The Best Day Trips from Christchurch

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Top Single Day Trips from Christchurch

Standout day trip destinations within easy reach of Christchurch include:

1. Akaroa

Distance from Christchurch: 1 hour and 20-minute drive

Why go?:Get a taste of France (it is the first and only French settlement in New Zealand); see Hector’s Dolphins (the word’s rarest Dolphin); hike the Banks Peninsula Track; see other impressive wildlife and million-year-old volcano formations.

For those interested in seeing the astonishing landscapes of the Banks Peninsula, swimming with the Hector’s Dolphin, or tasting a bit of French culture, then a visit to the coastal town of Akaroa is definitely in order.

Every year, hundreds of people flock to Akaroa to swim with the Hector’s Dolphin, the smallest and rarest dolphin in the world. Also known as the New Zealand dolphin, it is one of the main attractions to the area.

Image: Black Cat Cruises

When you’re not enjoying yourself out on the water, Akaroa is best discovered by foot. Take a stroll along the ocean-side promenade, or embark on a self-guided history tour to view the French and British architecture. Akaroa is often coined ‘Little France’, and proof of the French presence is found in the street names, boutique shops and accommodation, colourful character and refined food (think white wine and mussels).

Akaroa is also geographically unique as it sits in the dwellings of an ancient volcano, and the exceptional terrain is a playground for those interested in cycling, walking, or scenic tours. If you’re a nature lover, or just simply trying to get away from the business of Christchurch for the day, we’ve rounded up the top activities to experience when in the area.

Getting there:

By Road

Two routes will get you from Christchurch to Akaroa and both are amazing ways to experience the pristine landscapes of the Banks Peninsula.

The first route is along State Highway 75. This drive is the most popular of the two as it reaches great altitude and offers amazing views of the entire region. Just before you descend into the town of Akaroa, stop off at Hilltop Tavern for a picture or two, a particularly beautiful spot at sunset.

Akaroa is the first and only French settlement in all of New Zealand, and is often coined ‘Little France’

The second route involves trekking through Lyttelton tunnel and the harbour, before making a cross-country sprint into Akaroa. Both routes are roughly one hour and 20 minutes long, but more time should be added if you’re interested in stopping off at the charming shops and eateries along the way.

If you’re looking for a transport service, the Akaroa and Dolphin Harbour Cruise Tour from Christchurch is an all-inclusive nature cruise departing from Christchurch at 8:30 am.

Image: Black Cat Cruises

What to do in Akaroa:

• Swim with the Hector's Dolphin: Several cruise companies, including Black Cat Cruises, will take you out on the water for a 3-hour swim with Hector’s Dolphin. The dolphins are in a marine sanctuary and you can get your hands on snorkel gear, wetsuits and masks before dipping and diving around with the friendly creatures amongst the Banks Peninsula waters and volcanic cliffs.
• Cruise along Akaroa: If you’d like to see the geography of the area, the Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise takes you through stunning volcanic rock formations. Seabirds, Akaroa Salmon and penguins can also be sighted out on the rocks of Seal Bay while you cruise along a comfortable and modern catamaran.
• Hike or Walk the Banks Peninsula Track: Akaroa is also the start point for the Banks Peninsula Track, a 35-kilometer hike that takes you deep into the depths of the peninsula, with impressive views of volcanic coastlines, sandy beaches, and forests. The track is open for independent walkers and hikers, although self-guided tours are also available here. The walk takes 4 days where the hike takes 2 days.
• Visit the Akaroa Heritage Museum: Other points of interest include the architecturally stunning Akaroa Heritage Museum. It recently underwent a renovation and is now home to extensive files of post-world war one veterans, archaeology, Maori history, and art exhibits honing in on the rich culture of the entire South Island region.

2. Waipara Wine Region

Distance from Christchurch:55-minute drive (one-way)

Why go?: A premier wine region in New Zealand; home to over 80 wineries and 4 wine restaurants; stay at a luxury lodge; rejuvenate with lazy days spent cruising around to different tasting rooms by bike, foot, or shuttle.

