Banks Peninsula & City Drive
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Port
Akaroa (Christchurch), New Zealand
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
City Tour,Local Sightseeing
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$149.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Board your motorcoach and set off skirting the many bays and coves bordering historic Akaroa Harbour. The Banks Peninsula, named for Captain Cook's botanist, was formed by three massive volcanic eruptions occurring millennia ago. The peninsula's two main harbors -- Akaroa and Lyttleton -- are the crater remains of shield volcanoes.
You'll drive to Manderley Farm, set on the shores of Lake Forsyth and renowned for both its fine merino sheep and its champion sheepdogs. Visit the farmhouse that serves as the hub of this 750-acre working farm -- a fully-restored 1876 historic homestead. You're invited to relax over a cup of tea next to the pool that graces the landscaped gardens.
Observe a demonstration of sheep-herding skills featuring the farm's prized border collies. The synergy between dog and man is a thing of beauty. You'll also have some free time to browse in the gift shop for New Zealand woolen goods and handicrafts.
Board your coach and continue past Lake Forsyth and Lake Ellesmere (Waihora) and the township of Tai Tapu to Christchurch.
A drive through the bustling Addington business district and past Hagley Park brings you to the city center. You have free time to purchase lunch (at your own expense) at one of the many cafés or restaurants in central Christchurch.
Heading back through Tai Tapu and Little River, take in the views from the Hilltop Viewpoint on the rim of the caldera that forms Akaroa Harbor. Descend to the harbor and return to the ship.