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Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill

43 Reviews 4.77 out of 5 stars Based on 43 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 95% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Christchurch, New Zealand
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 31 (0) days in advance.

10 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 4 more
French, German, Italian, Spanish
Instant confirmation

Overview

Nestled at the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana), Arthur’s Pass is steeped in history. Connecting the east and west coasts of Kā Tiritiri o te Moana, the route was originally established by iwi to trade pounamu (greenstone) before it became known to surveyors such as Arthur Dudley Dobson who would later colonise its status in 1864. Home of the world’s only truly alpine parrot and our namesake, the Kea, the now National Park’s dramatic terrain, powerful waterfalls, unique fauna, native Beech forest, and engineering feats make it a popular destination for hikers and sightseers alike.

You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our knowledgeable and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget!

As this tour operates in an alpine region, the weather can be unpredictable so prepare for all conditions. Tour runs in reverse in winter.

What's Included

  • Lunch Great pre packed lunch you can enjoy at any stage on the tour
  • Snacks Kiwi classic snacks
  • Bottled water
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    Meeting and Pickup

    Pickup point
    Pickup details

    For a smooth pick-up process please be waiting at your selected pick-up location at least 5 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time. Your vehicle may be delayed due to previous pickups. Please be patient and wait 10 minutes before calling the office. Our drivers cannot wait for late customers. No show / late customers will not be refunded. We only pick up from locations that have a pickup noted.

    OR
    Meeting point

    Christchurch Central City
    Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

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    Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

    End point

    This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

    What To Expect

    Book Online

    Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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    Waimakariri

    As we make our way through the Selwyn District, you will be greeted by Springfield, where we will then make our turn off towards the team at Alpine Jet Thrills. Here there are walks, views of the Waimakariri river, and sheep cuddles to enjoy. Looking for more adventure? Add on a 30 minute thrilling jet boat experience on one of the region’s most famous rivers (extra booked and sold separately).
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    1 hour Admission Ticket Free

    Lake Lyndon

    Next up we stop at Lake Lyndon. Nestled at the base of Porters Pass, Lyndon, or Te Hāpua Waikawa, is popular amongst jetboaters, bird watchers, and brave swimmers. It is known as one of this area's colder lakes.
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    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Castle Hill

    Castle Hill, or Kura Tāwhiti, is perhaps one of Canterbury’s most distinguishable settings. Famous for its scenery that would later inspire Middle Earth™, nearby Flock Hill, who Castle Hill shares its geology with, went on to become one of the filming locations used for The Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. The weathered limestone rocks sit proudly abreast the tussocky hills that were once in the ocean. Over time they have eroded away, forming the amazing unique shapes you see today. While you walk amongst the rocks, you might catch a glimpse of climbers and boulderers who frequent the area. Please note that this is not a guided walk, so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own.
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    1 hour Admission Ticket Free

    Lake Pearson

    Ōpōrea, or Lake Pearson, is the largest of three mountain lakes on the pass. This picturesque glacial lake is surrounded by the Southern Alps, and is a popular spot for swimmers, fishing and visitors. Significantly, the lake was, and is still used as a site of mahinga kai (food gathering) for local iwi.
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    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Otira Viaduct Lookout

    Also known as Death's Corner, the Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the National Park in all its glory. This bridge is the only reason that driving through Arthur’s Pass is possible today. At 440 metres long, it is a true feat of engineering. The lookout is a great spot for a photo framing viaduct and the surrounding landscape. Keep your eyes peeled at this stop! With a bit of luck, you might even see a wee Cheeky Kea - New Zealand’s sneaky alpine parrot!
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    15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Arthur's Pass National Park

    We depart the lookout and head towards Arthur’s Pass Village. Located 740 metres above sea level, you will be able to experience the majestic Southern Alps up close. Once we arrive, you can choose to either walk to Devils Punch Bowl, or grab a coffee and spend some time exploring the local shops.
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    1 hour Admission Ticket Free

    Devils Punchbowl Walking Track

    Devils Punch Bowl - This walking track is approximately 1 hour long, with a gradual incline (including steps) towards a ferocious 131 metre tall waterfall. Fitness is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and native beech forest.Please note that depending on time, your guide will let you know how long you have and will assist you on the day in regard to the best activity for the weather and time allocated.
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    1 hour Admission Ticket Free

    Cave Stream Scenic Reserve

    As we begin our trip back to Christchurch, we make a brief stop at Cave Stream. Formed by the cave’s stream that flows through an underground passage for 594 metres, the cave can be accessed by inexperienced cavers and is pretty incredible to look at and explore.
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    15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Porters Pass (pass by)

    With an elevation of 939 metres, Porters Pass is another mountain pass located deep in Kā Tiritiri o te Moana. Experience breathtaking views of the Canterbury plains as you weave your way back across the third-highest highway in Te Waipounamu (the South Island).
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    Additional Info

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Travel time is included in the Tour Duration.
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 16 travelers

    Frequently Asked Questions (8)

    Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill?

    A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZDT).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

    Still have questions?

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    Activity code: C-312127P9

    Traveler Photos

    Reviews

    4.77
    43 reviews

    Average 4.77 out of 5 stars based on 43 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

    5 stars
    37
    4 stars
    4
    3 stars
    1
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    1 star
    1
    Don't miss out!
    On average, this is booked 31 (0) days in advance.

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    What's Included

    Activity name

    • LunchGreat pre packed lunch you can enjoy at any stage on the tour
    • SnacksKiwi classic snacks
    • Bottled water
    • WiFi on board
    • All Fees and Taxes
    • Air-conditioned vehicle

    Additional Info

    Activity name

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Travel time is included in the Tour Duration.
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 16 travelers

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    Activity name