ZIPCHCH is the zipline operation at Christchurch Adventure Park, a forested mountain-bike and activity park in the Port Hills above the suburb of Cracroft, a short drive from the city centre. The Signature Zipline Tour runs for about three hours and strings together a series of lines through and above the forest, with the chairlift used to carry you up the hill rather than a long uphill walk. Two professional guides lead each group, check harnesses and helmets, explain the technique for each line and keep the pace brisk without hurrying anyone. Groups are capped at ten, which keeps waiting between lines short and makes it easy to ask the guides questions. The park describes its zipline as New Zealand's highest and longest, and the long runs give you a real sense of speed and height over the trees, with views opening out across the city and plains when the weather is clear. It is the most adrenaline-heavy activity in this guide, but the guiding is calm and structured, so first-timers are welcome as long as they meet the weight and fitness requirements.
What to do
Arrive in good time for check-in and the safety briefing, listen closely to the guides and then work through the lines in sequence. The tour price covers the zipline experience, all safety equipment, chairlift access, food and drinks and an admission ticket, and there is free time in the forested park afterwards, so you can linger rather than leave the moment the last line ends. Wear closed shoes you are happy to get dusty, trousers or shorts that are comfortable in a harness and a layer for the chairlift, which can be cool and breezy even on a warm day in town.
Planning
The tour is designed for people with moderate fitness. The minimum weight is 27 kg and the maximum is 125 kg, no minimum age is stated, and the experience is not wheelchair accessible. It is not recommended for anyone with back problems, heart problems, other serious medical conditions or who is pregnant, so read the conditions before you book.
The operation runs in all weather conditions, but high winds can postpone a session, so keep a little flexibility in your plans. Parking is free on site at the Adventure Park on McVicar Drive in Cracroft, and without a car you will need a taxi or ride-share from the city.
Fitting it in
Allow about three hours for the tour and a little more if you want to explore the park afterwards or have a drink. It makes a good counterweight to the quieter parts of a Christchurch stay, such as the gardens and the art gallery, and it pairs naturally with the gondola if you want to see the Port Hills from two angles in one day.
A morning session leaves the afternoon free for the city, while a late-day session suits visitors who prefer to rest first. If you only want a taste, a shorter single long ride exists, but the full tour is the better value for anyone who wants the complete experience and the chairlift views.
What to expect
The experience
A guided zipline tour with two guides for groups of up to ten, using a chairlift to reach the lines at Christchurch Adventure Park.
Best time
Choose a clear morning for the best views, and keep a spare day free in case wind postpones the session.
How long
About three hours including briefing, lines and chairlift rides, plus free time in the park.
Tips
Wear closed shoes and comfortable trousers, bring a layer for the chairlift and check the weight and health conditions before booking.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Thrill-seekers and active families who want a guided adventure close to the city.
- Families
- Good for confident older children and teenagers who meet the weight limit; there is no stated minimum age, so check suitability for younger ones.
- Couples
- A fun shared adrenaline hit, followed by free time in the forested park.
- Pair with
- Pair it with the Christchurch Gondola for two different views of the Port Hills.
- Time needed
- About three hours.
Good questions
How long is the zipline tour?+
The Signature Zipline Tour takes about three hours including the safety briefing, the chairlift rides and the lines. Free time in the park follows the tour.
What is included?+
The tour includes the zipline experience, two professional guides, all safety equipment, chairlift access, food and drinks and an admission ticket.
Are there weight or health limits?+
Yes. The minimum weight is 27 kg and the maximum is 125 kg, and moderate fitness is expected. It is not recommended for people with back or heart problems, other serious medical conditions or pregnancy.
What happens if it is windy?+
The tour operates in all weather, but strong wind can postpone a session. Keep some flexibility in your plans.
Where is it and is there parking?+
It is at Christchurch Adventure Park on McVicar Drive in Cracroft, in the Port Hills. Parking is free on site.
