All tours are subject to availability at time of booking. Changes might occur.
Monday, 9 November
Hanmer day tour
(hot) pool admission
including lunch
8:45am – 5:45pm
Visit the naturally picturesque and tranquil setting of Hanmer Springs nestled in a valley surrounded by a superb expanse of mountains and forest-clad hills. You can enjoy the excitement of jet boating or even bungy jumping (both optional extras) at Thrillseekers Canyon. On arriving in the township of Hanmer Springs lunch at the Garden House Café followed by an afternoon relaxing in the hot thermal pools and exploring this Alpine Village. As an alternative, if jet boating is not for you, a therapeutic massage is available, as an optional extra for your relaxation and enjoyment.
Bring bathing costume, (towels can be hired), sun screen and water. Please note: lunch is included within the IMWA fee.
Tuesday, 10 November
TranzAlpine train journey
8:15am – 6:30pm
Please note: Departure at train station will be at 8:15am. Please make sure to be there on time.
Without doubt, one of Christchurch’s best attractions is the TranzAlpine train, which runs daily through the magnificent Southern Alps from Christchurch to Greymouth on New Zealand’s West Coast and back. This day-long experience marries relaxation with exhilaration as it climbs through some of the South Island’s finest scenery. A one hour stop at Greymouth, time to stretch your legs, grab some lunch before heading back to Christchurch.
Please note: lunch is not included within the IMWA fee.
Wednesday, 11 November
Outer Christchurch
including Sumner, Lyttelton, Takahe, Mona Vale
9am – 1pm
The tour commences in the central city of Christchurch and covers the area which was completely devastated by the Christchurch earthquakes in February 2011. The guide will explain both the history of the city and the effects of the earthquake, you will see for yourself both the destructive powers of nature and the rebuild taking place.
On leaving the inner city, the tour travels to Mona Vale a historic homestead and gardens. We then travel to the Sign of the Takahe, an historic building with a lookout providing spectacular views over the city, Canterbury Plains and to the Southern Alps. The tour then travels via the Port Hills and Lyttleton Harbour by way of the Sign of the Kiwi and Governors Bay to the Port of Lyttleton. The tour proceeds through the Lyttleton harbour tunnel to the seaside suburb of Sumner and cave rock before returning to the central city.
Thursday, 12 November
Christchurch walking tour
& trip to Gondola
10am – 4pm
This guided walk provides an in-depth knowledge and understanding of Christchurch over a 2.5 – 3.0 hour relaxed walk (4.5km). Visit the cities top attractions: Canterbury Museum, Christs College, The Arts Centre, Christchurch Art gallery, City Council forecourt, Christchurch Cathedral, Isaac Theatre Royal, New Regent Street, International Street Art, Public art scape exhibits, Kate Sheppard memorial, Captain Scott memorial, Bridge of Remembrance, Cathedral Square, Victoria Square, Avon River promenade, Turanga (central library), Te Pae (Convention Centre), Rauora Park, Retail Precinct, Transitional Cathedral, 185 White Chairs memorial, CTV building location, National Earthquake memorial.
After our walk, we’ll travel to the Gondola, offering a unique Christchurch sightseeing experience that you’ll never forget. Soar suspended above the valleys as the birds fly beneath your cable car. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Christchurch cityscape, over the Canterbury Plains out to the mighty Southern Alps and the dramatic hills of Banks Peninsula.
Bring walking shoes, sun screen and water.
Please note: lunch is not included within the IMWA fee.