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Christchurch Garden City Tour

South Island

Canterbury Trails

from
NZ$625
per adult
Book Now
A neatly trimmed hedge maze surrounded by tall green hedges in a formal garden setting in Canterbury, New Zealand.

Experiences

Family-friendly Tours Family-friendly Tours Small Group Tours Small Group Tours Day Tours Day Tours

South Island

Start: Christchurch
Duration: 1 day
Travel Time: 8 hours

Details

A Day Among Christchurch’s Gardens, Views, and Heritage

This full-day tour explores why Christchurch is called the Garden City, offering a curated journey through its most beloved green spaces. Begin with a scenic drive to the Port Hills for sweeping views over the city, Canterbury Plains, and Lyttelton Harbour. Then descend into a secluded valley to visit a historic private garden established in 1865, rich in native and exotic plant life.

Afterwards, wander the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, where towering trees, vibrant flowerbeds, and memorial plantings tell the story of a city shaped by both nature and history. Pause for a relaxed café lunch amid the tranquil grounds before heading to a lesser-known site honouring suffragist Kate Sheppard. With only eight guests per group, this tour is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, in-depth look at Christchurch’s garden legacy.

Search icon Flower beds in full bloom at Christchurch Botanic Gardens, with the historic Canterbury Museum building in the background.
Search icon Neatly clipped box hedges forming a geometric garden layout in Canterbury.
Search icon Teacup on a saucer in the foreground with a lily pond and manicured gardens in Canterbury.
Search icon A neatly trimmed hedge maze surrounded by tall green hedges in a formal garden setting in Canterbury, New Zealand.
Search icon Decorative garden fountain with a classical statue surrounded by lush greenery
Search icon Autumn leaves reflected in a lily pond at Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Search icon Gondolier guiding a punt along the Avon River in Christchurch
Search icon Hikers overlooking Lyttelton Harbour from the Port Hills near Christchurch
Search icon Groups punting from the historic Antigua Boat Sheds in Christchurch
Search icon Pathway alongside the Avon River in Christchurch with native trees

Tour Details:

  • Departs: Christchurch 9:30am
  • Arrives: Christchurch 4:30pm

Inclusions

  • Hotel pick up
  • Travel by luxury vehicle with maximum of 8 passengers.
  • Cafe lunch included.
  • Fully escorted tour with local knowledgeable guide.
  • Hotel drop off

Age Information

  • Adults: 13 years and over
  • Children: 2-12 years

Cancellations & Refunds

  • 8 days or more before departure: Full refund**
  • Between 7 days and 48 hours: 50% refund**
  • Within 48 hours: No refund
  • Shore Excursions: In the event of a tour cancellation due to unsuitable sea or weather conditions, a partial refund may be issued.

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

Please note that this is a sample itinerary. Additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks. 

  • 9:30 AM – Pickup from your accommodation and begin the journey to the Port Hills. From this scenic vantage point, you'll get to admire the stunning views of Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains, Lyttelton Harbour, and the Southern Alps.
  • 10:00 AM – Descend into Lyttelton Harbour and explore a historic private garden established in 1865. Take a leisurely stroll among exotic trees, colorful rhododendrons, camellias, and native New Zealand plants.
  • 11:30 AM – Head to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and immerse yourself in its vibrant beauty. Explore the towering trees, colorful flowerbeds, sculptures, and memorial plantings that celebrate local and international history.
  • 12:30 PM – Pause for a relaxing lunch amidst the tranquil surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.
  • 2:00 PM – Visit a hidden gem celebrating the legacy of Kate Sheppard, an influential figure in New Zealand’s women’s suffrage movement. Learn about her achievements and their lasting impact on the country.
  • 3:30 PM – Conclude your tour with a visit to an additional public garden, time permitting. Enjoy its peaceful ambiance and rich botanical features.
  • 4:30 PM – Return to your accommodation with unforgettable memories of Christchurch's stunning gardens and historic landmarks.

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