Taste and Tour the Waipara Wine Region, Lunch and See the Best of Christchurch.
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Overview
Meet and great your guide, board your transport, ready to depart Lyttelton and travel via the inner bays of Lyttelton Harbor 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 and from the Sign of the Kiwi there are wonderful views of both the Harbor and the city of Christchurch. Your tour will arrive at the Sign of the Takahe, a Scottish like castle which has a viewing platform providing magnificent views over the City of Christchurch, Pegasus Bay, the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps which are snowcapped for up to 9 months of the year. Access to the viewing platform is via a gentle 5-minute walk. Next you will depart the Sign of the Tahake for Mona Vale, a stately home and magnificent gardens.
You will arrive at the front gate house of Mona Vale and have time to stroll into the grounds, following the Avon River which acts as one of the properties boundaries. The coach will then travel around to the rear gate house where your tour guide will meet you once you have had the opportunity to explore. 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.
Leaving the city behind, journey towards 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 beautiful 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) has been arranged for your enjoyment. Following lunch, you will visit 2, or if time is permitting, 3 other wineries where hosted tastings have been arranged. During the course of the wine tour, you will enjoy tasting between 16 and 22 wines (depending on the time available) of different varieties.
At the end of your tasting tour, you will return to your cruise ship berthed in Lyttelton township, where your awaiting shuttle will transfer you back to your cruise ship.
What's Included
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Round trip transportation from port shuttle
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English speaking guide
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Dyers Pass and the Sign of the Kiwi
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Christchurch sights
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Lunch
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Between 16 to 22 wine tastings
Considerations
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This tour requires a minimum of 4 guests.
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You must be 18 years of age and present a valid photo ID in order to consume alcohol (passport recommended).
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Gratuities/Tips are not included in your tour, if you would like to leave a tip, please bring cash.
Special Instructions
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As the weather in New Zealand is very changeable, dress in layers (these can be left in the vehicle if not required) and wear comfortable footwear.
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Guests must be able to board and alight the tour vehicle without assistance.
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Bring your camera to capture wonderful memories of your time ashore!
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting Instructions Will Be Provided On Your Voucher.