The 15 Best Tours in Christchurch
Christchurch is a city that offers much more than its charming streets and historic architecture. It’s a gateway to some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes, wild adventures, and unique experiences. Whether you’re a fan of scenic drives, film locations, or world-class wine, the tours here deliver authentic encounters that go beyond the typical sightseeing. We’re especially fond of the Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour, which combines breathtaking mountain scenery with a visit to the famous Church of Good Shepherd—truly a highlight for lovers of natural beauty.
What makes Christchurch so appealing as a tour base is its proximity to incredible landscapes like the Southern Alps, Lake Tekapo, and Aoraki Mount Cook. Plus, the city itself has adapted beautifully after the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes, with innovative ways to explore its cultural revival, such as the Christchurch Hop-On Hop-Off Tram.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a wide range of experiences: full-day scenic tours like the Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour that take you deep into New Zealand’s iconic landscapes, adventure-packed trips such as the TranzAlpine Train, Arthur’s Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip for train lovers, and film location excursions like the Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras. Other options include city explorations with vintage trams, wine tastings in Waipara, and even visits to the International Antarctic Centre. There’s truly something for every interest and pace.
1. Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch
At number 1, this full-day tour hits the mark for its comprehensive itinerary and spectacular scenery. It’s a small-group trip that whisks you from Christchurch to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, one of New Zealand’s crown jewels. You’ll visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd on Lake Tekapo, known for its vivid turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop. The tour includes a walk to see the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest ice formation, plus a scenic drive past Lake Pukaki, famous for its striking blue waters.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 483 reviews, travelers love the personalized attention and the variety of viewpoints—plus the chance to hike or simply soak in the views. For around $146, this adventure offers excellent value, especially for those wanting a full immersion into the region’s natural beauty. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers and photographers eager to capture the Alpine scenery.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour for anyone wanting a full taste of the South Island’s highlights with professional guides and memorable landscape stops.
2. TranzAlpine Train, Arthur’s Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip
Number 2 is a favorite among train enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The TranzAlpine Train is often called one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, and this tour makes it easy to experience it all in one day. The trip includes round-trip luxury minivan transfers to the train station, so no fuss about logistics. You’ll glide through Canterbury Plains, cross the impressive Otira Viaduct, and pass through Arthur’s Pass National Park, where short walks reveal waterfalls, rainforest, and alpine vistas.
Rated a perfect 5.0 from 359 reviews, travelers praise the informative guides and the chance to see Kea parrots and the Devil’s Punchbowl. The scenic stops at Lake Pearson and Castle Hill—famous for its limestone boulders—offer perfect photo opportunities. The tour balances comfort and adventure, suited for anyone wanting to see a lot without strenuous hiking.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for train fans and those seeking a comfortable, scenic exploration of the Southern Alps.
3. Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch
Number 3 is perfect if you’ve ever dreamed of hobbits, elves, or the mythical Rohan. This LOTR tour takes you on a 4WD trip to Mt Sunday, the filming location for Edoras. You’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the mountains while your guide shares behind-the-scenes stories from the trilogy. Along the way, you see replica props like Aragorn’s sword and the Rohan flag, making this especially appealing for film buffs.
Rated a perfect 5.0 from 328 reviews, travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and the stunning landscape that looks as if it was created by Tolkien himself. The tour includes a picnic lunch with sparkling wine, adding a touch of luxury to this adventure. It’s a hit for LOTR fans and anyone craving a trip into Middle-earth.
Bottom Line: A must-do for film fans and those wanting to see some of New Zealand’s most rugged, cinematic scenery.
4. Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch
Number 4 offers a full-day journey to the heart of the Southern Alps. This guided tour includes breathtaking views of Mt. Cook, Lake Tekapo, and Lake Pukaki. You’ll enjoy stops at The Hermitage Hotel for lunch and have options for independent hikes in Aoraki National Park. The Tasman Glacier viewpoint provides a dramatic backdrop, and the tour is praised for its efficient scheduling and spectacular scenery.
