Lyttelton Port: Day Tour 3 options for Cruise Passengers
Heathcote Valley, Christchurch
Explore Christchurch, Akaroa, Arthur's Pass, or Kaikoura Whale Watching on a private day tour from Lyttleton Port. Enjoy a scenic drive, visit the Botanic Gardens, and visit Seals Colony.
Private Day Tours in Christchurch and Surrounds
Choose from three private day tours exploring Christchurch, Akaroa, Arthur's Pass, or Kaikoura suited to nature and city interests.
Tour Options
Your day begins with pickup from Lyttelton Port after your cruise ship arrival. Select one of the following tours:
- Half Day Christchurch City Tour & Half Day Akaroa Explorer: Visit Sumner Village and Beach, tour Christchurch highlights including the Botanic Gardens, and optionally ride the Christchurch Gondola (additional cost). Stop at Little River and Hilltop Lookout for views, then explore Akaroa’s French colonial town, boutique shops, galleries, and waterfront cafés. End with a visit to Shamarra Alpaca Farm to meet and feed alpacas with harbor views.
- Arthur’s Pass with Castle Hill Return Day Tour: Drive through Canterbury high country visiting Lake Lyndon and the limestone formations at Castle Hill. Stop at Otara Viaduct Lookout for Southern Alps views. Explore Arthur’s Pass National Park with a hike to Devils Punchbowl Waterfall and visit Cave Stream Scenic Reserve.
- Kaikoura Whale Watching Return Day Tour: Enjoy a coastal drive with stops including Cheviot. Visit Ōhau Point Seal Colony with a short coastal walk. Choose a whale watching cruise or helicopter tour (additional cost) to see whales, dolphins, and seals in their natural habitat.
Includes
- Pick-up and drop-off to and from Lyttelton Port
- Professional driver and specialized guide
- Private transport in a clean, comfortable vehicle
- Vehicle size based on guest numbers
- Meet & Greet service
Excludes
- Christchurch Gondola Skyline ticket
- Whale Watching Cruise ticket
- Whale Watching Helicopter ticket
Important Information
- Pick-up and drop-off times are flexible and aligned with your ship’s schedule
- Activity tickets are not included in the tour price
- Activity tickets can be arranged on request for an additional fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book early to secure your preferred tour date and bring comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
The tours include Christchurch city, Akaroa, Arthur's Pass, and Kaikoura, offering a mix of urban, nature, and marine experiences.
Tours range from half-day city tours to full-day excursions around Christchurch and surrounding areas.
Yes, there are three options that combine city highlights, nature adventures, and marine wildlife encounters tailored to your preferences.
Yes, private tours include transportation from Lyttelton Port to various destinations near Christchurch.
Yes, tours visit places like Sumner Beach, Akaroa Harbour, Arthur's Pass, and wildlife spots near Kaikoura.
Yes, you can optionally visit the Christchurch Gondola at an additional cost during the city tour portion.
You can enjoy panoramic views from Hilltop Lookout and other scenic stops like Little River near Christchurch.
Tours operate year-round; check the website for current schedules and weather recommendations.
Yes, both Akaroa and Kaikoura tours include opportunities to see marine wildlife such as dolphins and whales.
Yes, the tours are designed to fit cruise passengers’ schedules, offering flexible durations and pick-up directly from Lyttelton Port.
