shore trips and tours new zealand

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Port Arthur

• New Zealand

Bay of Islands

Lyttelton / christchurch, marlborough / picton, milford sound, filter price.

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High Rated Tours

New zealand and tasmania – shore & cruise excursions.

Join us for a wonderful time on guided coach shore tours, activities, and attractions from ports around New Zealand and Australia . We have over 25 years’ experience assisting international travellers with their travel arrangements so let us also take care of your Cruise Excursions. Select from a port below and start your shore trip today! We guarantee to get you back to your ship on time and when you book you won’t be charged until your tour has finished. Its our ‘worry free’ guarantee!

Join our NEW ‘worry free’ 2 – 3 day post and pre cruise tours from Auckland. All accommodation and transfers provided. See below for details.

Trending Tours

Christchurch – City Highlights with Waipara Wine Tour & Lunch LT75WCS

Christchurch – Arthurs Pass Tour LT06AWTCS

Christchurch – Twin Harbours – Lyttelton & Akaroa LT79CS

Tauranga – Hobbiton and Rotorua Combination Day Tour with Te Puia LT59ACS

Join us for your shore excursions in amazing new zealand.

Popular Experiences across different NZ ports

Bay of Islands – Hole in the Rock and Dolphin Cruise LT53CS

Christchurch – TranzAlpine and Arthurs Pass Tour LT06CS

Milford Sound – Nature Cruise LT84ACS

Marlborough – Wine Tour (5hr) LT63CS

Napier & Hawkes Bay – Sightseeing Tour LT60CS

Wellington – City Sightseeing Tour LT61CS

Join us for your shore excursions in fantastic tasmania.

Pre & Post Cruise Tours

Our Worry Free Pre and Post Cruise Options take care of all the stress and hassle on either joining or departing your cruise ship in a new Country. We meet and greet either at the airport or off your cruise ship with personalised private transfers, central city accommodation and touring options available. Furthermore, should you experience any flight delays we will ensure you catch up with your cruise ship without incurring additional costs.

Excursions in New Zealand

🛳️ Bay of Islands shore trips for the Hole in the Rock Cruise or Scenic Helicopter flight 🛳️ Auckland City Sightseeing, Sky Tower, and Harbour Cruise, or Wine Tours 🛳️ Tauranga Sightseeing, Hobbiton (Lord of the Rings) or Rotorua experience 🛳️ Wellington Sightseeing, Wine or Lord of the Rings tours 🛳️ Picton Wine Tours, in Blenheim and Marlborough or the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre which houses filmmaker Peter Jackson’s collection of World War I aircraft 🛳️ Christchurch Sightseeing, Antarctic Centre, Willowbank (native wildlife reserve), Sheep Farm or Jet Boating tours from Akaroa 🛳️ Dunedin Sightseeing, Taieri Gorge rail journey or the Otago Peninsula Wildlife tours

Excursions in Tasmania

🛳️ Burnie with tours to explore the North Coast of Tasmania as well as Cradle Mountain, Lake St Clair National Park, Sheffield and Railton. 🛳️ Port Arthur and visit the convict settlement’s historic sites, Pirates Bay lookout and the spectacular coastal scenery. Then be thrilled with the Tasmanian Devils at the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo. 🛳️ Hobart with Port Arthur or Bruny Island and the Mount Mangana rain forests in search of White Wallaby or take excursions to Mt Field National Park including some of Tasmania’s “Great Short Walks” and Bonorong Wildlife Park

Our happy clients

David C | Tripadvisor

The tour company was very flexible as the ship had problems with their tenders. It helped people who were late and gave us extra time in Christchurch. Our driver Scott was very informative about everything we passed on the way there and back as well as about the city and the earthquakes.

Yogesh | Expedia

We landed on shore in Akaroa from the ship by tender. We pre-booked this tour and glad we did as we have great time in this tour and learnt so much about Akaroa and Christchurch in limited time. Very Pleased to say it was well worth the trip and good value for money.

Michael | Google

A very easy way to enjoy the sights of Christchurch and the scenery along the way. Extremely well organised with a set meeting point and a representative there to ensure that boarding the coach went smoothly. Good commentary from the coach driver along the way with enough time to see the city centre and museum.

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New Zealand

Dunedin Cruise Port

Famous for its wildlife and scottish heritage.

Settled in the 1840s by Scottish immigrants, Dunedin retains its Gaelic character, with impressive stone buildings and is home to Otago University. The cruise ships berth at Port Chalmers, a short distance from the city centre. Wildlife sanctuaries on the Otago Peninsula and New Zealands only castle - Larnach Castle - are popular tour destinations.

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DND-7  |  Half day Dunedin City Sights  |  4.00 hrs

This half-day tour of Dunedin starts from Port Chalmers, travelling along the harbour road into Dunedin. You will see all the main sights including The University of Otago, Signal Hill Lookout, the Worlds steepest street, Olveston House Gardens, the Octagon and the central city.

