Christchurch Ōtautahi The Māori name for Christchurch O-Tautahi - the people of Tautahi a Ngai Tahu Chief. He esablished his pa settlement on the banks of Otakaro. Map of Christchurch Accommodation Options
Swimming with Dolphins - Akaroa: The scenic Akaroa Harbour is home to one of the worlds smallest and rarest dolphins, the Hectors or New Zealand dolphin. Join us on an incredible adventure to swim (or watch) the dolphins and other marine wildlife. Our catamaran has been especially designed for viewing and the twin jets provide maximum safety for you and the dolphins. The boat seats up to 20 people and has a covered cabin which can be heated for extra comfort. Highly trained crew will provide information on how to interact with the dolphins along with safety information. (Runs November - April).
Akaroa and Banks Peninsula & Eco Marine Harbor Cruise: Visit the quaint and historic French settlement located on Banks
Peninsula. Travel a very high back country road for Panoramic views of
the peninsula, the ocean and the distant alps. Relax onboard a nature
and eco harbour cruise. Includes a cheese tasting at a cheese factory
and time to browse in the village.
Akaroa and Banks Peninsula & Swim with Dolphins: Visit the quaint and historic French settlement located on Banks
Peninsula. Travel a very high back country road for Panoramic views of
the peninsula, the ocean and the distant alps. Experience swimming
with the worlds smallest and rarest dolphins. Includes a cheese
tasting at a cheese factory and time to browse in the village.
Tranz Alpine Train, Arthur's Pass Guided Walks & Otira Gorge: Journey across the wide expanses of the Canterbury Plains into high country surrounded by rugged mountain ranges, then turning sub-alpine we head towards the spectacular Southern Alps. View the Waimakariri River and its unique braided riverbed system before entering Arthur’s Pass National Park where short walks can be made to experience forests, rivers and mountains vistas. On to the Otira Gorge, view Cave Stream where it burrows underground in an area of limestone cliffs and gorges, craggy outcrops and a setting of mountains to the east and west. This area was also used as for the filming of CJ Lewis’ story “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”. Sit back and enjoy the return journey onboard the Tranz Alpine Train to Christchurch.
Arthur's Pass National Park with Otira Gorge: Journey across the wide expanses of the Canterbury Plains into high country surrounded by rugged mountain ranges, then turning sub-alpine we head towards the spectacular Southern Alps. View the Waimakariri River and its unique braided riverbed system before entering Arthur’s Pass National Park where short walks can be made to experience forests, rivers and mountains vistas. On to the Otira Gorge, view Cave Stream where it burrows underground in an area of limestone cliffs and gorges, craggy outcrops and a setting of mountains to the east and west. This area was also used as for the filming of CJ Lewis’ story “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”.
Waipara Wine Tour: New Zealand has made a name for itself in the world of wines. During this small group tour you will sample up to 30 different wines from 4 or 5 different wineries. Pinots, Chardonnays and Rieslings are the most awarded wines from this region and tasting them is a delight. The winemakers and owners will explain how they have created and blended the wines you'll sample. A delightful gourmet lunch cleanses the palate and gives time for fine food and company. A stroll along a deserted beach is optional but the fresh sea breezes create a keen nose for the further exploration of wine bouquets.
Hot Air Ballooning: There is no other place in the world where it is possible to fly from the center of the city, in view of the sun rising out of the ocean, toward snow-capped mountains. Get ready for an early morning start, and get hands-on in helping set up the balloon. High above you enjoy spectacular views and photo opportunities, watch as the parks, rivers and buildings fade into the distance, making way for the patchwork farmland of the Canterbury Plains, in view of the Southern Alps to the west and the endless blue of the ocean to the east. A celebratory glass of chilled champagne (or fruit juice) is offered after landing in a farmer's field and complimentary transfers to and from your Christchurch accommodation included. Duration: 3-4 hours from start to finish with an hour long flight in the sky.
Twin Craters Scenic Heli Flight: Join us to explore what lies beyond our Garden City. Passing Christchurch, we climb to the rim of the famous extinct Lyttleton Volcano to reveal the sheltered waters of the historic French inspired community of Akaroa with it's beautiful resident Hector's Dolphins. Returning to Christchurch we enjoy spectacular views of the Canterbury Plains and distant Southern Alps.
Heli Jet Adventure: Combine the thrill of an amazing scenic flight over the Canterbury plains and through the stunning Waimakariri Gorge before landing to embark on a 30 minute adrenaline packed jet boat experience. Here you will enjoy the thrill of a high speed ride taking you through the spectacular and narrow confines of Waimakariri Gorge. Your return flight will allow time to relax, reflect, and enjoy the scenery on the way back to Christchurch.
French Farm Heli Lunch: Enjoy a scenic flight across Christchurch as we travel towards the volcanic crater rim of the Akaroa Harbour. Here we land at French Farm's fabulous Mediterranean styled winery and restaurant. The French Farm valley offers a stunning natural backdrop, with a meandering stream, a spectacular view of the harbor and hills and an abundance of native trees.
