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Explore Cave Stream & Castle Hill (Private Shore Excursion)
About This Tour
Morning - Cave Stream
It will take us approximately 45 minutes to navigate the 594-meter limestone cave. Our route follows crystal-clear water through winding chambers and small waterfalls.
Not interested in caving? Not a problem. You're welcome to explore the paths and trails in the area or sit and relax with some afternoon tea in this very peaceful landscape instead of going through the cave.
Afternoon - Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti
Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti is an amazing labyrinth of giant limestone boulders. The area is rich with cultural and recreational significance and has been granted Tōpuni status - “A symbolic cloak of protection”.
Your guide will show you around and if you like, you can have a go at bouldering and test your climbing skills. Or use your time here to explore the endless maze of boulders.
It will take us approximately 45 minutes to navigate the 594-meter limestone cave. Our route follows crystal-clear water through winding chambers and small waterfalls.
Not interested in caving? Not a problem. You're welcome to explore the paths and trails in the area or sit and relax with some afternoon tea in this very peaceful landscape instead of going through the cave.
Afternoon - Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti
Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti is an amazing labyrinth of giant limestone boulders. The area is rich with cultural and recreational significance and has been granted Tōpuni status - “A symbolic cloak of protection”.
Your guide will show you around and if you like, you can have a go at bouldering and test your climbing skills. Or use your time here to explore the endless maze of boulders.
What's Included
✓ Included
- Private transportation
- Use of caving equipment including head torch, helmet and safety belt
- Snacks
- Lunch
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Guide
- Coffee and/or Tea
✗ Not Included
- Alcoholic Beverages
Itinerary
1
Your tour starts by following the "Great Alpine Highway" west of Christchurch across the Canterbury Plains. After 50 minutes, it will be time for a short break in the small rural town of Darfield. The Darfield Bakery is an excellent example of New Zealand cuisine. We will pick up some freshly made food for a picnic lunch.
2
Leaving Darfield and continuing west towards the Southern Alps, we will make a short stop for morning tea next to Lake Lyndon.
3
Once arriving at Cave Stream, your guide will kit you out with caving gear and provide you with a safety briefing before you head down to the cave entrance. The 600-meter limestone cave follows an underground river and takes most groups 45-60 minutes to complete. Inside the limestone cave, the crystal clear water flows through large chambers and over small waterfall steps. The cave gets as narrow as a standard hallway, and you can always stand up inside. Back at the car park, hot drinks and a picnic lunch will be provided while you enjoy the mountain views.
4
Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti is one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural wonders. While there, your guide will show you around and explain why the area holds so much spiritual, recreational, and geological significance. If time allows, you will have some free time to explore the boulders, meeting your guide back at the car park.
5
On the way back, a short break in Springfield allows for a photo with the giant doughnut, the history of which your guide will explain. Back in Lyttelton, you will be dropped off at the port meeting point.
Good to Know
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- We can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.