Often an overlooked part of the Canterbury region in New Zealand, Waipara is a short drive from Christchurch and home to some of the tastiest Pinot Noir, Riesling and Chardonnay grapes. Every year, people visit the area to escape the hustle and bustle of Christchurch to indulge in the local wines and olives found at the many local establishments. Tucked away in the hilly region between the Canterbury Plains and Kaikoura Peninsula, the favourable climate, and the ability to walk, bike, or stumble from one winery establishment to another, makes for an amazing day trip with your partner or loved one.

Some of the famed wineries in the area include Waipara Hills (specialising in aromatic wines), and the organic winery Black Estate (their tasting menu is insatiable with duck, venison and salmon). Further south from the town centre is Pegasus Bay Winery and Restaurant, recently reigning in as one of New Zealand’s top 5 wine producers.

When you’re not trying on the local red and white, Waipara Wine Region is painted with scenic spots where you can rest and relax in the sunshine. Try visiting one of the sculpture parks, ornamental gardens, or along the picnic and swimming area along the Waipara River. Here, we’ve rounded up a light list of essential things to do while visiting the Waipara Wine Region.

Image: Waipara Hills Wines

Getting there:

By Car

The journey from Christchurch to Waipara is roughly 60-minutes, and the drive is quite straightforward as it only entails driving 58-kilometers along the SH 1.

If public transport is more your thing, the town is serviced by coach services as well as inter-city transit. Wine tours will also take you from Christchurch to Waipara. The most popular tour is based out of Canterbury Wines, a 5 and a half hour day filled with tastings at local wineries in Mud House, Torless and Pegasus Bay.

The favourable climate, and the ability to walk, bike, or stumble from one winery establishment to another, makes for an amazing day trip with your partner or loved one

Image: North Canterbury Wine & Food Festival

What to do in the Waipara Wine Region:

• Food and Wine: The Waipara Valley Wine & Food Festival, coined ‘the coolest little wine festival in the country’ happens every year in March. Go for the local food, and wine, grown and sourced in the North Canterbury region. If your trip falls outside of March, try a bike hire and visit the esteemed wineries listed above.
• Water Activities: When you’ve spent enough time indulging in fermented grapes, make your way back to Christchurch and stop off at the glacier-fed Waimakariri River in the Canterbury Plains jetboating or sailing and kayaking on the nearby Lake Pegasus.
• Board the Historical Train: The Weka Pass Railway is a 12.8km scenic journey through the countryside of Waipara. Established in 1882, it is a great way to get a taste for the history of the area all the while foraging through hilly landscapes.
• Hanmer Springs: If you’re looking to extend your trip even further north from Waipara, make your way to the resort town, Hanmer Springs. Here, indulge in a little more rest and rejuvenation at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa, or take on the local terrain with bike rentals and hiking excursions. Hanmer Springs is also the gateway to both the Lewis Pass National Reserve and St. James Conservation Area.

3. TranzAlpine to Arthur's Pass National Park and Return

Distance from Christchurch: 2 and a half hour train ride via the TranzAlpine

Why go?: Considered one of the most amazing train rides in the world; see the Canterbury Plains change into the Southern Alps; stop at Arthur’s Pass for a grandeur of hikes through the Southern Alps; reach the highest point on the South Island - 900m above sea level; go for the hiking and beautiful photo opportunities.; stay in an eclectic bed and breakfast or remote luxury alpine lodge.

Arthur’s Pass National Park is one of the original three national parks in all of New Zealand, visited by outdoor enthusiasts every year for the esteemed hiking trails. The park is the centermost point between the east and west coasts of New Zealand’s Southern Island and is the entrance to Temple Basin Ski Resort and Avalanche Peak hike.

Image: KiwiRail Scenic Journeys

Getting to Arthurs Pass National Park is half the excitement - the TranzAlpine rail service from Christchurch to Arthurs Pass is the opportunity to experience the world-renowned views of rich pastoral Canterbury landscapes, the Waimakariri River, and of course, the rugged and snowy, Southern Alps.

