Christchurch an Abundance of Opulent Architecture, Gardens and Charming Scenery

Itinerary

DAY ONE                                        D

If you want to explore a revitalized Christchurch, and take in the culture of the city and surrounding areas then this tour is for you! On our first day, we fly from Tauranga to Christchurch and arrive just in time for lunch at one of the airport eateries. All aboard the bus for an afternoon sightseeing tour, the first stop will be Scarborough Beach here we'll enjoy its long stretch of white sand which attracts surfers, and swimmers and is a popular place for kite surfing and windsurfing, especially if an afternoon sea breeze sets in.  We will then carry on to New Brighton Pier to take in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean and stunning coastline. There will be time to walk along the pier and read about its history. After this final stretch of the legs and fresh sea air you will be wanting to discover your accommodation for the stay - Chateau on the Park.  Here you can unwind from your day, before heading to the onsite restaurant for dinner.

DAY TWO                                        B, MT, D

Wake up to a scrumptious, cooked breakfast before heading to the delightful French settlement of Akaroa. The drive from Christchurch to Akaroa winds through stunning countryside and over mountains to reach the Banks Peninsula. Our first stop is at Fisherman’s Bay Garden, a haven in the rugged and dramatic landscape of the Banks Peninsula coastline.  Here we will enjoy morning tea and a tour of the garden; its winding paths, varied landscape and stunning views of the coastal valley will be enjoyed by all. We will have free time for lunch and a little time to explore the village of Akaroa or take a walk down to the waterfront. Our next stop will surprise and delight. The Giant’s House in Akaroa is well known for its quirky gardens and extraordinary sculptures. Enjoy a stroll around the seriously playful garden and gallery. On our way back to Christchurch there may be time to stop in at the Little River Gallery. Then it’s back to our accommodation to freshen up, ready for dinner onsite at the hotel.

DAY THREE                                    B, D

Today’s adventures take us on a walk-through history.  We begin at a unique New Zealand heritage site, the Victoria/Edwardian homestead of Riccarton House.  The house is fully restored, decorated, and furnished in appropriate period style.  Here we will experience a guided tour and hear the history of the pioneering Dean family – their stories, dreams and promises, before heading to the Saturday farmers market onsite.  Take your time to look around and enjoy Canterbury’s finest local producers and artisans showcasing their wares or have a coffee or bite to eat if these appeal.  There may be time to explore the bushwalk and its 600-year-old trees or wind your way through the ancient forest and listen to the sound of native birds.  We will then have a lunch stop before heading to Otahuna Homestead to explore the magnificent gardens.  Here you will appreciate the century-old, manicured gardens, enjoying a tour providing insight into the history of Otahuna and Victorian times. As you meander around you will see a Dutch garden, Woodland, daffodil field, potager garden and more. Dinner will be onsite at the hotel tonight.

DAY FOUR                                      B, D

Another great day in Christchurch awaits, after breakfast, we will head to the CBD where we will take a private guided tour on the Tram of the City.  Offering a unique experience combining history and sightseeing, this tour explores the best of the central city. From here we'll grab a coffee or some morning tea the choice is yours, before heading onto another iconic Christchurch activity- punting down the Avon River.  You will be expertly guided gently along the Avon, through the tranquil Botanic Gardens to view the inner city’s revitalised Avon River Precinct.  This eco-friendly way to relax is a lovely activity to enjoy Christchurch from a different perspective.  Once we have disembarked, we have some free time to relax over a leisurely lunch and perhaps enjoy a stroll along the riverside. Next, we head to the green heart of the Garden City – The Botanic Gardens.  Climb aboard one of the all-weather electric vehicles and tour the gardens in comfort. The informative and fully guided shuttle tour takes you on a journey through 75 acres of New Zealand’s most exotic, gorgeous, native plants. Our last activity of the day is a visit to Quake City, this is a must to understand the seismic events that shook Christchurch and Canterbury more than a decade ago. After our busy day, we'll then take the short drive back to our accommodation before enjoying dinner together. 

DAY FIVE                                        B, MT, D

Starting with breakfast, our journey leads us to Christchurch’s pinnacle attraction, The Gondola. Ascend above the lush valleys, embracing the panoramic splendour of Christchurch’s urban grace. At the peak, 360-degree vistas of the city, Lyttelton Harbour, and the distant horizons await, offering a spectacle of nature and urban harmony. Discover the peak’s history through a Time Tunnel ride or find souvenirs at the summit shop. Enjoy morning tea against this backdrop of awe. The descent on the gondola offers another perspective of the Port Hills before venturing through the historic Lyttelton road tunnel, a ‘gateway to Canterbury’. Culinary delights continue at the Sign of the Kiwi Café, a prime spot for harbour and city views. Literary enthusiasts will treasure the visit to Ngaio Marsh House, exploring the life and legacy of the celebrated writer within her home and garden. The day concludes with dinner at a select local restaurant, encapsulating the essence of Christchurch’s charm.

DAY SIX                                           B, L, D

Today we will be visiting the gracious historical homestead of Amberly House, where we enjoy a tour of the picturesque garden, boutique horse stud and house.  The stunning homestead is nestled in the tranquil countryside and situated on a country estate.  In the valley beneath the house, lies the expansive lawns and garden.  Here you will enjoy wandering through the endless walkways to explore the glades, arboretum and more.  After all this exploring we will be ready for something tasty!  We head to Waipara Springs Winery and Restaurant to enjoy a delicious catered lunch and wine tasting.  Waipara Springs has its own microclimate and ideal conditions for growing the perfect grape and relaxing in the afternoon.  Next, we head to the rolling hills in North Canterbury to Tipapa Estate to enjoy a house and garden tour.  The homestead offers the feeling of both elegance and heritage and an oasis of privacy surrounded by its parklike grounds.  Enjoy meandering through the beautiful gardens and you might stumble across the rustic historical woolshed that has become a popular wedding venue. Dinner will be onsite at the hotel tonight.

DAY SEVEN                                    B, MT

On our final day together, we will visit the delightful Frensham Garden. Considered one of New Zealand’s finest gardens, Frensham displays a relaxed country garden that started with humble beginnings and is now a garden of national significance. After this, we will visit The Tannery a unique destination that is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike who describe it as “Quirky, eclectic and worth finding” and “Old-time charm meets modern attraction”. With more than 50 boutique shops, restaurants, bars. Take your time to grab a bite to eat or indulge in a little bit of retail therapy. Before flying out this afternoon and keeping in theme with how we are making our way home we'll take our time to have a look around the  Air Force Museum of New Zealand. This is the National Museum for the Royal New Zealand Air Force, we will take our time to meander through the facility. From here we will be making our way to the airport to catch our flights back home, farewelling the garden city.