- Pricing From TBC*
- Single Supplement TBC
- From Christchurch
- Duration 7 Days
- Max Group Size 14
- Activity Level Easy Going
- Departs 2025
- Returns 2025
Bill Peach Journeys presents a luxury spring getaway in the spectacular Canterbury region of New Zealand known for its grassy plains, clear lakes and snow-capped mountains. We explore its major city, the inspiring “Garden City” of Christchurch and learn of its courage and endurance combining urban regeneration and innovation with heritage and culture. We delight in the splendours of nature as we visit famous Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Ribblesdale Gardens and Gunyah Country Estate Garden. We savour produce and wine of the region including a truffle hunt. Marvel at the majestic scenery of the Canterbury region famed for its lush and picturesque landscapes and jetboat the spectacular Rakaia Gorge. Experience refinement and the warm hospitality of the Distinction Hotel in Christchurch and Terrace Downs, a luxury resort magnificently set in the shadow of the majestic Southern Alps. Join Bill Peach Journeys in the endless natural beauty of this region; Canterbury really is the perfect place for a luxury spring retreat.
Highlights
- Spend 4 nights at the luxury hotel The Distinction, Christchurch and 2 nights at the award-winning luxury resort Terrace Downs in Canterbury
- Tour the city of Christchurch and dine on the unique Tramway Restaurant
- Experience the exquisite produce and wines of the Canterbury region with tastings along the way
- Jetboat the spectacular Rakaia Gorge surrounded by dramatic coal and limestone cliffs
- Take part in a private truffle hunt at one of New Zealand’s oldest and most scenic truffières
- Explore the floral delights of Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Ribblesdale Gardens and Gunyah Country Estate Garden
- Visit the unique Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park
- All meals - breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Your own room with no single supplement charge
- Escorted throughout by a Journey Director
Tour Departures
On arrival at Christchurch Airport you will be met and transferred to The Distinction Hotel in the heart of Christchurch, a city famous for its culture, atmosphere, lifestyle and history. Located on the east coast of the South Island, Christchurch is set amidst a natural environment world-renowned for its beauty though it is clear there is a vibrant cosmopolitan ambiance. A welcome dinner will be hosted by your Journey Director tonight, a perfect chance to meet your fellow travellers.
Overnight: The Distinction or similar
Today we drive to Waipara to visit the Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park. Located in what used to be an abandoned Limestone quarry, this stunning exhibition space is like no other, set as it is overlooking the Waipara River Valley. Next, we enjoy the memorable and unique experience of truffle hunting at one of New Zealand’s oldest and most scenic truffières, Kings Truffles. Indulge in a wine tasting with lunch at a local winery before returning to Christchurch. Dinner this evening is at the hotel.
Overnight: The Distinction or similar
After breakfast we tour Christchurch City including the Transition Cathedral and 185 White Chair Memorial. We then visit the world-famous Christchurch Botanic Gardens viewing some of the best examples of native and exotic flora in New Zealand revealing why Christchurch is named the ‘The Garden City’. We visit ‘Quake City’, the Earthquake Museum before our unique dinner on board the Tramway Restaurant. Experience the finest cuisine and beverages New Zealand has to offer incorporating a sightseeing tour showcasing Christchurch’s inner city vibrancy and heritage – truly a mix of the old and the new.
Overnight: The Distinction or similar
This morning we drive to picturesque Ribblesdale Gardens, four acres of floral tranquility encompassing a host of gardens which are developing their own micro-climate. Next we take a drive that showcases the world-renowned fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland arriving at our luxury resort, Terrace Downs. Located at the base of the Mt Hutt Ranges and overlooking the Rakaia Gorge, Terrace Downs offers incomparable luxury set in 550 acres of High Country magnificence.
Overnight: Terrace Downs or similar
We enjoy an exhilarating jet boat ride through the intricate network of braided river channels of Rakaia Gorge, skimming along stony banks and through gushing opalescent blue waters rich with salmon and trout. Soak in the dramatic scenery and marvel at the grandeur of the snowcapped Southern Alps. This afternoon we visit Gunyah Country Estate Garden in the rolling foothills; established in 1912, the gardens feature 12 acres of expansive lawns, mature trees, New Zealand natives and exotics which include original stunningly coloured and perfumed azaleas and rhododendrons. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy this remarkable resort.
Overnight: Terrace Downs or similar
We start the day with a private tour of Orari Gorge Station, an award-winning sheep and cattle farm specialising in Hereford and Romney. Next we visit Mia Flora Kavanagh House for lunch and a tour. Built in 1914, the homestead features beautiful gardens, artwork and sculptures. Transfer back to Christchurch where there will be a farewell dinner this evening.
Overnight: The Distinction or similar
Transfer to the airport after breakfast. Saying a fond farewell to new friends, we take away memories of an enchanting Sojourn in Canterbury, New Zealand.
About Sojourns
Our Sojourn programmes are short break journeys put together in conjunction with themes, events or experiences. These programmes range from cruising New Zealand’s North Islands to world-class sporting events and unique experiences throughout Australia and New Zealand.
About Single Traveller Journeys
We recognise the specific requirements of single travellers and that’s why a number of our journeys are single supplement free, affording you the benefit of your own single room, without any, or with significantly reduced extra cost. In fact, over 40% of our guests travel alone and return to Bill Peach Journeys again and again. In this way, you can enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow travellers during the day, along with the safety and security of travelling with an escorted group, but still retire to your own personal room in the evening. Note: The single supplement free offer cannot be taken in conjunction with any other offer.
Fully inclusive
This journey includes accommodation, all meals as specified, touring throughout, transfers, services of a dedicated Journey Director.
Coaches
The coaches that we use for the ground component of this journey are fully air-conditioned.
Pre Tour
Flights from your home port to Christchurch are not included in the journey price. Should you require flights to and from Christchurch, we can provide a competitive quote on airfares and pre and post tour accommodation in Christchurch, at the commencement and conclusion of your journey.
Level of Fitness Required – Easy Going
These journeys are not physically demanding unless you want them to be. They include easy guided walks, which are mainly on flat ground. There will be times when you are required to board a launch for shore excursions. You must be able to walk up to 1 kilometre unaided and will not need any foreseen assistance throughout the journey. For all clients to fully enjoy this travel experience, excellent health and mobility is required by all.
We strongly urge you to consider the fitness rating before selecting your preferred journey, in respect for your fellow travellers. Bill Peach Journeys reserves the right to refuse travel to any client whose fitness level is below the recommended rating.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance to cover you against such things as personal illness or accident, cancellation, loss of baggage etc. Please make sure you carry a copy of your Travel Insurance policy with you at all times.
Terms and Conditions
Please refer to the T&C’s for more information. Terms & Conditions (PDF)
* Conditions apply: Free Single Supplement Offer is limited and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.