Christchurch Gondola Ride

Celebrate the recovery of Christchurch following the 2011 earthquake, and take a trip aboard the newly reopened Christchurch Gondola. The upgraded cable car takes you on a scenic journey to the Port Hills crater rim and Mt Cavendish summit, giving you fabulous views of Christchurch's dramatically changed cityscape. See Canterbury Plains and Lyttelton Harbour unfold as you rise to the revamped summit complex, on the crater rim of Christchurch's famous extinct volcano. To see even more of Christchurch, add a Catepillar Bus Tour at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens or go punting on the Avon River.

One of Christchurch’s most popular attractions is back in action! There are frequent shuttle bus services (not included) that will take you from the city center to the gondola base station, where you start your 10-minute scenic ride on the gondola to the top of Mt Cavendish.

Take in views over the city of Christchurch, damaged but recovering from the 2011 earthquake, and see all the way to the snowcapped Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains. As you rise more than half a mile (almost a kilometer) to the crater summit, the suburbs of Christchurch recede below you and panoramic views take in Lyttelton Harbour ringed by the green Port Hills. From up here it’s easy to see how the harbor was formed by a collapsed volcanic crater.

At the summit, ride the Time Tunnel to see a video of Christchurch, its history, people and volatile geology. Enjoy a snack or meal at the newly opened Red Rock Cafe (not included), featuring a new pastry chef and menu, and browse the Shop at the Top retail experience.

Having seen Christchurch from above, see its famous trees and flowers up close by adding a tour of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Ride around the gardens on the electric Caterpillar shuttle, getting on and off whenever you like. Ask the knowledgeable garden staff questions about the historic gardens’ plants and landscaping as you visit the tropical greenhouse, stroll through the rose garden and hear the Peace Bell chime.

Or add a cruise on the Avon River and glide along in a punt (a flat bottomed boat). Relax as a skilled punter, traditionally dressed in straw hat and blazer, propels you past a romantic setting of boat sheds, trees and riverside paths. See ducks and ducklings float by, cruise past the lush Christchurch Botanic Gardens, and be prepared for all weather with blankets and umbrellas provided.

Schedule details

Punting on the Avon River

Departure Dates:

Select a month to view a calendar of availability and departure details.

Departure Point:

Departure Time:

Gondola Ride

• 10am - 5pm
  
Caterpillar Botanic Gardens tour:
• October 31 to March 31: 10am - 4pm
  
• April 1 to September 30: 11am - 3pm
  
Punting operating hours:

• May 1 to September 30: 10am - 4pm
• October 1 to April 30: 9am - 6pm

Return Details:

Pricing information

Click the link below to check pricing & availability on your preferred travel date. Our pricing is constantly updated to ensure you always receive the lowest price possible.

Tour options:

Additional information

Christchurch Gondola Ride

Inclusions:

• Round-trip Christchurch Gondola Ride ticket
• Caterpillar Botanic Garden tour (if option selected at time of booking)
• 30-minute Avon River punt ride (if option selected at time of booking)
• GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Exclusions:

• Gratuities (optional)
• Transport to/from the attractions

Additional Information:

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Please dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes

Voucher Info:

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Local Operator Information:

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.