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Christchurch Gondola Ride

Pricing From
$42

South Island
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Overview

The Gondola allows visitors to experience a truly unique and unforgettable view of Christchurch.  As you glide your way over the valleys and see the birds flying below you, the views will take your breath away!  From the city itself and the Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps and Banks Peninsula, the Christchurch Gondola Ride is an experience everyone enjoys in New Zealand's South Island.

While you might call it a cable car, others know it as a gondola.  No matter what name you use, this is an absolute must for all Christchurch visitors.  It is an experience that will stay with you for years to come.  Once you reach the summit, you can enjoy the Discovery ride which is a fantastic dramatic reconstruction of the region’s history.  Stop at the Red Rock Café for a snack and take some time to browse around the shop too.

The Christchurch Gondola’s Base Station is located in the Heathcote Valley.  Here, you will notice that there’s more than enough parking space for cars as well as coaches.  The Summit Station, which includes the Discovery Ride, café and shop, is located on top of Mt Cavendish.  Your Gondola ride to the summit will take approximately 10 minutes (one way) at regular speed.  Each cable car stops at the summit and at the base on each trip to allow passengers to get on and off.  The cableway stretches over 862 metres horizontally and the cabins are both stable and comfortable so passengers can relax and enjoy the amazing 360° views.

Attractions at the Top:
  • Red Rock Café: fully licensed, accommodates 120 pax and is open daily from 10am – 5pm
  • Shop at the Top: NZ souvenirs and gifts including mementos, jewellery and clothing
  • Discovery Ride: A six minute entertaining ride on an electric cart which takes you back in time through the history of the local area
  • Walking & Mountain biking tracks
  • Stunning 360 degree views

Gondola Shuttle

Transport to the Gondola is available on public bus number #8, departing from the City Exchange on Lichfield Street behind The Crossing Complex. The City Bus Exchange is located between Lichfield and Tuam Streets behind Ballantynes and Cashel Mall.

The Gondola is just a 15-minute drive from central Christchurch. The Gondola Shuttle operates daily in summer. It costs NZ$15.00 return for an adult, and $7.50 return for a child (5-15yrs). One-way tickets are also available for NZ$7.50 for an adult or NZ$3.75 for a child. Any under 5's ride free.

Wheelchair Access

Wheelchairs up to 600mm in width can be accommodated on the Christchurch Gondola. 

They can stop the gondola to allow you to get on safely and the Christchurch Gondola also has a wheelchair available to borrow if your wheelchair is too wide.

There is also a lift at the summit to transport you to the viewing deck.

Christchurch Gondola

Christchurch Gondola

Christchurch Gondola

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