• Darfield - Departing from Lyttelton on the “Great Alpine Highway,” travelers will traverse the expansive farmland of the Canterbury Plains en route to the mountains. Midway across the plains lies the quaint rural town of Darfield, where a brief stop allows visitors to savor some local treats from the renowned Darfield Bakery.
• Springfield - The journey continues to Springfield, a mere 20 minutes away. The town’s iconic giant doughnut statue is a must-see, and the guide will share the intriguing story behind its presence.
• Lake Lyndon - After Springfield, the road ascends over Porter’s Pass at 900 meters, leading to Lake Lyndon, where a morning tea break is scheduled.
• Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area - A short 10-minute drive from Lake Lyndon brings travelers to Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti. This remarkable area features a maze of massive limestone boulders in the Craigieburn Basin, encircled by mountains. It holds significant cultural and recreational value and is honored with a Tōpuni status, symbolizing a “cloak of protection.” Internationally recognized as a premier destination for climbing, bouldering, photography, and filmmaking, it offers much to explore.

The guide will provide insights into the area’s geography and cultural importance before selecting an ideal spot for a picnic lunch. Afterward, there is free time to wander through the boulder fields at leisure before reconvening at the car park. The return trip to Lyttelton takes approximately 1.5-2 hours.

• Licensed local guide
• Lunch and snacks
• Coffee and/or tea
• Private air-conditioned vehicle

• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal expenses

The private guided tour offers a delightful experience with lunch, transportation, and a knowledgeable local guide to Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti.

This tour is available without any minimum participant requirements, making it perfect for individuals, couples, and small groups seeking a unique and personalized experience.

Travel along the breathtaking Great Alpine Highway, cross Porters Pass, admire the scenic Lake Lyndon, and discover the magnificent Castle Hill boulders on this shore excursion from Lyttelton.

Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti is a remarkable maze of enormous limestone boulders. The site holds significant cultural and recreational value and has been honored with Tōpuni status, “a symbolic cloak of protection.”

The guide will lead the way, and if desired, participants can try bouldering or spend their time exploring the endless labyrinth of boulders.

• We can accommodate dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free etc.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.