Activities
26 March 2025
Birds-eye view of Christchurch
Get up high in the sky.
Things to do
Take to the skies above Ōtautahi Christchurch
Rugged coastlines, towering snow-capped alps, and vast plains stretching as far as the eye can see. If you're searching for an unbeatable view across Ōtautahi Christchurch, you’re spoiled for choice!
Here are some of the most spectacular ways to get high up and view the beautiful city.
Christchurch Gondola
For a gentle ascent that still provides breathtaking views, hop on the Christchurch Gondola. This cable car takes you up to the top of Mount Cavendish, where you can take in panoramic vistas of the city, the Southern Alps, and the Canterbury Plains. At the summit, relax at the Red Rock Café or go for a walk on one of the many scenic trails.
Tussock Hill Vineyard and Cellar Door
Visit Tussock Hill for exceptional pinot noir and chardonnay, stunning views of the Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains, and local cuisine at their restaurant. Enjoy tours, tastings, and serene surroundings with lush green vineyards, snow-capped mountains, and vast plains.
GCH Aviation Helicopter Ride
For the ultimate thrill ride, embark on a helicopter tour with GCH Aviation. From high above, you'll be able to take in Christchurch's skyline and the dramatic landscapes that surround it. Choose from a variety of tour options, including flights over the city or journeys to the Franz Josef Glacier and beyond.
Godley Head
Godley Head was the site of a military defence operation during World War II, but these days, it’s home to one of Christchurch’s most popular walking tracks. Starting from Taylor's Mistake beach, discover something new at every turn along the easygoing coastal track, from gun emplacements and classic kiwi baches to dramatic ocean vistas atop 120-metre-high cliffs. Leave the planning up to the experts with a guided walk of the area from local companies Crater Rim Walks or Adventure by Nature.
Sugarloaf
With a peak topped by a 120-metre tv and radio transmission tower visible from most parts of Christchurch, Sugarloaf is an iconic Port Hills landmark. High on its slopes circling the nearly 500-metre-high peak, three ridiculously scenic walking tracks form the Sugarloaf circuit, passing through native bush while overlooking Pegasus Bay, Lyttelton Harbour and the wider city.
Ballooning Canterbury
Offering a truly magical experience and birds-eye view, hot air ballooning is a bucket list item for a reason. Ballooning Canterbury offers panoramic views across the sweeping Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps. An early start ensures stunning light as the sun rises. Only a 35-minute drive west of Christchurch Airport, allow approximately 4-5 hours for this remarkable experience.
Don't miss a thing
Sign up to our newsletter to get valuable updates and news straight to your inbox.
)
)