Christchurch, the heart of the South Island, is more than a vibrant city – it’s the starting point for journeys into some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes. From here, you can travel north to Kaikōura for whale watching and dolphin encounters, west to Arthur’s Pass and Franz Josef through alpine scenery, or south to Aoraki/Mt Cook and the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo.
Our curated Christchurch day trips and small group tours are handpicked for their quality, trusted operators and consistently excellent reviews. Each experience is designed to showcase the best of the South Island – dramatic coastlines, soaring mountains, and encounters with wildlife – all made seamless with premium transport and knowledgeable local guides.
Why Book Christchurch Tours With Us
Only The Best
We handpick only the best tours with consistently excellent reviews
Trusted Local Operators
We partner exclusively with established and reputable tour providers
Guided Small Group Tours
Travel in comfort with experienced guides who share local insights and hidden gems
Easy & Secure Booking
Book with confidence - safe payments and friendly support
Getting There
Christchurch is the main gateway to the South Island, with direct international flights from Australia and regular connections to Auckland, Wellington and Queenstown. Located on the east coast, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring in every direction – north to Kaikōura, south to Aoraki/Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo, or west through the Southern Alps to Arthur’s Pass.
You can also access Christchurch from Queenstown on a small group tour, travelling either via Aoraki/Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo or along the wild West Coast through Franz Josef and Hokitika. These scenic routes turn the transfer into a highlight in itself, with premium vehicles, carefully chosen stops and expert local guides bringing the journey to life.
Whether you’re beginning your South Island adventure in Christchurch or arriving here as part of a multi-day journey, the city is the perfect hub for connecting with the landscapes that make New Zealand extraordinary.
Tours To Christchurch
Scenic small group journeys connecting Christchurch with Queenstown, Franz Josef & Tekapo
Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo Small Group Tour (One Way)
Travel from Queenstown to Christchurch in premium comfort, with stops at Aoraki/Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo. Enjoy alpine vistas, glacier-fed lakes and scenic lookouts on this fully-guided small group one-way journey.
- To: Christchurch via Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo (one way)
- From: Queenstown
- Duration: Approx. 12 hours
- Price: From $399 NZD per adult
Franz Josef to Christchurch via Hokitika Small Group Tour including TranzAlpine Train (One Way)
Journey from the wild West Coast to Christchurch via Hokitika, then board the world-famous TranzAlpine train across the Southern Alps. A seamless small group fully-guided transfer that doubles as a spectacular sightseeing experience.
- To: Christchurch via Hokitika (one way)
- From: Franz Josef
- Duration: 12 hours
- Price: From $550 NZD per adult
Tekapo to Christchurch Small Group Tour (One Way)
A relaxed small group guided journey from Lake Tekapo to Christchurch, travelling through the rolling Canterbury Plains with scenic stops and expert commentary along the way.
- To: Christchurch (one way)
- From: Tekapo
- Duration: Approx. 3 hours
- Price: From $199 NZD per adult
Tours From Christchurch
Discover the best scenic journeys from Christchurch to Queenstown, Franz Josef or Tekapo
Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt Cook & Tekapo Small Group Tour (One Way)
Head south from Christchurch to Queenstown, visiting Lake Tekapo and Aoraki/Mt Cook en route. With small group comfort, passionate guides and curated scenic stops, it’s the ultimate way to link two iconic South Island destinations.
- To: Queenstown via Mt Cook & Tekapo (one way)
- From: Christchurch
- Duration: Approx. 13 hours
- Price: From $399 NZD per adult
Christchurch to Franz Josef via Hokitika Small Group Tour including TranzAlpine Train (One Way)
Join this unmissable bucket list adventure! Combine a small group guided tour with the famous TranzAlpine train journey. Travel from Christchurch to Franz Josef via Hokitika, crossing the Southern Alps by rail before continuing along the rugged West Coast.
- To: Franz Josef via Hokitika (one way)
- From: Christchurch
- Duration: 12 hours
- Price: From $550 NZD per adult
Christchurch to Tekapo Small Group Tour (One Way)
Travel from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo in comfort, with scenic views of the Canterbury Plains and time to soak in the turquoise beauty of the Mackenzie Basin on a small group tour.
- To: Tekapo (one way)
- From: Christchurch
- Duration: Approx. 3 hours
- Price: From $199 NZD per adult
Why Retreats Abroad
Curated Experiences You Can Trust
We only feature top-rated experiences run by trusted hosts
Small Groups Led By Expert Guides
Explore deeper with local experts and like-minded travellers
Easy & Secure Booking
Secure your spot quickly and confidently
Restore While You Explore
Discover the perfect balance of wellness and adventure
How We Select Our Christchurch Tours
Book now to secure your spot on our top-rated Christchurch Tours