DND-3  |  Scenic Dunedin - Volcanic Hills & Beaches  |  3.75 hrs

Embark on an 80km journey over rolling hills - originally vents, domes or lava flows from the explosive volcanic past. Stunning views combined with the scenic beaches and bays of Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula create an amazing range of landscapes.

DND-13  |  Dunedin City Sights with Larnach Castle  |  6.00 hrs

Enjoy a full-day of city sights taking in many of Dunedins iconic buildings, landmarks and scenic lookouts. The tour includes a fully guided tour of New Zealands infamous castle - built over a century ago by William Larnach high up on the hills of the Otago Peninsula.

DND-10  |  Natures Wonders - Albatross Colony - City  |  7.25 hrs

See all the sights of Dunedin city, plus experience some of the regions unique wildlife including seals and penguins at Natures Wonders, and the Royal Albatross Colony.

DND-2  |  Natures Wonders - Larnach Castle - City  |  7.25 hrs

Not only will you visit Larnach Castle (New Zealands only castle) and see the highlights of Dunedin city, but you will also see amazing wildlife such as penguins and seals up close at Natures Wonders

DND-4  |  Back To Nature Tour  |  7.00 hrs

The Otago Peninsula is a scenic treat and home to some of the rarest wildlife in New Zealand, such as the Yellow-Eyed Penguin, fur seals and the Royal Albatross. Learn about the forest plants at Larnach Castle in the stunning grounds, plus Dunedin city sights.

DND-S13  |  Mercedes S550L Luxury Private Tour  |  from 4.00 hrs - 4 persons

Enjoy the sights of Dunedin in a luxurious Mercedes S550L. Your own chauffeur will look after you throughout the day and make sure you see just what you want, at your pace.

DND-S2  |  Mercedes Benv Volante Minibus  |  from 4.00 hrs - 7 persons

Book one of our luxury touring vehicles and enjoy the sights of Dunedin in style. Your own chauffeur will look after you throughout the day and make sure you see just what you want, at your pace.

DND-S3  |  Jaguar Saloon Private Tour  |  from 4.00 hrs - 4 persons

Book one of our luxury limousines and enjoy the sights of Dunedin in style. Your own chauffeur will look after you throughout the day and make sure you see just what you want, at your pace.

DND-S5  |  Private 10 seat Minibus Tour Dunedin  |  from 4.00 hrs - 10 persons

Book one of our 10 passenger minibuses and enjoy the sights of Dunedin. Your own driver/guide will look after you throughout the day and make sure you see just what you want, at your pace.

DND-S6  |  Bentley S1 Private Tour  |  from 4.00 hrs - 4 persons

Book one of our classic Bentley limousines and enjoy the sights of Dunedin in style. Your own chauffeur will look after you throughout the day and make sure you see just what you want, at your pace.

DND-S7  |  Luxury Sedan  |  from 4.00 hrs - 4 persons

Book our Mercedes S280L and enjoy the sights of Dunedin in style. Your own chauffeur will look after you throughout the day and make sure you see just what you want, at your pace.

DND-S8  |  Premium Grade Minivan Private Tour  |  from 4.00 hrs - 6 persons

Book one of our premium grade minivans and enjoy the sights of Dunedin in comfort. Your own driver/guide will look after you throughout the day and make sure you see just what you want, at your pace.

DND-S10  |  11 passenger minibus Dunedin  |  from 4.00 hrs - 11 persons

Book one of our premium grade minivans and enjoy the sights of Dunedin in comfort. Your own driver/guide will look after you throughout the day and make sure you see just what you want, at your pace

DND-S11  |  5 passenger mobility vehicle  |  from 4.00 hrs - 5 persons

Enjoy a day seeing the sights of Dunedin - what you see and do is entirely up to you! The vehicle can accommodate 1 wheelchair as well as 4 other passengers.

DND-S12  |  18 passenger minicoach  |  from 6.00 hrs - 18 persons

Book one of our Mercedes Sprinter minicoaches and enjoy the sights of Dunedin in comfort. Your own driver/guide will look after you throughout the day and make sure you see just what you want, at your pace

DND-S14  |  Premium SUV  |  from 4.00 hrs - 4 persons

Our Luxury Mercedes ML 320 4x4 provides a premium experience, one of the most over-engineered cars of its day, its a solid and safe vehicle. Your own chauffeur will look after you throughout the day and make sure you see just what you want, at your pace.

DND-S20  |  11 passenger Mercedes minibus  |  from 8.00 hrs - 11 persons

DND-G2  |  Natures Wonders - Larnach Castle - City Group Tour  |  7.00 hrs

Visit Larnach Castle, city sights and see penguins and seals up close at Natures Wonders. Then a tour of Larnach Castle, back to the city for the University, Railway Station and Baldwin Street - the steepest in the world.

