Christchurch Tickets






































































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We curate the best ways to experience
We partner with the best
All the best options, in one place
Book with complete peace of mind

Quick overview

  • Ways to experience: Take a hop-on hop-off tram with live commentary, or enjoy a round-trip gondola ride to the summit for city and hill views.
  • Additional access: Tram tickets cover 18 stops across central Christchurch, while gondola tickets include summit decks, the Discovery Ride, and the café.
  • Unique experiences: Combo passes let you ride both tram and gondola, with optional Avon River punt rides for a full day of sightseeing.
  • When to book: November to March is the busiest season. Book ahead to get your preferred times and shuttle spots.
  • Good to know: Tram rides don’t need reservations, but gondola cabins have set hours (usually 10am–5pm) and limited capacity.
  • Best upgrade: Choose a combo ticket for extra value, guided commentary, and access to multiple attractions.

Which Christchurch Tram and Gondola ticket is best for you?

Ticket typeWhat’s includedWhy choose thisBook tickets

All-inclusive: Tram, Gondola & Punting Pass

Hop-on hop-off tram access (18 stops), round-trip gondola ride to Mount Cavendish, guided Avon River punting experience

Best for seeing all three experiences in one day while saving time and money.

From NZ$120.37

Hop-on Hop-off Tram Tickets

Unlimited daytime tram rides across 18 stops, access to major city landmarks, historic tram experience

Ideal for flexible city sightseeing with easy hop-on hop-off access.

From NZ$42.23

Hop-on Hop-off Tram & Gondola Combo Pass

Unlimited hop-on hop-off tram rides, round-trip gondola ride, summit access with viewing areas and Discovery Ride

Great value if you want both city sightseeing and the gondola ride.

From NZ$81.31

Gondola Tickets

Round-trip gondola ride, summit access, Discovery Ride experience, viewing areas and summit facilities

Perfect if you’re mainly visiting for the gondola and summit views.

From NZ$44.34

Why go on Christchurch Tram and Gondola tours

Gondola ride over hills with city view, Christchurch.
Tram crossing a historic bridge in Christchurch surrounded by lush greenery.
Couple enjoying a punting ride on the Avon River, Christchurch.
Women boarding a vintage tram in Christchurch.
Couple walking near historic tram in Christchurch city center.
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See the city from two perspectives

The hop-on hop-off tram takes you through the heart of Christchurch with live commentary, while the gondola climbs to the hills for sweeping views of the city, Port Hills, and Lyttelton Harbour.

Flexible sightseeing on the Christchurch Tram

Choose a short hop-off stop for a quick look, or spend a full day exploring multiple attractions at your own pace.

Punting on the Avon River

If you choose the all-inclusive ticket, you also get a classic Avon River punt ride for a relaxing, scenic view of the city’s gardens and historic streets.

Local insights included

Knowledgeable guides on the tram share stories about Christchurch’s history, culture, and architecture, offering a richer experience than sightseeing on your own.

Easy to plan

Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or a full day, the tours are simple to navigate with clear schedules, multiple stops, and convenient transport options.

Things to know before booking your Christchurch Tram and Gondola tickets

  • Booking window: Tickets are available online, and it’s best to book 15–30 days in advance. During peak seasons, some options can sell out 3–4 weeks ahead. Same-day bookings are still possible, but you might face queues and wait times of around 10–30 minutes.
  • Individual passes: Tickets are available for the tram and the gondola separately. If you’d like to explore the city at your own pace, Hop-on Hop-off Tram Tickets offer unlimited daytime rides with live commentary across central Christchurch. If you’re mainly interested in the scenic ride, Gondola Tickets include the round-trip cable car journey to the summit along with access to the Discovery Ride and viewing areas. 
  • Combo passes: For a balanced sightseeing experience, the Tram and Gondola Combo brings both highlights together in one convenient ticket. If you have more time and want to experience everything in one day, the Super Saver Pass includes the tram, gondola, and a punt ride on the Avon River.
  • Entrances & flow: Tram boarding takes place at Cathedral Junction in central Christchurch, and you can hop on directly at designated stops. For the gondola, tickets are redeemed at the base station on Bridle Path Road, so plan your transfers accordingly if you’re combining both experiences. Skip-the-line benefits apply only to certain combo upgrades and not at security checks.
  • Ways to explore: The hop-on hop-off tram route includes 18 stops across major city landmarks, making it easy to get on and off wherever you like. At the gondola summit, you can walk along short scenic tracks, try the Discovery Ride, browse the gift shop, or relax at the summit café. Some ticket options also include a guided punt ride on the Avon River.
  • Policies & rules: Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable, and re-entry is not permitted after redemption. Children under five travel free when accompanied by an adult. Most tram stops are accessible, though certain gondola shuttle services may have size or capacity restrictions. Be sure to carry a valid ID that matches your booking.

Highlights of your Christchurch Tram and Gondola experience

Rose garden with Cuningham House at Botanic Gardens Conservatory, Christchurch.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens featuring seasonal blooms, exotic plant collections, and serene walking paths—perfect for photos and a relaxing break.

Deconsecrated Anglican cathedral in Christchurch Cathedral Square, South Island, New Zealand.
Colorful facades of New Regent Street in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Christchurch Gondola station overlooking Lyttelton Port from Port Hills, New Zealand.
Canterbury Teece Museum exterior in Christchurch, New Zealand, showcasing Gothic architecture.

Plan your Christchurch Tram and Gondola experience

Tips & guidelines

  • Layer your clothing with a light jacket and sturdy shoes. The gondola summit is often breezy and cooler than downtown, especially during early mornings and late afternoons.
  • Bring a small backpack for personal essentials, including water, a camera, and a portable charger. You'll appreciate having your belongings secure during the tram hop-on/hop-off journey.
  • Plan ahead for the 15-minute transfer to the gondola base station by taxi, shuttle, or local bus. Confirm transport schedules in advance to avoid delays during peak travel hours.
  • Keep your valuables secured and stay aware of your surroundings on busy tram stops. Urban sightseeing means occasional crowds and a need for extra care in tourist areas.
  • Avoid carrying oversized luggage as storage is limited on both trams and gondola cabins. Pack light and use a compact bag to navigate narrow urban alleys and mountain paths comfortably.

Frequently asked questions about Christchurch Tram and Gondola tickets

The combo ticket provides full-day access to the heritage Christchurch Tram (with hop-on/hop-off flexibility at 18 stops and live commentary) plus a round-trip gondola ride to the summit. It offers a combined sightseeing experience, though transport between the tram and gondola base is not included.

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