The TranzAlpine rail stretches across the South Island to Greymouth and back, a total of 240-kilometers, taking up to 4 hours and 30 minutes. But the journey to Arthur’s Pass is only 2 hours and 30 minutes. The train departs daily.

Even if you’re not interested in hiking or exploring the local terrain, you can easily spend a morning in the quaint Arthur’s Pass Village, enjoying a hot cup of coffee and baked goods at one of the local eateries. If you want a quick and leisurely walk, then take the walking route to the 130m Devils Punchbowl Waterfall, or go see the Oltira Viaduct, where you can potentially catch sight of the famed alpine parrot, the Kea. Information for these hikes can be found at the Arthur’s Pass Village Centre.

The TranzAlpine rail service is revered as one of the best ways to see cross country New Zealand, and we’ve rounded up some of the best activities to endure while making the stop in Arthur's Pass.

Getting there:

By Train:

The TranzAlpine trip departs from Christchurch to Greymouth on a daily basis at 8:15 am and returns at 4:30 pm. The carriages are air-conditioned and fully serviced with food and drink. Once you’ve departed from Christchurch, the train will travel through the patch-work like pastoral terrain of the Canterbury Plains before ascending the Southern Alps.

By Car:

Though the TranzAlpine is recommended, you can also hire a car. The journey is a bit shorter (2-hours) and is along the Great Alpine Highway. Driving gives you the ability to hop in and out of the car for photo opportunities along the way, especially at one of the final peaks before arriving in Arthur’s Pass, Castle Hill. Castle Hill is a series of larger-than-life limestone boulders that were once used as a shelter and social point for Maori (labelled by the Dalai Lama in 2002 as a “Spiritual Centre of the Universe” after experiencing an undeniable scope of tangible energy when visiting the site). It was also the location of The Chronicles of Narnia film and makes for a beautiful spot for pictures.

You can also take the Arthur's Pass Day Tour with optional hiking.

Even if you’re not interested in hiking or exploring the local terrain, you can easily spend a morning in the quaint Arthur’s Pass Village, enjoying a hot cup of coffee and baked goods at one of the local eateries.

What else to do along the TranzAlpine to Arthur's Pass National Park and Return trip:

• Hike the trails: Travellers make the journey from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass in pursuit of the many hiking trails, including Arthur's Pass Walking Track (3 ½ hours return), the Temple Basin Track (3 hours return), and Avalanche Peak (4-10 hours return). For those interested in a short walk, the Devil’s Punchbowl trail is about an hour return and will spit you out at the beautiful Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall.
• Ski the local mountains: For the avid skiers, the base of Temple Basin Ski resort is only a five minutes drive from the village, where you can purchase ski and alpine accommodation packages.
• Take a Walk: If you’re not into breaking a sweat, opt for visiting the Otira gorge at the Otira Viaduct Lookout. A ten minutes drive past Arthur’s Pass village, the area is of interest due to its unique views of the national park and it is also where you can find the New Zealand Kea, the only Alpine parrot in the world.
• Get a Taste of History: You can also head out on the Historical Village Walk, giving you a taste of the local history from the 1900s. It is roughly an hour and will take you to some intriguing parts of the town.

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Top Multi-Day Trips from Christchurch

Standout multi-day destinations that provide extended potential for fun and experiences near Christchurch include:

1. Hanmer Springs

Distance from Christchurch: Around 1 hour 50 minutes’ drive

Why go?: A thermal wonderfland, Hanmer Springs is the perfect combination of beautiful scenery and relaxation.

Located in the Canterbury region to the north of Christchurch, Hanmer Springs is home to natural thermal pools, impressive mountain landscapes and its all-round relaxing atmosphere.

With an abundance of things to see and do that divert away from the iconic thermal pools, Hanmer Springs is a popular destination for travellers looking to escape the modern lifestyle of Christchurch and swap it for a calmer, more tranquil few days.

