The Christchurch District is renown for it’s superb walking and tramping tracks. These include walkways through native forests, secret lakes, rivers and mountains or if are just looking to enjoy a walk there is plenty to choose from here.
Choose from guided walking tours or self guided, there are a range of walking and hiking tracks to choose from.
Note keep in mind the weather whenever walking click here to find the Metservice.com
Download a copy of the Port Hills Walks and Christchurch Coast and Plains Walks brochures
 A LOOK AT ALL CHRISTCHURCH ATTRACTIONS AND TOURS BOOK HERE
Christchurch attractions and tours book your tickets for some of Christchurch's best tours and attractions. Book on line to save time and make sure you won't miss out and be disappointed. |
 HAGLEY PARK
Christchurch Hagley Park Hagley Park has been at the heart of Christchurch since the 1850s when it was set aside for the enjoyment of Christchurch residents. |
 LITTLE RIVER RAIL TRAIL
Little River Rail Trail Christchurch to Little River. The Little River Rail Trail New Zealand starts it's journey in Christchurch Hornby and passes the shores of Lake Ellesmere and Lake Forsyth to end in the small township of Little River. |
 RED ZONE
Christchurch Red Zone Now empty land with only significant plantings left “larger shrubs and trees” creating a park like feel although with closer inspection the boundaries of each house can be seen by following the trees and other plants that used to border each home. For some reason a number of areas were fenced off however common sense seemed to come into play at some stage, as this process appeared to be stopped and access is only restricted to vehicles. Although the fences have remained access is usually open from areas where the project ceased. |
 BOTTLE LAKE
Bottle Lake Forest Christchurch an outdoor playground that covers 800 hectares for all to enjoy Another wonderful asset for the East side of Christchurch, well worth visiting for some outdoor exercise. In this reserve there are numerous tracks for walking or riding a mountain bike. |
 HALSWELL QUARRY WALKS
Halswell Quarry Christchurch Walks Duration of walk: Various walks ranging from 5 - 40 minutes with the opportunity to combine walks its up to the individual to pick the route and pathways the quarry has picnic areas and includes walkways around the lakes and sister city gardens great asset for Christchurch. Start location: All walks can be accessed from the car park off Kennedys Bush Road we found the first stage walking up to a viewing platform to be the most challenging once past this it is fairly easy. |
 MOUNT THOMAS
Mt Thomas 40 minutes drive from Christchurch central is part of the Mt Thomas forest park. You will also see thousands of beach trees as you walk the track coverd in honey dew, great for the honey bees. |
 RIVER ROAD WALK
In the ZONE River Road Walk If you enjoy a walk with scenery and haven’t tried the River Road section yet it is worth having a wander. As you near the cleared land area, it has a park like look about it you can see the love that has gone into making this vast area something special. |
 BRIDLE PATH WALK
Bridle Path WalkThe main access to the Bridle Path and nearby tracks is from the gondola car park in Heathcote, Barnett Park car park, the Summit Road, and Evans Pass Road. Some car parking is available at either end of the closed section of Summit Road. |
 HARRY ELL WALKWAY
Harry Ell track on the Christchurch port hills would be one of my personal favourite walks to do and I never tire of walking it. As it can be started from a variety places and takes you through different scenery from open areas with views of the city to bush with native birds. |
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 STYX MILL WALK
Styx Mill The Hussey View walkway follows the Styx River as it meanders slowly through the reserve. The main picnic area has a great outlook with ample seating, but please remember to take your rubbish with you as this reserve is rubbish free. Styx Mill Reserve is near Northwood can be reached from Styx Mill Road and Husseys Road. Metroinfo (external link) has up-to-date bus information. Get involved in your local or favourite park. Community interest in the whole Styx River catchment is represented through the Guardians of the Styx (external link). |
 CHRISTCHURCH BOTANIC GARDENS
Welcome to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens With an extensive network of parks, rivers and streams spanning from the freshwater Travis Wetlands to the undulating reserves of the Port Hills, Christchurch and its prolific green space has justly earned the title of ‘the Garden City’. Even with over 1,000 parks to share among our residents, the one that stands out as iconic in culture, history and size – Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
03 941 7590
christchurchbotanicgardens@ccc.govt.nz
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 HINEWAI RESERVE
Hinewai ReserveExplore Banks Peninsula’s largest reserve of land now regenerated as stunning native forest with sweeping views over the Otanerito valley. Hinewai Reserve lies a short drive east of Akaroa and sprawls across more than 1250 hectares. It is a forested conservation reserve that is privately-owned and managed by the Maurice White Native Forest Trust, but it welcomes visitors on foot year-round. |
 Ngā Puna Walks
Another good walking area at an easy level. Ngā Puna Loop Walk Christchurch Starting off at the carpark on MacFarlane Ave inside Canterbury Agricultural Park (A&P Show location) along with Ngā Puna Wai which is home to the new Christchurch athletics and sporting facility, replacing what used to be at QEII. |
