SUGGESTED ITINERARY
2-DAYS IN CHRISTCHURCH
Experience adventure and amazing wildlife in two days. From ziplining above Christchurch hills to dolphin watching in Akaroa all within 90-minutes drive from the city.
09:00 | International antarctic centre
Day 1
Start your day at the International Antarctic Centre, where the icy wonders of Antarctica come to life! Located just 5 minutes walking distance from Christchurch Airport, this centre offers an immersive experience into one of the world’s most extreme environments.
Here you’ll experience real snow and ice and survive an indoor Antarctic storm. Learn about life at Scott Base and see what it takes to work on the ice. You’ll hang out with little blue penguins and get close up to a husky. There’s also the exciting Hägglund Field Trip, an awesome 4D Theatre, a massive HD screen and lots, lots more.
We recommend a minimum of 1.5 hours at the attraction.
Getting there
International Antarctic Centre is juts 15 minutes’ drive from the city centre and there is free parking on site. Public transport also available and a special shuttle with Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. More details on how to get there.
11:00 | Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
New Zealand’s most comprehensive NZ themed wildlife park, the Willowbank experience tells the story of our country’s natural heritage.
Using pioneering and innovative display techniques, with an emphasis on creating a natural environment and an up-close and personal interactive experience, Willowbank showcases one of New Zealand’s best displays of native species. Willowbank was the first to open a glass-free nocturnal house for kiwi in a natural environment, guaranteeing viewings every time.
We recommend a minimum of 1.5 hours at the attraction.
Getting there
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is just short 7 minute’s drive from International Antarctic centre. You can get there by car (free parking onsite), dedicated shuttle or taxi/uber. For more information, click here.
Our tip!
By now you will be feeling like lunch or at least a cup of coffee. Willowbank Wildlife Reserve has a great café on site, where you can savour amazing food.
14:00 | Christchurch Adventure Park
Christchurch Adventure Park Your base for epic mountain bike, zipline & sightseeing adventures as well as chilled out down-time in Christchurch’s Port Hills.
Race through the valley on the dual zipline tour. Take in the stunning views from the chairlift or walking track.
Be totally stoked out by the stunning machine and hand-built mountain bike trails or just chill out on the large deck of our Adventure Park Café nestled in the Pine forest. The Adventure Park experience is yours for the making and we can't wait to share it with you.
We recommend a minimum of 3 hours at the Christchurch Adventure Park.
Getting there
Christchurch Adventure Park is located 30 minute’s drive from Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Your options are car or taxi/uber
Our tip!
After your ride stop and enjoy the beautiful forest setting and treat yourself to a coffee or beer on the deck of the Café and Bar. Relax and enjoy the bird songs as you marvel the trees you’ll be surrounded by.
DAY 2
Today is your day to discover picturesque and famous township of Akaroa
08:00 | Depart from Christchurch (1.5-hour drive, 81 km)
Start your day with a scenic drive from Christchurch to Akaroa, a journey that takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of Banks Peninsula. Along the way, wind through rolling hills and spot lush farmlands and glimpses of sparkling bays. Allow time for quick photo stops at some of the stunning lookouts and coffee stop at Little River Café.
10:00 | Black Cat Cruises
akaroa nature cruise & swimming with dolphins
Arrive in Akaroa and kick off your adventure with the renowned Akaroa Nature Cruise or Swimming with Dolphins
The Akaroa Nature Cruise is a 2-hour cruise takes you through the picturesque waters of Akaroa Harbour, known for its crystal-clear blue waters and abundant marine life. Get up close to the playful Hector’s dolphins, the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin species, as well as seals, penguins, and diverse birdlife. The knowledgeable guides share insights about the local ecosystem, history, and Maori culture, making this a truly unforgettable experience.
If you wish to get even more up close and personal with the rare Hector’s dolphins, book Black Cat Cruises Swimming with Dolphins experience. This 3.5hr tour is very popular so bookings weeks in advance are recommended.
12:30 | Explore Akaroa Township
After the cruise, explore Akaroa’s charming French-inspired township. Wander through streets lined with boutique shops, galleries, and local cafes, many offering authentic French pastries and fresh seafood. Take a stroll along the waterfront, or head into the heart of town for a self-guided heritage walk to learn about Akaroa’s unique French and British colonial history.
Enjoy lunch at one of Akaroa’s cozy cafes, with options ranging from casual fish and chips to French-inspired cuisine. For wine enthusiasts, stop by a local winery for a tasting of the region’s distinct Pinot Noir and other varietals, or sample artisanal gin at Akaroa’s boutique distilleries.
Our tip!
Black Cat Cruises has a day trip itinerary with suggested cafe options
15:00 | SCENIC WALKS
Take in the Views Finish the day with a gentle stroll along the Akaroa Lighthouse or opt for a scenic walk on one of the nearby trails, such as the Garden of Tane or the Newton’s Waterfall
17:00 | Drive back to Christchurch
Head back to Christchurch and feel afterglow of the stunning day and adventures of Akaroa