DND-G10  |  Natures Wonders - Albatross Colony Group Tour  |  7.50 hrs

Dunedin City sights plus amazing wildlife, the famous Railway Station, Baldwin Street (steepest in the World) Dunedin University and City, seals and penguins at Natures Wonders, plus the Royal Albatross Colony.

DND-R5  |  VW Caravelle 7 seat Rental Car

Our 7 seat VW Caravelle vehicles are great for larger groups. All have automatic transmission, air-conditioning and are late model vehicles. We can also provide GPS for peace of mind. Ask us about pre-booking your activities and itinerary.

DND-R9  |  Mercedes ML 320 4x4 rental car

Our Luxury Mercedes ML 320 4x4 provides a premium driving experience. One of the most over-engineered cars of its day, its a solid and safe vehicle. We provide a GPS free of charge for peace of mind. Ask us about pre-booking your activities to save time and money.

Settled in the 1840's by Scottish immigrants, the city still retains its Gaelic character, full of impressive stone buildings and also home to Otago University, a leading academic institution. The Cruise Ships berth at Port Chalmers, a short distance from the city centre. Wildlife sanctuaries on the Otago Peninsula are popular tour destinations. Visit New Zealands only castle, Larnach Castle. Take the Taieri Gorge rail trip from the impressive train station, or maybe indulge yourself at Cadburys Chocolate factory or the Speights Brewery, both offer tours and tastings. Dunedin is the second-largest city in the South Island of New Zealand, and the principal city of the Otago Region. While Tauranga, Napier-Hastings and Hamilton have eclipsed the city in population in recent years to make it only the seventh largest city in New Zealand, Dunedin is still considered to be one of the four main cities of New Zealand for historic, cultural, and geographic reasons. Dunedin was the largest city in New Zealand by population until about 1900. The harbour and hills around Dunedin are the remnants of an extinct volcano. The city's largest industry is tertiary education - Dunedin is home to the University of Otago, New Zealand's first university (1869). Archaeological evidence shows the first human (Maori) occupation of New Zealand occurred between AD 1250-1300, with population concentrated along the southeast coast. Maori tradition tells first of a people called Kahui Tipua living in the area, then Te Rapuwai, semi-legendary but considered to be historical. The next arrivals were Waitaha followed by Kati Mamoe late in the 16th century and then Kai Tahu (Ngai Tahu in modern standard Maori) who arrived in the mid 17th century. James Cook stood off what is now the coast of Dunedin between 25 February 1770 and 5 March 1770, naming Cape Saunders on the Otago Peninsula and Saddle Hill. He reported penguins and seals in the vicinity, which led sealers to visit from the beginning of the 19th century. William Tucker became the first European to settle in the area in 1815. Permanent European occupation dates from 1831 when the Weller brothers founded their whaling station on the Otago Harbour. By the late 1830s, the harbour was an international whaling port. The Lay Association of the Free Church of Scotland founded Dunedin at the head of Otago Harbour in 1848 as the principal town of its special settlement. The name comes from DunEideann, the Scottish Gaelic name for Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. The climate of Dunedin in general is temperate, but the weather conditions often vary between suburbs mostly due to the city's topographical layout. It is also greatly modified by its proximity to the ocean. This leads to warm summers and relatively mild winters. Winter can occasionally be frosty but sunny, and significant snowfall is uncommon, except in the inland hill suburbs. Spring can feature "four seasons in a day" weather, but from November to April it is generally settled and mild. Temperatures during summer can reach over 30C (86F)

    I see that ships come in to Port Chalmers, how far is it to the city?

Its 14 km by road to Dunedin City centre. Most ships offer a shuttle bus service [at your cost] though you can also take a taxi or the local buses just outside the port. If there are are 3 or 4 of you the taxi will be cheaper than the cruise line shuttle and be more flexible.

    I want to go on the Taieri Gorge train trip, is this possible?

Currently the Taieri Gorge Railway trip is only available to the cruise ships so you will need to book one of their official tours. We hope that at some point the train will be available to us as well.

    Can I visit the Moeraki boulders from this port of call?

Yes, though they are to the north of the city and most trips head out to the Otago peninsular, so you may need to book a private tour or rent a car. Its about 70km so allow 75 minutes for the drive.

    I have been told that Olveston House is better than Larnach Castle to visit?

They are quite different, Larnach is an impressive building in a stunning location at the top of the Otago Peninsula, whereas Olveston House is in the city centre but has a much more complete interior and the guided tour is very informative. Larnach gets quite busy on cruise ship days.

What you say ...

We had a great time on our tour to see the Seals and Penguins on the Otago Peninsula, the drive around the bays and then back on the high road was stunning.

© 2024 Mount Classic Tours Ltd, PO Box 4678, Mount Maunganui, New Zealand Tel: +64 7 574 1779 Fax: +64 7 574 1775 Email: [email protected]

PRIVATE TOUR SPECIALISTS FOR MULTI DAY TOURS – PRIVATE TOURS – LOCAL TOURS - CRUISE SHIP SHORE EXCURSION TOURS - LUXURY TOURS -  HELICOPTER TOURS – SIGHT-SEEING TOURS – PRIVATE NEW ZEALAND TOURS – BESPOKE TOUR ITINERARIES 

 Cruise Ship Tours & Shore Excursions

We offer private tours, day tours, sightseeing tours & small group tours & trips for the discerning traveller right throughout NZ with cruise ship tours and shore excursions available in every cruise ship port in NZ.

