Christchurch tours and excursions
Christchurch tours
Boat tours
If a boat tour is what you are after, try punting on the Avon. Departure is from the Antigua Boat Sheds at 2 Cambridge Terrace or, for an inner city ride, from beside the Worcester Street bridge by Oxford Terrace.
Tel: +64 3 366 0337.Website: http://www.punting.co.nz
Bus tours
There are a few operators, such as Christchurch Tours and Hasslefree Tours, that offer a variety of tours in and around Christchurch. These include traditional city tours or tours focusing on heritage homes, private gardens, beaches, quakes, history - or even Lord of the Rings film sites.
Tel: +64 3 377 5300; +64 3 385 5775.Website: http://www.christchurchtours.co.nz
Christchurch excursions
Akaroa
Once known as the 'Riviera of Canterbury', Akaroa, on the hilly Banks Peninsula, was originally settled by French whalers in the mid-19th century. Today Akaroa still retains its quaint French character, but also blends in British and Maori elements. Sit down at a café terrace and take in the colonial architecture, or explore the local art galleries and beaches. The area abounds in spectacular scenery and local wildlife.
Tel: +64 3 304 7816.Website: http://www.akaroa.com
Hanmer Springs
Hanmer Springs, 132km (82 miles) north of Christchurch, is New Zealand's premier alpine spa destination with hot thermal pools, mountain bike trails, hiking tracks, bungee jumping, jet boating and an award-winning spa. This is a favourite destination for day trips - or longer.
Tel: +64 3 315 0000.Website: http://www.hanmersprings.co.nz
