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19 Available Tour Excursions in Canterbury New Zealand
Experience Kaikōura’s longest and most immersive helicopter whale watching tour. This one-hour adventure begins with an unforgettable aerial journey over the Kaikōura Whale Sanctuary and the underwater Kaikōura Canyon, a marine hotspot rich with wildlife due to nutrient-filled upwellings. Spot a variety of whales, including Humpback whales, Blue whales, Southern Right whales, and the resident Sperm whales—the largest toothed whale in the world. Along the way, watch for playful Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals along the coastline. The experience concludes with a breathtaking alpine landing atop the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges, where you'll enjoy panoramic mountain and ocean views. Perfect for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers, this Kaikōura helicopter tour offers the ultimate New Zealand nature experience.
Price: $807.69
Duration: 1 hours
Embark on the ultimate Kaikōura helicopter whale watching tour for a unique wildlife and scenic adventure. Fly over the Kaikōura Whale Sanctuary and Hikurangi Marine Reserve, where you’ll spot majestic marine life including sperm whales, humpback whales, blue whales, orcas, and other migratory species. The helicopter’s manoeuvrability offers incredible views of the whales and dolphins, with close-up photo opportunities you can’t get from boats. Keep an eye out for playful Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals near the shore. Continue the adventure north along the rugged Kaikōura coastline and land in the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges. From this exclusive mountaintop location, enjoy 360-degree views of Kaikōura Peninsula, the Pacific Ocean, and surrounding mountains—an unforgettable experience for photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
Price: $960.09
Duration: 2 hours
An intimate privately guided wildlife experience around the Kaikoura peninsula on hands free pedal kayaks, allowing for the ultimate kayaking experience. Let us take you and your group around the rugged coastline encountering seals, penguins and seabirds with the jaw-dropping mountains as a backdrop. With expert local commentary along the way on indigenous local history, post colonial sealing and whaling and everything in between This immersive experience can be tailored to suit any traveller. Whether your special private tour is for a honeymooning couple, avid wildlife group or just a special family adventure, the team at Seal Kayak Kaikoura will make sure you create memories that last a lifetime
Price: $82.29
Duration: 3 hours
Our Merino Farm Experience allows you to enjoy a slice of kiwi (New Zealand) rural life. Be guided by the family owners and operators on the property since 1884. See the sheep and sometimes our cattle roaming the fields. Visit our woolshed and learn more about how we shear our sheep, Touch the super fine wool and see what the product gets made into. Travel to the top of the farm for panoramic views of the southern alps and rivers. Visit our house gardens, both Flowers and vegetables. Meet our working dogs and pet sheep. Feed our friendly sheep, touch their wool and grab a selfie! Private tours can be arranged by request.
Price: $57.91
Duration: 1 hours
Hop On Hop Off Wine Tours have come to Christchurch - Wiapara. Welcome aboard the Hop On Hop Off Wine, Beer, Food & Wonders Tours in North Canterbury! We're thrilled to introduce you to a personalized touring experience like no other. With our diverse selection of over 20 venues, you have the freedom to craft your ideal itinerary, tailored to your interests and schedule. Explore the scenic wineries, indulge in the finest local brews at breweries, and uncover the wonders of Wairapa your own pace. Our flexible timetable allows you to choose where you want to go and how long you'd like to stay at each stop, ensuring a truly bespoke adventure. Whether you're a wine connoisseur, a craft beer enthusiast, or simply curious about the city's attractions, there's something here for everyone. Join us on board and create memories as you explore North Canterbury your way with Hop On Hop Off Tours.
Price: $78.94
Duration: 5 hours
On your scenic drive to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park you will pass the famous cool aid looking Lake Pukaki and enjoy the view on New Zealands most beautiful road. Then the fun begins, trekking along the Hooker Valley Track at the base of Mount Cook, surrounded by mountains, glaciers, swing bridges and the flowing Hooker River. Hopefully you spot the native Kea bird too! Relax and enjoy the sights on your way back to Timaru, stopping at Lake Tekapo for the last look at the Southern Alps. Finish your day with a legendary Fairlie Bakehouse pie, fueling you up for a day in the mountains.
Price: $736.00
Duration: 7 hours
Ridgeway Play isn’t just another activity spot; it’s an interactive playground for all ages, combining fun, competition, and outdoor adventure in a stunning rural setting. Unleash Your Inner Warrior – Try your hand at axe throwing, robot target shooting, and disc golf, all in one place! Whether you're a first-timer or a pro, our experiences are designed for thrills, laughs, and friendly competition. Perfect for Groups & Events – From team-building retreats to birthday bashes, stag/hen parties, and family getaways, Ridgeway Play is fully customizable to make your event truly special. Ready to Play? – Book now and experience epic fun in the great outdoors at Ridgeway Play!
Price: $914.37
Duration: 4 hours
Check out the interactive alpaca farm tour just 20 minutes north of Christchurch. Get hands-on as you feed, touch, and cuddle these friendly alpacas, including adorable babies when they're around. The owner shares entertaining stories and answers all your questions, making it a fun and informative experience. After the tour, check out the fibre shed, trophy room, and shop, or take a stroll through the beautiful gardens and hang out with the alpacas again. Perfect for family outings and a hit with air crew. - One-hour interactive tour with alpacas, perfect for all ages - Feed, cuddle, and hold baby alpacas (seasonal) - Enjoy informative commentary from the owner - Explore the fibre shed, trophy room, and lovely gardens after the tour
Price: $24.38
Duration: 1 hours
PRIVATE TOUR – Price is for up to 5 passengers, not per person. This exclusive helicopter experience is the only one of its kind in New Zealand, developed in collaboration with a local Marine Mammal Biologist from the Kaikōura Marine Mammal Foundation. You'll journey over the Hikurangi Marine Reserve, where whales reside close to the Kaikōura coast. Throughout the flight, your onboard marine biologist will share expert insights into the region’s marine life and ecosystem, offering a deeply educational and engaging experience. Next, we land to pick up a fresh crayfish lunch from the famous Karaka Lobster Café, which you'll enjoy at a remote mountain location with panoramic views of the ocean and the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges. To conclude the tour, your pilot will guide you over dramatic landscapes shaped by the 2016 Kaikōura Earthquake, highlighting fault lines, diverted rivers, and massive landslides—bringing both natural beauty and geological history to life.
Price: $4,785.20
Duration: 2 hours
Discover the charm of Oasis Cottage, a private 5-acre country garden nestled near the foothills of the Southern Alps. This exclusive tour offers an intimate glimpse into a historic property, complete with seasonal blooms, formal gardens, and lush natural landscapes. Wander through the enchanting Blue Garden, explore the vegetable allée and orchard, and enjoy the tranquil duck pond with rural views and abundant birdlife. What sets this tour apart is the unique opportunity to visit the Oasis Cottage floral studio and greenhouse. Learn about the art of growing and arranging cut flowers for stunning European-inspired bouquets. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or a lover of floral artistry, this personalised experience is designed to delight and inspire. With breathtaking vistas of Mount Oxford as your backdrop and peaceful pathways to explore, this private tour provides an unforgettable retreat into nature. Book now to experience the beauty and creativity of Oasis Cottage.
Price: $12.19
Duration: 1-1 hours
Rangiora airfield is the most efficient place in canterbury for learning to fly. There are no delays dealing with air traffic or controlled airspace and the mountains and other training areas are right on our doorstep. This means you can get straight into the fun stuff and maximize your time in the aircraft. Safety is our number one priority and you will be flying with a highly qualified and experienced instructor who has taught dozens of people how to fly helicopters. If you would like to do something a bit different we can easily customize this flight to include a mountain landing or a specific point of interest.
Price: $234.69
Duration: 1 hours
This day excursion takes us across the Canterbury Plains around 50 miles to Porters Pass (just under 1000 m and higher than Arthurs Pass) and into the Southern Alps. Mountain lakes and wide braided rivers pass through ancient glacial valleys. After about 2.5 hours we reach Arthurs Pass National Park and its beech forests. We drive to the top of the pass and divide looking over into the rainforests of the West Coast, then stop in AP village here for lunch.Time permitting we have a quick tour of Christchurch on the return trip and a short stroll at Castle Hill.
