A Wonderful Weekend In Ōtautahi Christchurch

Start your day early and escape to a world of ultimate tranquillity. A bucket list item for so many, hot air ballooning is an experience you can have right here in Canterbury. Ballooning Canterbury is a family-owned business who love showing people Canterbury from a completely different view.  

Experience a sunrise like never before as you set out first thing. The mornings are best as it is usually when the weather is calmest and the morning light is most beautiful. Capture incredible photos and have a truly breath-taking experience… there aren’t many better ways to start your day! 

If you prefer to start your morning with less adventure and more zen... then a sunrise soak at He Puna Taimoana is just what you need. Located in New Brighton, the hot pools offer stunning ocean views that enhance the peaceful environment. Sunrise Soak is a 2-hour session and includes unrestricted views of the sunrise, a fluffy robe to wear and a complimentary mocktail. There is also an optional guided meditation for those who want to maximise the tranquillity.

Once you are feeling pampered and refreshed, grab a bite to eat and a coffee at the delicious onsite café Saturdays.  

It’s time to get up close and personal with some of New Zealand’s most diverse and unique wine. Located in the heart of North Canterbury, the Waipara wine region is home to over 90 vineyards, most of them independently owned by a close-knit community of local families. Wine lovers are spoilt for choice in this small but mighty region and what better way to experience it than with a wine trail tour? Most tours also include options for a beautiful lunch at one of the cellar doors and multiple winery stops with tastings along the way.  

A much-loved Ōtautahi attraction, the Christchurch Trams offer a unique experience combining history and sightseeing. Explore the ever-evolving city centre by comfortable heritage tramcar while the knowledgeable drivers provide insightful commentary. With an all-day hop-on hop-off ticket you can visit the best of the sights at your leisure.

Since you have already been tasting the regions very best wine, why not visit Cellar Door for dinner – a beautiful restaurant that specialises in exceptional wine. Set in the charming south quad of the Christchurch Arts Centre, the restaurant offer wine tasting flights, as well as an extensive selection of local and international wines. The seasonal menu is thoughtfully made with a focus on local ingredients so you are in for a wonderful dining experience!

Your Sunday starts in the beautiful Akaroa as the historic French village is home to endless activities and expeditions. For an experience you won’t forget, Black Cat’s Swimming With Dolphins is a must. Cruise out into the majestic surroundings of Akaroa Harbour and naturally encounter wild Hector’s dolphins who call the waters home. A true bucket list experience.

While you’re in Akaroa, Pohatu Penguins needs to be on your agenda. Get up close and personal with these cute creatures as you watch them in their natural habitat. Pohatu is the largest Australasian Little Penguin colony on mainland New Zealand, where White-flippered Penguins have been protected for the last three decades.

If you want to stay a little closer to the city, Black Cat also offer wonderful tours to Quail Island, leaving from Whakaraupō, Lyttelton Harbour. You can spend a full day or half-day on the tranquil island, with the Quail Island ferry taking you to and from. There are some beautiful walks that you can take around the island with great views and even a few shipwreck sightings.

An unmissable Christchurch experience, the Christchurch Gondola offers stunning 360-degree views of the city, Lyttelton Harbour and beyond. See the snow-capped Southern Alps, sprawling Canterbury Plains and the sparkling waters of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Explore the many walking tracks amid fresh mountain air or sit back and relax with a refreshment from the Red Rock Cafe and take in the spectacular views.

For a memorable and unique cultural experience, Amiki Tours is worth checking out. Your friendly, knowledgeable guide will take you on a cultural food tour through the laneways of Ōtautahi Christchurch as you discover unique foods, local stories and historical sites. Learn some te reo Māori and link up with locals to uncover some of the city’s hidden gems!