Image: Julian Apse via Tourism New Zealand

With a mixture of extreme, scenic, family-friendly and animal-based attractions available around the region, you’ll be able to fill your itinerary with something to suit almost all members of the family. Some of the popular adventures include off-road quad biking around the region, exploring the Hanmer Springs Forest on foot, white water rafting along Hanmer River, and bungy jumping.

If you’re visiting with kids a visit to the Hanmer Springs Animal Park is definitely in order. The kids will be able to get up close to a range of friendly farm animals including ducks, cows and horses.

Hanmer Springs is home to natural thermal pools, impressive mountain landscapes and its all-round relaxing atmosphere.

Getting there:

By Car

The self-drive option is great for those with access to a car who are looking to take their time and explore a number of attractions in the region. The drive to Hanmer Springs stretches 133.5 kilometres along State Highway 7 and takes just under two hours to get their one way.

By Bus

Like most popular destinations in New Zealand, there are a number of charters and tours that operate daily return or one way journeys to Hanmer Springs. Local operators Intercity, Hanmer Connection and Hanmer Tours & Shuttle operate daily services to and from this popular destination for those without a car.

Image: Hanmer Springs Attractions

What to do in Hanmer Springs:

• Thermal Pools: One of the most popular activities in the region, you can climb into a naturally heated pool to relax and calm your body. With a number of different pamper packages available you can easily make a whole day of it by filling your day with spa appointments, massages and soaks.
• Bungy Jumping: Take the leap off the historic Ferry Bridge into the 35-metre deep canyon below. A popular activity for thrill-seekers visiting the region, you’ll receive a lasting memory and a souvenir t-shirt to prove you did it.
• Jet Boating: Another favourite for thrill-seekers, the aptly named Thrillseekers Adventures takes you out on an exhilarating 40 minute ride along the famous Waiau Gorge.
• Quad Biking: Get down and dirty with an epic off roading adventure on the back of a powerful quad bike. You’ll cross rivers and rip through mud on this epic adventure that caters for a number of different skill levels. A great adventure that is both safe and challenging, a quad bike tour is perfect for those looking to sightsee in an unconventional way.

• White Water Rafting: Suitable for families and thrill seekers, this white water rafting adventure will take you on an epic journey along Waiau Gorge’s exhilarating grade two rapids.

To see all available tours, attractions and activities in Hanmer Springs browse the full catalogue below.

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2. West Coast

Distance from Christchurch: Around 3.5 hours

Why go?: Another beautiful region on New Zealand’s South Island, the West Coast is home to some world-class scenery.

One of the most remote and sparse regions in the whole country, the West Coast stretches from Kahurangi National Park in the north all the way down to Mount Aspiring National Park near Wanaka. New Zealand’s West Coast is a popular pass-through destination for visitors travelling from the north of the South Island to the south, however, it is well worth the trip as there is so much beauty you won’t want to miss.

Image: Gareth Eyres via New Zealand Tourism

Home to a number of natural attractions, you can easily spend a few days travelling up and down the coast as well as inland trying to see as much of this beautiful region as possible. Some of the stand out attractions include the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, Hokitika Gorge, and Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers.

A different type of landscape to that of the Bay of Islands and Northland, Coromandel offers picturesque beaches with iconic rock formations and coves.

Getting there:

By Car

Driving to the West Coast from Christchurch is an inland journey that will take you through some of the country’s most picturesque and recognisable landscapes, mainly Arthur’s Pass. The drive to Greymouth on the West Coast takes around 3.5 hours to complete one way and is a relatively wide road with various points to pull over and admire the beautiful views.

By Bus

West Coast Shuttle operates a charter from Christchurch to Greymouth and return on a daily basis. The charter runs direct to each destination with no scenic stops en route. If you’re looking to take your time and see the region’s beautiful scenery along the journey - this wouldn’t be an ideal option for you.

Image: Julian Apse for New Zealand Tourism

By Train

The TranzAlpine train journey is a popular way to travel from the east to west coast of the South Island. With the option of a one way or return journey you can sit in the window seat and admire the gorgeous surrounds. The train departs Christchurch at 8:15 am, arrives at Greymouth at 1:05 pm. The train departs from Greymouth at 2:05 pm to arrive back at Christchurch around 6:30 pm.

