Christchurch Gondola Ride

Christchurch, New Zealand

Riding the Christchurch Gondola is a spectacular experience. The 945 meter Gondola ride gently lifts passengers on a six-minute journey in the comfort of a 4 person gondola cabin, almost 500 meters (1500 feet) above sea level. Capture unique 360 degree views of Christchurch and distant peaks of the Southern Alps, see Canterbury Plains and Lyttelton Harbour unfold as you rise to the summit complex, on the crater rim of Christchurch's famous extinct volcano.
Please note: This tour will not be opeating until late 2012. Due to damage caused by the Christchurch earthquake, the infrastucture is currently being reviewed. A more definite opening date will be made available as further informtion comes to hand.

There is plenty to do at the summit complex including:

• The Heritage Time Tunnel: Step back in time to discover the fascinating history of the area. Learn about the volcanic origins of the area, early Maori life and the European (English) arrival.
• Nature Walkways and Mountain Biking: Explore the easy walk ways around the crater rim. For the adventurous, mountain bike cross-country options are available.
• Pinnacle (Gondola Restaurant) and Summit Café: Enjoy lunch in the Summit Café, or savor the best of Canterbury cuisine while taking in the extensive views from Pinnacle Restaurant.
• Shop at the Top: Browse through the selection of local souvenirs and gifts, including Gondola mementos, jewelry, clothing and much more. A wide range of product for all ages and budgets!

Why not upgrade to combine both the Christchurch gondola ride and the Hop-on Hop-off 2-day tram pass.

Your Christchurch Hop-on Hop-off pass is valid for two-days. This is the best way to experience Christchurch at your own pace. Jump on board the beautifully restored trams and hop-on and off at any of the tram stops to explore the sight and attractions up close.

Tram drivers provide a live entertaining and informative commentary throughout the journey.

Want the complete Christchurch experience? Upgrade to the Triple Pass to also include an enjoyable 30-minute punt ride on the Avon River.

The 'Triple Pass' includes the 2-day tram pass, the Christchurch gondola ride plus a 30-minute punt ride. The tranquil and relaxing 30-minute punt ride takes you down the Avon River through the historic inner city of Christchurch.

Attractions do not need to be taken on the same day.

USD $19.16

Traveler Reviews

Review by: nzamora	January 2011
The views from the top are beautiful!

Review by: Marie M	January 2011
Nothing in Christchurch is open on Christmas Day!! We arrived on a cruise ship, who also offered this as an excursion for 3x this cost. Since we were off and running we got the best times to ride all three. It is a good trip to see the city at all angles.

Review by: GAIL N	November 2010
Bought trio ticket tram ride and punting down avon great value but down side we were docked on cruise ship in lyletton travel on shuttle to center of christchurch then bus to tram then return to christchurch to catch shuttle back to where we had just been Future effort to let cruise passengers off at terminal about six min out of the way would be welcome all in all pleasant short day difficult to find much earthquake damage second quick visit but still retains all of it charm

Review by: John V	August 2010
What a magnificent views

Review by: Anonymous, United States of America	April 2010
Fantastic Views. Easy to find your way on the bus.

Review by: Kay M, Australia	March 2010
I was on a cruise and in Christchurch for one day only. The gondolatrampunt ticket was a brilliant way to see the best of Christchurch. Plan your day around the time of your booking for the punt which you must do that day. The tram drivers give a great commentary. I did the gondola ride last on my way back to the port of Lyttelton which is a gorgeous little village and also well worth a visit.

Review by: Doreen v, Australia	January 2010
Absolutely stunning views! This is the only way to take in the spectacular scenery! Slow, steady ascent and descent. I would have preferred a little more history from the Time Tunnel!

Review by: Doreen V	January 2010
Absolutely stunning views! This is the only way to take in the spectacular scenery! Slow, steady ascent and descent. I would have preferred a little more history from the Time Tunnel!

Review by: Mellissa N, Australia	December 2009
A must do!

Review by: Craig N	December 2009
A must do!

Review by: Douglas G, United States of America	November 2009
Great first day activity after 16 hour flight. The views were great, punting on the Avon was one of my wife's favorite activities and the tram convenient and enjoyable.

Review by: Courtney C, United States of America	March 2009
Great views and we got some spectacular photos...and the exchange rate made this 100 percent worth it!

Review by: Anonymous, United States of America	December 2008
The view is absolutely spectacular!

Review by: Paul C, Australia	August 2008
We did the gondola in Queenstown, which is much better, but still had a good time on this, and booking with Viator made it much easier.

Review by: Maree C	August 2008
We did the gondola in Queenstown, which is much better, but still had a good time on this, and booking with Viator made it much easier.

Review by: Neville C, Australia	February 2008
Although a little scary, the Gondola ride was spectacular. Dinner in the restaurant was very good and the staff was very friendly and helpful.

Review by: Megan S, New Zealand	February 2008
Really enjoyed the Gondola trip, great views on a great day, not to be missed. I was disappointed at the 35 cost of photos on Gondola.

Review by: Rachel C, Australia	June 2007
It was nice. There was a souvenir shop inside at the top along with a cafe. I think this is better at night, and so is the restaurant.

Review by: John B, Australia	March 2007
My wife and I had the tram and gondola package and it was awesome. There is a lot to see in Christchurch. I strongly recommend the gondola ride up the hill, the views are 360 degrees - awesome. The tram is a unique way of seeing the city and the commentary is informative, the driver tells you all about the history of Christchurch as you go around the streets. This is a MUST DO thing when you are visiting Christchurch.

Review by: Jan B	March 2007
My wife and I had the tram and gondola package and it was awesome. There is a lot to see in Christchurch. I strongly recommend the gondola ride up the hill, the views are 360 degrees - awesome. The tram is a unique way of seeing the city and the commentary is informative, the driver tells you all about the history of Christchurch as you go around the streets. This is a MUST DO thing when you are visiting Christchurch.