15 Best Day Trips from Christchurch

Christchurch is the perfect gateway to extraordinary day trips that reveal the region’s natural beauty. While Christchurch itself is charming, the true appeal lies in its stunning surroundings.

The best day trips from Christchurch will take you deeper into the Canterbury region. From exploring the coastline and it’s waters in Akaroa or Kaikoura, to discovering Mackenzie District where you’ll find the bluest lakes and Mt. Cook in the background, or venturing towards the West Coast and hiking Arthur’s Pass, the options are plenty and diverse.

In this article, I have handpicked the best day trips from Christchurch, ensuring that you make the most of your time in the region. From whale watching to glacial lakes and hikes, there’s a wide range of options for you to explore.

Best way to go on day trips from Christchurch

Most of the day trip destinations listed below can be explored whether you prefer the flexibility of a rental car, the convenience of organized tours, or the cost-effectiveness of public transportation. However, some are easier to reach one way than the other so make sure to read my recommendations for the specific destinations you’d like to visit.

Organized tours

There are a ton of excellent tours from Christchurch that make exploring this region super easy. I believe that for most, a guided tour is the best way to go on day trips from Christchurch. You’ll get to learn about the fascinating history and nature from a local guide, and you’ll be able to rest on the bus en route.

Own transport

If you want more flexibility when taking some of these day trips from Christchurch, then renting a car or campervan can be a good option. That being said, driving in New Zealand isn’t for everyone and if you’re not used to driving on the left, and on narrow, windy roads, this might not be your cup of tea.

Public transport

Long-distance bus services, such as InterCity and Kiwi Experience, connect major Christchurch to other major cities and tourist destinations. However, the stops along the way are limited and you won’t get much flexibility to explore.

Where to stay in Christchurch

It’s best to pick accommodation downtown so you’ll have easy access to the attractions, shops, bars, and restaurants. Christchurch is surrounded by an endless suburbia with less than ideal bus connections and some neighborhoods aren’t appealing at all.

Best day trips from Christchurch

While Christchurch itself has its own charm with its vibrant city life and rich cultural heritage, the real allure lies in the spectacular nature that surrounds it. From the rugged coastline and rich marine life to pristine glacial lakes and incredible hikes, the options for day trips are as diverse as they are breathtaking.

Kaikoura Whale Watching

Kaikoura is a coastal town north of Christchurch famous for its incredible marine wildlife. It is known as the best place in New Zealand for whale and dolphin watching, and there is a massive seal colony just south of town too.

This whale-watching tour departs from Christchurch and includes a stop at the seal colony as well as a wine tasting along the way.

During the tour, your knowledgeable guide will tell you loads about the scenery and marine life in these waters, about how they find the whales, and about the conservation efforts to keep these tours as eco-friendly as possible. You’ll have a chance to see sperm whales, humpback whales, superpods of dolphins, albatrosses, and sometimes even sharks.

Book your Kaikoura day trip:
Kaikoura whale-watching from Christchurch

TranzAlpine to Greymouth

The TranzAlpine Railway spans 139 miles (223 kilometers) between Christchurch and Greymouth on the West Coast. This iconic train ride offers an unforgettable adventure through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.

Renowned as one of the world’s most scenic train journeys it climbs through Arthur’s Pass and provides stunning vistas through large panoramic windows. The TranzAlpine Railway is a unique and hassle-free experience so you can relax, enjoy the views, and focus on the ever-changing landscape.

Onboard, you’ll find comfortable seating, informative commentary, and a café serving up delicious refreshments. You can choose to get off in Arthur’s Pass or continue to Greymouth on the West Coast.

Get your train tickets:
Christchurch to Greymouth
Greymouth to Christchurch

Arthurs Pass

Arthur’s Pass is both a small alpine village and a mountain pass located in the Southern Alps of New Zealand’s South Island not too far from Christchurch. The Arthur’s Pass National Park is also part of Te Waipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Arthur’s Pass is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, and it offers a network of hiking and tramping trails, including the famous Arthur’s Pass Walking Track and the Devil’s Punchbowl Track. The pass is rich in flora and fauna, and you might spot Kea parrots and other native wildlife.

