Christchurch & Lyttelton - Cruise Overview
Bordered by hills and the Pacific Ocean, Christchurch is situated on the edge of the Canterbury plains which stretch towards the Southern Alps.
Despite the impact of significant earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, Christchurch continues to be an innovative, fun and fast-changing city.
The city centre is compact with the central feature being the Avon River. From gardens to galleries, markets to museums, there is a taste of Christchurch’s unique culture at every turn.
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Lyttelton, the gateway to Christchurch. Cashin Quay is the main cruise berth, although smaller ships can also berth at No 2 East Wharf (Inner Harbour).
Add toTrip Planner
1 / 5
Popular onshore activities in Christchurch and Canterbury
- The beautiful township of Akaroa mixes French colonial architecture with art galleries and modern cafés offering delicious French cuisine. Akaroa is also home to the world’s smallest and rarest species of dolphin, the Hector’s dolphin - see it on a boat cruise around Akaroa Harbour.
- Tour Christchurch city on a classic 1960’s London Open Top Double Decker bus with Hassle Free Tours. You'll view some of the areas affected by the 2010/11 earthquakes, and hear about the exciting vision to restore the inner city. While you're here, take a small wooden boat down the Avon River and enjoy the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
- View penguins, learn about the icy continent, experience 4D Theatre and ride an all-terrain Hagglund Antarctic vehicle at the International Antarctic Centre.
- Take a ride on the iconic TranzAlpine train journey to Arthurs Pass in the stunning Southern Alps.
- The Willowbank Wildlife Reserve houses a variety of New Zealand wildlife, including the kiwi bird. A simulated Maori village, with cultural performances and traditional food, provides a unique cultural experience.
- Jet boat on the Waimakariri River or take a white water rafting trip to the Rangitata River.
Getting around
Your cruise ship will berth onto a working port, with minimal passenger facilities. There will be an information kiosk at the end of the gangway with maps and local visitor information.
As Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s largest cities, you will be handy to shopping, dining and all sorts of urban comforts. If you need some local assistance, call the Christchurch i-SITE Visitor Centre on +64 3 379 9629 or visit www.christchurchnz.com for more information.
Note that Lyttelton is 12.9 km (8 miles) to Christchurch and hence there are two shuttle services; one takes you to Lyttelton township and the other takes you to Christchurch city. Please note that Lyttelton Port of Christchurch prohibits visitors from walking off the port for safety and security reasons, and has a complimentary shuttle that takes you to London Street, outside Lyttelton's Information Centre.
Check with your cruise ship for shuttle services from the pier into Christchurch city.
On foot
Lyttelton is a small township and is easily explored by foot. Once in Christchurch city, it is also easily explored on foot due to its compact and flat nature.
Taxis
It is around 25 minutes of drive time from Lyttelton to Christchurch city. Taxis are available in the maritime precinct. In Christchurch, phone Corporate Cabs on (03) 379 5888 or visit www.corporatecabs.co.nz.
Not all taxis accept credit cards - please ask your driver before boarding.
Car Rental
We recommend booking rental cars in advance. Find a rental car in Christchurch.