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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
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
Please note the internal lift at the Gondola will be getting replaced and unable to be used between Monday 14th July 2025 – Friday 19th September 2025. If guests cannot use the stairs there will be no way to provide access to the remainder of the building including the café, observation deck or the Discovery Ride.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Return Gondola ride
30-minute Avon River punt ride (if option selected at time of booking)
Transport to/from the attractions
Food and drinks
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.
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
Round-trip Gondola ticket. The Gondola operates from 10am to 5pm
234 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Cynthia N,
Jul 22, 2025
- Viator
Great view Good smiling staff Amazing experience Very accessible by public transport Affordable prices
Lori M,
Apr 1, 2025
- Viator
Great way to see the area. It's a beautiful view at the top with a small bistro and gift shop. The portions at the bistro are large-you can easily share an order of fries amongst 2-3 people. The views can't be beat! Gorgeous and stunning!
Cathy R,
Apr 1, 2025
- Viator
You can see the beauty NZ has to offer. Should be able to give a short answer or people won't do your survey
Keith I,
Apr 1, 2025
- Viator
The Gondola can be very busy, especially if there is a cruise ship visiting that day. Check times and expected crowd capacity before you go.
tmhart,
Mar 30, 2025
- Viator
Very enjoyable ride. CAFE at top - good food, and service. Great views , lots of walks at the top. Very busy cruise day but all moved reasonably quickly.
Operated by Christchurch Attractions