Rail Tours
6+ hours
Free cancellation
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Recommended by 95% of travellers
95% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
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$695
per adult
Canterbury Trails
Canterbury Trails
5
City ToursWineries & VineyardsNature & Wildlife AreasPrivate ToursDay Trips
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About
Canterbury Trails is a small, family-owned tour company that offers guided tours of the South Island of New Zealand. We are known for their small group sizes, experienced guides, environmental awareness and personalised service. What we offer: Small group tours: Canterbury Trails offers tours with a maximum of 8 people, which allows for a more intimate and personalized experience. Carbon positive: They minimize our impact, we have offset unavoidable emissions, and are certified Carbon Positive. This means their tours create a positive impact on the environment. Experienced guides: Our guides are all passionate about New Zealand and have a wealth of knowledge about the country's history, culture, and natural beauty. Personalised service: Canterbury Trails is committed to providing each of their guests with a personalized and unforgettable experience.
Christchurch, New Zealand
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Improve this listingTours and Tickets by Canterbury Trails
Day Trips
6+ hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 100% of travellers
100% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$665
per adult
Day Trips
5–7 hours
Free cancellation
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Recommended by 100% of travellers
100% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$495
per adult
Day Trips
10–11 hours
Free cancellation
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Recommended by 92% of travellers
92% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$715
per adult
Day Trips
8–9 hours
Free cancellation
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from
$1,315
per adult
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
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5.0
423 reviews
Excellent
405
Very good
9
Average
3
Poor
3
Terrible
3
Angie Cannon
6 contributions
Jan 2020
We recently had an outstanding day with Mandy of Canterbury Trails as she showed us around Christchurch and drove us to Mount Cook, including a lovely stop for lunch in Geraldine and a shopping pit stop. She was very knowledgeable, highly engaging and passionate about her city and country. We learned a lot from her and also enjoyed ourselves immensely. Very professionally run!
Written 21 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Angie, thank you for your lovely review. So pleased to hear that you had a lovely time exploring with Mandy. We will pass your kind comments on to her.
Written 22 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Diana Wood
Auckland, New Zealand20 contributions
May 2021
This was a Christchurch City and environs Day Tour including Morning tea and Lunch.
We were driven in a most comfortable car with Mandy who had excellent knowledge of all things from the great outdoors (she is a keep-fit runner) to the cultural side of life and having lived in Christchurch for some time, knows the before and after story intimately.
Mandy drove impeccably, stopping whenever there were things of interest to look at or visit. She is a charming, intelligent and amusing lady and the whole experience was perfect.
We had never done a private tour before and when you are time-poor, this is the way to see and learn the most in a short space of time.
We hope she may contact us in Auckland if visiting. A great choice Elaine.
We were driven in a most comfortable car with Mandy who had excellent knowledge of all things from the great outdoors (she is a keep-fit runner) to the cultural side of life and having lived in Christchurch for some time, knows the before and after story intimately.
Mandy drove impeccably, stopping whenever there were things of interest to look at or visit. She is a charming, intelligent and amusing lady and the whole experience was perfect.
We had never done a private tour before and when you are time-poor, this is the way to see and learn the most in a short space of time.
We hope she may contact us in Auckland if visiting. A great choice Elaine.
Written 30 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your kind review.
Written 8 June 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Charles H
Sarasota, Florida, USA13 contributions
Feb 2020
My travel agent booked a transfer for us from the LIndis Lodge to Christchurch with Canterbury Trails, so I wasn't sure what to expect. The wrong driver/guide could make it a long seven hours! But from the moment Hugo greeted us with a big smile and didn't make fun of us for carrying a tremendous amount of luggage, I knew we were in for a great day! And it was. Though it was pouring when we left the wilderness lodge, he kept our spirits up by remarking about how changeable the New Zealand weather is. And sure enough, by the time we reached Mt. Cook National Park, the rain had stopped and the clouds were diminishing. No, we weren't lucky enough to see Mt. Cook, which was still obscured. But the surrounding mountains were gorgeous, and lakes Tekapo and Pukaki sparkled in all their turquoise glory. We stopped for a delicious lunch at the Dark Skies observatory, and then made our way along the Canterbury Plains. Hugo, as affable and knowledgeable guide as you could hope for, shared tidbits about New Zealand history, culture and topography all along the way. A great day, in great company.
Written 22 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your lovely review. So pleased you had a great time with Hugh. You'll have to come back again to see Mt Cook! Hope to see you then.
Written 24 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Brian H
Old Lyme, CT1 contribution
Oct 2023 • Couples
The private guide experience at Canterbury Trails is excellent. Dave drove us from Christchurch to Kaikoura for the day and I recommend him 100%. He knows the area well and took us to a quiet spot for fur seal viewing. Our whale watch boat was unfortunately cancelled due to rough seas but Dave quickly pivoted and got us signed up for a whale watch flight instead - he saved the day!
Written 24 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wonderful to hear that you had a great day out with Dave. We appreciate you taking the time to write such a thoughtful review. I will be sure to pass on your kind words to him.
