Christchurch’s top tours cut straight to the essence of this resilient New Zealand city. The most worthwhile options include the eye-opening Ōtautahi walking tour, which brings the city’s earthquake recovery story to life through local guides who lived through it. We love the efficient Tram and Punting Combo – you’ll see all the main sights while alternating between vintage tram rides and peaceful river punting. For wine enthusiasts, the Wine Trail and City Day Tour hits all the right notes, combining urban exploration with tastings at nearby vineyards. The Gondola and Tram combo earns our top marks for mixing stunning Port Hills views with downtown discoveries.
Let’s explore these tours in detail.
Key Points
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The Ōtautahi: Christchurch Small-Group Inner City Walking Tour provides a personalized experience with knowledgeable local guides, focusing on the city’s resilience and cultural heritage.
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The Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo efficiently showcases the city’s top spots and landmarks through a historic tram ride and traditional punt experience.
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The Wine Trail and Christchurch City Day Tour offers a luxury small-group experience with visits to three local wineries and guided exploration of Christchurch’s history and landmarks.
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The Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo provides a full-day experience with scenic views from the Christchurch Gondola and a hop-on-and-off tram tour.
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The Lyttelton Shore Excursion – City Highlights & Waipara Wine Tour offers a customizable tour with a focus on top city attractions and notable wineries, including a delicious lunch.
Ōtautahi: Christchurch Small-Group Inner City Walking Tour
The Ōtautahi: Christchurch Small-Group Inner City Walking Tour offers visitors an engaging exploration of Christchurch’s resilience and cultural heritage.
This 5-star rated tour, based on 34 reviews, takes participants on a journey through the city’s inner core, focusing on its rebuilding efforts following the 2011 earthquake.
Led by knowledgeable and enthusiastic local guides, the tour provides valuable insights into Christchurch’s Māori and English history, as well as its thriving art scene and hidden gems.
Travelers can enjoy coffee, tea, and food tastings along the way, making it a well-rounded experience.
With a maximum of 12 participants, this small-group tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most visitors to Christchurch.
Read our full review: Ōtautahi: Christchurch Small-Group Inner City Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo
Visitors looking to experience Christchurch’s vibrant city center can embark on the Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo.
This 2-in-1 tour allows them to explore the city’s top spots aboard a historic tram and glide along the Avon River in a traditional punt. The tram tour provides an overview of Christchurch’s landmarks and architecture, while the punting experience offers a serene and scenic river journey.
With this combo, travelers can efficiently discover the heart of the city and its unique charm. Priced at a reasonable rate, this activity is a popular choice among visitors seeking a well-rounded Christchurch sightseeing experience.
Read our full review: Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo Review
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Wine Trail and Christchurch City Day Tour
This luxury, small-group tour takes travelers on a captivating journey through Christchurch’s world-renowned wine region and the city’s iconic landmarks.
With a maximum of 8 participants, the tour offers a personalized experience, complete with hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, afternoon tea, and a delicious lunch.
Guests will indulge in alcoholic beverages as they explore three local wineries, learning about the region’s unique flavors.
The tour also includes a guided exploration of Christchurch, showcasing the city’s rich history and stunning sights.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars by 11 reviewers, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking a luxurious and immersive Christchurch experience.
Read our full review: Wine Trail and Christchurch City Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo
Christchurch’s iconic Gondola and heritage Tram City Tour Combo offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s natural beauty and historic landmarks.
Priced from $45.28 per person, this full-day experience includes a roundtrip ticket for the Christchurch Gondola, offering scenic vistas from 445 meters above sea level.
The hop-on-and-off tram tour, with live commentary, provides access to 18 stops, including the Riverside Market and Botanic Gardens. Guests can also enjoy punting on the River Avon.
While the attractions may be busier during peak seasons, the tour’s flexibility and knowledgeable guides ensure a memorable day.
Warm clothing is recommended, and those afraid of heights should take caution.
Read our full review: Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo Review
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Heartbeat of the City: Christchurch Walking Tour for Couples
For couples seeking an intimate exploration of Christchurch’s vibrant heart, the Heartbeat of the City walking tour promises an immersive experience.
Operated by Opatrip.com, this private tour guides you through the city’s picturesque Botanic Gardens and into the lively New Regent Street Precinct.
Along the way, a professional local guide shares insights into Christchurch’s history and culture. Priced from $329.38 per person, the tour offers flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand and a Reserve Now, Pay Later option.
Whether you’re strolling past heritage buildings or admiring the city’s revitalization, this tour provides couples with an authentic, personalized glimpse into the “Heartbeat of the City.”
Read our full review: Heartbeat of the City: Christchurch Walking Tour for Couples Review
Book now: Check availability
Lyttelton Shore Excursion – City Highlights & Waipara Wine Tour
The Lyttelton Shore Excursion – City Highlights & Waipara Wine Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Christchurch’s top attractions and the renowned local wineries.
With a maximum group size of 18 travelers, this customizable tour offers a personalized experience. Highlights include city sights, visits to three notable wineries, and a delicious lunch.
Guests generally praise the knowledgeable tour guides and the overall quality of the wine tasting experiences. Some suggestions for improvement include reevaluating winery selections and addressing service quality at certain locations.
Plus, the presence of children on wine tasting tours may impact the schedule and experience for some guests. This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Christchurch’s culture and flavors.
Read our full review: Lyttelton Shore Excursion – City Highlights & Waipara Wine Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Christchurch offers a variety of engaging city tours that cater to diverse interests. From walking tours showcasing the inner city to tram and punting combos, wine trails, and gondola excursions, there’s an option to suit every traveler’s preferences. These tours provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural surroundings.