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Last reviewed: Wed, 12 Oct 2011

Park walks

Walkways exist at most of our popular parks and take from 10 minutes to a whole day to complete. Some of the most popular walkways are mentioned below.

Coast – Southern Pegasus Bay Track

People walking through one of Christchurch's many parks
This walk runs almost the entire shoreline from Spencer Park through New Brighton to South Shore. Parts of the track follow the crest of the dunes to take in the great views. Facilities along this track include surf lifesaving clubs, toilets, the New Brighton Pier, picnic areas, children’s play areas and information panels.

Bottle Lake Forest Park

There are a couple of great walks through Bottle Lake Forest Park. The Southern Pegasus Bay Track that follows the coastline from North Beach to Spencer Park or the meandering Blue Track that winds its way through the 1000-hectare pine forest. Suitable all ages and levels of fitness the terrain is largely flat but nearer the coast planted sand hills provide some challenge.

Download the Bottle Lake Forest A3 map [PDF 290KB]

Travis Wetland Nature Heritage Park

The park design allows for a perimeter walkway and smaller loop tracks at the Clarevale corner and Beach Road. Hides and viewing platforms allow visitors to observe wildlife. Information panels and an information kiosk highlight the key stories of Travis Wetland and identify some of the wildlife found here. Main access is from Beach Road.

Port Hills-Godley Head

Port Hills Walks Central [PDF 3MB]
Port Hills Walks Eastern [PDF 3MB]
Port Hills Walks Southern [PDF 3MB]

Please note some of these tracks are currently closed due to rockfall danger because of the Feb 22 2011 earthquakes. See Port Hills section for latest updates and closure information.

There is an extensive network of walking tracks around the Port Hills and around Godley Head. Explore some of the peninsula’s many historic and military sites. Superb views over both Lyttelton Harbour and Pegasus Bay. Access either by walking from Taylors Mistake, or by Godley Head Road.

Port Hills-Bridle Path

This is an immensely popular walk, steep but rewarding, which leads to views of Lyttelton Harbour and the historic monument to the Pioneer Women. The Kahukura track links up with Castle Rock, which dominates the valley. Access is from Bridle Path Road.

Port Hills-Crater Rim Walkway

Begins at Ahuriri Summit Reserve, above the Summit Road, and follows the crater rim around to Godley Head. This walkway gives stunning views of Lyttelton Harbour, the plains and Pegasus Bay. It passes through bush and open areas of rock and tussock. Historic sites include the Sign of the Bellbird, and the Sign of the Kiwi. Access is along the Summit Road.

Halswell Quarry–Rim Track

The Haswell Quarry Rim Track of about 40 minutes follows the quarry crater rim and affords panoramic views of the Southern Alps and the city. Information panels depict the workings and historic features of the quarry and viewing platforms and seating provide ideal resting points along the route which is suitable for all ages. Access is from Kennedys Bush Road, Halswell.

 

Authorising Unit: Transport and Greenspace

Last reviewed: Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Next review: Thursday, April 12, 2012

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