The 10 Best Eco Tours in Canterbury Region, South Island

September 23, 2021 Jana Sager

Christchurch, the Garden City, and the Canterbury region are the perfect destination for daredevils. From northern Kaikoura to Waimate in the south, Canterbury is an adventure sports paradise. Hangliding, helibiking, bungee jumping, snowboarding, jetboating, rafting and skydiving get the adrenaline going. Golfing, flightseeing, swimming with dolphins and soaking in thermal pools are more laid-back temptations. Christchurch, a city of parks and gardens, is the country’s third largest urban area.
Restaurants in Canterbury Region

1. Pohatu Penguin Habitat

Excellent
90%
Good
8%
Satisfactory
1%
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5.0 based on 639 reviews

Pohatu Penguin Habitat

Pohatu penguins is a family owned business that offers 4WD safaris trip to the Largest Little penguin colony on mainland New Zealand. Conservation based tours include: -Evening penguin tours -Scenic nature safaris (2 or 4 hours) -Sea-kayaking with seals and other wildlife -24 or 48 hour package including accommodation in the middle of the penguin colony

2. Dolphin Encounter

Excellent
91%
Good
6%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1,427 reviews

Dolphin Encounter

One of the best places in the world to encounter dolphins in the wild! We operate on the dolphins' terms. Swim with the dolphins in their natural environment or watch their acrobatic displays form the comfort of the boat.

3. Albatross Encounter

Excellent
91%
Good
8%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 190 reviews

Albatross Encounter

Kaikoura is one of the best places in the world to see a variety of albatross close to shore! Get up close and personal to the largest wingspan in the world - the wandering albatross. Scenic boat tours to visit the majestic pelagic birds that frequent the Kaikoura coastline.

4. Seal Swim Kaikoura

Excellent
94%
Good
5%
Satisfactory
1%
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0%
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5.0 based on 535 reviews

Seal Swim Kaikoura

Swimming with New Zealand fur seals in the shallow bays of the beautiful Kaikoura Peninsula really is an experience that you don't want to miss. Tours take 2.5 hours and depart several times daily during summer. No experience is necessary and all equipment is supplied. Many travelers site their seal swimming experience as a highlight of there New Zealand holiday. For more information contact us...

5. Akaroa Dolphins

Excellent
96%
Good
4%
Satisfactory
0%
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5.0 based on 2,138 reviews

Akaroa Dolphins

Let our crew, including our dolphin spotting dogs, take you on a journey of discovery through the long history of Akaroa harbour and its inhabitants. Our low-lying luxurious, spacious boat ensures you have a closer encounter with the rare Hector’s dolphins. We also endeavour to give you the best possible viewing of our local New Zealand fur seals, penguins and seabirds. Along the way, you will get to see sea caves and other spectacular volcanic formations too. We offer a friendly and comfortable experience that includes complimentary drinks of local award-winning wine, beer or juice, as well as some delicious home baking. Our 100% locally owned and operated business is committed to raising awareness and protecting the marine environment. That is why a portion of your fare goes towards protecting our wildlife. To find out more about our conservation commits please visit our website. Please note, we do not swim with the dolphins.

6. Eco Walks

Excellent
100%
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Eco Walks

Would you like to experience the rich history and best views in Christchurch? Take a guided walk over the historical Bridle Path down to Lyttelton. Learn how our mountains were formed, why we have earthquakes and birds which cannot fly. Listen to fascinating Maori stories and feel the spirit of the old days when the first settlers arrived in 1850. I am looking forward to meet you. Nicole

7. Ecoseaker

Excellent
98%
Good
2%
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0%
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5.0 based on 610 reviews

Ecoseaker

Dolphin Swimming and Harbour Cruise Adventures. Small Professional Family Company 100% Locally Owned & Operated. Only 12 Guests On Each Tour. Personal Experience. Free Dolphin Swimming Photos.

8. Driftwood Eco-Tours

Excellent
89%
Good
9%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 192 reviews

Driftwood Eco-Tours

Join Driftwood Eco Tours on an expedition into New Zealand heartland where you will live like the locals, and take memories home which will last you a lifetime. You will learn about New Zealand's lore and culture, taste the local kai, and experience what it is that makes New Zealand one of the best places in the World to live. Immerse yourself in the real New Zealand that few have the opportunity to see. You will be guided into locations of rugged, untamed beauty and splendid isolation. Along the way you may meet the remarkable people who choose to work and raise their families in these often challenging but always rewarding landscapes.

9. Wildsouth Discovery

Excellent
100%
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5.0 based on 19 reviews

Wildsouth Discovery

Your Wildsouth Discovery guides and hosts, Brian Lucas and Paula Sinclair offer only completely customized, bespoke trips. With over 22 years of experience, Brian and Paula specialize in creating South Island tours that are extraordinary and tailor-made to the needs of the discerning traveller. Excelling in privately guided tours, guests come with us for authentic interactions and exclusive adventures that are carefully designed to fullfil their South Island dreams. Using their own fully customized 4WD safari vehicles, they guide the trips themselves and exclusivity, flexibility and your safety is of the utmost importance. Being locals, Brian and Paula will show you the special places, their favourite photo spots and the splendid isolation and serenity New Zealand’s South Island has to offer. Whether you travel as a couple, with family, with lifelong friends who share your inquisitiveness about the world, or whether you travel to mark a milestone in your life, you can expect to return from your journey spellbound at the beauty that New Zealand will bestow upon you. Brian and Paula’s attention to detail, their expertise in the provision of top service combined with their knowledge of the culture, wildlife and history ensure that their guests get to see and experience South Island differently. This means that they take with them life-long memories and stories to share with family and friends. Come as a tourist * Experience like a local * Depart as a friend

10. Amuri Jet - Hanmer Springs

Excellent
94%
Good
4%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 174 reviews

Amuri Jet - Hanmer Springs

Join us as we Jet boat and River Raft the entire length of Hanmer's spectacular Waiau Gorge.Following the contours of the steep canyon walls where possible, its elbows in, as we pass within centimeters of rugged rocks and cliff faces.Take in the magnificent scenery, then hold on while you experience the famous Hamilton 360 degree jet spin. Excitement plus!Make no mistake - this is the best! Or Join Us on one of our Other Outdoor Adventures From Mild to Wild /Learn about the history/The area/Wild live and some more. We allow cameras on all our tours so don't forget IT! Of coarse we take photo's they are FREE we do not charge for memories! OPTIONS *Amuri Jets -Jet the Gorge Trip allow 1 hour *Amuri Jets - Alpine Wilderness Jet boat Safari allow 2 hours *Amuri Jets - River Raft and Jet Boat back combo allow 2.5 hours *Amuri Jets- Family River Rafting allow 2 hours

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