Crater Rim Walk & Picnic Shore Excursion

South Island

Crater Rim Walks

from

NZ$280

per adult

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Three hikers standing on a narrow trail cut into the steep green cliffs above the sea on Banks Peninsula

Experiences

Hiking & Walking

Shore Excursions

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

Small Group Tours

South Island

Start: Lyttleton

Locations: Lyttelton, Christchurch

Travel Time: 5 hours

Distance: 10 kms

Difficulty: 2

Minimum Age: 12

Details

A Guided Adventure Along the Stunning Crater Rim Walkway

Set out from the port town of Lyttelton on a guided adventure that showcases the best of Canterbury’s natural beauty. The Crater Rim Walkway winds through dramatic volcanic terrain with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, Lyttelton Harbour, and the distant Southern Alps. With a small group and local guide, the pace is relaxed, the stories are rich, and the scenery is unforgettable.

Midway through the walk, pause for a picnic surrounded by sweeping vistas and fresh mountain air. Your guide shares fascinating insights into the area’s volcanic history and local wildlife, bringing the landscape to life. After the walk, you can return directly to Lyttelton port or continue into Christchurch city to explore further before rejoining your cruise.

Walk the Ancient Volcanic Ridges of the Crater Rim Trail

The Crater Rim Walk on Banks Peninsula is one of Canterbury’s most scenic short hikes, tracing the remnants of an ancient volcano that shaped the region. From high ridgelines, walkers enjoy breathtaking views across the harbour and coastline, with glimpses of the Southern Alps in the distance. The track’s unique mix of geological history, native flora, and coastal panoramas makes it a highlight for visitors seeking both adventure and serenity near Christchurch.

Whether you’re stepping off your cruise for a half-day escape or adding a local touch to your South Island travels, this guided shore excursion perfectly combines nature, culture, and relaxation. It’s a chance to stretch your legs, share stories with fellow travellers, and experience the beauty of Banks Peninsula at its most captivating.

Drone view showing the Crater Rim trail snaking along a green hillside above rocky coastline and turquoise water

Group of hikers sitting in front of the Scott’s Cabin replica hut with walking poles and smiles

Aerial shot of steep cliffs and rolling green hills meeting the ocean on Banks Peninsula near Christchurch

Whitewashed bach with gardens and ocean cliffs behind at Boulder Bay

Group of hikers outside a traditional New Zealand bach with rocky cliffs and bright blue sky behind

Packed picnic lunch with salad, savoury muffin and sweet treat, neatly presented in metal containers on a wooden table

Group of hikers posing on a grassy coastal trail with Taylors Mistake beach and headland in the background

Large hiking group standing on the sand at Taylors Mistake Beach under a bright blue sky

Small historic hut at Godley Head with two people on the roof platform and the sun high above the Pacific

Disphyma australe ice plants growing near the shore at Boulder Bay, Banks Peninsula

Rocky coastal cliffs and calm turquoise waters near Boulder Bay on Banks Peninsula

Crater Rim guide with backpack explaining Scott’s Cabin history to visitors near Godley Head

Small lone tree on a grassy slope above the coastline with the trail in the background

Three walkers climbing through tussock grass with stunning views over Lyttelton Harbour and Banks Peninsula

INCLUSIONS:

Personal guided walking tour for small groups of up to 10
Transport from Lyttelton in a 12-seater van (10 mins)
Return to Lyttelton Port or Christchurch City
Hot drink at a local beachside cafe
Light morning tea
Water bottle to keep
Gourmet Picnic Lunch
Walking sticks and a day bag

WHAT TO WEAR/BRING:

Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots (sneakers are fine but they must have good traction on them as the path can be slippery, especially after rain)
Comfortable clothes depending on the season (shorts/leggings and a t-shirt)
A warm layer of clothing and a jacket
Sunblock and a sun hat
Camera/phone

CANCELLATION POLICY:

1-4 guests:
- Outside 48 hours before departure: full refund* less 25% administration fee
- Within 48 hours: no refund
5 or more guests
- Outside 7 days: full refund* less 25% administration fee
- Within 7 days: no refund

Note: *Less any booking or credit card fees.

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

Itinerary

Group of hikers posing near Robert’s Road sign at Boulder Bay, Banks Peninsula

After meeting your guide at Norwich Quay (with free shuttles from the cruise berth), you’ll travel through local suburbs to the beachside town of Sumner for a warm drink and views of Cave Rock.

Your guided coastal walk begins at Taylors Mistake, where you'll follow the Crater Rim Track along an ancient volcanic caldera. Along the way, visit a WWII defence battery, spot a local penguin colony, and explore Scott’s Hut, a replica Antarctic cabin. Take in sweeping views of Pegasus Bay, the Southern Alps, Lyttelton Harbour, and the vast Pacific Ocean.

Enjoy a picnic lunch at Boulder Bay, a remote beach only accessible on foot, often visited by seals and dolphins. The walk is approximately 3 hours including breaks, and is moderate in difficulty.

After your walk, return to Lyttelton or choose to be dropped off in Christchurch to explore independently. Flexible return options make this a great combination of nature, history, and local insight — ideal for active cruise passengers.

Please Note: If your cruise ship arrives at or after 9 am, we will adjust the start time accordingly. For ships arriving at 10 am, a later departure time is typically arranged. Please inform us of your arrival time when booking.

Travel Time: 5 hours

Distance: 10 kms

Booking Options

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