We don’t like to ‘toot our own horn’ so check out our 5 star Trip Advisor reviews

There are special things in each port of call that are unique to NZ, and you will get to experience all the highlights on one of our tours that are taken by local tour guides, each tour has a private guide who will keep you entertained for the entirety of your time. Our tours are packed with fun, laughter & commentary given by our locals guides that you simply will not forget.

‘We start as strangers and end as friends’

Our tours are designed for all ages so come & experience a Bookatour private tour or shore excursion - seeing NZ your way.

You have Bex personal guarantee of satisfaction on this list so enjoy!

Pickup and Drop-off Directly to your Ship

Our Private Tours always collect you from your ship or hotel and take you back to the same spot at the end of the day! No need for shuttles into the city  - enjoy your own private chauffeur!

Exploring New Zealand is exciting and fun. We offer fully customizable Private Tours in every city & port in NZ to suit everyone's requirements and budgets.

Explore New Zealand like a local with a local  and get to see what you wouldn't normally see on a large bus tour.

Cruise Ship Day Tours & Shore Excursions

What to expect on our day tours.

Firstly expect to be amazed! New Zealand is a very special place to visit with a population of around 5 million, so  it really is very ‘un-touched’. NZ has a lot of unique architectural buildings, history, stories,   wildlife , beautiful coastlines & even an old Castle BUT best of all are the people you will meet on our tours!

All tours are made just for you so your guides will become life long friends guaranteed.

What New Zealand has on offer.

Wildlife Tours

Stunning Coastlines

Rich Heritage

Eco and Kiwi Bird Sanctuary

Royal Albatross

Yellow Eyed Penguins

Architecture 

Geo-themal  Tours

Hobbiton Tours

Maori Culture

Larnach Castle Tours

Helicopter Tours

Little Blue Penguins

Whale and Dolphin Tours

Dunedin Railway Station

Olveston Historic Home

Honey and Hive  Bee Tour

Oldest City in NZ Tour

Brewery Tours

Queenstown / Mount Cook  

Gondola Tours

Cruise Ship  NZ Ports of Call Tours

Click the port of interest, south island cruise ship ports, picton cruise ship terminal.

Picton is a small port with 2 different berths,  both a short bus ride into Picton itself which the ships put on. However here our choice is for you to be whisked into the wine country of Blenheim where you can spend the day tasting the Sauvignon Blancs of NZ (and others) with our wine maker.  This tour is a behind the scenes and the only one in Blenheim that  is not a cellar door tour. Includes a vineyard lunch.

Akaroa Cruise Ship Terminal 

There is no official port so its a tender  to shore  and spend the time wandering this amazing French settlement!

Lyttleton Cruise Ship Terminal 

This is a working port and nothing to see here, instead grab our private tour into Akaroa the French Settlement on the Banks Peninsula, sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery before being able to stop at a local cheese factory, home to the Hector Dolphins the smallest Dolphin i the World, this is your chance to jump aboard our cruises and  take a swim if you wish 

Other Options For Lyttleton On Request

Arthurs Pass / Jet Boat

City Sights / Wineries

Hanmer Springs

Port Chalmers Cruise Ship Terminal 

Port Chalmers is located 9km away from the city of Dunedin – but don’t worry there is no need for a shuttle when your on our tours we collect you from your ship! Choose your tour and let us take care of the rest!

Timaru Cruise Ship Terminal 

This port is a working port, our choice for this port is a visit to the stunning Victorian Precinct of Oamaru where you will step back in time, enjoy a locally crafted beer and wander back in time literally!

Oban Cruise Ship Terminal 

This is a tender port and yes we have tours available

North Island Cruise Ship Ports

Auckland cruise ship terminal.

This port in in the middle of town and an easy walk into Auckland – tours to Waiheke and surrounds are available but please note Auckland is a traffic bound city and tours are based on cruise ship times.

Tauranga Cruise Ship Terminal

A port located at the side of town but one of our favourite ports, you simply  must venture into the world of geysers and mud-pools, Hobbits and glow-worms on our tours to Rotorua – all small group or private at your request

Napier Cruise Ship Terminal

Napier is all about wine and art-deco - 

Join our private wine maker for a private elite glimspe into the wines of this area in a behind the scenes tour with our famous guide

Add on the ganet colony if you wish

Wellington Cruise Ship Terminal

We like to call it “Windy Wellington” because you’ll simply be blown away! Take our high country tour past the wind turbines that power Wellington to the working  farm of our guide ( 6000 sheep, 400 cattle and 40 horses)  let us take you  via 4WD to the edge of the North Island for morning tea atop the cliffs glancing out to the South Island, stopping to feed 50 year old eels and wild Kaimanua horses – once in a lifetime kinda stuff!

