Items | Arthur’s Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip From Christchurch
Arthur’s Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip From Christchurch
(3) Reviews
Christchurch
Important Information
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Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
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Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
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If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
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This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
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Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
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Explore the Southern Alps’ thundering waterfalls, "Narnia" film sites, and majestic limestone rocks. Encounter cheeky Kea parrots and pristine mirror lakes on this ultimate alpine adventure.
Highlights
10 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
10 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Guided tour (except for walks in the National Park)
Pickup and drop-off from selected central Christchurch hotels
Professional guide and commentary
Bottled water and light snacks
WiFi and in-van USB charging
Coffee and award-winning pies for morning tea at the Famous Sheffield Pie Shop
We have designed our itinerary with a dedicated break at [Arthur's Pass National Park], giving you the freedom to explore the local cafes and choose a meal that suits your appetite.
Arthur’s Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip From Christchurch
(3) Reviews
Christchurch
About
Explore the Southern Alps’ thundering waterfalls, "Narnia" film sites, and majestic limestone rocks. Encounter cheeky Kea parrots and pristine mirror lakes on this ultimate alpine adventure.
Highlights
10 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
10 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Guided tour (except for walks in the National Park)
Pickup and drop-off from selected central Christchurch hotels
Professional guide and commentary
Bottled water and light snacks
WiFi and in-van USB charging
Coffee and award-winning pies for morning tea at the Famous Sheffield Pie Shop
We have designed our itinerary with a dedicated break at [Arthur's Pass National Park], giving you the freedom to explore the local cafes and choose a meal that suits your appetite.
Itinerary
1
Christchurch
Begin your adventure by traveling along the Great Alpine Highway (SH73), a route famed for its ever-changing scenery—from the golden tussocks of the Canterbury Plains to the rugged, snow-capped peaks of the southern alps. No journey into the heart of the South Island is complete without a stop at the Famous Sheffield Pie Shop. A local icon for over 40 years, it’s the perfect place to fuel up with some of New Zealand’s best award-winning pies.
10 minutes
2
Arthur's Pass National Park
Once we reach Arthur's Pass National Park, we’ll drive to the Otira Viaduct lookout for spectacular views—including the vibrant red Rata flowers during summer. Keep an eye out for the cheeky Kea, New Zealand’s inquisitive alpine parrot! Our mountain exploration continues with a visit to the stunning Avalanche Creek Waterfall and several other scenic highlights within the National Park.
30 minutes
3
Devils Punchbowl Walking Track
For the highlight of your afternoon, we highly recommend the Devils Punchbowl walking track. A leisurely 1-hour return walk leads you through lush beech forest to the base of a thundering 131-metre waterfall. The sheer power of the water and the mist on your face make this an unforgettable alpine experience
1 hour
4
Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre
After your walk, enjoy some well-earned downtime in the charming Arthur’s Pass village. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy lunch at a local cafe, browse the historic visitor centre, or simply soak up the peaceful mountain atmosphere before we continue our journey.
45 minutes
5
Lake Pearson
Our return journey to Christchurch our first stop is the serene Lake Pearson. This high-country lake is famous for its glassy, mirror-like reflections of the surrounding mountains—a photographer’s dream and a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon break.
10 minutes
6
Flock Hill Station
Stop at Flock Hill: Discover the stunning 'Narnia' filming location. This site was featured in Disney's The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe as the primary battlefield—a spectacular setting surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Craigieburn Valley.
10 minutes
7
Castle Hill
Our final highlight: Experience the 'Treasure from Afar' at Kura Tāwhiti. To the Ngāi Tahu iwi, this area holds Tōpuni status—a symbolic cloak of protection over its sacred values. As you walk the easy access track, look for traces of 500-year-old charcoal drawings and learn how these rocks were formed 30 million years ago when New Zealand was still under a shallow inland sea.
45 minutes
8
Christchurch
Leaving the mountains behind, we travel across the vast Canterbury Plains. We make one final, delicious stop in the rural town of Springfield to see the famous giant doughnut—a must-photo landmark! From there, it’s a relaxing final leg back to the city, where we say our goodbyes and drop you off at your chosen location.
