Christchurch Scenic Highlights Half Day Tour

South Island

Adventure By Nature

from

NZ$299

per adult

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Scenic view of Lyttelton Harbour from the Port Hills with clear skies and rolling hills

Experiences

Half-Day Tours

Family-friendly Tours

Shore Excursions

Small Group Tours

South Island

Start: Christchurch

Locations: Christchurch, Lyttelton

Duration: 3.5 hours

Details

Christchurch Scenic Highlights Half Day Tour

Start the day with a pickup in central Christchurch before heading to the Sign of the Takahe, a striking stone building offering panoramic views of the city and Canterbury Plains. Continue to the Sign of the Bellbird for morning tea while taking in sweeping vistas over Lyttelton Harbour. Governors Bay Jetty adds a peaceful coastal stop, ideal for photos and fresh sea air.

The tour then leads into the township of Lyttelton, where you can browse quaint shops and soak up its historic charm. Evans Pass lookout provides dramatic views of the harbour and insights into the port’s role in trade and Antarctic exploration. The final stop is Sumner Beach, where you’ll have time to stroll the shoreline or relax in the village before returning to Christchurch.

The historic Sign of the Takahe building in Christchurch, surrounded by lush greenery and blue skies.

Christchurch cityscape with Southern Alps in the background

Panoramic view of Lyttelton Harbour from above with the port and hills in the background

Outdoor picnic break with fruit, tea, and wraps on a striped tablecloth

Sailboats docked at Lyttelton Harbour marina with hillside homes and mountains behind

Sailboats moored at Lyttelton Harbour Marina in Canterbury

Sailboats anchored at Corsair Bay in Lyttelton Harbour, Banks Peninsula

View of the Sumner coastline and residential headland in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Panoramic view from Sumner Beach over Christchurch city with the Southern Alps in the background.

Grassy dunes framing a view of Sumner Beach and the rocky headland on a bright sunny day.

Inclusions

Transport with A/C
Snacks and drinks
Local guide
Enjoy the scenic views at the historic Sign of the Takahe & Sign of the Bellbird
Explore the charming port township of Lyttelton
Experience panoramic views of Lyttelton Harbour & discover its Antarctic history
Wander through Sumner Village or stroll along the white sandy beach
Learn about the cultural and natural history of the area

Important Information

Pick-up: 8.30am or 1pm
Drop-off: 12pm or 4.30pm
Options include direct hotel pick-up within 3.5 km of Christchurch city centre, Citizens' Memorial, Zeroes Cafe, and Lyttelton Port for shore excursions.
Group size: Minimum of 2; maximum of 8.

Age Information

Adults: 13 years and over
Child: 5-12 years

Cancellations & Refunds

More than 48 hours before departure: Full refund**
Between 24 and 48 hours: 50% refund
Less than 24 hours: No refund
No shows: No refund

Note: **Refunds exclude credit card or booking fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Itinerary

Your half-day tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation or the central meeting point in Cathedral Square. The first stop is the historic Sign of the Takahe, a grand stone building offering panoramic views and a perfect photo opportunity. From here, you’ll continue to the Sign of the Bellbird Scenic Reserve, where a light snack is served against a backdrop of sweeping views over the Canterbury Plains and Lyttelton Harbour.

The journey then heads to Governors Bay Jetty, a tranquil spot to enjoy the seaside setting before travelling on to Lyttelton Township. Take time to browse the boutique shops and admire the historic character of this vibrant harbour town. At Evans Pass lookout, you’ll enjoy expansive views of Lyttelton Harbour while hearing about the port’s role in trade, shipping, and Antarctic expeditions.

The final stop is Sumner Beach, where you can relax with a small picnic, stroll along the shoreline, or wander through the village. After soaking up the coastal atmosphere, you’ll return to Christchurch with a drop-off at your accommodation or the city centre, bringing your scenic highlights tour to a close.