Rated 5.0 with 319 reviews, travelers appreciate the value for money and the flexibility to explore. The guide’s commentary adds depth to the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive look at New Zealand’s iconic alpine scenery with plenty of photo opportunities.
5. Arthur’s Pass Discovery and TranzAlpine Train – Small Group Tour
This small-group combines the best of both worlds: a scenic train journey and insider exploration of Arthur’s Pass National Park. Departing early, you’ll travel across the Canterbury Plains into high country, with stops at Otira Viaduct and Cave Stream—famous for filming and a Kea parrot sighting. Once at Arthur’s Pass, short walks reveal rainforest, waterfalls, and mountain views.
Rated 5.0 from 244 reviews, this tour appeals to those seeking small-group intimacy and the chance to see less-visited spots. The guide’s local knowledge and the included lunch make it a worthwhile day out. It’s a great option for travelers who want personalized attention.
Bottom Line: An intimate, comprehensive day for nature lovers who want personal service and plenty of scenic stops.
6. Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram
Number 6 is a classic way to explore Christchurch at your own pace. The vintage tram operates all day, with 18 stops covering key attractions like the Canterbury Museum and Botanic Gardens. It’s a relaxed, informative way to get an overview of the city’s rebuilding efforts after the earthquakes while enjoying charming commentary.
Rated 4.7 from 531 reviews, visitors love the flexibility and the nostalgic ride through Christchurch’s streets. It’s a budget-friendly way to familiarize yourself with the city without rushing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want an easy, comfortable introduction to Christchurch’s highlights.
7. Christchurch: Tram, Punt and Gondola Ride Combo Ticket
Number 7 offers a full-day, multi-sensory experience combining land, water, and sky. Starting with the vintage tram, you’ll then glide down the Avon River in a flat-bottomed punt, and finally ascend the Port Hills on the Gondola. This combo is perfect if you want variety and panoramic views. The gondola’s 360-degree vistas of Christchurch and surrounding mountains** are especially stunning at sunset.
Rated 4.7 from 507 reviews, travelers appreciate the smooth coordination and the chance to see different aspects of Christchurch’s landscape. It’s a fantastic choice for a rundown of the city and its surroundings.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a relaxed, multi-activity day with scenic views.
8. Christchurch Hop-On Hop-Off Tram
At number 8, this hop-on hop-off tram offers a flexible way to see Christchurch’s core attractions with the freedom to customize your day. Covering 18 stops, it’s perfect for exploring museums, gardens, and historic streets at your own pace. The trams run every 15 minutes, making it convenient to hop on or off throughout the day.
Rated 4.5 from 756 reviews, many enjoy the informative commentary and ease of use. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer a low-effort way to get a broad overview and then explore further on foot.
Bottom Line: A great introduction to Christchurch for those who want to control their schedule.
9. Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo
Number 9 combines two of Christchurch’s top sightseeing attractions. The Gondola and Tram combo offers an easy way to experience the city from different perspectives—by vintage tram and from Mount Cavendish. The gondola ride provides panoramic views of Christchurch and the coast, while the tram takes you through historic neighborhoods.
Rated 4.5 from 580 reviews, this tour is valued for its convenience and variety. It’s best suited for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing but prefer not to move around too much.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive city overview with stunning vistas.
10. Full Day Guided Walking Tour and Picnic around Godley Head
Number 10 is for outdoor enthusiasts. This full-day walk around Godley Head covers about 5 miles, with plenty of coastal views, WWII relics, and wildlife. The guide leads you through Sumner Beach, Taylors Mistake, and the Godley Head Loop Track, often rated as one of Christchurch’s top hikes.
Rated 5.0 from 138 reviews, visitors praise the expert guiding and spectacular scenery. The included picnic lunch and hotel pickup make it a comfortable, all-in-one outdoor experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers seeking a challenging coastal hike with plenty of scenic rewards.
11. Waipara Wine Experience for 2 or more, inc tastings and lunch
Number 11 is a relaxing wine tour in New Zealand’s up-and-coming Waipara Valley. You’ll visit Pegasus Bay, Torlesse Wines, and Georges Road Wines—tasting a variety of reds and whites, and enjoying a delicious lunch. This tour offers a more intimate experience, with a maximum of 6 people, making it personal and engaging.
