Kia Ora Christchurch
A Cultural Journey
Enjoy a classic Christchurch experience as we take you on an immersive journey that brings together Māori cultural traditions, the iconic New Brighton Pier and the warm hospitality of a local seaside café. You’ll visit the earthquake red-zone and take a quick-loop around the inner-city attractions before returning to your accommodation. You will be able to create lasting memories with personalized photo opportunities in exclusive locations. From the Marae grounds to New Brighton Peir, this is an authentic local experience and an unique and unforgettable journey.
The Experience
Your journey will start at our local Marae where you will visit and experience a traditional blessing at the waharoa (gateway). You’ll hear and see the ancient stories depicted in the carvings and take advantage of a special photo opportunity.
New Brighton Pier
As the sun settles overhead we’ll drive to the beach and the iconic New Brighton Pier. Stretching into the waters of the ocean, you’ll witness a breathtaking Pacific afternoon. The dramatic architecture of the pier and the shifting colours of the horizon provide the perfect backdrop for that uplifting Instagram photo capturing the essence of your experience.
Switch Cafe
We’ll make a short trip to the Switch Café where we trade the coastal breeze for some cozy, local hospitality. Relax as we’re served artisan treats and kiwi flavours with freshly brewed coffee and delicious sweet delights. Perfectly located in New Brighton Mall, Switch has a great vibe and is a friendly, warm and welcoming café with a laid back beachy feel.
The Residential (Earthquake) Red Zone
As we return to the city our journey will take us through the residential Red Zone, created as a result of the Christchurch earthquakes. You’ll see how some of the land has transitioned into an area with many exciting community projects and initiatives.
We’ll follow the Avon/Ōtakoro River back into the CBD and your point of drop-off.
Highlights
- Exclusive Marae Visit: Mark the day with a peaceful visit to one of our local marae.
- Switch Café Flavors: Taste the best of the local cuisine
- Pacific Ocean at the Pier: Visit an icon Christchurch landmark.
- Earthquake Red Zone: Travel through the residential red zone.
- Personalized Transport: Free pick-up and stress-free travel from the CBD.
What to Bring
- Your phone or camera: For that perfect uplifting Instagram shot.
- Warm layers: The coastal breeze at dawn can be bracing, even in summer.
- Comfortable walking shoes: You will be exploring so it is best to wear good shoes.
- An open heart: To fully embrace the Māori blessing and local stories.
Itinerary & Duration
Duration:
Approximately 3 hours (seasonal variations apply).
Departure:
CBD Hotel pick-up.
Stop 1:
Ngā Hau e Whā Marae for a traditional blessing.
Stop 2:
New Brighton Pier for viewing and photography.
Stop 3:
Switch Café for afternoon tea.
Return:
Drop-off back in the Christchurch CBD via the Red Zone.