08.45 Meet and greet in Lyttelton township for your Christchurch Highlight Tour with working sheep farm experience
09.00 Depart Lyttelton and travel via the inner bays of Lyttelton Harbour to Governors Bay and then via Dyers Pass to the Sign of the Kiwi. Dyers Pass climbs up the old volcanic crater wall to the summit.
09.30 The tour arrives at the Sign of the Takahe, a Scottish-like castle that has a viewing platform providing magnificent views over the City of Christchurch, Pegasus Bay, the Canterbury Plains, and the Southern Alps. Access to the viewing platform is via a gentle 5-minute walk.
09.50 Depart the Sign of the Takahe for Mona Vale, a stately home and magnificent gardens.
10.10 Arrive at the front gate house of Mona Vale and stroll through the grounds, following the Avon River which acts as one of the property's boundaries. The coach will then travel around to the rear gatehouse where your tour guide will meet you once you have had the opportunity to explore the grounds.
10.30 Depart Mona Vale and travel into the central city of Christchurch which was completely devastated by the Christchurch earthquakes in February 2011. Your guide will explain both the history of the city and the effects of the earthquake, you will see for yourself both the destructive powers of nature and the rebuild which has and is taking place.
11.15 Depart the city for the Waipara Wine Region approximately 45 minutes drive north of Christchurch. The Waipara Valley is well known for its warm dry climate and rich alluvial soils, ideal for superior wine production. Over 40 vineyards and wineries pepper the landscape, with Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc dominating. The first stop is Waipara Springs Winery and Restaurant where both a tasting and lunch (individual platter) have been arranged for your enjoyment. Following lunch, you will visit 2 other wineries where hosted tastings have been arranged.
15.30 The tour departs the Waipara Wine Region for Lyttelton.
16.30 The tour returns you to your cruise ship berthed in Lyttelton township where your awaiting shuttle will transfer you back to your cruise ship.
