South Island · 7 experiences within a day
Day trips from Christchurch
The South Island's gateway city and the start of the TranzAlpine. Akaroa's dolphins, Kaikōura's whales and the Waipara wineries are all a day away.
Within reach
- Christchurch & CanterburyAkaroa and Banks Peninsula, the city, Willowbank kiwi
- KaikōuraWhales and crayfish, 2.5 hours up the coast
- West Coast GlaciersThe TranzAlpine to Arthur's Pass and back in a day
- Tekapo & MackenzieThree hours to the turquoise lake — a long day, better with a night
Akaroa and Banks Peninsula, the city, Willowbank kiwi
Christchurch & Canterbury
Wildlife park & kiwi encounter
Christchurch
See a real kiwi in the dark, plus native birds and eels.
Child $19
Akaroa dolphin cruise
Banks Peninsula
Meet the world's smallest and rarest dolphins in a volcanic harbour.
Child $49
TranzAlpine rail journey
Canterbury
One of the world's great train rides, coast to coast over the Alps.
Child $139
Whales and crayfish, 2.5 hours up the coast
Kaikōura
The TranzAlpine to Arthur's Pass and back in a day
West Coast Glaciers
Three hours to the turquoise lake — a long day, better with a night
Tekapo & Mackenzie
Staying longer?
Journey ideas through Christchurch.
South Island · 8–12 nights
The Southern Road
Christchurch → Tekapo → Mount Cook → Wānaka → Queenstown → Milford Sound
South Island · 7–10 nights
Wine & Wilderness
Marlborough → Kaikōura → Christchurch → Central Otago → Queenstown
Both Islands · 12–18 nights
Best of Both Islands
Auckland → Rotorua → Wellington → Kaikōura → Queenstown → Christchurch
Build a day, or a few
Tell us your dates in Christchurch.
We confirm availability, sort pick-ups and timings so the days don't clash, and put it all on one itinerary. No obligation.