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Christchurch
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Accommodation Options
Swimming with Dolphins - Akaroa:
The scenic Akaroa Harbour is home to one of the worlds smallest and rarest dolphins, the Hectors or New Zealand dolphin. Join us on an incredible adventure to swim (or watch) the dolphins and other marine wildlife. Our catamaran has been especially designed for viewing and the twin jets provide maximum safety for you and the dolphins. The boat seats up to 20 people and has a covered cabin which can be heated for extra comfort. Highly trained crew will provide information on how to interact with the dolphins along with safety information. (Runs November - April).
Akaroa and Banks Peninsula & Eco Marine Harbor Cruise:
Visit the quaint and historic French settlement located on Banks Peninsula. Travel a very high back country road for Panoramic views of the peninsula, the ocean and the distant alps. Relax onboard a nature and eco harbour cruise. Includes a cheese tasting at a cheese factory and time to browse in the village.
Akaroa and Banks Peninsula & Swim with Dolphins:
Visit the quaint and historic French settlement located on Banks Peninsula. Travel a very high back country road for Panoramic views of the peninsula, the ocean and the distant alps. Experience swimming with the worlds smallest and rarest dolphins. Includes a cheese tasting at a cheese factory and time to browse in the village.
Canterbury Kaleidescope Lifestyle Tour:
During this full day tour, your guide will take you through North Canterbury. Nestled deep in the country away from tourist routes we find a number of busy New Zealanders creating wonderful tastes and crafts for the rest of the world to savour and enjoy. Cheese, honeymead, schnapps, lavender, wines, hazelnuts, olives and ostriches, llamas, wool and sheep - the choices are endless and entertaining. Lunch (included) is a taste sensation, served in a cheerful environment in the country and for those who fancy walking along the gentle sands of a South Pacific bay, the beach is very close by.
Arthur's Pass National Park with Otira Ridge:
Journey to the alpine National Park in the heart of the Southern Alps. Visit Cave Stream, Castle Hill Rocks, travel down the spectacular Otira Gorge and guided walks to experience the native forests and scenery.
Waipara Wine Tour:
New Zealand has made a name for itself in the world of wines. During this small group tour you will sample up to 30 different wines from 4 or 5 different wineries. Pinots, Chardonnays and Rieslings are the most awarded wines from this region and tasting them is a delight. The winemakers and owners will explain how they have created and blended the wines you'll sample. A delightful gourmet lunch cleanses the palate and gives time for fine food and company. A stroll along a deserted beach is optional but the fresh sea breezes create a keen nose for the further exploration of wine bouquets.
Hot Air Ballooning:
There is no other place in the world where it is possible to fly from the center of the city, in view of the sun rising out of the ocean, toward snow-capped mountains.  Get ready for an early morning start, and get hands-on in helping set up the balloon.  High above you enjoy spectacular views and photo opportunities, watch as the parks, rivers and buildings fade into the distance, making way for the patchwork farmland of the Canterbury Plains, in view of the Southern Alps to the west and the endless blue of the ocean to the east.  A celebratory glass of chilled champagne (or fruit juice) is offered after landing in a farmer's field and complimentary transfers to and from your Christchurch accommodation included.  Duration:  3-4 hours from start to finish with an hour long flight in the sky.
Akaroa Tour & Farm Visit:
This amazing day starts with a spectacular scenic tour over the Port Hills and Banks Peninsula arriving at Paua Bay hill-country sheep farm. At Paua Bay you will learn about the history of the farm, watch farm dogs in action and try your hand at sheep shearing. After morning tea with the farmer we head into Akaroa where you will have time to explore the village and have lunch in one of the many great cafes or restaurants. Enjoy this quaint town with some lovely stores, or take a short walk to the lighthouse. There is also the option (additional cost) of a two-hour harbour cruise to experience the majestic scenery and stunning wildlife which can include dolphins, penguins and marine birdlife.
Twin Craters Scenic Heli Flight:
Join us to explore what lies beyond our Garden City. Passing Christchurch, we climb to the rim of the famous extinct Lyttleton Volcano to reveal the sheltered waters of the historic French inspired community of Akaroa with it's beautiful resident Hector's Dolphins. Returning to Christchurch we enjoy spectacular views of the Canterbury Plains and distant Southern Alps.
Heli Jet Adventure:
Combine the thrill of an amazing scenic flight over the Canterbury plains and through the stunning Waimakariri Gorge before landing to embark on a 30 minute adrenaline packed jet boat experience. Here you will enjoy the thrill of a high speed ride taking you through the spectacular and narrow confines of Waimakariri Gorge. Your return flight will allow time to relax, reflect, and enjoy the scenery on the way back to Christchurch.
French Farm Heli Lunch:
Enjoy a scenic flight across Christchurch as we travel towards the volcanic crater rim of the Akaroa Harbour. Here we land at French Farm's fabulous Mediterranean styled winery and restaurant. The French Farm valley offers a stunning natural backdrop, with a meandering stream, a spectacular view of the harbor and hills and an abundance of native trees.
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Active Downunder
2007 Condé Nast Traveler Recommended Travel Specialist for New Zealand
All prices are quoted in US dollars and subject to change without notice.
California Seller of Travel Reg No. 2060868-40 - © Copyright 2001-2008 Active Downunder
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Image Credits: Gareth Eyres, Becky Nunes, Cavalli Beach-House Retreat, Ian Trafford, Hiroshi Nameda, Adventure Films, Arno Gasteiger, Chris McLennan, Huka Lodge, Sofitel, Awaroa Lodge, Rob Suisted, Fay Looney, Gilbert van Reenen, Miles Holden, Rob Brown, & Carrington.