Arthurs Pass Excursion with Lunch and Farm Tour

Your guide warmly welcomes you at the cruise port in Lyttelton. Board your comfortable transport and begin your journey through the vibrant city of Christchurch and out onto the expansive Canterbury Plains. Along the way, your guide shares insights about the region's history and landscape.

Stop in Springfield for Photo Opportunity

⏱ Duration: 45 minutes

Arrive at the charming rural township of Springfield, located at the foothills of the Southern Alps. Enjoy a short break here, stretch your legs, and take photos of the unique surroundings—including the town’s famous giant pink donut sculpture.

Scenic Drive through Porter Pass to Arthur’s Pass

⏱ Duration: 45 minutes

Continue your journey through the dramatic alpine scenery of Porter Pass. Admire glacial lakes and expansive mountain meadows. Snow often dusts the peaks for much of the year, offering truly picture-perfect views.

Arrive at Arthur’s Pass Village

⏱ Duration: 1 hour

Upon entering Arthur’s Pass National Park, you’ll follow the route of the famous TranzAlpine Railway to the mountain village. Stop briefly at the summit of the pass, where the road begins its descent into Otira Gorge.

Visit the Otira Viaduct Lookout for sweeping views of the engineering marvel below. If you’re lucky, you may spot the Kea, New Zealand’s mischievous native alpine parrot. This is an ideal location for memorable photographs.

On the return to Arthur’s Pass Village, take a gentle, guided bush walk through the lush native beech forest. Learn about the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this alpine environment.

Lunch in Arthur’s Pass Village

⏱ Duration: 1 hour

Enjoy a hearty and delicious lunch at a cozy local restaurant in the village. Relax and soak in the stunning mountain views while you dine.

Visit Castle Hill & Sheep Farm Visit

⏱ Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Wander among the dramatic boulders and take photographs of this otherworldly landscape. Your guide will explain the cultural and geological significance of the area.

Arrive at a working high country sheep farm along the Waimakariri River. Watch an engaging demonstration of sheep mustering with trained sheepdogs. Get close to the flock and even have the chance to touch and photograph the sheep.

Meet the farmer and witness a traditional sheep shearing demonstration. Learn how wool is processed and sorted. Following the demonstration, enjoy a delightful afternoon tea of homemade cakes, tea, and coffee in the rustic farm setting.

Depart for Lyttelton Port

After a full day of alpine adventures and authentic New Zealand experiences, relax aboard your transport as you journey back to the port. Reflect on the day's highlights as the scenery transitions from mountain ranges back to coastal plains.

You arrive back in Lyttelton with plenty of time to reboard your cruise ship. Your guide bids you farewell and thanks you for joining this unforgettable journey into the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps.