Christchurch: Gateway to the South (4 nights)

Starting from

1345

Per Person

•

Known as the "Garden City," Christchurch is the South Island's largest city and a natural base for exploring New Zealand's most spectacular landscapes. Stroll the tree-lined Avon River, discover world-class dining and boutique laneways, or head to the Port Hills for sweeping views across the Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps. A city of resilience and reinvention, Christchurch has emerged as a vibrant, design-forward destination that rewards the curious — and makes a memorable stop on any South Island journey.

Christchurch

Tour Plan

Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most captivating cities — a place of remarkable reinvention, natural beauty, and deep cultural heritage. Nestled on the eastern coast of the South Island, it sits at the foot of the Port Hills with the Southern Alps as a dramatic backdrop and the Pacific Ocean just minutes away. Known as the Garden City, its tree-lined avenues, expansive Botanic Gardens, and the winding Avon River give it a charm that is uniquely its own. Yet Christchurch is also a city looking firmly forward — its revitalised centre buzzing with innovative architecture, world-class dining, and a thriving arts scene. It is also the perfect base for exploring some of New Zealand’s most iconic experiences, from the spectacular TranzAlpine rail journey through the Southern Alps to the historic French-colonial village of Akaroa on Banks Peninsula. This five-day itinerary has been crafted to give you the very best of the city and its surrounds — blending culture, cuisine, adventure, and stunning scenery in equal measure. Welcome to Christchurch. Welcome to the Gateway to the South.

Itineraries Of The Day

Arrive at Christchurch International Airport where your private premium sedan transfer whisks you effortlessly into the city. Check in to the Sudima Christchurch City and take the rest of the day at your own pace — explore the nearby Botanic Gardens, wander the Avon River promenade, or settle into one of the city’s excellent restaurants for dinner.

This morning, make your way to the Bridge of Remembrance on Cashel Street to join the Kai Bites Lunch Tour with Amiki Cultural Food Tours. Over 2.5 hours, explore the inner city on foot with cultural stops and food tastings that celebrate the diverse flavours of Ōtautahi Christchurch — lunch and a beverage included.

In the afternoon, head to the Avon River for a Kaitiaki Guided Waka Tour. Over 45 minutes, paddle a waka with local Ngāi Tūāhuriri guides, receive a traditional mihi whakatau (Māori welcome), and learn about the cultural significance of the Ōtākaro River and the principles of kaitiakitanga (guardianship).

Meals: Lunch included (Kai Bites tour)

Today’s highlight is one of the world’s great scenic rail journeys. Board the iconic TranzAlpine in Christchurch and travel through the patchwork farmland of the Canterbury Plains, following the Waimakariri River before climbing into the spectacular Southern Alps on a series of dramatic viaducts. Alight at Arthur’s Pass for time at leisure in this charming alpine village before re-boarding for the return journey to Christchurch.

Option: Upgrade to Scenic Plus

Scenic Plus transforms your rail journey into a full sensory experience. As you take in the landscapes, enjoy a menu inspired by the very regions you travel through. Fresh, seasonal ingredients are prepared in our onboard kitchen and served at your seat, course by course, with matching New Zealand wines and beverages.

Depart early for a full-day tour to Akaroa, a charming historic township nestled in the inner harbour bay on Banks Peninsula. Explore the village’s French colonial heritage, browse craft and gift shops, and enjoy lunch at the beloved Bully Hayes restaurant. In the afternoon, cruise the stunning Akaroa Harbour aboard the Canterbury Cat. On the return journey, stop at the Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory to sample some fine New Zealand cheese. Back in Christchurch by 5.45pm.

Departs 8.30am | Returns 5.45pm Meals: Lunch included (Bully Hayes)

Check out of the Sudima Christchurch City and transfer to Christchurch Airport in your private premium sedan for your onward journey.

From price based on double occupancy (USD)

Price Starting From

1345

Per Person

Residency & Living Space

Price per person in double/twin room

minimum of 2 pax

Price per person in double/twin room

minimum of 2 pax

Price per person in double/twin room

minimum of 2 pax

4 * Category low season	5,820 EUR	5,820 EUR	5,820 EUR
Single supplement	5,820 EUR

Accommodation

Sudima Christchurch – 5*

Sudima Christchurch City is a contemporary five star boutique hotel ideally positioned in the vibrant Victoria precinct, surrounded by an array of cafés, restaurants, and bars and just moments from the beautiful Hagley Park and Christchurch’s bustling CBD. Luxuriously appointed rooms with well-equipped kitchenettes, a stylish restaurant and bar, and an elegant day spa ensure every comfort and indulgence is effortlessly within reach. Sophisticated, centrally located, and brimming with contemporary style, Sudima Christchurch City is the perfect address from which to experience the charm and beauty of New Zealand’s celebrated garden city in true style.