Lyttelton Shore Excursion – Christchurch Highlights & Avon Punting

Discover the very best of Christchurch on a six-hour guided shore excursion from Lyttelton Port, complete with a relaxing punt ride on the Avon River.

Designed especially for cruise ship visitors, this memorable small-group experience showcases Christchurch's spectacular coastal scenery, fascinating history, beautiful gardens and vibrant city attractions.

With comfortable transport and a friendly, knowledgeable local guide, discover the many sides of Ōtautahi Christchurch, from panoramic hilltop viewpoints to colourful central-city streets.

Spectacular Port Hills and seaside Sumner

Meet your local guide at the designated cruise passenger meeting point in Lyttelton before setting off on a scenic journey through the Port Hills.

Enjoy breathtaking views over Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains, Lyttelton Harbour and the surrounding coastline.

Visit the charming seaside village of Sumner, where you'll enjoy a relaxing café stop overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with a hot drink included. Explore the waterfront and discover iconic Cave Rock.

Discover Christchurch's remarkable transformation

Explore a city that has reinvented itself following the Canterbury earthquakes.

Visit memorable landmarks including Cathedral Square, the Transitional Cardboard Cathedral, colourful New Regent Street and the Bridge of Remembrance.

Your guide will share fascinating stories about Christchurch's history, resilience and remarkable regeneration, highlighting the vibrant, welcoming city it has become.

Riverside Market and the Botanic Gardens

Enjoy time to explore Riverside Market, a lively destination filled with local produce, artisan food and independent cafés. You'll have the opportunity to purchase lunch and discover some of Canterbury's wonderful flavours.

Continue to the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens, renowned for their magnificent heritage trees, seasonal flower displays, rose gardens and historic Peacock Fountain.

Punting on the Avon River

One of the highlights of your day is a relaxing 30-minute punt ride along the peaceful Avon River.

Sit back in a traditional flat-bottomed boat as your experienced punter guides you past leafy riverbanks and beautiful gardens, sharing stories of Christchurch's heritage along the way.

This shared punting experience offers a wonderfully different perspective on the Garden City.

A small-group experience designed for cruise passengers

Our friendly local guides provide an engaging and relaxed sightseeing experience, with time for photographs, exploration and conversation.

With convenient return transfers from Lyttelton and an itinerary coordinated around your ship's visit, you'll enjoy a memorable introduction to Christchurch.

What makes this experience special?

Spectacular views from the Port Hills and coastal Sumner

Iconic Christchurch landmarks, colourful streets and fascinating local stories

Uplifting insights into Christchurch's recovery and transformation

Beautiful Botanic Gardens and time to explore Riverside Market

A 30-minute shared punt ride on the Avon River included

Sumner café hot drink, refreshments and snacks

Experienced local guide and relaxed small-group experience

Convenient return transfers from Lyttelton Port

Experience details

Total duration: Approximately 6 hours, 9 am–3 pm.

Walking distance: Approximately 3–4 km / 1.5–2.5 miles throughout the day.

Difficulty: Easy, with no significant elevation gain on foot.

Group size: Small groups of 2–10 guests.

Minimum age: No minimum age.

Punting: A 30-minute shared Avon River experience is included.

Lunch: Not included, allowing you to choose from Riverside Market's cafés and food vendors.

Departure: Norwich Quay, Lyttelton, with return at approximately 3 pm.

Perfect for cruise passengers looking to discover Christchurch's scenery, history, gardens and coastal lifestyle in one enjoyable day.