Discover the coastal charm and vibrant culture of Christchurch on this small-group sightseeing tour, perfect for cruise ship guests. Kick start your day with a scenic drive from Lyttelton Port to Sumner Village for a coffee stop and a visit to Cave Rock.

Explore the city's architectural highlights, including the Transitional Cardboard Cathedral, the colorful New Regent Street, and Cathedral Square.

Enjoy a stroll through the expansive Christchurch Botanic Gardens, visiting the giant trees, the rose garden, and the Peacock fountain. Enjoy free time at the Riverside Market, where gourmet food stalls await.

Conclude your tour with a relaxing 30-minute punting session on the Avon River, followed by breathtaking scenic views on your return journey.

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WHAT'S INCLUDED:

• Personal guided tour for small groups of up to 10

• Transport from Lyttelton in a 12-seater van (10 mins)

• Return to Lyttelton Port or Christchurch City

• Hot drinks in Sumner Village

• Light morning tea

• Water bottle to keep

 

ITINERARY:

After disembarking the ship, meet your guide at Norwich Quay in Lyttelton (free shuttles operate from the cruise berth to this location). Your guide will share fascinating stories about Christchurch as you travel toward the seaside suburb of Sumner. Along the way, stop at a scenic viewpoint on the Summit Road to take in sweeping views of the coastline.

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In Sumner, relax with a hot drink overlooking the beach and take a short walk to explore the iconic Cave Rock.

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Next, enjoy a 20-minute drive into central Christchurch. Stroll along New Regent Street, a charming pedestrian lane lined with pastel-coloured Spanish Mission-style buildings, before continuing through Cathedral Square and back to your vehicle.

 

It is a short 5 minute drive to visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, join your guide for a leisurely walk through highlights such as the rose gardens, the ornate Peacock Fountain, and the majestic collection of heritage trees.

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You’ll then have free time to explore Riverside Market, where you can browse local stalls and purchase lunch at your own expense.

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The tour concludes with a reflective visit to the Christchurch Earthquake Memorial, followed by your included Punting on the Avon experience - a tranquil 30-minute ride along the Avon River, guided by a punter in traditional Edwardian costume.

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Your guide will meet you afterwards for the return journey to Lyttelton and back to your ship.

 

TIME CHANGES:

In the event your cruise ship arrives at or later than 9 am, we will adapt the start time accordingly, please let us know when you book. We often have a later departure time for ships arriving at 10 am.

 

WHAT TO WEAR/BRING:

• Comfortable clothes to suit the season 

• A warm layer of clothing and a jacket

• Sunblock and a sun hat

• Camera/phone

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CANCELLATION POLICY:

This walk is scheduled 12-months of the year.  We require 48 hours notice for cancellation for bookings of 1 - 4 guests.  For group bookings of 5 or more, we require 7-days notice. If cancellation is made within this time frame you will receive a full refund. If the ship is not able to port in Lyttelton, and it is less than 48 hours before the start of the walk, you will receive a refund less a 25%  administration fee.

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SINGLE BOOKINGS:

Our excursion has a minimum number of two guests, however once we have a  booking confirmed, we can add individuals. Please contact us by email with the date and time you require and we will do our best to accommodate you. If you would like to guarantee your walk, you can book for two people, and we will refund you for the second person if we get another booking.

 

PRIVATE TOURS:

This Lyttelton Cruise Ship Shore Excursion is a small group walk for up to 10 people. If you prefer to have your own guide for the day so you can adapt the time and location to suit, and take the day at your own pace, please book our Luxury Guided Walk. (This can be for Godley Head hiking or or the City Sights, or a combination.

 

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