Cruises to Christchurch

Christchurch (Lyttelton), the second largest city in the South Island, is a beautiful garden city with an array of wonderful things to see and do. Christchurch’s stunning gothic architecture and blooming gardens were hit hard by the devastating 2011 earthquake - but today, after revitalization and growth, much of the damaged areas have transformed into modern and beautiful outdoor public art galleries.

From vineyards and mountains to sparkling sea, you’ll find a bustling mix of creativity and innovation, unique sights and experiences on a P&O cruise through Christchurch. Visit Canterbury Museum, punt on the Avon River, stroll through the Botanical Gardens or visit the iconic Ballantynes department store in the Cashel Street Mall.

Christchurch Tramway & Gondola

Explore Christchurch inner city by historic tram on the Christchurch Tramway & Gondola shore tour and see a wonderful mix of both old and new - from Cathedral Junction and the Gothic-style Arts Centre, to Canterbury Museum, New Regent and more.

Next, climb into an enclosed aerial gondola and gently lift off for a soaring ride to the summit of the Port Hills. The comfortable, four-person cabin travels almost 500 metres above sea level to disembark at viewing decks to take in breathtaking scenery from the summit. See stellar views of the cityscape of Christchurch, Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps, the beaches of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean, Banks Peninsula, Lake Ellesmere and Lyttelton Harbour.

Waipara Valley Wine Tasting

Just over an hour’s drive north of Christchurch, the Waipara Valley region is ideal for producing exceptional wines and has a rich history of viticulture. Home to over 75 vineyards, Waipara wineries are famous for producing Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc.

On the Waipara Valley Wine Tasting shore tour, your knowledgeable local driver and guide will provide lively commentary throughout the day as you travel through one of New Zealand's most internationally renowned wine regions. Visit three different wineries, taste a variety of wine styles and options, and enjoy a platter style lunch at one of the beautiful wineries. 

Pioneers House and Homestead Experience

Travel back to bygone days during the P&O Pioneers House and Homestead Experience shore tour. Visit the pioneering Deans family’s exquisite Victorian/Edwardian homestead, Riccarton House, on Canterbury Plains. This sprawling 12-hectare compound showcases heritage buildings and manicured grounds overlooking the beautiful Avon River, while surrounding bush forest is populated with 600-year-old kahikatea trees.

Visit Homebush Family Farm, a working sheep and cattle farm with 1,350 acres, first planted in the 1850s. The farm contains 250 acres of magnificent trees, many registered for their significance. Original farm structures remain, including stables, woolshed and apple house, classified as Category One by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. Watch sheep-shearing and spinning demonstrations, walk through heritage gardens and immerse yourself in the farming culture of yesteryear.

Finally, a short tour of Christchurch will show the city’s amazing efforts to rebuild since the 2011 earthquake. View top attractions like Cathedral Square, the Avon River, the Margaret Mahy Family Playground, the Earthquake Memorial Wall, the Transitional Cardboard Cathedral and many more.