 TEMPLARS ISLAND
Templars Island Along the south side of the Waimakariri River, Templars Island is a peaceful escape from city life with more than 40 native plant species to be found beneath the exotic river control plantings. Go nature walking, bird watching, swimming or take a picnic and watch the world go by. |
 CHRISTCHURCH NORTHERN CORRIDOR
Christchurch Northern Corridor This project combines the Transport Agency’s Northern Arterial (a new section of SH74 running from just south of the Waimakariri River to QEII Drive near Winters Rd) and two Christchurch City Council projects that link QEII Drive to Cranford St and four-lane Cranford St to Innes Rd. With an estimated project cost of $240 million. The Northern Corridor comes with a number of proposed benefits for the city of Christchurch. Stated Benefits of the Northern Corridor |
 HORSESHOE LAKE RESERVE
Horseshoe Lake Reserve Christchurch Horseshoe Lake Reserve or Waikākāriki as it was once called is a beautiful and peaceful wetland reserve, with a small wooden jetty on the lake located at the carpark off Lake Terrace Road. |
 OTUKAIKINO TRACK
Otukaikino Track Christchurch New Zealand The track is divided into four sections and linear walks can be created around these to suit individual needs. Starting from Darroch Street, the track makes its way through the countryside before coming to the dog park in The Groynes. Be aware that because of the popularity of the park there may be dogs loose on the walking track. |
 THE GROYNES
The Groynes Christchurch is a wonderful asset for the city due to its many attributes and has provided plenty of fun for families over the years. Kids at play A new naturally inspired playground was installed on the western side of the reserve near the boatshed in 2016.
03 941 8999
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 ERNLE CLARK RESERVE
Ernle Clark Reserve Christchurch Just a short walk. Start at Earnlea Terrace opposite South Library on Colombo St. Follow the formed gravel path beside the river through the beautiful woodland reserve Ernle Clark. For a longer walk, continue along the sealed path by the river, cross Cashmere Road to reach Cashemere Valley Reserve 30 minutes return. Its a shared use walkway and dogs need to be on a leash. |
 KAIKOURA PENINSULA WALKWAY
Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway This walk was definitely one of our favorites. On a good day it is splendid and well worth the effort with awesome views. Observe seals and seabirds, explore historic pā and whaling sites and enjoy clifftop views of the sea and mountains. Suitable for families, the whole walkway takes three hours but you can also explore a range of shorter tracks. The track crosses the peninsula’s clifftop, with great views of the Seaward Kaikōura Range, ocean and coastline, to South Bay. It returns to the township via South Bay and Toms Track. |
 PORT LEVY
Port LevyAbout an hour’s drive from Christchurch lies historic Port Levy bay. The long, sheltered bay is home to less than 100 people, but in the mid-19th century it was the largest Māori settlement in Canterbury with a population of about 400 people. There is still a marae at Port Levy, as well as a stone memorial marking the spot where the first Māori Anglican church was built. |
 TRAVIS WETLAND WALK
Travis Wetland walk Christchurch New Zealand. An easy walk over flat terrain mostly surrounded by trees, bush or the wetlands with plenty of birdlife and spots to stop off and view the wildlife. Travis Wetland covers 116 hectares of previously farmed Christchurch land and drained natural wetland of which the track goes around the outside. |
 GARDEN CITY
Welcome to Christchurch the Garden City of New Zealand Without a doubt the most scenic city in the country with its expansive parks steeped in history and suburbs of well-tended gardens, it is little wonder that Christchurch has laid claim to this title for a hundred years. Traditional streets and buildings many of them restored to take you back to a very English heritage, now a magnificent city of colours and seasons that may well also claim a title of being ecofriendly in the future. |
 KAITUNA VALLEY SCENIC RESERVE
Kaituna Valley Scenic Reserve If you want a tranquil spot for a family picnic then head to Kaituna Valley Scenic Reserve. It has a large picnic area, a stream where the kids can splash about, and a short walking track that is ideal for families with young children. A little further up the valley is the start of the Kaituna Valley Packhorse Hut Track. This 4km track ambles through pasture and then forest, crossing the valley stream several times. |
 RAKAIA GORGE WALKWAY
Rakaia Gorge Walkway Christchurch New Zealand a spectacular walk. This walkway offers several geological and historic features as it traverses the edge of the Rakaia Gorge. This walkway takes you through a number of forest and bush areas and then rises on the track amoungst gorse along the old ferryman's track. |
 WASHPEN FALLS
Washpen falls approximately one hour from Christchurch located on private land. We were met at an old woolshed by the owner where a small fee was taken. A brief description was provided where the track takes you through an ancient Volcanic Canyon which is now a reserve filled with lush native bush and wonderful bird life. This un-spoilt area is easily accessed via constructed tracks, steps and walkways.
