Experience 360° Views on the Christchurch Gondola
Christchurch Gondola Ride – Scenic Views from the Port Hills
See Christchurch from Above – 360° Views of Alps, Ocean & City
Experience stunning and unique 360° views from the summit of the Christchurch Gondola, one of the ‘must do’ tourist attractions in Christchurch.
The Christchurch Gondola gently lifts you nearly a kilometre to the top of the Port Hills, almost 500 metres above sea level and offers a unique Christchurch sightseeing experience that you’ll never forget.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Christchurch cityscape, over the Canterbury Plains out to the mighty Southern Alps and the dramatic hills of Banks Peninsula.
Then revive your spirits with a snack at the Red Rock Cafe, and browse what is on offer at The Shop at the Top.
The Gondola offers a unique Christchurch sightseeing experience that you’ll never forget.
The Christchurch Gondola gently lifts you nearly a kilometre to the top of the Port Hills, almost 500 metres above sea level.
To the west, gaze across the sparkling cityscape of Christchurch, over the Canterbury Plains to the high peaks of the Southern Alps.
To the south and east are the dramatic views of Banks Peninsula, Lake Ellesmere and Lyttelton Harbour formed in a sunken volcanic crater.
Looking north the beaches of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean unfold to the distant Kaikoura Peninsula.
At the summit, experience the Time Tunnel ride, where you take a journey back 12 million years as our automated ride takes you through the smouldering depths of a volcano, a native New Zealand forest, a short voyage onboard a ship and through the early settlements of Christchurch.
A definite highlight with children and adults alike! Revive your spirits with a snack at the Red Rock Café, and browse what is on offer at the Shop at the Top
TRANSPORT OPTIONS
The Gondola is just a 15 minute drive from Christchurch’s central city.
Take our direct shuttle service to the Gondola, which departs from central City, Cathedral Square at the following times: 9:30am (September-May), 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm and 4:00pm.
The Shuttle departs the Gondola at 10:00am (September-May), 11:05am, 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:35pm and 4:30pm.
Price: Adult tickets cost $15 return, and child (5-15yrs inclusive) tickets cost $8 return.
Tickets can be purchased from the shuttle driver.
Pre-book the Gondola
Price: $42.00 per person Child: $22
Family: 2 adults upto 3 Children $117
Departs: Daily: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Explore Christchurch City Attractions With a Combo Tour
Christchurch Gondola & Christchurch City Tram Tour combo
Price: $77.00 per person. Child $22 pp – Family pass $158 ( 2 adults + 3 children)
The City Tour by Christchurch Tram is the perfect way to experience the changing face of Christchurch City.
The journey takes approximately 50 minutes and includes seventeen stops, allowing you to visit inner city attractions such as New Regent Street, Cathedral Junction, Art Gallery, Arts Centre, Canterbury Museum and Botanical Gardens.
Tram drivers provide a live and comprehensive commentary.
A ticket lasts all day and customers can get off and on as they please.
Take a ride on the Christchurch Gondola and enjoy spectacular 360 degree views across the Plains, Alps, Christchurch City and Harbour.
Experience the Time Tunnel, the “Shop at the Top” or the Red Rock Café.
Use the Gondola to access the many walking or biking tracks available.
Christchurch Gondola, City Tram Tour & Punting on the Avon combo
Price: $114.00 per person. Child $47 pp – Family pass $298 ( 2 adults + 3 children)
Punting on the beautiful Avon River is an iconic Christchurch attraction not to be missed.
Each Punting tour is 30 minutes duration with informative commentary, and you are returned to your point of departure.
Board your classic Punt at the historic Antigua Boat Sheds landing.
Your Edwardian-dressed Punter will guide you quietly past trailing willows, woodlands and leafy banks as you take in the sights.
The City Tour by Christchurch Tram is the perfect way to experience the changing face of Christchurch City.
The journey takes approximately 50 minutes and includes seventeen stops, allowing you to visit inner city attractions such as New Regent Street, Cathedral Junction, Art Gallery, Arts Centre, Canterbury Museum and Botanical Gardens.
Tram drivers provide a live and comprehensive commentary.
A ticket lasts all day and customers can get off and on as they please.
Take a ride on the Christchurch Gondola and enjoy spectacular 360 degree views across the Plains, Alps, Christchurch City and Harbour.
Experience the Time Tunnel, the “Shop at the Top” or the Red Rock Café. Use the Gondola to access the many walking or biking tracks available.
Christchurch Gondola – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What can you see from the top of the Christchurch Gondola?
From the summit, you’ll enjoy breathtaking 360° views across Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains, the Southern Alps, Banks Peninsula, Lyttelton Harbour, and the Pacific Ocean.
2. How long does the Christchurch Gondola ride take?
The cable car ride takes around 10 minutes each way. Most visitors spend 1–2 hours at the summit exploring, relaxing, and enjoying the views.
3. Is the Christchurch Gondola suitable for children?
Yes! The Gondola is a fun and family-friendly activity. Kids especially love the Time Tunnel ride, which takes you on a virtual journey through Christchurch’s history.
4. What is the Time Tunnel ride at the summit?
The Time Tunnel is an educational and entertaining indoor ride that travels through recreated volcanic landscapes, forests, and scenes from Christchurch’s past.
5. How do I get to the Christchurch Gondola?
The Gondola base station is just a 15-minute drive from the city centre. You can also take the return shuttle from Cathedral Square, with several departures daily.
6. Is the Gondola open in bad weather?
The Gondola may close temporarily in high winds or severe weather for safety. It’s always best to check with the operator or website on the day of your visit.
7. Do I need to book Christchurch Gondola tickets in advance?
While walk-ups are welcome, booking in advance is recommended during weekends, holidays, and peak travel periods to avoid delays.
8. Is there food or a café at the summit?
Yes! The Red Rock Café offers snacks, meals, and drinks with panoramic views. There’s also a gift shop at the top for souvenirs and local goods.