Or if you prefer a City Sights, cable car Winter Gardens, Parliment type day out just contact us.

Bookatour's Most Highly Recommended Tour Operators In New Zealand

Don't leave your holiday to chance. pick from our top local tour operators around new zealand ​.

Tauranga Tours by Bookatour

Tauranga. tours taken by a local guide. The team at Bookatour know all the best kept secrets and hidden gems around Tauranga. Unique, Fun & a good time not to be missed.

Bay of Island"s Tours by Bay of Island's Tours

Bay of Island Tours is the trusted tours and transport operator for the Bay of Island region. From Cruise Ship tours, corporate functions to exploring the whole Bay of Islands and the Northland region.

Christchurch Private Tours by Private Tours

Welcome to Private Tours (Canterbury) - We specialize in private custom tours in Christchurch, & throughout the Canterbury regions of New Zealand.

Napier Wine Tours by The Winemaker's Tour

Napier wine tour located in the beautiful Hawkes Bay of New Zealand. Stunning scenery along with some of the top wines in the Hawkes bay region.

Marlborough Wines Tour by Hop & Grape

Blenheim wine tours located in the beautiful Marlborough region of New Zealand. The Only wine tour in Marlborough that is taken by the wine maker himself.

Christchurch Tours by Cheeky Kea Tours

Christchurch tours - We are a Locally owned & operated tour company based in the beautiful South Island of New Zealand. With us you will, See more, Do more, Spend less

Dunedin Tours by Bookatour

Dunedin tours taken by a local guide. The team at Bookatour know all the best kept secrets and hidden gems around Dunedin City. Unique, Fun & a good time not to be missed.

More Dunedin Tours by Bookatour

THE ULTIMATE DUNEDIN TOUR ​

Dunedin and Otago Peninsula Highlights in a day - Jump aboard our small group tours (max of 18) and enjoy a day out in our City.

ELITE DUNEDIN TOUR ​

Dunedin sights with a helicopter tour over the Otago Peninsula

DUNEDIN PRIVATE TOUR ​

Design your own bespoke Dunedin Tour with your dream wish list of experiences,...

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE ​

Enjoy a tour of Where the Wild Things Are on the Otago Peninsula mixed,...

HONEY AND HIVE TOUR ​

An exciting look behind the scenes of NZ honey making process with,... Add this onto any of our excursions

MIDDLE EARTH ADVENTURE TO MOUNT COOK

An overland experience

HELICOPTER TOURS ​

Catch a salmon and match it with wine

QUEENSTOWN PRIVATE TOURS ​

Heli return trip, Dunedin to Queenstown from your cruise ship!

$2000pp NZD

COMING SOON ​ ​

​ Coming Soon

SHORE EXCURSIONS AVAILABLE IN DUNEDIN - CHRISTCHURCH - AKAROA - PICTON - FIORDLAND - WELLINGTON - NAPIER - TAURANGA - BAY OF ISLANDS - AUCKLAND

Book one of our experiences today .

Shore Trips & Tours

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Shore Trips & Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Back to Nature Tours

New zealand nature tours & activities.

• MOST POPULAR

DUNEDIN SIGHTSEEING TOUR

The amazing beaches of Dunedin are a must-see and will have you kicking off your shoes and dipping your toes into the perfect white sand and crisp waters.

• Users up to 16 participants
• Hour Glass 3.5 hours

CHOOSE YOUR TOUR

Dunedin tours.

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OUR FEATURED TOURS

Dunedin sightseeing tour.

• Hour Glass 7 hours

Otago Peninsula Tour

Make the most of your shore excursion in Dunedin, the oldest city in New Zealand, which boasts impressive sandy beaches and rugged coastlines, home to rare wildlife including the yellow-eyed penguin.

• Users up to 15 participants
• Hour Glass 10 hours

The Catlins Coast Tour

Sparsely populated — save for the wildlife who call this rugged coastline home — the Catlins in the southern tip of the South Island offers views of some of New Zealand’s most stunning natural beauty.

DUNEDIN CRUISE SHIP DAY EXCURSIONS FOR NATURE LOVERS

Back to ship guarantee.

Exploring New Zealand by cruise ship? Do so worry-free with our guarantee to get you back to your ship on time. And if your ship is unable to berth because of weather or mechanical issues, we’ll fully refund you promptly. Relax your mind and join us!

COMMITMENT TO CONSERVATION

We are a local, environmentally friendly tourism operator committed to providing high-quality, sustainable wildlife tours that educate and inspire. Our team donates a minimum of 100 hours each year to conservation efforts including the Sinclair Wetlands and various Department of Conservation projects.

