Caving & Castle Hill Private Day Tour
Experience an incredible private day trip as you explore two stunning natural wonders in the Canterbury region. Start with caving at Cave Stream, where a friendly local guide will help you safely navigate through the breathtaking rock formations and underground passages. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely stroll among the impressive limestone boulders at Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti. This adventure is a must for anyone visiting Christchurch!
Highlights
- Scenic drive S.H 73 “The Great Alpine Highway”
- Explore Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti
- Guided caving trip through “Cave Stream”
- Local guide
- Private small group tour
- Transport with A/C
Guided Caving & Castle Hill Tour Itinerary
You will be picked up from your accommodation, the meeting point in Christchurch, or Lyttelton Port.
We start our adventure by travelling west towards the mountains across the flat farmland of the Canterbury plains. After 45 minutes, we stop at the famous “Sheffield Pie Shop” (lunch is provided, but you might like to sample a classic Kiwi pie) before continuing our journey to Cave Stream.
Cave Stream
Once arriving at Cave Stream, your guide will kit you out with caving gear and provide a safety briefing before heading down to the cave entrance. The 600-metre limestone cave follows an underground river and takes most groups 45-60 minutes to complete. Inside the limestone cave, the crystal-clear water flows through large chambers and over small waterfall steps. The cave gets as narrow as a standard hallway, and you can always stand up inside. The final section has a 5-metre fixed ladder to climb past the largest waterfall as we exit the cave. This is a favourite of children and adults and a great way to spend a family day out.
Back at the car park, hot drinks and a picnic lunch will be provided while you enjoy the mountain views. From here, it’s a short drive to Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti.
Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti
Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti is an impressive labyrinth of giant limestone boulders situated in the Craigieburn Basin, an area surrounded by mountain ranges on all sides. The area is rich with cultural and recreational significance and has been granted Tōpuni status, “a symbolic cloak of protection”. Known internationally as a world-class climbing, bouldering and filmmaking destination, it’s well worth a visit.
Your guide will show you around, and if you like, you can try bouldering and test your climbing skills or use your time here to explore the endless maze of boulders.
On the way back, a brief stop in Springfield allows for a photo opportunity with the giant doughnut, the history of which your guide will explain. Once back in town, you will be dropped off at your accommodation or pickup point.
Caving & Castle Hill Tour FAQ’S
Where does the tour start & finish
This tour starts and finishes in Christchurch. Your guide will collect you from your accommodation or from one of our meeting points listed below.
Can I do this day tour as a shore excursion from Lyttleton Port?
Yes, we are happy to collect cruise ship passengers from Lyttelton port.
Is transport included?
Yes.
Is lunch included?
Yes, we will provide lunch, afternoon tea, and hot drinks.
I would like to visit Castle Hill, but I don’t want to go climbing or caving.
Not a problem, have a look at our Private Arthur’s Pass & Castle Hill day tour. It’s a similar tour, excluding the caving activity, and features a visit to Arthur’s Pass instead.
Is this trip family-friendly?
Yes, we are happy to cater for family groups on this tour.
What is the minimum age?
Eight years is the minimum age to complete the caving activity.
How far in advance do I need to book?
We recommend that you complete your booking at least 24 hours in advance to avoid missing out.
Are there minimum numbers for this trip?
There is no minimum number required for Private tours.
What should I bring with me?
All you will need for this day tour are your walking/sports shoes, active clothing, and a swimming outfit. After your booking is complete, we will send you a full gear list.
Where are the meeting spots?
- Directly from your hotel – any accommodation within 3.5 km’s of Christchurch city centre – See on Google maps
- Citizens’ War Memorial, Cathedral Square – See on Google maps
- Zeroes Cafe (free all-day parking) – See on Google maps
- Lyttelton Port (for shore excursions) – See on Google maps