There are two primary ways to reach Arthur’s Pass from Christchurch: by road or by taking the scenic TranzAlpine Railway. And then there’s this incredible guided tour that combines them both.

This Arthur’s Pass guided tour starts with a pickup at your accommodation and they take you straight to the train station. First you get to enjoy the scenic train ride to Arthur’s Pass Village and then they pick you up and guide you to some of the most incredible viewpoints and hikes.

Book your adventure:
Arthur’s Pass guided tour with TranzAlpine

Waipara Valley

With its picturesque vineyards, welcoming cellar doors, and passionate winemakers, a wine tasting in Waipara Valley is the perfect day trip from Christchurch.

Rolling hills, limestone cliffs, and pristine rivers create a stunning backdrop for your wine-tasting adventures. The intimate, boutique family-owned wineries here offer a more personal and immersive experience compared to larger wine regions.

The Waipara Valley is renowned for its world-class wineries, producing exceptional Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Chardonnay, among others. The unique terroir, with its warm days and cool nights, hot summers and little rain, contributes to the creation of wines with distinctive flavors and character.

For the ultimate Waipara Valley experience, it’s best to join an organized tour with transportation from Christchurch. This allows you to indulge in the region’s finest wines responsibly while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

This afternoon wine tour includes a tasting at the lovely Pegasus Bay winery, or opt for this wine-tasting tour with lunch at one of the wineries.

Book your adventure:
Hanmer Springs & Waipara Valley Private Day Tour
Waipara Valley afternoon wine tour
Waipara Valley wine-tasting with lunch

Akaroa Dolphin Watching

Akaroa is renowned for its French influence, but it offers a variety of enjoyable activities beyond that. The hills surrounding the town offer numerous scenic walks and viewpoints and the Akaroa Marine Reserve is perfect for sea kayaking and wildlife spotting.

Akaroa is considered to be the best place for dolphin watching in New Zealand. It is also one of the few places in New Zealand where you can see orcas, and you can see penguins as well.

Make sure to book your dolphin-watching tour well in advance as they tend to sell out fast!

Book your adventure:
Akaroa day trip from Christchurch with Dolphin Watching
Dolphin watching cruise from Akaroa
Wild penguins tour from Christchurch

Mt. Cook National Park

It’s quite a drive to Mt. Cook from Christchurch but if this is your only chance to see it, then the struggle is worth it.

When visiting Mt Cook on a daytrip from Christchurch, it is best to book a tour so you can nap on the bus (the A1 just outside of Christchurch really is a boring drive) and save your energy for the later part of the trip when you reach the mountain lakes.

At the end of the road, 330 km from Christchurch, you’ll find Mt. Cook Village surrounded by towering mountains that will make you feel smaller than an ant. Hotel Hermitage offers the perfect setting for lunch and you can visit the Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.

But the real appeal of Mt. Cook National Park are the hikes, for which unfortunately you might not have enough time if you want to return to Christchurch. The Hooker Valley Track is still one of my favorite hikes in the world. You can also do the shorter Kea Point Track or visit Tasman Glacier.

I recommend you book this organized trip to Lake Tekapo and Mt. Cook which includes the gorgeous Hooker Valley Hike and the short Tasman Glacier track.

If however you’re planning on continuing your trip and going to Queenstown, it’s best to follow this Christchurch to Queenstown road trip itinerary and spend at least one night in Mt. Cook. If you don’t want to drive, you can book this Christchurch to Queenstown Day Tour Via Tekapo & Mt Cook.

Book your adventure:
Lake Tekapo and Mt. Cook from Christchurch
Christchurch to Queenstown Day Tour via Tekapo & Mt Cook
LOTR trip to Edoras from Christchurch

Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki

If you think you know what blue is, wait until you see Lake Tekapo! This vibrant blue color is what’s called glacial flour that reflects blue and turquoise wavelengths while absorbing red and green light. This is even more prominent on a clear sunny day.

On the shore of the lake stands the Church of the Good Shepherd all by itself. This small but picturesque church with the blue Lake Tepako and mountains in the back, it is the most photographed church in the world.