+64 3 318 6813
washpenfalls@xtra.co.nz
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 GODLEY HEAD BATTERY
The Godley Head WWII coastal defence battery sits atop sheer 120 metre-high cliffs. Built in 1939, it is ranked in the top ten New Zealand coastal defence heritage sites. |
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 RAPAKI TRACK
Rāpaki Track Christchurch Popular Christchurch walk and cycle this is a shared track with plenty of space to accommodate both bikes, walkers and the occasional 4WD. Entry via Rapaki Road takes you up to the top of Witch Hill on the Port Hills over a mixed surface track that ends up on the Summit Road. Although regarded as an easy walk this is still a good work out and if your not used to walking up hill it's one of those walks you may well say are we there yet!. |
 WATERFALL TRACK
Hanmer Springs Waterfall track 2 hours from Christchurch central is a worthwhile track to add to your short tramping list. Climbing through mountain beech forest to an over 40 metre high Dog Stream Waterfall. Some say along with Conical Hill, the Waterfall Track is among the most sought after short walks in the Hanmer Basin. |
 GODLEY HEAD WALKWAY
Welcome to Godley Head Walkway ChristchurchThis walk showcases some of Canterbury's most spectacular coastal views, a penguin colony, quirky old baches and a slice of New Zealand's military history. |
 LAKE ROTO KOHATU
Lake Roto Kohatu Christchurch A hidden gem the Harewood reserve off Johns road is the largest body of fresh water suitable for swimming in Christchurch and is going to have an upgrade to its parking and facilities. It is situated in an industrial area. The small lake area itself is surrounded by grassy slopes with some trees for shade along with walking tracks that surround the lake itself. The facility was developed as an area for powered and non powered crafts and is popular among Jet Skiers. |
Christchurch attractions and tours book your tickets for some of Christchurch's best tours and attractions.
Book for other South Island regions as well.
Book on line to save time and make sure you won't miss out and be disappointed.
Bottle Lake Forest Christchurch an outdoor playground that covers 800 hectares for all to enjoy
Another wonderful asset for the East side of Christchurch, well worth visiting for some outdoor exercise.
In this reserve there are numerous tracks for walking or riding a mountain bike.
The main access to the Bridle Path and nearby tracks is from the gondola car park in Heathcote, Barnett Park car park, the Summit Road, and Evans Pass Road. Some car parking is available at either end of the closed section of Summit Road.
Be prepared this is a hill and you will be in for a good workout as it is a steep walk however once at the top views from the summit are well worth the effort.
Welcome to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens
With an extensive network of parks, rivers and streams spanning from the freshwater Travis Wetlands to the undulating reserves of the Port Hills, Christchurch and its prolific green space has justly earned the title of ‘the Garden City’. Even with over 1,000 parks to share among our residents, the one that stands out as iconic in culture, history and size – Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
Christchurch Northern Corridor
This project combines the Transport Agency’s Northern Arterial (a new section of SH74 running from just south of the Waimakariri River to QEII Drive near Winters Rd) and two Christchurch City Council projects that link QEII Drive to Cranford St and four-lane Cranford St to Innes Rd. With an estimated project cost of $240 million.
The Northern Corridor comes with a number of proposed benefits for the city of Christchurch.
Stated Benefits of the Northern Corridor
Ernle Clark Reserve Christchurch
Just a short walk.
Start at Earnlea Terrace opposite South Library on Colombo St. Follow the formed gravel path beside the river through the beautiful woodland reserve Ernle Clark. For a longer walk, continue along the sealed path by the river, cross Cashmere Road to reach Cashemere Valley Reserve 30 minutes return.
Although it is a short walk it is interesting and definately worth a look.
Its a shared use walkway and dogs need to be on a leash.
Welcome to Christchurch the Garden City of New Zealand
Without a doubt the most scenic city in the country with its expansive parks steeped in history and suburbs of well-tended gardens, it is little wonder that Christchurch has laid claim to this title for a hundred years.
