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Banks Peninsula, Christchurch, And Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

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See the sights of Christchurch, drive through the beautiful Banks Peninsula, and visit the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve where you can meet the elusive kiwi (New Zealand's national bird), along with exotic animals that include deer, wallabies, otters, gibbons, and lemurs.

Banks Peninsula, Christchurch, and Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

On this excursion you will discover Banks Peninsula and the city of Christchurch, as well as the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve.

You will first depart Akaroa and embark on a scenic drive that provides stunning views of the peninsula, an ancient volcano that now forms the peninsula, and its crater that now forms the harbor. Travel via the Akaroa Highway past Lakes Forsyth and Ellesmere, a natural haven for birds and other wildlife.

Upon arrival to Christchurch and following a stop at the botanical gardens, enjoy a sightseeing tour that showcases the city landmarks: the Bridge of Remembrance, the Canterbury Museum, as well as the Art Gallery and the Art Center. Other sights include the badly earthquake-damaged Christchurch Cathedral, and the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. The city center is currently under construction with both demolition and rebuilding underway. Due to road closures and new areas re-opening, road access can change on a daily basis.

The tour then continues on to the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, home to 50 types of animals. The highlight, of course, is catching a glimpse of New Zealand's kiwi bird, a mixed-up creature with tiny wings, a long bill, cat-like whiskers, and hair-like features. You'll hear about the special kiwi breeding program at Willowbank and you might spot several varieties of these unusual birds, including North Island Brown and South Island spotted kiwis. Other species found at Willowbank include deer, wallabies, otters, gibbons, and lemurs. There is also a range of birds from chickens to native keas and takahe, tuataras, and kunekune pigs --kune means fat, so you will meet some fat fat pigs!

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About Shore Excursions Group
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ABOUT US
Shore Excursions Group was created with one goal in mind: to provide exceptional travel experiences to cruise passengers in the ports they visit around the world. To accomplish this, we have compiled an exceptional array of tours delivered by local experts with decades of experience serving travelers and delivering excellent tours. Our owners and management team are comprised of seasoned travel industry executives who leverage their considerable experience to deliver memorie ...
from $129.00 (USD)
Per Person
 
Tour Type
Group
 
Group Size
Standard
 
Activity Type(s)
Cultural, Scenic
 
Tour Duration
5.5 Hours
 
Activity Level
Moderate
 
Tour Leaves From
Cruise Ship Tender Pier
 
Food/Beverage Provided
Not Included
 
Special Instructions
We recommend guests wear comfortable clothing, with layers that may be removed, walking shoes, and sunglasses.
 
Restrictions
Guests must be able to walk over paved, gravel, and packed dirt surfaces, some of which are at an incline. Most sites are accessible for collapsible wheelchairs.
7618817

Location

Akaroa