From November to December the lake is surrounded by Lupin fields blooming in all shades of pink and purple, making for an even more spectacular landscape.

Just a short drive further you’ll find another mesmerizing blue lake, Lake Pukaki. What sets it apart is its incredible view of Mount Cook or Aoraki, New Zealand’s highest peak, which stands majestically on the opposite shore, creating a picture-perfect vista.

The drive to Mt. Cook continues along the shores of Lake Pukaki with more breathtaking views around each corner.

And if you’re a LOTR fan on top of it, then definitely book this tour to Edoras. You’ll see the same landscapes, just through a Middle Earth lens.

Book your adventure:
Lake Tekapo and Mt. Cook from Christchurch
Christchurch to Queenstown Day Tour via Tekapo & Mt Cook
LOTR trip to Edoras from Christchurch

LOTR tour to Edoras

If you’ve watched the Lord of the Rings movies, you probably already know that LOTR was filmed entirely in New Zealand! Peter Jackson thought that the beauty and ruggedness of Middle Earth would best come to life in New Zealand, and he couldn’t have been more right!

The impressive Mount Sunday is where they built and filmed the city of Edoras, the capital of Rohan. It took a total of nine months to build this set, with the main majestic Golden Hall on top of the cliffs, and the gate and city walls at the foot of the mountain.

Read next: Best LOTR filming locations

As with all the sets, this one was completely removed after filming as well, but Mount Sunday is a worthwhile visit nonetheless. From the mountain, you’ll have a stunning view over its surrounding scenery, with the winding Rangitata River flowing below, and the green Hakatere Conservation Park stretching out in front of you. This tour from Christchurch is the perfect way to explore Edoras and learn more about the movie set.

The Battle of the Pelennor Fields was filmed on the fields surrounding the small town of Twizel, and involved over 1700 people on set, including almost everyone living in Twizel as extras.

Book your adventure:
LOTR trip to Edoras from Christchurch

International Antarctic Center

While technically still in Christchurch, the International Antarctic Centre offers an immersive Antarctic experience and it almost feels like you’ve left to Antartica!

It features interactive exhibits explaining Antarctica’s wildlife, research, and challenges. Here you can see penguins in the Penguin Encounter program, experience the extreme cold in the Antarctic Storm Room and enjoy an adventurous Hagglund Ride simulating Antarctic terrain exploration.

Book your tickets:
International Antarctic Center

Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools

New Zealand is known for its geothermal activity and hot springs are a very welcome byproduct of that. So today you’ll be relaxing at Hamner Springs where they use geothermal water to fill up their many pools. You can choose between rock pools, sulphur baths, mineral pools and more.

Just keep in mind that Hanmer Springs is very popular and quite commercial. Here you’ll find big pools and water slides. If you’re after a more intimate experience I recommend Maruia Hot Springs in Lewis Pass, an hour down the road from Hamner Springs.

Book your adventure:
Hanmer Springs & Waipara Valley Private Day Tour
Hanmer Springs and Jet Boat Ride

Banks Peninsula

The Banks Peninsula is the perfect day trip form Christchurch that offers scenic roads, incredible views and beautiful bays. There are numerous scenic walks and viewpoints on Banks Peninsula and the calm waters of the bay are perfect for sea kayaking and wildlife spotting.

Akaroa Marine Reserve is considered to be the best place for dolphin watching in New Zealand. It is also one of the few places in New Zealand where you can see orcas, and you can see penguins as well.

Read next: Where to see wildlife in New Zealand

The Banks Peninsula is also a haven for hiking enthusiasts with several scenic hikes and stunning viewpoints.

The multi-day Banks Peninsula Track is a comprehensive exploration of the peninsula’s diverse landscapes, while the Godley Head Coastal Track offers breathtaking views of Lyttelton Harbour and the Southern Alps.

The Akaroa Summit Walk leads to the highest point on the peninsula, providing panoramic vistas of the harbor and surroundings. For coastal beauty, the Flea Bay to Stony Bay Coastal Track and the Purau to Port Levy Coastal Track offer serene walks with sea views.