Rated 5.0 from 137 reviews, travelers appreciate the local knowledge and high-quality wines. It’s perfect for wine lovers or those wanting a slow-paced day in the countryside.
Bottom Line: A top choice for those interested in wine tasting combined with scenic vineyard visits.
12. Arthur’s Pass: TranzAlpine Train and Castle Hill Day Tour
Number 12 offers a variation on the scenic train theme, focusing on Castle Hill. The train journey is renowned for spectacular mountain views and the opportunity to walk among the famous limestone boulders. You’ll explore the Otira Gorge and see Lake Pearson—two must-see spots for photography.
Rated 4.8 from 233 reviews, this tour suits outdoor lovers and photographers who want to combine train travel with short hikes. The inclusion of lunch and local guide makes it a well-rounded day.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want more than just scenery—look for this tour if you’d love mountain vistas and boulders.
13. From Christchurch: Mt Cook Day Tour & Lake Tekapo
Number 13 offers a classic route to Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo. The full-day trip includes stops at Lake Tekapo with its famous church, Lake Pukaki, and scenic views of the Alpine peaks. It’s a practical option for those wanting a comprehensive sightseeing experience with the flexibility of independent activities.
Rated 4.6 from 331 reviews, travelers highlight the beautiful scenery and well-organized itinerary. The optional scenic flights are available for an extra fee if you want to elevate your experience.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a full day trip with options for added adventure.
14. Waipara Wine Tour from Christchurch – including Lunch & Tastings
Number 14 is a more affordable and relaxed wine tour in the Waipara region. The half-day tour visits three boutique wineries, sampling around 15 wines and enjoying lunch at Pegasus Bay. An excellent choice for wine fans who prefer a lighter outing or are short on time.
Rated 4.5 from 434 reviews, travelers love the personalized service and the opportunity to learn about terroir from local guides. The tour is perfect for a midweek escape or a relaxing afternoon.
Bottom Line: Best suited for wine enthusiasts looking for a casual, tasty experience.
15. International Antarctic Centre General Admission Ticket
Number 15 is the family-friendly highlight, offering a mini Antarctic expedition. The tickets include fun activities like storm simulations, penguin encounters, and Hägglund rides. It’s a lively indoor experience that’s perfect if you want a break from outdoor touring or have kids in tow.
Rated 4.5 from 431 reviews, visitors appreciate the interactive exhibits and the chance to experience Antarctica without leaving Christchurch. It’s a good choice for all ages, especially those interested in polar exploration.
Bottom Line: A fun, educational stop that complements outdoor adventures with indoor excitement.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting the best tour in Christchurch, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. If you’re after stunning mountain scenery and glacier views, the Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Tour or the Full Day Guided Walking Tour suit active travelers. For film fans, the LOTR Edoras tour delivers cinematic magic. Wine lovers should peek into the Waipara Valley, while those seeking city sights might prefer the Vintage Tram.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Hop-On Hop-Off Tram and the Gondola & Tram Combo, which offer flexible, affordable ways to explore. For families or indoor lovers, the Antarctic Centre provides a lively alternative.
Timing your bookings early is wise, especially for popular tours like the TranzAlpine or the Mount Cook trips. Remember, some tours include optional extras—like scenic flights—so plan ahead to maximize your experience.
Final Thoughts
Christchurch offers a diverse range of tours that cater to different interests and activity levels, from spectacular scenery to film locations, and culinary adventures. For a truly memorable trip, consider the Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo tour if you crave alpine grandeur, or the LOTR Edoras experience for cinematic history. City explorers can’t go wrong with the vintage tram, while wine fans will love the Waipara Valley.
Most importantly, book early and choose a tour that matches your pace and interests. Whether you’re after a relaxed city tour or an adventurous day in the mountains, Christchurch’s tours promise unforgettable memories—so get planning and enjoy this stunning part of New Zealand!