PROFESSIONAL GUIDES

With nearly 20 years in operation, we are deeply connected with the New Zealand landscape, history, culture and wildlife. Our knowledgable guides are trained to a high standard and have all the attributes that come with experience. We promise to be professional yet personal to help you enjoy the best of our country. We won’t skimp on giving you a guide with great character, expertise and leadership.

DUNEDIN CRUISE SHIP SHORE EXCURSIONS

Back to Nature Tours provides the best professional cruise ship shore excursions and Dunedin day tours to introduce you to New Zealand’s first city. We also offer unique bespoke tours tailor-made for your group and specialise in private and small-group tours led by enthusiastic and experienced guides, helping you fully experience our city that is blessed with wildlife, scenery and a fascinating history.

Back to Nature Tours is locally owned and based in Dunedin, New Zealand. Our tours focus on the beautiful biodiversity of New Zealand, peppered with local interest. Our Dunedin wildlife tours give you the chance to experience our rare wildlife up close — huge sea lions, wide-wing albatrosses and the famous yellow-eyed penguins. Breathe in the history of many Dunedin attractions such as the Larnach Castle and the Historic Dunedin Railway Station.

This was a small group. We made many stops for picture opportunities. We had a very informative guide and we were lucky enough to see wildlife. He dropped us off in the city at our request so we could enjoy our few hours we had left before boarding our ship.

Special kudos to our guide Ben who not only hit all the highlighted spots despite a 90 minute delay; but also provided us with facts, stories and insights throughout the day. It was arguably the best of our 8 shore excursions throughout NZ.

Our guide Mel was very knowledgeable and humourous. I loved watching the sea lions and penguins. Lanarch Castle the view was breathtaking and the history of the castle was great. The weather could have been better but the visit was a worthwhile experience.

The tour is a good combination of civilisation - sightseeing in Dunedin and Larnarch Castle - and nature - sea lions, seals, yellow-eyed penguins.

Our day with James was amazing! He was knowledgeable about Dunedin, the indigenous culture and all the wildlife in the area. Great sense of humor, customized the tour for the 8 of us and we couldn’t have had a better day!

• [email protected]
• (09) 478 1462

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Welcome to SHIP n SHORE Tours and Cruises

We specialise in fully escorted tours – (t here’s TWO of us!)  for retirees, featuring a door to door pick up service (FREE for North Shore and Hibiscus Coast residents). Our regular tour newsletters offer variety, making the decision to travel on your own or as a couple an easy one. Over the past 24 years, our travel club members have explored on hundreds of tours with us, from the North Head tunnels to Antarctica. We look forward to seeing you on board!

Fully Escorted

We’re with you every step of the way. Our job is to make sure you have a good time and it’s a job we take seriously!

The Best Itineraries

With more than 20 years experience, we’ve uncovered many hidden gems on our adventures and can’t wait to share them with you.

Small Group Numbers

Our small tour groups allow you to get to know us and your fellow tour members better and make new friends along the way.

Something for Everyone

Whether you are into Animals, Trains, Gardens, Cruises, Beautiful Scenery, or just generally having a good time amongst a group of new-found friends, you’ll feel comfortable with SHIP n SHORE.

Away in New Zealand Tours

Leave your passport at home: we’ll take you to the known and unknown gems of New Zealand on our very special multi-day tours.

International Away Tours

Experience the far-flung and exotic – we do international tours like no other, featuring exclusive and unrivalled itineraries for trips of a lifetime.

Featured Tours

Whale island tour.

Features Whale Island Cruise with Guided Walk. Adrian Worsley's Art Gallery. Whakatane Sports Fish Club.

Ruakaka with Marsden Cove Canal Homes Cruise Tour

Features Marsden Cove Canal Homes Cruise. Waipu Scottish Migration Museum.

Taranaki Rhododendron Tour

Features Tour eight stunning private gardens, cruise by scenic lifeboat to a seal colony, walk the Coastal Walkway, visit Tawhiti Museum. Overnight at Whangamomona Pub!

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Lyttelton Shore Trips are experienced tour providers based in Christchurch, New Zealand who specialise in small group tours from various cruise ship ports located in the South Island of New Zealand. From the port of Lyttelton (Christchurch) we offer an extensive variety of day tour options. Our vehicles are luxury mini-coaches (max. 6 PAX), thus ideally suited for private shore excursons.  Should any of our tour options be of interest during your planned visit, please complete the enquiry form to enable us to provide you with a quotation specific to your requirements.

Enjoy all that Canterbury, New Zealand has to offer by booking one of our Lyttelton Shore Trips. View Christchurch's history and landmarks, see native New Zealand Wildlife, relax with a wine on our Waipara Valley Wine Tour or in the Hot pools at Hanmer Springs on our Inland Rural Canterbury and Hanmer Springs Tour. We would love to show you the South Island of New Zealand our home.  

