Castle Hill Guided Shore Excursion
On this scenic guided shore excursion, we’ll explore one of Canterbury’s natural wonders, Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti. We’ll travel along the “Great Alpine Highway”, capturing the stunning views of the Canterbury Plains before making a stop in the rural town of Darfield for local treats. In Springfield, we’ll visit the giant doughnut statue and then traverse Porter’s Pass to reach the incredible boulder fields of Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti. Your local qualified guide will provide insights into the area’s cultural and geographical significance before a picnic lunch. We’ll then have time to explore the area at leisure before heading back to the port. This is a must-do trip for anyone visiting New Zealand.
Castle Hill Shore Excursion Highlights
- Scenic drive S.H 73 “The Great Alpine Highway”
- Explore Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti
- A guided walk around Castle Hill boulders
- Learn about the cultural and natural history
- Local guide
- Small-group tour
- Transport with A/C
- Free time at Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti
Castle Hill Itinerary
Leaving Lyttelton, we head west towards the mountains across the flat farmland of the Canterbury Plains. After 45 minutes, we stop in the small farming town of Darfield. We will provide lunch and afternoon tea, but you might like to sample some Kiwi cuisine or pick up a coffee from the local bakery. Continuing our journey across the plains, we pass through another small town named Springfield with its giant doughnut. Your guide will explain how the giant doughnut ended up here while snapping a photograph. From Springfield, it’s a 45-minute drive along “the Great Alpine Highway” to Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti conservation area. The road takes us over Porters Pass (900 mts), past Lake Lyndon and through some High Country stations before reaching our destination. Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti is a maze of massive limestone boulders that sit in the heart of the Southern Alps. Once covered with an inland ocean, the area now sits 600m above sea level. The boulders have a special cultural significance to the local Maori people. The area is protected by Tōpuni status “A symbolic cloak of protection” to preserve and acknowledge the area. It’s a popular spot for rock climbing, bouldering, and filmmaking. Your guide will show you around the endless boulder fields, explain how they got there, and point out the best photo spots and secret passages. Your guide will lay out a picnic lunch amongst the boulders. After lunch, you have some free time to explore, relax or snap some pictures. Meeting back in the carpark, we head back towards Christchurch along “The Great Alpine Highway”. The tour finishes back Lyttelton in time for your cruise ship departure.
Castle Hill Shore Excursion FAQ’S
What time does the Castle Hill Shore Excursion start?
We will collect you at 8:30 am or when you have disembarked from your cruise ship.
What time does the tour end?
We aim to be back in Lyttelton around 4:00 pm or before your ship’s departure.
Can this tour fit my cruise ship schedule?
Yes. Our tour schedules are flexible and can be adjusted to match the cruise-ship sail times. If, for any reason, you’re not back on your ship before it departs, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered and we will make sure you reach the ship’s next port of call.
Is transport included?
Yes.
Is lunch included?
Yes, we will provide morning tea, lunch & afternoon tea.
Is this trip family-friendly?
Yes, we are happy to cater for family groups on this tour. Private tours are available for family groups with young children on request.
How far in advance do I need to book?
We recommend completing your booking at least 24 hours in advance to avoid missing out.
Are there minimum numbers for this tour?
We have a minimum of two people for this tour.
What is the maximum group size?
Our maximum group size for this tour is eight.
What should I bring with me?
For this tour, you will need only your walking/sports shoes and active clothing. After your booking is complete, we will send you a full gear list.
Where are the meeting spots?
Lyttelton Port – See on google maps
What similar tours do you offer in this area?
If you want to explore nearby Cave Stream and Castle Hill, check out our Cave Stream & Castle Hill shore excursion. It’s the same tour, but with the added excitement of caving in the morning.
