Christchurch Garden Tour
Christchurch is often called "The Garden City" and has Spring and Summer garden competitions twice a year in late October and January. These times of year are absolutely the best time to view however from mid August when the daffodils start to appear till mid April with Autumn colours there is always something to enjoy. I am a keen vegetable gardener and have been guiding guests on Garden tours for over 30 years now. My basic tour is 4 hours and usually visits 2 private gardens and gives you a chance to meet the people who create these amazing gardens as well as visit the most attractive local park depending on the season. I can prepare lunch in my home for you or if you would prefer can cook together and enjoy in my garden or sunroom. There are also some very grand country gardens within an hour s drive of the city and can incorporate those in to the tour if you wish.
- Duration
- ~4 hours
- Group size
- Up to 4 guests
- Price
- From $300 per person
- Distance
- 50 km
About this tour
Discover why Christchurch is fondly known as "The Garden City" on our popular Garden Tour. This enriching experience takes you through three private gardens, each unique in design and beauty. One of these gardens is an award-winner, recognized for its stunning layout and vibrant blooms. You'll have the exclusive opportunity to meet the dedicated gardeners behind these green havens.
The tour doesn't stop at private gardens. You'll also visit Christchurch's most attractive park, celebrated for its scenic landscapes and peaceful ambiance. The tour is a hit especially with Japanese guests, who are captivated by the city's dedication to botanical beauty.
Visit prize-winning flower gardens in the Christchurch area. Visit 3 private gardens as well as winning street gardens and also the prize-winning factories. Meet the gardeners who create the gardens and be guided by myself who has a keen interest in gardening, particularly organic vegetables. You will see why they call Christchurch "The Garden City." Depending on the season, we will visit other attractive garden features around the city.
The tour is 4 hours long but also delighted to tailor the tour to suit your personal wishes and happy to combine it with my Christchurch city sights tour. An option exists to have lunch included which will be served in my garden or sun room if the weather is cool or by the fireside if its really cold. The lunch consists of 2 courses and as much as possible is created from my organic vegetable garden. Also delighted to create a lunch along with my guests
In addition to the standard garden tours, I offer extended visits to larger country gardens, which can be tailored to fit your schedule. These extended excursions include a delightful two-course lunch and can last between 6 to 8 hours, perfect for those who wish to immerse themselves fully in rural garden splendours.
Spring is a particularly magical time, with local schools hosting garden-based fundraisers, offering a unique glimpse into a wide array of local flora. These events are available from late October to early December and provide a wonderful insight into community spirit and gardening passion.
What's included
- An experienced and knowledgeable local tour guide
- Transport to and from Christchurch to a variety of gardens en-route
- Entrance to 3 private gardens
A typical day
- 9:30 AM
Start of Tour from Hotel or Rendezvous Point
Begin your garden tour from your hotel or a central city rendezvous point, ready to explore Christchurch's botanical beauty.
- 9:40 AM
Short Walk Through Community Gardens
Take a 5-minute walk through one of Christchurch's many Community Gardens, experiencing the city's gardening culture.
- 10:00 AM
Prize-Winning Garden Visit
Visit a prize-winning garden and meet the gardeners who create and maintain this beautiful flower garden. Spend 20 minutes learning about their techniques and passion.
- 10:45 AM
Prize-Winning Street Drive
Drive along and stop for photos on a Prize-Winning street, admiring the beautiful street gardens that have earned recognition.
- 11:00 AM
Second Flower Garden Visit
Visit a second flower garden and have the chance to discuss the garden with the owner, learning about their design choices and favourite plants.
- 11:40 AM
Attractive Park or Seasonal Feature
Visit an attractive park, floral display, or seasonal feature in a park, capturing the essence of Christchurch's garden city reputation.
- 12:00 PM
Third Private Prize-Winning Garden
Visit the third private prize-winning garden, meeting another dedicated gardener and experiencing their unique garden design.
- 12:40 PM
Commercial Gardens Browse
Quick browse in one of Christchurch's Commercial gardens, seeing how professional gardeners create stunning displays.
- 1:00 PM
Garden Centre Visit
Visit one of Christchurch's attractive garden centres, exploring plants, tools, and garden inspiration.
- 1:30 PM
Conclusion of Tour or Beginning of Lunch
Conclude your tour, or if you've selected the lunch option, begin your delicious 2-course meal served in my garden or sun room, featuring produce from my organic vegetable garden.
Optional extras
Lunch Option
Enjoy a delicious lunch in the Gardens, or at home in my sun room. A 2-course meal featuring produce from my organic vegetable garden.
$35extra
Good to know
- What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for changeable weather, sunscreen, a camera, and an open mind.
- Weather and changes
- South Island weather changes fast. Craig adjusts stops and timings for weather and road conditions on the day, and will suggest another date if conditions are unsafe.
- Cancellation
- Cancel more than 7 days before the tour for a full refund, less a 10% administration fee. Cancellations within 7 days are not refunded. If Craig has to cancel, for example for unsafe weather, you choose a new date or a full refund.
What happens after you enquire
- Send your dates, group size, and interests. Craig replies within 24 hours.
- Craig confirms availability and the price, and adjusts the itinerary with you.
- Your booking is confirmed in writing. Craig picks you up on the day.
More private tours from Christchurch
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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.
- Plan a custom tour
Combine stops from several tours, or go somewhere else on the South Island.
- Stay with Craig
Homestay accommodation in Craig's Christchurch home.
- Meet your guide
Craig plans, drives, and guides every tour himself.
Tell me what you'd like to see
Send me your dates, your group size, and any places you have in mind.
- Phone
- +64 21 1811 570 (also on WhatsApp)
- info@cannztours.com