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Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Small Group Tour of Akaroa & Peninsula

3 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 3 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Christchurch, New Zealand

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6 to 7 hours (approx.)
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Overview

This is a small group tour specifically designed for cruise ship passengers. Visit Akaroa and explore the Banks Peninsula with one of our friendly and knowledgeable local guides.

Starting and finishing at Lyttleton, this excursion is a genuinely scenic experience. Learn about fascinating local history and come to understand how an enormous extinct volcano shaped this rugged landscape and how the landscape continues to shape the people who live here.

In Akaroa, depending on your chosen option, you’ll either visit the whimsical Giant’s House—filled with vibrant mosaic sculptures—or, if you choose to upgrade, enjoy a harbour nature cruise where you may spot Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, and seabirds. (Please note: The harbour cruise option replaces the visit to the Giant’s House.) In town, there are opportunities to try the local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, or admire the local artworks.

This trip to Akaroa from Lyttleton fits nicely into the cruise ship schedule.

What's Included

  • Tea and coffee Coffee and/or Tea
  • Lunch
  • Snacks Morning and afternoon tea are included

    Meeting Location

    Meeting point

    Norwich Quay
    Lyttelton 8082, 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.

    What To Expect

    Sign of the Kiwi Cafe

    The Sign of the Kiwi is a remarkable rest house that survived the 2010-2011 earthquakes but required extensive restorations to preserve its integrity and charm. This building represents a vital piece of history and serves as a welcoming point for those exploring the picturesque vistas along the Summit Road.We stop for a short walk and photo opportunity at the Sign of the Kiwi.A 25-minute drive along Summit Road brings us to the next location.
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    10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Gebbies Pass

    Gebbies Pass links Lyttelton Harbour to Banks Peninsula and Akaroa Harbour. Stopping at the top of the 161-meter-high pass affords a stunning view over the rugged farmland and with Lyttelton Harbor in the background.A 25-minute drive brings us to our next location.
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    10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Little River

    A tiny township nestled between steep hillside farmland and native bush. The food, art, and ice cream that are sold here are favourites with Christchurch locals visiting Akaroa.You will have some free time here to admire the local artworks, sample the ice cream or check out the historic railway station.A 30-minute over a steep hill brings us into Akaroa Harbour.
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    30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Akaroa

    Once in Akaroa, you can visit The Giant’s House, a mesmerising mosaic sculpture garden, or, if you choose to upgrade, enjoy a harbour nature cruise where you may spot Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, and seabirds. (Please note: The harbour cruise option replaces the visit to the Giant’s House.) Following one of these unforgettable experiences, take time to savour a café lunch and explore the shops, all while soaking in the beauty of this idyllic harbour town.
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    3 hours • Admission Ticket Free

    Kaituna Valley Scenic Reserve

    Afternoon tea is served before exploring the beautiful native bush and admiring the massive Mati (New Zealand White Pine) Trees. An easy 10-minute loop track is an option for those who would like to stretch their legs.A 40-minute drive brings us back to Lyttelton.
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    15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Lyttelton

    Lyttelton is one of the oldest townships in New Zealand and the starting point of Shackton's famous Antarctic expeditions. It boasts the largest and busiest port on the South Island, while the township maintains a quaint local vibe. On Saturdays, the main street hosts a vibrant local market.Depending on your boat's departure time, you may have time to find a souvenir, visit a local cafe, or find a quiet spot to enjoy the view of the Harbour.
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    30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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    Additional Info

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 8 travelers

    Frequently Asked Questions

    (7)

    Q: Will I get seasick on Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Small Group Tour of Akaroa & Peninsula?

    A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

    Cancellation Policy

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

    Still have questions?

    We're here to help.
    Activity code: C-210847P21

    Traveler Photos

    Reviews

    5.00
    3 reviews

    Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 3 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

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    What's Included

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    • Tea and coffeeCoffee and/or Tea
    • Lunch
    • SnacksMorning and afternoon tea are included
    • Air-conditioned vehicle

    Additional Info

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 8 travelers

    Report Product Issue

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    Free Cancellation

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

    100% refund
    No refund

    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 (NZST).
    • 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.

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