Book your adventure:
Banks Peninsula guided walk
Wild penguins tour from Christchurch
Akaroa dolphin watching

Castle Hill

Castle Hill makes for an ideal day trip from Christchurch for nature lovers, hikers and climbers alike. Located just a scenic drive away, Castle Hill is home to mystique and unique rock formations that defy gravity and imagination.

These colossal boulders offer opportunities for hikes, bouldering, photography, and quiet contemplation. This otherworldly landscape is so unique they even served as a backdrop for The Chronicles of Narnia movie.

Known as Kura Tawhiti in Māori, Castle Hill also holds deep spiritual significance for the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand.

In Māori mythology, Castle Hill is believed to be the result of a legendary battle between two deities, Rākaihautū (a legendary explorer and leader) and his nephew Rākihouia. The massive limestone boulders and unique rock formations are said to be the petrified remains of the food baskets and belongings of these ancestral figures.

Book your adventure:
Castle Hill from Christchurch

Port Hills

Christchurch Gondola & Port Hills

The Port Hills are a picturesque range of hills at the outskirts of Christchurch offering stunning views of the city, the harbor, and the Southern Alps. You can either drive up, hike or take the Christchurch Gondola to the top.

At the top, you can explore walking tracks and enjoy educational exhibits in the Time Tunnel. And you can even go zip-lining above Christchurch!

Bridle Path is one of the most popular and accessible hikes in the Port Hills. It’s a historic track that offers panoramic views of Lyttelton Harbour and the surrounding landscape. The hike takes about 1-2 hours to complete.

Rapaki Track takes you to the historic Rapaki Pa site. Along the way, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the harbor and the city. The track is relatively easy and takes about 1-2 hours.

Mount Cavendish Summit Track is located in the Christchurch Gondola area. This short but steep hike takes you to the summit of Mount Cavendish. From the top, you’ll have breathtaking views of Christchurch, the Southern Alps, and Lyttelton Harbour. The hike typically takes around 1-1.5 hours.

Captain Thomas Track offers a peaceful bushwalk through native forest. It’s a loop track that provides views of both Lyttelton Harbour and Governor’s Bay. The hike takes about 1-2 hours.

Sugarloaf Scenic Reserve offers a network of tracks through native bush, including the Sugarloaf Circuit and Bowenvale Traverse. The hikes vary in length, with options for short walks or longer loops.

Book your adventure:
Christchurch Gondola ticket
Christchurch Zipline

Sumner

Sumner, a seaside suburb near Christchurch, is known for its stunning beach, excellent surfing, and the iconic Cave Rock. Locals often gather here on weekends to relax, swim, surf, and enjoy the lovely Sumner Village with its cafes, shops, and galleries.

A great way to start your day in Sumner is by savoring a coffee or breakfast at the Beach Bar, where you can soak in the seaside views and the laid-back atmosphere. Then either hit the beach and surf or lace up your shoes and head off for a walk.

Sumner is known for its consistent surf conditions, which make it a great place to learn how to surf or to enjoy some time in the water if you’re already experienced. There are local surf schools and board rental shops in the area where you can get lessons or equipment if needed.

Sumner to Taylor’s Mistake Coastal Track offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s a relatively easy walk, taking about 2-3 hours round trip. Along the way, you can spot seals, dolphins, and various seabirds.

Godley Head Loop Track is a moderately challenging hike that provides panoramic views of the coastline and the Lyttelton Harbour. It’s around a 3-4 hour hike, perfect for those seeking a bit more adventure.

Bridle Path is a shorter yet rewarding hike.It takes about 1-2 hours to complete and offers stunning vistas of Lyttelton Harbour and the Banks Peninsula.

Mt. Cavendish Summit Track: is technically not in Sumner but nearby in Lyttelton. This hike leads to the summit of Mt. Cavendish, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Christchurch and the harbor. It’s a short, steep hike taking approximately 1-1.5 hours.

Hakatere Conservation Park

Canterbury High Country is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. This picturesque region offers a plethora of exciting activities like hiking, mountain biking and fishing.

