Christchurch is a fantastic base for Hiking and Trekking Tours, thanks to its proximity to stunning landscapes like the Southern Alps, lakes, and lush forests. This city isn’t just about the earthquake recovery; it’s a gateway to some of New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery. We especially love the Christchurch to Lake Tekapo Car and Hike 6-Day Tour, for its flexible, personalized approach that lets you soak in remarkable views at your own pace. The ability to stop at iconic spots like Castle Hill and Hokitika Gorge makes it a versatile option for those who want a mix of scenic drives and carefully curated hikes. If you prefer a shorter but equally immersive experience, the 2-day Private Overnight Hurunui River Hot Springs Hike or Bike offers a cozy overnight in the wilderness with the bonus of relaxing hot springs. For the thrill-seekers, the Mt Cook Scenic & Tasman Glacier Heli Hike combines a scenic flight with a glacier hike, providing an unforgettable view of New Zealand’s highest peaks. Whether you’re after a flexible private trip, a wilderness overnight, or a breathtaking heli-hike, Christchurch’s nearby landscapes deliver.
1. Christchurch to Lake Tekapo Car and Hike 6-Day Tour
This private, fully customizable 6-day tour is perfect for travelers who want flexibility and a personal touch. For about $1,220 per person, you get a tailored experience with a passionate guide who helps craft your perfect adventure. The itinerary includes iconic stops like Castle Hill, known for its strange limestone formations, and the Otira Viaduct Lookout, an engineering marvel with breathtaking views. You’ll also explore the Hokitika Gorge, famous for its striking turquoise waters, and the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, a natural wonder with unique rock formations.
What makes this tour special is its focus on your interests. Are you a photographer eager to capture the rugged landscape? Or a hiker wanting to explore lesser-known trails? The guide is flexible with stops, allowing you to soak in the scenery, snap photos, or simply relax. The 6-day schedule ensures you experience the diverse landscapes of the South Island—from rugged mountains to lush forests—and stay comfortable in personalized accommodations.
Guests have praised the tour’s flexibility and the guide’s local knowledge, making the experience both intimate and informative. The value is solid, given the personalized service and attention to your interests. It’s best suited for travelers who want to explore at their own pace, especially those with a sense of adventure and curiosity about New Zealand’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: If you want a private, tailored trip that balances scenic stops with personalized hiking at a relaxed pace, this 6-day adventure hits the mark.
2. 2-day Private Overnight Hurunui River Hot Springs Hike or Bike
For those seeking a shorter but deeply immersive wilderness experience, the Hurunui River Hot Springs offers a fantastic two-day escape. Starting from Christchurch, you’ll venture into the Canterbury region, where scenic drives lead to the Harpers Pass Track. The tour includes a full day of trekking or biking, then a hot springs soak to unwind after your exertions. The package is priced at about $1,200 per person, making it an excellent value for a two-day adventure.
What sets this tour apart is the overnight stay at Hurunui Hut, deep in the wilderness. You’ll wake up to serene mountain views and the soothing warmth of natural hot springs—perfect for relaxation after your outdoor efforts. The second day involves a return trek or bike ride, offering a balanced mix of physical activity and downtime. The tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventures and want to experience New Zealand’s pristine nature without extensive planning.
While reviews are scarce, the consistent theme is that this trip appeals to those craving an authentic outdoor experience with the comfort of hot springs. It’s best suited for moderately fit travelers comfortable with outdoor activity, and those who want a quick, meaningful wilderness getaway.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a manageable, memorable overnight trek or bike ride with a soak in natural hot springs, this tour offers both adventure and relaxation.
$1,206.43 per person
3. Mt Cook Scenic & Tasman Glacier Heli Hike
This high-end tour combines a scenic helicopter flight with a guided hike on the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s largest. Priced at around $4,010 per person, it’s a splurge but offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The adventure begins with a helicopter ride from Christchurch to Mt Cook, passing over iconic landmarks like the Rakaia River and Mt Hutt ski area. As you fly past the Lake Tekapo area, the attention to detail in the scenery is breathtaking.
Once at Mt Cook Airport, you’ll meet your guide for a heli-hike on the Tasman Glacier. The glacier’s blue ice formations and sweeping landscapes are awe-inspiring. With about two hours of guided walking on the ice, you get to learn about the glacier’s formation and the effects of climate change firsthand. This tour is perfect for adventure travelers seeking a combination of scenic flight, glacier exploration, and high-altitude scenery.
While expensive, the value lies in the combination of scenic flight and guided glacier walk—a rare pairing in New Zealand. It’s best suited for travelers with a good level of fitness and a desire for a luxury, adventure-packed day. The experience is well-reviewed for its stunning views and expert guides, making it an unforgettable highlight for thrill-seekers.
Bottom Line: If you want a premium, all-in-one tour that combines helicopter views with a glacier hike, this helicopter and heli-hike combo is hard to beat.
$4,011.38 per person
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your budget, time, fitness level, and interests. For a flexible, private experience that lets you control the pace, the Christchurch to Lake Tekapo Car and Hike is ideal. If you prefer a quick wilderness escape with hot springs, the Hurunui River Hot Springs provides a wonderful balance of activity and relaxation. For those seeking an indulgent, once-in-a-lifetime adventure, the Mt Cook Heli Hike offers spectacular scenery and high-altitude thrills.
Consider your physical readiness—some tours involve walking or biking, while others include flying and glacier hiking. Think about your travel schedule: the two-day overnight fits well into a shorter trip, whereas the six-day tour suits those with more time and a desire for a comprehensive experience. Booking early is advised, especially for the heli-hike, which is popular and limited by weather.
Final Thoughts
Christchurch offers a wide variety of hiking and trekking opportunities, from flexible private tours to adrenaline-pumping glacier adventures. For a personalized experience, the 6-day Lake Tekapo trip shines, while the Hurunui overnight provides a quick wilderness fix. For those with a taste for luxury and high-altitude vistas, the Mt Cook heli-hike is unbeatable.
No matter your choice, early booking is wise. These tours showcase New Zealand’s stunning scenery and are sure to leave you with lasting memories. Whether you want a relaxed exploration or an adrenaline rush, Christchurch’s surroundings are ready to deliver an unforgettable outdoor adventure.