Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Christchurch Highlights & Avon Punting
Description
Discover the highlights of Christchurch on this small-group sightseeing tour designed for cruise ship guests visiting Lyttelton Port. Travel through the seaside suburb of Sumner for a coffee stop overlooking the Pacific Ocean and a visit to the iconic Cave Rock. Explore Christchurch with an experienced local guide as you learn about the city's history, resilience, and remarkable rebuild following the 2011 earthquakes. Visit architectural landmarks including the Transitional Cardboard Cathedral, colourful New Regent Street, and Cathedral Square. Stroll through the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens, home to giant trees, vibrant seasonal displays, and the historic Peacock Fountain. Enjoy free time at Riverside Market, where gourmet food stalls, artisan producers, and local boutiques create a lively atmosphere. Complete your day with a relaxing 30-minute punting experience on the Avon River before enjoying scenic views on your return journey to Lyttelton Port.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Enjoy a cafe stop in the seaside village of Sumner, to visit Cave Rock and stroll along the esplanade.
Visit the Transitional Cardboard Cathedral
Christchurch’s most charming pedestrian street, lined with colourful Spanish Mission architecture and boutique shops.
Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a 21-hectare green sanctuary of native and exotic plants.
Explore gourmet food stalls, local produce, and boutique stores - your guide will share favourite local recommendations, from wood-fired pizza and craft beer to handmade gelato.
Enjoy a peaceful Punting on the Avon River experience. Glide along the river past leafy banks and historic bridges on a traditional flat-bottomed punt, guided by an Edwardian-dressed punter.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(2)
Highly recommended for Cruise Passengers who wants to see Christchurch, NZ. Shuttle bus only goes to Lyttelton. The tour is very informative and Nicole our guide/driver is very helpful and very accommodating. She shows us all the attractions at Christchurch and the highlight of the tour is the 30 minutes Punting at the Avon River. A very relaxing boat ride with gondoliers pushing the boat like in Venice..
Thank you! I was happy to show you our beautiful city, and glad you enjoyed it as much as I did. Nicole
What a delightful tour with our friends, guided by a very competent and detail oriented guide named Heidi. We enjoyed it immensely. A highlight was the drive up to Sign of the Kiwi Cafe and hike up to the views of Lyttelton harbour and Christchurch. Another highlight was hearing the history of Christchurch, the earthquakes and more, much more. Punting was a relaxing conclusion to the day !
Thank you for your kind review, so glad to hear you enjoyed your city tour with Heidi and Punting on the Avon!
