day flows and how the local guide shares interesting stories about the region’s wine and landscape. The inclusion of a sit-down lunch makes it ideal for those wanting a proper meal alongside their wine tasting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers wanting a hassle-free, scenic wine day with a good meal and personal service.
6. 9 Hours Golf Activity in New Zealand with Lunch
At number six, the Golf and Lunch Tour offers a sporty twist. For $213.79, you get nine hours of golf at one of New Zealand’s premier courses combined with lunch. It’s an excellent pick for golf enthusiasts wanting to combine play with local scenery and cuisine.
Guests say the experience is “exceptional,” with praise for the beautiful course and the friendly host Grant. The tour is ideal for active travelers who want to enjoy some of Christchurch’s best golf while soaking in the landscape. The package includes all the necessary equipment and a scenic drive, making it a practical and rewarding outing.
Bottom Line: A solid choice if you prioritize golf and want a relaxed, well-organized day with included lunch.
7. From Christchurch: Sheep Farm Day Trip with Lunch & Winery
This Sheep Farm Day Trip from Christchurch emphasizes authentic Kiwi farm life. Over six hours, you’ll visit Glenafric farm, meet working sheepdogs, watch shearing demonstrations, and enjoy a farm picnic with incredible views. The tour also includes a visit to Georges Road Winery for tastings.
Guests appreciate the personal interaction with the farm owners and the chance to feed lambs, making this a favorite for families and animal lovers. The tour is priced at $156 per person, offering good value given the depth of farm experiences paired with wine tasting and scenic countryside.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a farm-based adventure with authentic, un staged encounters and relaxing vineyard visits.
8. Christchurch: Kai Bites Walking Tour with Lunch
The Kai Bites Walking Tour is a shorter, city-centered experience designed for food lovers who want to explore Christchurch’s flavors. For $114, this 1.5-hour tour includes stops at local eateries providing a tasting menu made from seasonal, local ingredients.
It’s well-suited for travelers short on time but eager to enjoy the city’s culinary scene. Tour guides highlight the city’s cultural treasures along the way, making it both a tasty and educational stroll. The focus on local produce and storytelling makes this a fun, relaxed way to taste Christchurch.
Bottom Line: Ideal for city-based foodies wanting a quick, authentic taste of Christchurch’s culinary culture.
$114 per person
9. Discover Christchurch Tour with Lunch
This popular Discover Christchurch takes you through the city’s top sights in a relaxed six-hour session. Highlights include the Christchurch gondola, punting on the Avon, and the historic tramway. The tour concludes with a hearty lunch that complements the scenic day.
Guests love the mix of city sights, river activities, and local cuisine. It’s a good choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a rundown of Christchurch in a single day.
Bottom Line: A convenient, well-rounded tour combining sightseeing and a satisfying meal for a full taste of Christchurch.
$228 per person
10. Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Waipara Valley Wine Tour with Lunch
Number ten offers a luxurious port experience with this Waipara Valley Wine Tour. Starting at the port, your guide drives you through the scenic Canterbury landscape, including a morning tea and a luxurious three-course lunch at Greystone Vineyard, paired with five fine wines. The day ends with scenic vistas as you head back to port.
It’s a longer, more indulgent day, perfect for travelers wanting a relaxing, comprehensive wine experience combined with scenic beauty and quality cuisine. The tour is well-reviewed, emphasizing personalized service and excellent food and wine pairings.
Bottom Line: An elegant, in-depth wine day ideal for those with a bit of extra time and a love of fine food and wine.
$150.80 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience in Christchurch
When selecting your ideal lunch experience, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re a serious wine enthusiast, the Waipara Wine Experience for 2 or more offers intimacy and personalized attention. For those craving a mix of farm life, wine, and city sights, the Sheep Farm Day Trip delivers authenticity and variety. Budget travelers might prefer the Waipara Wine Tour, which provides a good sampling of wineries without breaking the bank.
For a truly memorable splurge, the Canterbury Winery Heli Lunch combines adventure with gourmet food, while cruise passengers will find the Lyttelton Shore Excursion offers a smooth, scenic port-side experience.
Practical considerations include the length of the tour, mobility levels, and whether you prefer a guided city walk or a vineyard escape. Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the heli lunch or private wine experiences, to secure your preferred date.
To sum it up, Christchurch’s lunch experiences range from intimate vineyard tastings to full-day farm and city adventures. For a taste of New Zealand’s renowned wine, the small-group Waipara Wine Experience offers a personal touch. If you want an adrenaline boost with your meal, the Canterbury Winery Heli Lunch is hard to beat. For a family-friendly, authentic farm visit, the Sheep Farm Day Trip combines fun, education, and regional flavors. Whatever your style, early booking ensures you won’t miss out on your perfect Christchurch lunch experience.