Cultural Experiences Christchurch

Āmiki Cultural and Food Tours offer a chance to explore the rich cultural, historical, and culinary treasures of central Ōtautahi Christchurch with exceptional guides – who have great taste might we add! With the city's breathtaking scenery, exceptional foodie experiences and unique pathways – accompanied by stories from Māori and multicultural guides – visitors come as strangers and leave as friends, with their minds, and stomachs enriched!

Join Keefe Robinson-Gore from Ōnuku Marae on an audio tour as he takes you through the spiral pathway and shares the tragic story of Takapūneke. Along the way, Fayne Robinson, the carver of the central structure called a Pou, will discuss its historical significance in the site that sits between Akaroa's township and the nearby Ōnuku settlement.

Discover the beautiful city of Ōtautahi from a unique vantage point, the wai (water). Experience a guided waka tour along the Ōtākaro Avon River and immerse yourself in the history of Māori and European settlers in the construction of Christchurch. Discover the importance of waka, explore historical sites, and keep an eye out for cute elusive eels!

Riccarton House and Bush/Pūtaringamotu is a must-visit heritage site, featuring open parkland, floral gardens, the Ōtākaro Avon River and two historic buildings, one of which – Dean’s Cottage – is the oldest building in the Canterbury plains! This reserve is just 3.5 km from Christchurch City Centre and boasts an extensive native bush forest, with kahikatea trees up to 600 years old! Guided tours are also available and if you're feeling a bit peckish, you can always grab a bite at the delicious café while you explore!

Embark on a 90-minute guided walking tour of Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre and immerse yourself in its rich history. Discover the Gothic revival architecture, clock towers, observatories, and the Victorian-era lecture theatre. Visit Rutherford's Den (yes, the father of nuclear physics) and the Great Hall, where you can admire the stained-glass memorial window. The tour guide will also share stories about academic achievements, student pranks, and rumours of ghosts. While you are there, be sure to learn about the centre’s cultural narrative, created to recognise the history of the land, traditions and knowledge of its indigenous people. A perfect way to examine the past and snap a glimpse of the future!

At the shallow head of Akaroa Harbour, between Barry’s Bay and Duvauchelle, lies the once-fortified Ngāi Tahu pā, Ōnawe. This open, sacred/tapu Māori site is only accessible during low tide, so be sure to check the tide schedule to avoid getting caught out! The Peninsula is home to a range of stunning volcanic and plutonic igneous rocks situated in the centre of the ancient Akaroa Volcano, which now forms the picturesque Akaroa Harbour. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views and explore this historic tapu Māori battleground via a one-hour return track.

Join a fascinating journey guided by a seventh-generation French descendant and explore the incredibly rich history of Akaroa. You will learn about Māori exploration, European settlement, farming, and conservation efforts. The tour includes visits to the stunning Akaroa Nature Heritage Park, the internationally important Hinewai Reserve, the community led Wildside Project, areas of significant Natural Quiet and much more! It is a wonderfully inclusive and expansive tour of Akaroa's cultural and historical significance and is one not to be missed.