Price: $1,000.00
Duration: 7 hours
Escape the crowds and enjoy an incredible day in the great outdoors, on this stunning guided Crater Rim Walk. Lyttelton Harbour is nestled inside an extinct volcano crater. You will be met at Lyttleton Port by your guide, and transported in a 12-seater van to Sumner Beach for hot drinks at a cafe overlooking the ocean. Godley Head Loop Track is undoubtedly one of the best hikes in Christchurch, an undulating track with breathtaking coastal views, historic WW2 landmarks, and quaint little beaches. The distance is approximately 8 km / 5 miles, taking around 3 hours to walk, with lots of time to stop and enjoy the scenery. Morning tea is served at Godley Head, followed by a picnic lunch at Boulder Bay, a secluded beach looking out over Pegasus Bay, and the majestic Southern Alps. Seals, dolphins, and birds are often spotted. After the walk, your guide will return you to Lyttleton Port, or if time allows you will also have the option of being dropped into Christchurch City to explore.
Price: $182.87
Duration: 5 hours
Experience the ultimate Kaikōura helicopter tour and witness New Zealand’s incredible marine life from above. Fly over the renowned Kaikōura Canyon to spot Sperm, Humpback, Southern Right, Orca, or even Blue whales, depending on the season. This extended scenic flight gives you more time to enjoy whale sightings and coastal views. Spot Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals as you cruise along the shoreline. Land at a remote site only accessible by South Pacific Helicopters, where you'll take in breathtaking views of the mountains and ocean. This unforgettable whale watching and wildlife experience is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Price: $502.90
Duration: 1 hours
Our Pilots will take you up to 9500 ft above the patchwork Canterbury Plains with spectacular Panoramic views west to the Mountains and east to the Pacific Ocean. Launching from the famous foothills of Mt Hutt. The flight can only be described as exhilarating, gliding above the treetops and rising up to watch as the Canterbury Plains roll out in front of you. Then looking west you will see the majestic snow caped Southern Alps.
Price: $231.64
Duration: 3-4 hours
Experience the thrill of whale watching from the sky with Wings Over Whales! This unique activity offers unparalleled views of the resident sperm whales, the largest toothed whales in the world. From above, you’ll have the chance to see the full scale of these majestic creatures, offering you epic aerial views of both the whales and the stunning surrounding scenery. Flying over the Kaikoura Whale Sanctuary allows you to cover vast areas, increasing your chances of spotting even more marine wildlife, including dusky dolphins. As the longest-operating aerial whale watching company in Kaikoura, we’re committed to both safety and comfort. Our aircraft meet the highest safety standards, giving you peace of mind while you enjoy the ride. At Wings Over Whales, we provide not only an adventure, but a warm, welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Book your whale watching flight today for a truly unforgettable experience in the skies above Kaikoura!
Price: $134.11
Duration: 0 hours
Travel in comfort from Timaru Port to the alpine village of Lake Tekapo, Travel in a premium 4WD to explore a privately owned high-country sheep station—a landscape rarely seen by visitors. Explore panoramic views of the Southern Alps. This is a photographer’s dream and a genuine taste of New Zealand’s backcountry heritage. • Intimate groups (maximum 6 guests) for a relaxed, personalised experience • Exclusive private land access on working sheep stations • Premium 4WD vehicles built for comfort and rugged terrain • Local guides with deep knowledge of the Mackenzie Basin and high-country life • Scenic drive from Timaru to Lake Tekapo • 30 minutes free time in Lake Tekapo township • Off-road 4WD exploration through pristine backcountry ( 1.5hrs) • Epic photo stops across remote alpine landscapes • Exclusive private access to one of NZ’s most famous sheep stations • See landscapes people cannot access on their own through private land, minutes from Tekapo.
