South Island Day Tours

Akaroa is a French influenced sea-side township situated 1.5 hours from Christchurch on the Banks Penninsula. Nestled into the side of the harbour which lies in the crater of an extinct volcano, Akaroa was originally settled by the French. Visitors can experience French-styled food and street names, as well as French and colonial architecture.

Experience our most popular full-day trip which promises to provide travellers with a memorable, relaxing fun-filled day.

A2B travel to Akaroa via Tai Tapu and make stops along the way at country galleries in Little River and the local cheese farm at Barry's Bay. While in Akaroa, visitors can explore the marine and wildlife with one of the local tour operators or enjoy dining and relaxed shopping in the village. We return to Christchurch via French Farm for a wine tasting then onto Governors Bay and up to the Summit for impressive views before descending again to Christchurch City.

Situated in the Southern Alps to the west of Christchurch, travellers to Arthurs Pass can enjoy breath taking mountainous scenery as they pass through local farming communities and travel on the viaduct on their way to the West Coast of the South Island.

From the comfort of our vehicles visitors can enjoy the unspoilt alpine fauna and flora or take a short walk in the National Park. Drivers stop at the Pass Summit to allow visitors to look back and view the engineering feat of the viaduct - truly spectacular!

Approximately a 1 hour drive south of Christchurch, Ashburton is home to Ashford's Hand Crafts. Ashford's provide quality spinning wheels and other hand-crafted products which appeal to local and international visitors alike.

Due to the hot dry summers and cold winters the rural sector is predominately crop farming. On your journey to Ashburton you will pass through numerous farming townships where travellers can experience Canterbury at its best!

Hanmer Springs is renowned for its thermal springs, abundance of outdoor activities, and picturesque and peaceful surroundings. Located approximately 1.5 hours from Christchurch city, this alpine retreat is a popular year-round destination for visitors of all ages.

Visitors to Hanmer can enjoy a relaxing soak in hot pools and try a number of thrill-seeking adventures, from bungy jumping and jetboat rides to cycling and horse riding. Also available is a testing but enjoyable golf course!

Kaikoura is a Maori word meaning food (kai) and crayfish (koura). This coastal township is the home of the Ngai Tahu people who have lived here for centuries. Two centuries ago this was a large whaling station.

Best know for the abundant sea life, visitors to Kaikoura can enjoy activities from swimming with dolphins to watching whales.

Travellers may also visit local farms to view life on a real New Zealand farm including sheep shearing, get their hearts racing on 4-wheel motor bike tours, or experience casual dining at a growing number of cafes and wineries or shopping at local art studios (which include bone, shell and wood carving).

Travel to Kaikoura with A2B by road or train (the latter available for organised groups).
Your driver will provide an informative commentary on the journey.

Methven is a farming community situated a 1 hour drive from Christchurch. During the winter months travellers can experience one of New Zealand’s best ski fields at Mt Hutt. Visitors can take advantage of the spectacular countryside via variety of outdoor activities including: hot air ballooning, scenic flights, jet boating, or horse trekking. Methven has a unique village atmosphere where visitors can enjoy the local hospitality, cafes and country pubs.

Mount Cook is the largest mountain in New Zealand and is surrounded by breath-taking scenery.

Due to the high altitude the weather can be extreme - from intense summer heat to snowy cold winters. The lakes are great spots for trout fishing and the area boasts its own airport where visitors can catch sightseeing flights to view the mountain and glaciers. On the ground, guided walks and mountain climbing are available. At the base of the mountain are the warm surroundings of the Hermitage Hotel where guests can enjoy a relaxing meal and superb views.

This full day trip to Mount Cook takes approximately 10 hours return to Christchurch. A2B Drivers pass through Geraldine, Lake Tekapo and other hydro lakes. The scenery is breath taking and travelling to Mt Cook is a must on every visitor's travels to the South Island.

A2B advises prebooking local mountain activities.