Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
See the city of Christchurch from above by taking a trip aboard the Christchurch Gondola. The 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 summit complex, on the crater rim of Christchurch's famous extinct volcano.
Please note the Christchurch Gondola is a 15 minute drive from the city centre and a ten minute drive from the port of Lyttelton.
To see even more of Christchurch, go Punting on the Avon River. If the combo package is purchased. Please book your Punting timeslot prior to arrival by contacting the supplier directly.
• Please note our attractions do get very busy sometimes, especially if a cruise ship is in port and there may be a wait time at the Gondola due to increased demand
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The Gondola cabins can accommodate wheelchairs up to 600cm wide
If the Punting combo upgrade is selected, you will need to contact the supplier directly to prebook a Punting timeslot.
Please note our attractions do get very busy sometimes, especially if a cruise ship is in port and there may be a wait time at the Gondola entry due to increased demand
What To Expect
Christchurch Gondola
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. From up here it’s easy to see how the harbor was formed by a collapsed volcanic crater. At the summit, ride the Discovery ride to see a video of Christchurch, its history, people and volatile geology. Enjoy a snack or meal at the Red Rock Cafe (not included), and browse the Shop at the Top retail experience. Add a Punt ride on the Avon River and glide along in a flat bottomed boat. Relax as a Punter, traditionally dressed in straw hat and blazer, propels you past a romantic setting of boat sheds, trees and riverside paths. See the wildlife float by, and be prepared for all weather with blankets and umbrellas provided.
Options
Gondola Ride & Avon River
Round-trip Gondola ride ticket plus 30-minute Avon River punt ride. The Gondola operates 10am to 5pm. Punting operates 10am to 4pm May to September or 9am to 6pm October to April
Gondola Ride
Round-trip Gondola ticket. The Gondola operates from 10am to 5pm
What‘s Included
Return Gondola ride
30-minute Avon River punt ride (if option selected at time of booking)
Transport to/from the attractions
Food and drinks
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
323 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A must do when in Christchurch.
kiwigal65,Jun 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent staff and a high level of care in regard to having a safe experience. Prepare eg.. check weather and make enough time to do this trip. Wait time to go up to the summit can be long but so worth it.
There was a beautiful...
Algina G,Jun 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00There was a beautiful view from the Gandola and the cafe on the top of the mountain. Less crowded. Friendly staff
Excellent
Jet34264428903,Jun 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent! It was a fantastic way to show family members the whole of the city.
Super good
matthewcE2499ZL,May 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was really good and a great view. Lots of beautiful walks on the port hills. Decent coffee at the top as well
Amazing view from the top
jonalyns998,May 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing experience. Kids love the Gondola ride and we were able to have lunch at the cafe too. Great activity for family! Highly recommended
Christchurch gondola
Passenger68344690426,May 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Really good visit, cost me alot more than expected though as I didn't realize that the TripAdvisor payment was in USA dollars didn't even look as it was TripAdvisor NZ.
Awesome view of Christ Church!
Freedom32195506129,May 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00For someone who is scared of heights, this was an amazing gondola ride! Stunning 380° view. The café muffins were delicious. Well, we're spending a few hours. Just enjoying the view.
Cloudy day but still worth the trip!
carolnZ3196VM,May 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Great experience, we did go on a cloudy day but was still enjoyable. Staff were friendly and helpful. Lovely cafe at the top and some awesome walking trails. Would definitely recommend.
Totally worth the price of admission!
Lynn B,Apr 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Scotty was great. Very enthusiastic in how he described all the towns, history and the earthquakes. Tour went longer than expected so future guests can plan.
Best views of the area
294gillianv,Apr 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a breathtaking experience. What a great view from the top! It was raining but soon cleared up, providing stunning outlooks from the trails. Loved the ride and gift shop as well! Very easy to get to from the port - just take the #8 bus.
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Operated by Christchurch Attractions