Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Christchurch Sightseeing with Antarctic Center
Overview
Available languages
6 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Combine the International Antarctic Centre with its little Blue Penguins, Antarctic Storm in the Ice and Snow room, 4-D Movie and Hagglund ride over a purpose made course, together with a half day city tour of Christchurch taking in not only the damage to the city by several earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 and the rebuild currently taking place but also the remaining historic landmarks and the existing beauty of this picturesque city.
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
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Lyttelton Harbour
Tour starts and ends in Lyttelton
Leisure Tours
Travelling with Leisure Tours
What‘s Included
Worry-free Shore Excursion Guarantee
Driver/guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Live commentary on board
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Options
Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Christchurch Sightseeing with Antarctic Center
Pickup included
Reviews
198 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
We found it on the...
David H,,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00We found it on the internet after we booked a Princess cruise. Review of Christchurch off shore excursion. We didn't appreciate our tour guide making political comments that were offensive and untrue. He needs to keep his personal political commentary to himself.
A mixed review.
Lynette W,,Jan 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00Great excursion until the guide turned what was advertised as a 61/2 half hour excursion into 8 1/2 hours. WAY too long and constant repetitious commentary about the earthquake and the resulting devastation. The Antarctic Center was fantastic and after 7 hours we were all tired and just wanted to return to our ship. However, Joseph continued to add more stops ( again- not part of the itinerary) which added an additional couple of hours. It was obvious the love he had for his city. I just wish he had stayed with the original itinerary and within the advertised length of the tour.
Antarctic Center Plus Highlights
Gretchen R,,Jan 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Nice stops and good commentary. Antarctic Center was highlight; interactive experience. We had 2 drivers which was positive.
Well worth it if you are on a cruise ship in town for the day
Chris H,,Jan 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a fantastic tour and cost us much less for much more as opposed to the cruise ship tours, and they had us back in time too
A great day in Christchurch.
Kyle B,,Jan 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was our best tour in NZ so far. The buses were comfortable, and both drivers/guides were excited and knowledgeable about their city. We toured most of Christchurch with the first driver, Scotty, and were dropped downtown for lunch on our own. Afterwards, another driver, Joseph, took us to the Antarctic Center. The Center was nice, but if you are the kind who likes to read every sign, you just don’t have enough time. But I still recommend this experience. Overall, a great trip and day spent!
Refunded excursion
bfavs,,Jan 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our ship did not make it to shore due to weather and our excursion was refunded automatically, I didn’t have to reach out to the operator. Definitely recommend!! It is unusual to receive that sort of thoughtful service.
Joseph did a great job....
Darryl C,,Jan 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Joseph did a great job. The Antarctica center was very good. Great views of the city from the top of the hill.
Excellent tour and...
Jeffrey A,,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent tour and fantastic guide. Personable, knowledgeable and funny. Made the tour a great experience.
Fantastic tour - Joseph...
Marita T,,Dec 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Fantastic tour - Joseph was very knowledgeable and made the tour very interesting and fun. The Antartic Centre is a must visit and Karen our guide was fantastic.
GREAT SHORE EXCURSION OF CHRISTCHURCH
464sueh,,Dec 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I booked this shore excursion tour for the 23 December 2025. The details for meeting the tour were very clear and went without a hitch. Although I have been to Christchurch several times I liked the itinerary that was offered. From our start we travelled over a coastal area with magnificent views. We had a couple of stops at tourist spots and a drive around the earthquake affected areas before having a lunch break in Christchurch. After lunch we visited the Antarctic Centre, what a great experience they offer. Our trip back to the ship took us on a different route. More magnificent scenery over another set of hills. We had a great group of people who always were on time and that makes for a good tour. Our driver / guide "Scotty" was exceptional, his knowledge of the area was outstanding, You won't be disappointed on this tour.
From NZ$185.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by Leisure Tours