The new Christchurch gondola is a unique way to see the city, providing panoramic views of the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps. The Gondola will take 20 minutes to complete one ride. At just over one kilometre in length, it is the longest outdoor gondola in the world.

The gondola has been designed and built with New Zealand’s weather in mind, made from stainless steel that is 40% stronger than standard steel, has a 50-year lifespan, and withstands wind speeds up to 240km/hr – all while looking like a piece of art rather than a piece of machinery!

Directions on how to get to there

The Gondola is located in Heathcote Valley, just 2.5km from City Center. You can park at the Base Station of the Gondola in Heathcote Valley. The Summit Station of the Gondola is at the top of Mt Cavendish. From the Base Station of the Gondola, drive up Mt Cavendish Rd and turn right at the roundabout after the bridge. Follow this road up to the saddle and you will see the Summit Station of the Gondola on your right.

Ticketing and pricing information

Ticket prices for the Gondola are:

– Adult: $64

– Child (3 – 16 years): $47

– Concession: $48

– Family: $137

– Tram & Gondola Annual Pass: $150 – Child under 3 years free

– Group size 5 or more people: $60 off per person – Per-person pricing applies to groups of 5 or more people

Passes are non-transferrable and non-refundable – Prices are subject to change

The Gondola is open 7 days a week from 10am-5pm.

What can I do at the top of the Gondola?

Guided walking tours: explore the walking tracks, learn about the history of the area on the Christchurch Discovery Ride (please note the ride will be closed for maintenance until 9 December), and indul in a spot of shopping at our well-priced gift shop.

Summit Café: relax and enjoy a drink or snack at the Summit Café, including a premium coffee from our roasting experts and seasonal treats from our licensed café.

Self-service gift shop: stock up on souvenirs and take a wander around our well-priced gift shop with a range of souvenir items available including mugs, key chains, hats, and locally-made goods. –

Wheelchair stops: wheelchairs (up to a maximum of 600mm in width) can be taken off the Gondola via stops at the side of the cableway.

Changing rooms: change into walking shoes and take a break from the after-cabin activity at the changing rooms with toilets, lockers and a souvenir shop.

Group activities: the Summit Café is happy to host group activities such as group lunches, meet-ups, team-building activities and more. Contact the Summit Café on 09 439 5300 for more information. –

Picnic area: relax and enjoy a picnic at the picnic area with BBQs, tables and chairs.

What are some facts about the Christchurch gondola?

• The Gondola travels at a maximum speed of 4.2km/hr and has a maximum incline of 10%.
• The Gondola takes 10 minutes to travel between the Summit Station and the Base Station.
• The Gondola can carry up to 4 people at a time (maximum 500mm in width).
• The Summit Station of the Gondola is at the top of Mt Cavendish with the Base Station of the Gondola in Heathcote Valley.
• The Summit Station of the Gondola is the only gondola in New Zealand open to the public.

Ready to go?

The Gondola is an essential Christchurch experience, offering stunning panoramic views of the city, Lyttelton Harbour, and beyond. Gaze at the snow-capped Southern Alps, sprawling Canterbury Plains and the sparkling waters of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

A great family-friendly spot to explore. The Base Station of the Gondola is nestled in Heathcote Valley where you will find plenty of parking for cars and coaches. The Summit Station – including the Red Rock Café, Christchurch Discovery Ride, gift shop and wheelchair stops – is at the top of Mt Cavendish. The Gondola trip up to the summit takes approximately 10 minutes and we can stop the ride for guests requiring assistance, including wheelchairs (up to a maximum of 600mm in width).

November 30, 2022 by Your friends at Hotel 115

Previous Blog : What you need to know when visiting the International Antarctic Centre

Next Blog : Air Force Museum of New Zealand: What you need to know before you visit