Private South Island tours with Craig Rome
I've guided visitors in and around Christchurch and across the South Island for more than 30 years, in English and Japanese. It's just your group and me, so we go where you want and stop wherever you like.
- Based in
- Christchurch
- Group size
- Up to 4 guests
- Languages
- English and Japanese
- Reviews
- 5 stars on TripAdvisor
What guests have written
Read every review on Google or TripAdvisor
“Craig made our New Zealand trip unforgettable! His Japanese was perfect, and he knew exactly where to take us for the best photos. We felt like we were traveling with a friend rather than a guide.”
“The best tour experience we've ever had. Craig's knowledge of local wildlife and history is incredible. He took us to places we never would have found on our own.”
“クレイグさんのツアーは本当に素晴らしかったです。日本語が完璧で、ニュージーランドの自然と文化を深く理解できました。”
“Craig's local knowledge is second to none. He showed us hidden gems and shared fascinating stories about New Zealand's history. The homemade lunch from his garden was a wonderful surprise!”
“We've done many tours around the world, but Craig's personalized approach stands out. He adjusted the itinerary based on our interests and even took us to meet local farmers. Truly authentic experience.”
“What sets Craig apart is his genuine passion for sharing New Zealand. He's not just a driver - he's a storyteller, historian, and friend. The garden tour was magical!”
“Traveling with elderly parents, we needed someone patient and accommodating. Craig exceeded our expectations - wheelchair accessible stops, perfect pace, and fluent Japanese made our parents so comfortable.”
“The TranzAlpine tour was spectacular. Craig knew exactly where to stop for photos and his picnic lunch overlooking Arthur's Pass was unforgettable. Worth every penny!”
“一人旅でしたが、クレイグさんのおかげで安心して楽しめました。地元の人しか知らない場所に連れて行ってもらい、最高の思い出ができました。”
Popular tours
Every tour is private, and I can change any of them to suit you.
Aoraki Mount Cook Tour
~12 hours, from $630
Discover the stunning landscapes of Aoraki Mount Cook. This tour includes guided hikes, visits to scenic viewpoints, and educational talks about the area's rich history and geology. Perfect for adventurers and nature lovers, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Christchurch City Tour
4 hours, from $280
Explore Christchurch's most iconic landmarks, beautiful gardens, and hidden gems on a fully customisable tour tailored to your interests. Experience the Garden City post-earthquake and see why Christchurch remains a must-visit destination.
Greedy Sportsman's Day in the Garden City
4-8 hours, from $420
A totally flexible guiding service for active visitors who want to enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing in Christchurch. From half-day to multi-day tours, tailor-made to suit your fitness and interests.
Have somewhere else in mind?
Tell me where you'd like to go, what you'd like to do, and how long you have. I'll plan a tour from scratch.
How I became a guide
I'm Craig Rome, a Scottish-born Kiwi. I came to New Zealand in 1977 with dreams of dairy farming. Instead I worked in hotels, ran a bakery in Christchurch, and lived in Japan for nearly 5 years in the late 80s to learn the language. For over 30 years I've guided guests from Japan, and now through CanNZ Tours I offer relaxed, tailor-made tours. I can host guests in my home, cook and share meals with produce from my organic garden, and show them a genuine Kiwi experience beyond the typical tourist routes.
- Private
- Only your group travels in my car. We go where you want, at the pace you want.
- In Japanese or English
- I lived in Japan for nearly five years and have guided Japanese visitors for more than 30. The whole day can be in Japanese, from the planning to the small talk.
- Off the bus routes
- I take you to back-road viewpoints, friends' farms, and the cafés locals use.
How booking works
There's no agent in between. You deal with me from the first message to the drive home. I'm licensed and insured.
Send me a message
Tell me your dates, how many of you there are, and what you'd like to see. I usually reply within a day.
We plan the route together
I suggest stops, timings, places to eat, and where to stay. We change it until it suits you.
I pick you up
I collect you from where you're staying, drive and guide all day, and drop you back.
You'll travel in my BYD Shark
It's a BYD Shark, a hybrid electric ute with leather seats and air conditioning. There's room for four passengers and their luggage.
Tell me what you'd like to see
Send me your dates, your group size, and any places you have in mind. I usually reply within a day.
- Phone
- +64 21 1811 570 (also on WhatsApp)
- info@cannztours.com