Cruise to Lyttelton - Christchurch

Lyttelton is the cruise port for Christchurch. There is no direct walking route out of the port from the berth; passengers must use a shuttle or join an organised excursion. The port expects the first guests to be able to disembark and leave the port about an hour after the ship docks. Arrival times may change. Anyone planning an independent tour or onward travel should allow for this delay.

Lyttelton is on the South Island; New Zealand trips link ports on both main islands. Another port of call is Wellington, where cruise passengers can also travel from the port into the city.

Choose the right shuttle

On cruise days, a free shuttle runs on demand from the berth to Lyttelton. It stops at Norwich Quay, near the public bus stop on Canterbury Street. This is also where guests meet pre-booked independent tours and private transfers departing from Lyttelton. If you have booked a tour in town, first allow time to take the shuttle from the ship to the meeting point.

Lyttelton or Christchurch

A separate, paid shuttle runs directly from the berth to Christchurch, stopping on Cashel Street by the Bridge of Remembrance. The cruise lines organise and set the price for this service. Confirm the fare and return arrangements on board. This city shuttle is not the same service as the free bus to Norwich Quay: choose according to whether you are meeting an independent tour in Lyttelton or visiting Christchurch.

Visitor information describes the free shuttle to Lyttelton as operating on demand. For travel into the city, follow the departure and return information confirmed by your cruise line; no fixed public timetable is provided. Guests with an independent tour in Lyttelton should first travel to Norwich Quay and not wait for the tour operator at the berth.

Accessibility and returning to the ship

Wheelchair-accessible shuttles are available, but visitor information notes that there may be a wait for a suitable vehicle. If you need one, allow for this possible delay when planning your meeting time and excursion.

For the return to the berth, follow the return time confirmed on board. The shuttle journey back should therefore be included in your excursion planning.