Hakatere Conservation Park covers 60,000 hectares of rugged mountain terrain, tussock landscapes, beech forests, and clear rivers and lakes. Offering walking tracks of varying difficulty levels, from easy strolls to challenging hikes. These trails range from 10-minute strolls to 2-day hikes. Some tracks have huts with bunk beds, heating, and mattresses for overnight stays.

How many days in Christchurch?

You can see the main attractions in Christchurch in just one day, however the real appeal of visiting lies in the surrounding area and the many day trip options Christchurch offers.

If you’re on a road trip around the South Island and are driving through Kaikoura, Akaroa and Arthurs Pass anyway, then 2 or 3 days in Christchurch are enough to see the main sights and discover the immediate surroundings.

If you’re only coming to Christchurch or prefer to explore New Zealand on day trips rather than moving around too much then you should spend 4 to 7 days in Christchurch.

Getting to Christchurch

Christchurch is well-connected to the rest of New Zealand, offering a range of transportation options to suit different travel styles and budgets.

By air: Christchurch International Airport (CHC) offers domestic and international flights. Flying is the easiest way to reach Christchurch, especially if you’re coming from the North Island or abroad. There are also direct flights to/from Queenstown, Nelson, Dunedin and other cities in New Zealand.

By Train from Picton: If you’re coming from the North Island via ferry, you’ll arrive in Picton on the South Island. From Picton, you can take the scenic Coastal Pacific train to Christchurch. This journey offers stunning coastal and mountain views and is a great way to experience New Zealand’s natural beauty.

By Train from the West Coast: The TranzAlpine Railway is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. It runs between Greymouth on the West Coast and Christchurch. If you’re on the West Coast, you can board the TranzAlpine in Greymouth for a memorable journey across the Southern Alps to Christchurch.

By Bus: Long-distance bus services, such as InterCity and Kiwi Experience, connect major cities and towns across New Zealand, including Christchurch.

By Car: If you prefer flexibility and scenic drives, renting a car or campervan is an excellent option, and driving allows you to explore at your own pace. There are many picturesque road trips to be had in New Zealand and the drive between Christchurch to Queenstown is one of the most incredible ones.

Getting around Christchurch

Discovering Christchurch is a breeze with a range of convenient transportation options.

Christchurch is a walkable city and exploring on foot allows you to soak in its unique character and find hidden street art.

The Vintage Christchurch Tram runs through the city center, stopping at key attractions and offers a streamlined and informative sightseeing experience.

Buses connect various neighborhoods and suburbs. Alternatively, taxis and rideshare services like Uber are readily available for point-to-point journeys or longer distances.

When venturing on adventures beyond the city limits, consider booking guided tours from Christchurch for a fuss-free and expert-led experience. Or consider renting a car for the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Best time to visit Christchurch, New Zealand

Spring is the best time to visit Christchurch, as the renowned city gardens burst with blooming blossoms and showcase their finest colors. The days are getting longer and the weather is nice, making it ideal to explore the city and its surroundings.

However, the best time for your visit ultimately depends on your interests and preferences.

For those seeking warm weather and a lively atmosphere, summer is an excellent choice. With its pleasant temperatures and extended daylight hours, it’s ideal for outdoor adventures and there are plenty of events and festivals to choose from.

Autumn, with its cooler temperatures, offers a quieter ambiance and stunning landscapes as the city’s parks and gardens transition into a tapestry of fall foliage. It’s perfect for leisurely outdoor activities and sightseeing without the summer crowds.

On the other hand, winter in Christchurch, while featuring a certain charm, can be characterized by grey skies and chilly temperatures. However, it’s the prime time for wildlife spotting and you can go skiing to nearby Mt. Hutt.

Planning a trip to NZ South Island?

New Zealand’s South Island is heaven on earth for nature and wildlife lovers. Follow this New Zealand South Island itinerary for the adventure of a lifetime. To help you plan your trip I’ve prepared a series of New Zealand travel guides.

New Zealand travel insurance

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and we’ve learned that the hard way!

ACC in New Zealand covers you for accidents but if you get sick or lose your luggage you’ll need good insurance to cover it for you.

We always get insured before we leave and Travel Insurance Masters is our go to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations here.