Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill Discount Tickets

4.5
★★★★★ ★★★★★
Based on 39 reviews |
location pin icon Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
location pin icon Christchurch
4.5 /5
39 reviews
View all Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill photos
View all Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill photos

Get your discount tickets for the Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill, save up to 12% !

Select your ticket

12% OFF Refundable
Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill
FROM

$89.77

REG. $102.45

Offer details

Pickup included

Overview

Nestled at the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana), Arthur’s Pass is steeped in history. Connecting the east and west coasts of Kā Tiritiri o te Moana, the route was originally established by iwi to trade pounamu (greenstone) before it became known to surveyors such as Arthur Dudley Dobson who would later colonise its status in 1864. Home of the world’s only truly alpine parrot and our namesake, the Kea, the now National Park’s dramatic terrain, powerful waterfalls, unique fauna, native Beech forest, and engineering feats make it a popular destination for hikers and sightseers alike. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our knowledgeable and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget! As this tour operates in an alpine region, the weather can be unpredictable so prepare for all conditions. Tour runs in reverse in winter.

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

We only pick up from locations we have been notified of. Please make sure you let us know your pick up location will be the bus interchange. Please be waiting at the Intercity Bus Stop on Lichfield Street. It is recommended that you arrive 5 minutes prior to your pick up time.

Pickup Information

For a smooth pick-up process please be waiting at your selected pick-up location at least 5 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time. Your vehicle may be delayed due to previous pickups. Please be patient and wait 10 minutes before calling the office. Our drivers cannot wait for late customers. No show / late customers will not be refunded. We only pick up from locations that have a pickup noted.

Language Offered

German-WRITTEN

English-GUIDE

Italian-WRITTEN

French-WRITTEN

Spanish-WRITTEN

Itinerary

1. Waimakariri
As we make our way through the Selwyn District, you will be greeted by Springfield, where we will then make our turn off towards the team at Alpine Jet Thrills. Here there are walks, views of the Waimakariri river, and sheep cuddles to enjoy. Looking for more adventure? Add on a 30 minute thrilling jet boat experience on one of the region’s most famous rivers (extra booked and sold separately).
Duration: 60 mins
2. Lake Lyndon
Next up we stop at Lake Lyndon. Nestled at the base of Porters Pass, Lyndon, or Te Hāpua Waikawa, is popular amongst jetboaters, bird watchers, and brave swimmers. It is known as one of this area's colder lakes.
Duration: 5 mins
3. Castle Hill
Castle Hill, or Kura Tāwhiti, is perhaps one of Canterbury’s most distinguishable settings. Famous for its scenery that would later inspire Middle Earth™, nearby Flock Hill, who Castle Hill shares its geology with, went on to become one of the filming locations used for The Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. The weathered limestone rocks sit proudly abreast the tussocky hills that were once in the ocean. Over time they have eroded away, forming the amazing unique shapes you see today. While you walk amongst the rocks, you might catch a glimpse of climbers and boulderers who frequent the area. Please note that this is not a guided walk, so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own.
Duration: 60 mins
4. Lake Pearson
Ōpōrea, or Lake Pearson, is the largest of three mountain lakes on the pass. This picturesque glacial lake is surrounded by the Southern Alps, and is a popular spot for swimmers, fishing and visitors. Significantly, the lake was, and is still used as a site of mahinga kai (food gathering) for local iwi.
Duration: 5 mins
5. Otira Viaduct Lookout
Also known as Death's Corner, the Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the National Park in all its glory. This bridge is the only reason that driving through Arthur’s Pass is possible today. At 440 metres long, it is a true feat of engineering. The lookout is a great spot for a photo framing viaduct and the surrounding landscape. Keep your eyes peeled at this stop! With a bit of luck, you might even see a wee Cheeky Kea - New Zealand’s sneaky alpine parrot!
Duration: 15 mins
6. Arthur's Pass National Park
We depart the lookout and head towards Arthur’s Pass Village. Located 740 metres above sea level, you will be able to experience the majestic Southern Alps up close. Once we arrive, you can choose to either walk to Devils Punch Bowl, or grab a coffee and spend some time exploring the local shops.
Duration: 60 mins
7. Devils Punchbowl Walking Track
Devils Punch Bowl - This walking track is approximately 1 hour long, with a gradual incline (including steps) towards a ferocious 131 metre tall waterfall. Fitness is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and native beech forest. Please note that depending on time, your guide will let you know how long you have and will assist you on the day in regard to the best activity for the weather and time allocated.
Duration: 60 mins
8. Cave Stream Scenic Reserve
As we begin our trip back to Christchurch, we make a brief stop at Cave Stream. Formed by the cave’s stream that flows through an underground passage for 594 metres, the cave can be accessed by inexperienced cavers and is pretty incredible to look at and explore.
Duration: 15 mins
9. Porters Pass
With an elevation of 939 metres, Porters Pass is another mountain pass located deep in Kā Tiritiri o te Moana. Experience breathtaking views of the Canterbury plains as you weave your way back across the third-highest highway in Te Waipounamu (the South Island).

Inclusion

Snacks

On-board WiFi

Bottled water

All Fees and Taxes

Lunch

In-vehicle air conditioning

Cancellation Policy

Check mark icon Refundable tickets

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

  • 100% refund if cancelled 1+ days before the start date
  • 0% refund if cancelled less than 1 day(s) before the start date

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travel time is included in the Tour Duration.

Supplied by Cheeky Kea Tours

Reviews

4.5

★★★★★ ★★★★★
Based on 39 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

5 stars
31
4 stars
4
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 stars
3

Explore other options

Rome Hop-on Hop-off Tour with Vatican Ticket

Rome Hop-on Hop-off Tour with Vatican Ticket
3-Hours Artisanal Shopping Tour in Rome

3-Hours Artisanal Shopping Tour in Rome
Borghese Gallery Hosted Entry Ticket with Audio Guide

Borghese Gallery Hosted Entry Ticket with Audio Guide
Unlock Vatican: Private Guided Tour of Museums & Sistine Chapel

Unlock Vatican: Private Guided Tour of Museums & Sistine Chapel
Rome Street GastronomicTour

Rome Street GastronomicTour
4 Days Tour to Discover the Molise Region

4 Days Tour to Discover the Molise Region
Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museum with Guided Tour

Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museum with Guided Tour
Colosseum Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Access in Rome

Colosseum Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Access in Rome
Half day private car or van with driver at disposal in Rome

Half day private car or van with driver at disposal in Rome
Tivoli and Hadrian's Villa Full day from Rome

Tivoli and Hadrian's Villa Full day from Rome