Tour Details

Christchurch Gondola Ride

From: £12.79

Duration: Varies

Categories: Sightseeing, Family Friendly

Riding the Christchurch Gondola is a spectacular experience. The 945 meter Gondola ride gently lifts passengers on a six-minute journey in the comfort of a 4 person gondola cabin, almost 500 meters (1500 feet) above sea level. Capture unique 360 degree views of Christchurch and distant peaks of the Southern Alps, 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: This tour will not be opeating until late 2012. Due to damage caused by the Christchurch earthquake, the infrastucture is currently being reviewed. A more definite opening date will be made available as further informtion comes to hand.

There is plenty to do at the summit complex including:

  • The Heritage Time Tunnel: Step back in time to discover the fascinating history of the area. Learn about the volcanic origins of the area, early Maori life and the European (English) arrival.
  • Nature Walkways and Mountain Biking: Explore the easy walk ways around the crater rim. For the adventurous, mountain bike cross-country options are available.
  • Pinnacle (Gondola Restaurant) and Summit Café: Enjoy lunch in the Summit Café, or savor the best of Canterbury cuisine while taking in the extensive views from Pinnacle Restaurant.
  • Shop at the Top: Browse through the selection of local souvenirs and gifts, including Gondola mementos, jewelry, clothing and much more. A wide range of product for all ages and budgets!

Why not upgrade to combine both the Christchurch gondola ride and the Hop-on Hop-off 2-day tram pass.

Your Christchurch Hop-on Hop-off pass is valid for two-days. This is the best way to experience Christchurch at your own pace. Jump on board the beautifully restored trams and hop-on and off at any of the tram stops to explore the sight and attractions up close.

Tram drivers provide a live entertaining and informative commentary throughout the journey.

Want the complete Christchurch experience? Upgrade to the Triple Pass to also include an enjoyable 30-minute punt ride on the Avon River.

The 'Triple Pass' includes the 2-day tram pass, the Christchurch gondola ride plus a 30-minute punt ride. The tranquil and relaxing 30-minute punt ride takes you down the Avon River through the historic inner city of Christchurch.

Attractions do not need to be taken on the same day.

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Culture Shock Rating

We have a wide range of tours designed to give you an insight into the destination you're travelling in and there is something for everybody. The culture shock ratings considers the destination visited, transport used, activities undertaken and that "Wow, I'm really not at home now!" factor. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our gradings is as follows…

20%

This is the least confronting of our tour range. Transport used on the trip is either private or a very comfortable public option, the activities included are usually iconic sites and locations that are not all too confronting.

40%

The tour can include a mix of private and public transport providing a level of comfort that is slightly below what you would experience at home. Sites visited are usually iconic sites, tours can also include market visits, visits to communities etc that provide the traveller with a fantastic insight into destination.

60%

Expect to rough it for parts of this tour, whether it's a packed public bus where you are forced to stand, a visit to a local market, a local community, you are sure to have an experience that is very different from what you're used to at home.

80%

The comforts of your home town and the environment you are used to are more of a rarity. Expect some challenging transport options, visits to local sites and areas that don't resemble anything at home.

100%

You're out there in the global community! You are likely to be exposed to the elements, travel in whatever means of transport is available and basically take it as it comes, whatever comes! It can be tough.

Physical Rating

Our physical rating gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the tour. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our gradings is as follows…

20%

These tours have very limited physical activity. Usually climbing in and out of the transport provided, walking through sites, markets etc included in the itinerary.

40%

These tours have a bit of physical activity but nothing that should challenge you too much. This could be climbing on and off public transport through to a walk through the destination you're travelling in, they can include walking only tours or a combination of walking and transport.

60%

These tours involve a bit of physical activity from walking up and down hills in the destination you're travelling in or the surrounding areas. Climbing on and off local transport or riding a bike up to 30 kms along predominantly flat terrain or jumping in a kayak for a gentle paddle on flat water.

80%

These Tours will provide you with some solid physical activity. Whether its bike riding, walking, trekking, kayaking or riding on public transport you will need to have a good level of fitness to enjoy this tour.

100%

Be prepared for some serious physical activity. These tours are our most challenging and involve some serious walking, hiking or bike riding. Can involve step climbs by foot or pedal and some challenging public transport options in the destination you are travelling.

Luxury Rating

Some trips are like a stroll on the beach, while others have you trekking alpine passes. Some of you thrive on camping out on the savannah, while others may prefer a hot shower and a comfortable bed in a lodge. Follow the grading systems below to find the right trip for you.

To help you choose the trip that's right for you, we've broken all of our trips down into four service levels. Measuring the comfort level of the accommodation and transport. So whether you're travelling on a budget and want to save money by using public transport, or prefer upgraded accommodation and are happy to pay a little more, then we have a level for you.

25%

This is grassroots travel at its most interesting

50%

Authentic experiences with some of the comforts of home

75%

For those who like to travel in comfort

100%

All the unique experiences wrapped up with a gold ribbon