Price: $353.56
Duration: 6 hours
Experience a seasonal one-hour guided tour of the lavender fields from late November to mid-February. The story of our lavender farm is shared as you walk amongst 5,000 plus lavender plants. The opportunity to purchase lavender products is available, as is the chance to try our famous Lavenade. At the end of the tour, you are free to wander through the lavender fields and on a short track to a picnic area amongst the forest. Facilities include an outdoor composting toilet. The income from our farm tours goes directly back into our conservation and regeneration programme. Booking is essential, no walk-ins. Contact us for a group tour bookings or for tours outside advertised hours.
Price: $19.51
Duration: 1 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: NZD
- Languages: English, Maori
- Climate: Temperate
- Timezone: Pacific/Auckland
- Population: Approximately 624,000 people reside in the Canterbury region.
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit Canterbury is during spring and summer.
- Visa Requirements Citizens of the US, EU, and UK typically do not need a visa for stays up to six months. However, they must meet specific requirements such as having a valid passport and sufficient funds. Visa-free travel is available for many countries, but it's advisable to check the latest visa policies before traveling.
About Canterbury New Zealand
Canterbury, New Zealand, is a region of breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Located on the South Island, it offers a diverse range of landscapes from the majestic Southern Alps to the serene Canterbury Plains. The region is home to Christchurch, a city known for its resilience and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors are drawn to Canterbury for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventure opportunities, and unique cultural experiences. Whether exploring the scenic Lake Tekapo, hiking in the mountains, or enjoying the city's arts and culture, Canterbury provides a unique blend of adventure and relaxation that makes it an unforgettable destination.
Canterbury New Zealand Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of South Island
- Duration Range: Half-day or Full-day
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: Mixed Difficulty
- Recommended For: The best time to visit Canterbury is during spring and summer. Visitors should pack layers for changing weather conditions and comfortable shoes for outdoor activities. Cultural etiquette emphasizes respect for Maori traditions and the environment. Safety tips include being prepared for variable weather and respecting local wildlife. It's advisable to have a mix of cash and credit cards for payments.
Average Tour Price: $65
Lowest Price Tour: $45
Highest Price Tour: $200
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2. Check Details
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3. Book Online
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4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Canterbury New Zealand.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. **Christchurch Cathedral**: A historic landmark symbolizing the city's resilience and cultural identity. 2. **Lake Tekapo**: Known for its stunning turquoise waters and picturesque surroundings, perfect for stargazing. 3. **Aoraki Mount Cook National Park**: Offers breathtaking mountain vistas and hiking trails. 4. **Waipara Valley**: Famous for its wine production and scenic vineyards. 5. **Arthur's Pass National Park**: Provides a mix of rugged mountains and scenic valleys ideal for hiking.
Popular Activities
Canterbury offers a wide range of activities, from hiking and skiing in the Southern Alps to scenic flights and wine tastings in the Waipara Valley. Visitors can explore Christchurch's vibrant cultural scene, including its street art and museums. For adventure seekers, there are opportunities for bungee jumping, rafting, and horseback riding. The region also provides a chance to experience Maori culture through local tours and performances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Canterbury's cuisine is characterized by its fresh produce, seafood, and local wines. Signature dishes include lamb, venison, and seafood such as mussels and salmon. The region is also known for its artisanal cheeses and craft beers. Noteworthy restaurants include those in Christchurch's city center, which offer a mix of contemporary New Zealand cuisine and international flavors. Dining customs are casual, with an emphasis on local ingredients and outdoor dining during warmer months.
Getting Around
To reach Canterbury, visitors typically fly into Christchurch Airport, which offers connections to major cities worldwide. Local transportation options include buses, taxis, and rental cars. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the region's scenic landscapes and rural areas. Costs vary depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration. Public transportation is available but limited in rural areas.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit Canterbury is during spring and summer. Visitors should pack layers for changing weather conditions and comfortable shoes for outdoor activities. Cultural etiquette emphasizes respect for Maori traditions and the environment. Safety tips include being prepared for variable weather and respecting local wildlife. It's advisable to have a mix of cash and credit cards for payments.
Culture & Customs
Canterbury's culture is a blend of Maori heritage and European influences. Social customs are generally informal, with a strong emphasis on community and environmental respect. Significant local festivals include the Christchurch Arts Festival and the Canterbury A&P Show. Visitors should be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Maori sites or attending local events.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..