Volcanic Peninsula, Lyttelton Harbour, Christchurch City and Surrounds Tour

Your day begins with you being met by your driver/guide on the wharf beside your ship prior to touring the historic township of Lyttelton, to then depart the region of Lyttelton (Christchurch City's port) travelling the harbour side road around the many scenic Volcanic Peninsula bays inclusive of  spectacular elevated views of the long extinct Volcanic Crater, The Canterbury Plains and Christchurch City before descending into the city itself.  Christchurch is New Zealand's Garden City that was settled by the English back in 1850. The beautiful city is host to over 700 public recreational parks and gardens, the largest being Hagley Park that is home to many English Oak trees with many in excess of 150 years in age. Your day ashore includes visiting many of the iconic features within the city, the Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, Avon River, Riverside Market, Cathedral Square, The Transitional (Cardboard) Cathedral along with the retail hub of the CBD. Since the February 2011 earthquakes that devastated the city Centre, numerous new commercial building have now replaced the 1000's of building lost resulting in a very modern and interesting architectural designed safe city. A welcome and appealing aspect to your time ashore is the 'free time' that you will have to wander the inner city that enable the visiting at leisure some the retail shops, the city's hospitality precinct with is variety of restaurants and cafés.  On conclusion of your time in Christchurch you will then visit the city's sea-side suburb of Sumner, returning to your ship by either another volcanic peninsula road pass or by way of the 1.97km road tunnel through the volcanic peninsula. Should one so wish, the day's itinerary may be varied to include options of time to visit the larger commercial attractions, such as The International Antarctic Centre experience, The Wigram Air-Force Museum, Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve.  All our tours are by luxury mini-coach driven by experienced driver/guides who provide an extensive commentary about the day's experience and New Zealand in general, and not that of travel by large coaches that result in reduced flexibility and delays brought about by the stragglers associated with larger group travel. Duration approximately 7 hours, with your day tour returning to the ship well ahead of the scheduled departure time.   

For options and price to suit your personal or small group travel requirements. 

Volcanic Peninsula, Akaroa and the Eastern Bays Tour.

Your day begins with you being met by your driver/guide on the wharf beside your ship prior to touring the historic township of Lyttelton, to then depart the region of Lyttelton (Christchurch City's port) travelling the bays of the harbour before winding your way over a road pass to the lakes of Forsyth and Ellesmere and the roadside township of Little River with its craft shop, art gallery and of course a café for a take-away coffee fix. From Little River you then begin the travel to the crater rim road of the long extinct Akaroa volcano, stopping for photo opportunities of the spectacular scenery from up high before traveling a number of harbour bays leading into the Akaroa township. Akaroa is a small holiday resort township that was settled by the French in 1840 and as a result is very proud of its French heritage.  The town is located within the extinct volcano crater that forms the harbour that is used as an alternative cruise ship port. The harbour is a marine sanctuary and home to the rare Hector dolphins. Your time in Akaroa enables the exploring at your leisure the township with it many restaurants and attractions such as a dolphin cruise, a visit to The Giants House, Alpaca or Sheep Farm experience, and not forgetting a visit to a boutique Cheese Factory or a Peninsula Winery for a tasting of their wine varieties. On conclusion of the visit to Akaroa, on reaching Christchurch your journey will return to Lyttelton by way of an alternative route inclusive of a section of Christchurch's central city  All our tours are by luxury mini-coach driven by experienced driver/guides who provide an extensive commentary about the day's experience and New Zealand in general. Your travel is not by large coaches that result in reduced flexibility and delays brought about by the stragglers associated with larger group travel.  Duration approximately 7 hours with your day tour returning to the ship well ahead of the scheduled departure time. 

Waipara Valley Wine Tour

Your day begins with you being met by your driver/guide on the wharf beside your ship prior to touring the historic township of Lyttelton to then depart the region of Lyttelton (Christchurch City's port) travelling the harbour side road around the many scenic Volcanic Peninsula bays inclusive of spectacular elevated views of the long extinct Volcanic Crater, The Canterbury Plains and Christchurch City before travelling a section of the Canterbury Plains into Canterbury's major winery region of The Waipara Valley.  With the valley being very sheltered from the Pacific Ocean's on-shore winds and with its well drained lime-stone type soil, the valley is home to numerous vineyards and wineries. You day will include a visit to specially selected wineries during which time you may experience the tasting of over 20 of the region's finest varieties. In addition, an extended stop at one of the wineries for lunch when you may relax and enjoy with a good wine. On conclusion of your visit to the Waipara Valley, on reaching Christchurch your journey will return to Lyttelton by way of an alternative route inclusive of a section of Christchurch's central city.  All our tours are by luxury mini-coach driven by experienced driver/guides who provide an extensive commentary about the day's experience and New Zealand in general. Your travel is not by large coaches that result in reduced flexibility and delays brought about by the stragglers associated with larger group travel.  Duration approximately 7 hours with your day tour returning to the ship well ahead of the scheduled departure time.  

