Modern coaches and shuttle back to your cruise ship.Optional lunch at a local café.Afternoon tea with cakes and drinks.Expert driver/guide with commentary.Entry to all attractions, including the sheep farm.Does not include the TranzAlpine Train

Adult: 16 years +Children: 3-15 yearsInfants: 2 years and under, free if not occupying a seat

Cancellations & Refunds

8 days or more before departure: Full refund**Between 7 days and 24 hours: 50% refund**Within 24 hours: No refundShould the cruise ship not berth for any reason, other than rescheduling within 7 days, no cancellation fees applies**.Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Overview Itinerary Dates & Pricing Book now

Arthur’s Pass Alpine & Farm Experience Shore Excursion

South Island

Leisure Tours

from

NZ$335

per adult

Book Now

Native kea parrot perched on a rock with snowy mountains in the distance

Experiences

Shore Excursions

Family-friendly Tours

Small Group Tours

South Island

Start: Lyttelton

Locations: Lyttelton, Christchurch

Duration: 1 day

Travel Time: 8 hours

Exploring the Heart of New Zealand’s Alpine Wilderness

This unforgettable day trip from Lyttelton takes you across the Canterbury Plains and through the striking Porter Pass before reaching Arthur’s Pass National Park. The scenery shifts from rolling farmland to dramatic alpine peaks, offering countless photo opportunities. Wander through lush beech forest and soak in the crisp mountain air as you explore this high-altitude wonderland.

Arthur’s Pass Village, nestled among towering peaks, offers a glimpse into life in the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Take some free time to visit local cafés or simply enjoy the serenity of this charming alpine community. With its mix of wild landscapes and warm Kiwi hospitality, this stop perfectly captures the essence of South Island exploration.

Elevated Otira Viaduct stretching across a steep alpine gorge in Arthur’s Pass

Braided river channels weaving through a golden valley near Arthur’s Pass at sunset

Straight road leading to Arthur’s Pass with dramatic Southern Alps mountain backdrop

Walking track through the limestone boulders of Castle Hill with snowy peaks in the background

Two kea parrots perched on a wooden railing above the misty Otira Viaduct in Arthur’s Pass

Visitors at Devils Punchbowl Waterfall lookout in Arthur’s Pass National Park

Couple enjoying the view from Devil’s Punchbowl lookout at Arthur’s Pass waterfall

Arthur’s Pass village store with visitors and a snowy mountain backdrop

Scenic view of a lush alpine valley and towering mountains in Arthur’s Pass

Hikers exploring the rocky trail in Upper Bealey Valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks

A Real Taste of Country Life in the Southern Alps

On the return journey, the experience continues with a visit to a traditional high-country sheep farm. Here you’ll witness authentic shearing and mustering demonstrations that highlight New Zealand’s rich rural heritage. Surrounded by sweeping pastures and mountain views, it’s an ideal setting to connect with the country’s farming culture.

This farm visit offers more than just a show—it’s a personal encounter with the hardworking lifestyle that defines rural New Zealand. Chat with local farmers and gain a real appreciation for the dedication behind their craft. It’s the perfect way to round out a day filled with scenic beauty, cultural insight, and true Kiwi spirit.

This tour is only available to cruise passengers and DOES NOT include the TranzAlpine Train.

Worry-Free Guarantee: Ensuring timely return to your cruise ship or transfer to the next port of call if needed.

*Please note that minimum numbers are required for this tour to proceed.

Tour code: LT06AWTCS / LT06BWTCS

Modern coaches and shuttle back to your cruise ship.
Optional lunch at a local café.
Afternoon tea with cakes and drinks.
Expert driver/guide with commentary.
Entry to all attractions, including the sheep farm.
Does not include the TranzAlpine Train

Adult: 16 years +
Children: 3-15 years
Infants: 2 years and under, free if not occupying a seat

8 days or more before departure: Full refund**
Between 7 days and 24 hours: 50% refund**
Within 24 hours: No refund
Should the cruise ship not berth for any reason, other than rescheduling within 7 days, no cancellation fees applies**.

Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Itinerary

⚠️ Please note: The itinerary may vary slightly depending on cruise ship schedules and weather conditions.

08:30: Meet in Lyttelton township for your Arthur’s Pass Shore Excursion.

09:00: Depart Lyttelton, travelling through Christchurch and across the Canterbury Plains. Arrive at Springfield, a rural town at the foothills of the Southern Alps. Continue through Porter Pass, crossing a high-altitude plateau with small lakes and pasturelands, surrounded by snow-covered peaks. The journey then intersects with the TranzAlpine Railway as you head towards Arthur’s Pass Village.

11:00: Upon reaching Arthur’s Pass Village, continue by road to the summit of the pass, passing through dense native Beech Forest. Descend through the Otira Gorge, leading to the historic railway settlement of Otira. Stop at a viewing platform to see the impressive Otira Viaduct and possibly spot Kea, a native New Zealand parrot. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk through another section of native Beech Forest.

12:30: Return to the village, where you have the option to enjoy lunch. If you wish to include lunch, please note it during booking.

13:30: Depart Arthur’s Pass, retracing the morning route back to Springfield. Along the way, stop at scenic spots like Castle Hill, famous for its appearance in the Hobbit movie, providing excellent photo opportunities.

14:30: Arrive at a High-Country Sheep Farm along the Waimakariri River. Observe sheep mustering as skilled sheep dogs gather the flock. Enjoy a close-up experience with the sheep, and watch a sheep shearing demonstration with insightful commentary from the farmer. Learn about the different types of wool and the post-shearing process. Conclude your visit with afternoon tea, featuring tea or coffee and homemade cakes.

15:30: Depart the farm and return to Lyttelton.

17:00: Arrive back in Lyttelton township, where a shuttle will transfer you to your cruise ship.

The total tour duration is 8 hours.

Please note that minimum numbers are required for this tour to proceed.

This Excursion can be purchased including lunch – option