Traditional streets and buildings many of them restored to take you back to a very English heritage, now a magnificent city of colours and seasons that may well also claim a title of being ecofriendly in the future.
The Godley Head WWII coastal defence battery sits atop sheer 120 metre-high cliffs. Built in 1939, it is ranked in the top ten New Zealand coastal defence heritage sites.
This walk showcases some of Canterbury's most spectacular coastal views, a penguin colony, quirky old baches and a slice of New Zealand's military history.
Christchurch Hagley Park
Hagley Park has been at the heart of Christchurch since the 1850s when it was set aside for the enjoyment of Christchurch residents.
Our Park was named after Hagley Park, the country estate of Lord Lyttelton, who became chairman of the Canterbury Association in March 1850.
Today, it is the most significant central city park, offering a diverse range of entertainment and recreational facilities close to the city centre.
Halswell Quarry Christchurch Walks
Duration of walk: Various walks ranging from 5 - 40 minutes with the opportunity to combine walks its up to the individual to pick the route and pathways the quarry has picnic areas and includes walkways around the lakes and sister city gardens great asset for Christchurch.
Start location: All walks can be accessed from the car park off Kennedys Bush Road we found the first stage walking up to a viewing platform to be the most challenging once past this it is fairly easy.
Harry Ell track on the Christchurch port hills would be one of my personal favourite walks to do and I never tire of walking it. As it can be started from a variety places and takes you through different scenery from open areas with views of the city to bush with native birds.
Explore Banks Peninsula’s largest reserve of land now regenerated as stunning native forest with sweeping views over the Otanerito valley.
Hinewai Reserve lies a short drive east of Akaroa and sprawls across more than 1250 hectares.
It is a forested conservation reserve that is privately-owned and managed by the Maurice White Native Forest Trust, but it welcomes visitors on foot year-round.
Horseshoe Lake Reserve Christchurch
Horseshoe Lake Reserve or Waikākāriki as it was once called is a beautiful and peaceful wetland reserve, with a small wooden jetty on the lake located at the carpark off Lake Terrace Road.
Feeding the Ducks, Geese and Swans is a favourite for a lot of families "just don't feed them up close to the road".
Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway
This walk was definitely one of our favorites. On a good day it is splendid and well worth the effort with awesome views.
Observe seals and seabirds, explore historic pā and whaling sites and enjoy clifftop views of the sea and mountains. Suitable for families, the whole walkway takes three hours but you can also explore a range of shorter tracks.
The track crosses the peninsula’s clifftop, with great views of the Seaward Kaikōura Range, ocean and coastline, to South Bay. It returns to the township via South Bay and Toms Track.
Kaituna Valley Scenic Reserve
If you want a tranquil spot for a family picnic then head to Kaituna Valley Scenic Reserve. It has a large picnic area, a stream where the kids can splash about, and a short walking track that is ideal for families with young children.
A little further up the valley is the start of the Kaituna Valley Packhorse Hut Track. This 4km track ambles through pasture and then forest, crossing the valley stream several times.
Lake Roto Kohatu Christchurch
A hidden gem the Harewood reserve off Johns road is the largest body of fresh water suitable for swimming in Christchurch and is going to have an upgrade to its parking and facilities.
It is situated in an industrial area. The small lake area itself is surrounded by grassy slopes with some trees for shade along with walking tracks that surround the lake itself.
The facility was developed as an area for powered and non powered crafts and is popular among Jet Skiers.
Little River Rail Trail Christchurch to Little River.
The Little River Rail Trail New Zealand starts it's journey in Christchurch Hornby and passes the shores of Lake Ellesmere and Lake Forsyth to end in the small township of Little River.
An enjoyable changing landscape from the farmlands to the wetlands running for around 50km trail comprising of both on and off road cycling.
Mt Thomas 40 minutes drive from Christchurch central is part of the Mt Thomas forest park.
To the top of the summit it is 1023m where you can sit and take in the fantastic views of the Canterbury Plains, Banks Peninsula and the Southern Alps.
You will also see thousands of beach trees as you walk the track coverd in honey dew, great for the honey bees.
And if you want drink form the crystal clear streams and listen to New Zealand native birds singing their song.
Another good walking area at an easy level.
Ngā Puna Loop Walk Christchurch
Starting off at the carpark on MacFarlane Ave inside Canterbury Agricultural Park (A&P Show location) along with Ngā Puna Wai which is home to the new Christchurch athletics and sporting facility, replacing what used to be at QEII.
