Testimonials

“From start to finish this was a great excursion. Dave, our guide, picked us up from our accommodation as arranged, took us to the station and made sure we were seated comfortably aboard the train. The journey by train from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass was relaxing, accompanied by a commentary about the localities we passed through, including the construction of the railway through the amazing mountain range we were ascending.”
John

“Dave met us at Arthur’s Pass station and introduced us to the area. The weather wasn’t great, but the rain largely held off and the beauty of the mountains and rivers can be appreciated in almost all weathers – even if clouds obscure the peaks, as they did for us. A recent fall of snow glistening through the mist on the higher slopes was a bonus, and Dave’s knowledge of the geology and wildlife and history, and his insight into life in New Zealand, really brought it all to life. There was a tasty lunch at the Bealey Hotel, and several stops to explore carefully chosen areas of landscape. The itinerary and the pace were skillfully adapted to suit the capabilities of the participants and the prevailing conditions.”
Liz & Isobel from the UK

“Ask for Peter – a great guide and lots of fun. We took the TransAlpine train to Arthur’s Pass where Peter met us. Hiked up to base of amazing mountain falls, lunched at a local hotel, hiked through really crazy limestone formations – high up but looked water-eroded. Scenery used in Lion, Witch and Wardrobe. Great, very active and fun day.”
Bill from USA

“Had two days with this day tour company with my guide, Fiona. Went to Arthur Pass National Park the first day and then to Akaroa the next day. Both days were so informative and we were able to hit highlights! Fiona was very knowledgeable not only on the sites and places and history but also about botany and geology with the natural areas! Felt all needs were met and exceeded. The company had attention to detail! Would definitely use again when in the area! Bravo!”
Michelle

“Our family had an excellent day today visiting the Southern Alps guided by Dave. The outward journey to Arthur’s Pass is with the TranzAlpine train which was a great way to see the wonderful scenery – one way by train was enough, and the return journey by minibus allowed us to see different sights. We were met off the train by Dave, having been shown to our seats by him at Christchurch. We then spent the next few hours exploring the local bush, wildlife, the amazing views and enjoyed a nice lunch at a local hotel. The drive back included stops at a number of great sites, including a collection of limestones, river passes and lakes. As ever with these tours, the quality of the guide makes a big difference – and Dave was friendly, engaging (including with our 7-year-old) and knowledgeable about the area. The extra touches Dave included, including the afternoon tea and sheep feeding on our way back, were much appreciated. Thank you!”
James UK

“Fiona has been amazing, very knowledgeable and friendly. Fabulous trip!”
Liz & Isobel from the UK

“It felt like a trip with a friend”
Su-Shan – Dunedin

“So much fun! Peter gave us lots of good stories and commentary, loved the personal touches, best tour we’ve been on”
Randy & Katie – USA

“Excellent trip with a great guide, loved the NZ information”
Adrienne – Glasgow

“I thoroughly enjoyed my day exploring Arthurs Pass. I learned so much about the area, thank you for a great day”
Jamie – USA

“A great day out very relaxed and flexible approach. I’d definitely recommend Canterbury Trails as a great way to learn and experience Christchurch and beyond”
Malcolm & Gaye – London

“Delightful, this tour was a highlight of our NZ adventure”
Ian – California

We had a superb trip! Fiona is excellent!! Gave us a lot of information about the city, took us places that interested us and kept checking if we were comfortable. Keep up the good work Fiona and thank you!!”
Vikram, Preeti, Peultueika and Yashikaa Honauar,Mumbai, India

“Thank you for a great trip, despite the weather. Learned a lot about Christchurch area, Akaroa and New Zealand. Thanks for the fabulous much in Akaroa!”
<Jennifer, Brett, Sean and Linda Pletcher, San Francisco, CA, USA

“Great trip – can now remove this from my bucket list.”
Eunice and Charles Bosel, Brisbane, QLD, Australia

“This was the most amazing day!! We loved every minute. Tia is the best guide and set a great pace for us. Thanks for making the trip so easy with an infant. Ava had a great day :)”
Erin, Ava and Joe Fasone, Honolulu, HI

“John, our tour guide, turned a bummer day into a fantastic day! Our whale watching excursion was cancelled (due to the weather), so John showed us all kinds of fabulous sites instead!”
John and Tracy Dooley,Laramie, WY, USA

“Unbelievable experience of fabulous scenery, food, walks with our outstanding guides!!”
Lois and Gay Perron, Calgary, AB, Canada