Southern Alps Mountains & Inland Canterbury Plains Tour

Your day begins with you being met by your driver/guide on the wharf beside your ship prior to touring the historic township of Lyttelton, to then depart the region of Lyttelton (Christchurch City's port) travelling the harbour side road around the many scenic Volcanic Peninsula bays including the spectacular elevated views of the long extinct Volcanic Crater, The Canterbury Plains and Christchurch City before travelling inland over the Canterbury Plains and into the foothills of New Zealand's spectacular Southern Alps Mountains.  Whilst the destination is the alpine village of Arthurs Pass, the getting there is an experience one will remember for years on. The journey include the viewing of very high productive farmland region New Zealand with both its dairy and sheep farm activity. You will pass through a number of typical New Zealand small rural townships, one of which boasts ownership of a magnificent local 'pie-shop' bakery - a stop being a must to experience its freshly made range of cakes, pastries, breads and of course our famous New Zealand meat pies.  Soon after passing through the last of the rural townships you will commence the steep climb into the Alps by way of a number of highway road passes and on to a number of inland Canterbury's  'high country' lakes that are extremely popular with both local and overseas anglers. On arrival into the Arthurs Pass region and for those that wish, there is an opportunity to partake a relatively easy 'hike' to view the famous Punchbowl water fall that cascades out of the Alps. Then after regaining one's appetite following the "pie-shop" stop, Arthurs Pass offers lunch-time dining of either a café or that of a licensed restaurant. The journey back to the ship is by way of the highway travelled earlier in the day but with the travel being in a opposing direction the magnificent scenery takes on a new perspective.  Should a hike into the Punchbowl water fall not appeal, one may include in the day an adrenaline rush by embarking on a river gorge jet boat ride - the jet boat being a New Zealand invention that enables high speed travel in just a few inches (cm) of water. On conclusion of your visit into the Southern Alps, on reaching Christchurch your journey will return to Lyttelton by way of an alternative route inclusive of a section of Christchurch's central city. All our tours are by luxury mini-coach driven by experienced driver/guides who provide an extensive commentary about the day's experience and New Zealand in general.  Your travel is not by large coaches that result in reduced flexibility and delays brought about by the stragglers associated with larger group travel.

Duration approximately 7 hours with your day tour returning to the ship well ahead of the scheduled departure time. 

Inland Rural Canterbury and Hanmer Springs

Your day begins with you being met by your driver/guide on the wharf beside your ship prior to touring the historic township of Lyttelton, to then depart the region of Lyttelton (Christchurch City's port) travelling the harbour side road around the many scenic Volcanic Peninsula bays including the spectacular elevated views of the long extinct Volcanic Crater, The Canterbury Plains and Christchurch City before travelling the northern section of the Canterbury Plains inland to the restful resort town of Hanmer Springs. In addition to the magnificent scenery on-route, Hanmer Springs is home to a number of walks and the magnificent thermal pool complex complete with five relaxing thermal pools, four water slides, two hydro slides plus The Cascade, and the aquatic ride known as The Conical Thrill.  For those not so keen on water there are a number of equally interesting activities such as the opportunity for bungy jumping, jet boating, mini-golf, and not forgetting the 'Hanmer Rockets' being something for all the family or groups to enjoy. They are four-wheeled quadricycles that carry between two - six people, and are a unique way to enjoy cycling around Hanmer Springs village.  Great for exploring the picturesque small township.  On conclusion of your visit to Hanmer Springs, on reaching Christchurch your journey will return to Lyttelton by way of an alternative route inclusive of a section of Christchurch's central city. All our tours are by luxury mini-coach driven by experienced driver/guides who provide an extensive commentary about the day?s experience and New Zealand in general.  Your travel is not by large coaches that result in reduced flexibility and delays brought about by the stragglers associated with larger group travel. Duration approximately 7 hours with your day tour returning to the ship well ahead of the scheduled departure time.

The Lord of the Rings Movie (Edoras) Set, Mount Sunday Location.

Your day begins with you being met by your driver/guide on the wharf beside your ship prior to touring the historic township of Lyttelton, to then depart the region of Lyttelton (Christchurch City's port) travelling the harbour side road around the many scenic Volcanic Peninsula bays including the spectacular elevated views of the long extinct Volcanic Crater, The Canterbury Plains and Christchurch City before travelling inland and up an extremely spectacular and picturesque Rangitata river valley to Mount Sunday location.  The day includes passing through a number of rural townships including the ski-resort town of Methven that offers a variety of lunch options. On reaching Mount Sunday one may partake in easy walk of approx.. 1 hour to get up close and personal with the location - despite all evidence of the movie set having been removed. On conclusion of your visit to Mount Sunday, on reaching Christchurch your journey will return to Lyttelton by way of an alternative route inclusive of a section of Christchurch's central city.  All our tours are by luxury mini-coach driven by experienced driver/guides who provide an extensive commentary about the day's experience and New Zealand in general. Your travel is not by large coaches that result in reduced flexibility and delays brought about by the stragglers associated with larger group travel. Duration approximately 7 hours with your day tour returning to the ship well ahead of the scheduled departure time. 

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