What to do on the West Coast:

• Pancake Rocks & Blowholes: Reached via a short loop track, the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Dolomite Point is an attraction showcasing the strength, beauty and power of nature. Created from years of erosion, the limestone formations have been weathered down to reflect that of a stock of pancakes.
• Heaphy Track: One of the nine great walks in New Zealand, the Heaphy Track traverses Kahurangi National Park for 82 kilometres. You can embark on a self-guided tramp or a guided tour with Southern Wilderness New Zealand.
• Fox & Franz Glaciers: Two iconic attractions on the West Coast, the glaciers are what make the region a stand out destination for travellers. The large white-blue coloured ice contrasted against the surrounding rainforest makes for an impressive attraction. You can hike the glaciers with an organised tour or you can stay around the base of them and explore them for free.
• West Coast Wildlife Centre: A popular animal attraction on the West Coast, the centre is home to a number of iconic New Zealand animals including the rare and endangered kiwi bird species, Rowi Kiwi, and the Haast Tokoeka. Great for the whole family to enjoy, the Wildlife Centre features an interactive tour with the kids and stories of New Zealand’s history.
• Scenic Flight: Take to the skies to admire the beauty of the Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers from above.
• Visit Lake Matheson: The most photographed lake in New Zealand, visit the lake to see some of the prettiest reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.

To see all available tours, attractions and activities on the West Coast, browse the full catalogue online.

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3. Alpine Lakes Journey

Distance from Christchurch: 5 days

Why go?: A combination of world-class attractions and beautiful scenery, an Alpine Lakes Journey is an ideal multi-day trip for those with a few days to spare.

A four to five day expedition from Christchurch, the Alpine Lakes Journey travels to Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook, Wanaka, and Queenstown. Combining a number of natural attractions and thrilling experiences, this is great for travellers looking to explore some of the best attractions.

Image: Miles Holden via Tourism New Zealand

This journey will have you taking on giant waterfalls, walking trails, lakes and rivers. Opt for a jet boat ride, or walk around the highest mountain in New Zealand.

With everything from cultural dining experiences and performances to relaxing hot pools and spas, you can experience a wide range of New Zealand’s iconic attractions all along the Alpine Lakes Journey.

Getting there:

Driving yourself along the Alpine Lakes Journey is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to explore the region. This way you’ll be able to stop off at multiple roadside attractions without the feeling of being rushed by a guide, or ushered back on the bus by the driver. The first leg of the journey from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo takes around 3 hours. Lake Tekapo features a vivid blue lake and a picturesque church, and is a popular star gazing destination.

The second leg of the journey goes from Lake Tekapo to Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain. The drive takes around an hour and 10 minutes and will let you explore the base of the mountain on foot or take to the skies with a scenic flight over the mountain.

Day three travels from Mount Cook to Wanaka on a 2 hour and 20 minute journey. Known for its epic adventures and experiences, Wanaka is an outdoor-lovers paradise with popular hiking and cycling tracks, water sports and scenic flights.

The final day of the trip travels from Wanaka to Queenstown, which is only an hours drive. Queenstown is known as the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’ so thrill-seekers will be well in their element here with the experiences on offer, which includes bungy jumping, canyon swinging, and jet boating. Queenstown is also a remarkable area to kick back, relax, and rejuvenate.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

What else to do on the Alpine Lakes Journey:

• Bungy Jumping: A thrill for the brave, bungy jumping in Queenstown is a brag-worthy experience. Choose from the Nevis, The Ledge or Kawarau Bridge Bungy.
• Tekapo Springs & Hot Pools: Spend the day relaxing in the Tekapo Springs & Hot Pools, a naturally heated geothermal hot pool overlooking the picturesque Lake Tekapo. The Springs feature a waterslide, sauna, day spa and aqua play area for the kids.
• Tasman Glacier: The largest glacier in New Zealand, Tasman Glacier is accessible by foot, bike or boat. With a Glacier Explorers tour, you’ll be able to touch the glaciers and learn about how they were formed all those years ago.
• Cycle Trails: There are a number of scenic and enjoyable cycling trails along the Alpine Lakes Journey, one of the most popular is the Alps2Ocean Cycle Trail which travels from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean.
• Queenstown Skyline: For the best views of Queenstown take a ride up to the Skyline complex in the scenic gondola. The Skyline is also home to the popular Luge, a café and restaurant, Kiwi Haka Show, mountain biking track and stargazing station.