Safe travels and kind regards,
Written 11 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A12M07
Port Washington, WI5 contributions
Mar 2023
We had the pleasure of having Sue of Canterbury Trails as our guide when we visited Christchurch. Sue greeted us warmly at the airport and took us on a wonderful tour of Christchurch and the surrounding area. We were treated to the botanical gardens, the harbors where the Sail Grand Prix was to be held as well as many other sights in Christchurch. During the tour she made recommendations of places to eat and shop. We took her recommendations and had a great evening.
However, it was on our second day with Sue that made our stay in Christchurch unforgettable. My wife, Ann, and I took the Kaikoura & Swim with Dolphins Experience. Sue drove us and another couple to Kaikoura and she pointed out wildlife and views along the way. While having lunch in Kaikoura before our tour we found out that our scheduled trip on the Tranzalpine train scheduled for the next morning was canceled. This would have caused significant problems for us as we were to pick up a rental car in Greymouth at the end of our train trip. Sue helped us sort this problem out by making several phone calls for us. While we enjoyed our Swim with Dolphins Experience she followed up and made sure we had a ride to Greymouth the next day.
When we returned from our tour everything was in place so that we could continue our journey through New Zealand without any problem. Ann and I have traveled internationally quite a bit and this was the best customer service we have encountered. Without hesitation we recommend Canterbury Trails knowing that you will be well cared for especially if you have Sue as your guide.
However, it was on our second day with Sue that made our stay in Christchurch unforgettable. My wife, Ann, and I took the Kaikoura & Swim with Dolphins Experience. Sue drove us and another couple to Kaikoura and she pointed out wildlife and views along the way. While having lunch in Kaikoura before our tour we found out that our scheduled trip on the Tranzalpine train scheduled for the next morning was canceled. This would have caused significant problems for us as we were to pick up a rental car in Greymouth at the end of our train trip. Sue helped us sort this problem out by making several phone calls for us. While we enjoyed our Swim with Dolphins Experience she followed up and made sure we had a ride to Greymouth the next day.
When we returned from our tour everything was in place so that we could continue our journey through New Zealand without any problem. Ann and I have traveled internationally quite a bit and this was the best customer service we have encountered. Without hesitation we recommend Canterbury Trails knowing that you will be well cared for especially if you have Sue as your guide.
Written 13 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
That is such a lovely review of your time travelling with us and our Guide Sue. I will make sure she sees this and I know she will be thrilled. Thank you once again.
Written 23 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
BL1009
21 contributions
Apr 2024 • Family
We did a day trip to Akaroa with sea kayaking. Stu was our guide and he was excellent. Weather looked questionable but ended up breaking in our favor - he had a solid plan B ready in the event the weather didn’t cooperate. He gave us a lot of interesting information about Christchurch and the surrounding area on the way to and from Akaroa. He also did a great job making sure we got connected with the kayak provider. Lunch was great, and we made a few very nice stops during the day as our schedule provided. We would definitely book with them again if we returned to Christchurch. Thank you, Stu!
Written 3 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for sharing your experience. Sounds like you had a fantastic day and we are so glad Stu had a hand in making that happen!
Written 11 June 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Roam6795508
Carmel, IN58 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
Hugh was the perfect guide on this day tour to Arthur Pass with Canterbury Trails personally guided tours. He was super friendly, knowledgeable, funny, and made a nice day an even better day. Would highly recommend this if you are in Christchurch. Has some hiking options as well. Our tour included an excellent lunch and a short tea break with a snack! Ask for Hugh!
Written 20 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Allison B
Toronto, Canada9 contributions
Jan 2020
We had a delightful day with Hugo. We enjoyed the Akaroa Dolphin trip and saw the dolphins, seals, one little penguin and sun basking seals. Hugo showed us the village, spoke of the history and the flora and fauna and took us to some amazing views and lookouts. I left my hat in Hugo’s car and very grateful it was returned as we were leaving the next morning. Hugo was excellent company and went the extra mile returning my hat. Thanks!
Written 18 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your lovely review. Glad to hear that you got to see all our friendly wildlife and that you enjoyed spending the day with Hugo. We will pass your kind comments on to him.
Written 19 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
fingers47
Chicago, Illinois46 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
Canterbury Trails tour guide Dave Sandford was with us for most of our time in the South Island. He was extremely personable and knowledgeable, and this added to our total New Zealand experience. Dave is a fantastic tour guide. His knowledge base is very large. One day, our plans had to be aborted due to bad weather and he quickly and easily found another option that made for a most enjoyable day. He was also able to adjust the day’s “rougher” activities to meet our strengths and limitations.
Written 24 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It is so nice to hear that you were well looked after by Dave. I'm sure he will be thrilled to receive your comments. I trust that you are having a wonderful time on the rest of your journey here in NZ!!
Written 26 February 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sharon M
Columbia, SC4 contributions
May 2024 • Family
We had a perfect two days with our tour guide Dave to Arthur's Pass and back the 1st day and a wine tour the second day. The scenery was absolutely beautiful from the bridges, water falls, nature trails, and the ancient rocks. Dave captured a wonderful picture for me of the sky thru the trees that I'll develop for framing. The second day we went to two excellent wineries, especially the Bone Line. Thank y'all for making it special for myself and my daughter and her partner. We would love to go back one day.
Sharon M
Sharon M
Written 11 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much Sharon for sharing your experience and that your two amazing days were made even better with Dave as your guide.
Written 18 August 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
No questions have been asked about this experience