Otukaikino Track Christchurch New Zealand
The track is divided into four sections and linear walks can be created around these to suit individual needs.
The main entry points are Darroch Street Reserve, The Groynes dog park, Clearwater Resort and Roto Kohatu Reserve.
Starting from Darroch Street, the track makes its way through the countryside before coming to the dog park in The Groynes. Be aware that because of the popularity of the park there may be dogs loose on the walking track.
About an hour’s drive from Christchurch lies historic Port Levy bay. The long, sheltered bay is home to less than 100 people, but in the mid-19th century it was the largest Māori settlement in Canterbury with a population of about 400 people.
There is still a marae at Port Levy, as well as a stone memorial marking the spot where the first Māori Anglican church was built.
Rakaia Gorge Walkway Christchurch New Zealand a spectacular walk.
This walkway offers several geological and historic features as it traverses the edge of the Rakaia Gorge.
This walkway takes you through a number of forest and bush areas and then rises on the track amoungst gorse along the old ferryman's track.
Continue along one of several glacial and river-carved terraces to a lookout point (for around 50 minutes depending on your speed)
Rāpaki Track Christchurch
Popular Christchurch walk and cycle this is a shared track with plenty of space to accommodate both bikes, walkers and the occasional 4WD.
Entry via Rapaki Road takes you up to the top of Witch Hill on the Port Hills over a mixed surface track that ends up on the Summit Road.
Although regarded as an easy walk this is still a good work out and if your not used to walking up hill it's one of those walks you may well say are we there yet!.
Christchurch Red Zone
Now empty land with only significant plantings left “larger shrubs and trees” creating a park like feel although with closer inspection the boundaries of each house can be seen by following the trees and other plants that used to border each home.
For some reason a number of areas were fenced off however common sense seemed to come into play at some stage, as this process appeared to be stopped and access is only restricted to vehicles. Although the fences have remained access is usually open from areas where the project ceased.
In the ZONE River Road Walk
If you enjoy a walk with scenery and haven’t tried the River Road section yet it is worth having a wander.
Starting at Fitzgerald Avenue and ending at Dallington Terrace is a walk of hidden gems such as Letterbox Love, River Retreat, fruit trees, Playground with a Toddlers pool and a community garden all part of the Red Zone.
As you near the cleared land area, it has a park like look about it you can see the love that has gone into making this vast area something special.
Styx Mill
The Hussey View walkway follows the Styx River as it meanders slowly through the reserve. The main picnic area has a great outlook with ample seating, but please remember to take your rubbish with you as this reserve is rubbish free.
Styx Mill Reserve is near Northwood can be reached from Styx Mill Road and Husseys Road. Metroinfo (external link) has up-to-date bus information.
Get involved in your local or favourite park. Community interest in the whole Styx River catchment is represented through the Guardians of the Styx (external link).
Templars Island
Along the south side of the Waimakariri River, Templars Island is a peaceful escape from city life with more than 40 native plant species to be found beneath the exotic river control plantings.
Go nature walking, bird watching, swimming or take a picnic and watch the world go by.
The Groynes Christchurch is a wonderful asset for the city due to its many attributes and has provided plenty of fun for families over the years.
Kids at play
There are a number of playgrounds throughout the Groynes with various equipment including a flying fox, bridge, multi-play structure, see-saw, slides and swings.
A new naturally inspired playground was installed on the western side of the reserve near the boatshed in 2016.
Check out the rope swing made from coconut fibre.
Travis Wetland walk Christchurch New Zealand.
An easy walk over flat terrain mostly surrounded by trees, bush or the wetlands with plenty of birdlife and spots to stop off and view the wildlife. Travis Wetland covers 116 hectares of previously farmed Christchurch land and drained natural wetland of which the track goes around the outside.
Washpen falls approximately one hour from Christchurch located on private land.
We were met at an old woolshed by the owner where a small fee was taken. A brief description was provided where the track takes you through an ancient Volcanic Canyon which is now a reserve filled with lush native bush and wonderful bird life. This un-spoilt area is easily accessed via constructed tracks, steps and walkways.
Hanmer Springs Waterfall track 2 hours from Christchurch central is a worthwhile track to add to your short tramping list.
Climbing through mountain beech forest to an over 40 metre high Dog Stream Waterfall.
Some say along with Conical Hill, the Waterfall Track is among the most sought after short walks in the Hanmer Basin.
When preparing for a walk, no matter how long, make sure you follow the Department of Conservation (DOC) Outdoor Safety Code to help you stay safe.