See all available tours, activities and attractions in Queenstown, Wanaka, and Mount Cook in our online catalogue.

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3. Dunedin

Distance from Christchurch: Around 4.5 hour drive

Why go?: A city with rich Maori and Scottish; Dunedin is a thriving tourist hot spot.

A region filled with unique landscapes, rich heritage, and an abundance of wildlife, Dunedin in the Otago region is a popular destination for visitors to the South Island. Home to one of the most recognisable and most photographed buildings in the country; the Dunedin Railway Station, Dunedin is often overflowing with visitors from around the world.

Image: David Wall via Tourism New Zealand

The journey from Christchurch to Dunedin is a 4.5-hour journey south that can be easily spread over two days travelling. This journey will let you enjoy all of Christchurch’s attractions, followed by Oamaru’s local wildlife populations, before topping it off with Dunedin’s architectural beauty.

There are a number of things to see and do on the journey down to Dunedin, most of which are free and revolve around the local wildlife and natural scenery. Some of the stand out attractions includes the Moeraki Boulders, Moeraki Lighthouse, and Oamaru Public Gardens. If you’re willing to pay for attractions the South Canterbury Food & Wine Trail, Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony day tour, and Orokonui Eco-Sanctuary are all great options.

This journey will let you enjoy all of Christchurch’s attractions, followed by Oamaru’s local wildlife populations, before topping it off with Dunedin’s architectural beauty.

Getting there:

By Car

The self-drive option will let you stop off and see some of the surrounding regions popular attractions as mentioned above before you actually reach Dunedin. Some of these include the Oamaru Public Gardens and Oamaru Opera House, as well as the Moeraki Boulders.

By Bus

There are a number of charters and shuttles that operate services between these two popular destinations, these include Atomic Travel, Naked Bus, and Inter City. With multiple services throughout the day and the week, you’ll be able to comfortably enjoy the road trip down south without the hassle of trying to navigate yourself.

Image: Chris Stephenson via Tourism New Zealand

What to do in Dunedin:

• Dunedin Railway Station: An international icon in Dunedin, the station’s intricate architectural design is recognised around the world. Surrounded by a beautifully tended garden, the Railway Station is a great place to simply sit back and admire all of the hard work that has gone into keeping it this way.
• Speight’s Brewery: Somewhat of an icon in Dunedin, Speight’s Brewery locally brews a number of quality beers that are available to taste right in the brewery’s bar. You can also take a tour of the brewery to learn about its history and how the beer is made.
• Taieri Gorge Railway: A scenic rail journey travelling inland to Taieri Gorge, this adventure takes you through some of the Otago region’s best scenery. The train ride features commentary about the region so you can learn about what you’re seeing as you enjoy the relaxing journey from Dunedin Railway Station.
• Larnach Castle: The only castle in New Zealand, Larnach Castle is a beautiful attraction to explore. Guests are invited to explore the interior of the building as well as the perfectly manicured gardens for a fee.
• Otago Museum: Showcasing in-depth exhibitions on the region’s history, Otago Museum is a popular attraction for all ages to enjoy. Home to various exhibitions, you’ll be able to learn about the local wildlife, maritime history, and the local Maori culture. Entry to the museum is free however they do suggest you enter upon donation.
• Cadbury Factory: Take a delicious tour of the Cadbury Factory in Dunedin and light your taste buds on fire. Choose from either a 15-minute visit or a 1-hour tour of the location and learn all about the many wonders of chocolatey creations and lollies.

See all available tours, activities and attractions in Dunedin by checking out our full catalogue page.

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