Lisa Jansen explores the delights of Christchurch, aka the Garden City, on foot and discovers many excellent walks for all abilities and fitness levels.
Christchurch is undeniably a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning coastline, famous inner-city parks and gardens, and dramatic hillscapes, the city offers a variety of day walks to suit all abilities and interests, including many that are dog friendly.
Having explored the city extensively under my own steam, there are six walks in particular I recommend, allowing you to stretch your legs, enjoy the scenery, and discover just what makes Christchurch so special, all at once.
Sumner to Taylor’s Mistake
The Sumner to Taylor’s Mistake coastal walk is a quintessential Christchurch experience. Starting in the charming seaside suburb of Sumner, this track takes you on a journey along the rugged cliffs, where you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean. The path is well-formed, making it suitable for most fitness levels, though there are some steeper inclines and steps along the way, especially on the first section south of Sumner.
The walk is about eight kilometres return and takes two-three hours. However, it’s worth planning extra time for an extended break at Taylor’s Mistake. As you follow the track, you’ll encounter fascinating rock formations, small caves, and maybe even the occasional glimpse of dolphins or seals in the water below. Taylor’s Mistake, the turn-around point of the walk, is a beautiful and secluded bay with a sandy beach, perfect for a dip or a picnic. In summer, you will often find a real fruit ice cream stand here, too.
Insider Tip: Sumner’s beachfront is dotted with excellent cafés, so consider starting or ending your walk with a coffee or ice cream.
Length: 8.2km.
Elevation: 500m.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Dogs: Allowed on leash.
Starting point: Southern end of Sumner Beach. Walk up Scarborough Rd and look for the walking track up the hill to your left.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
If you’re after a more relaxed walk, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens provide a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. Covering 21 hectares, the gardens are a showcase of native and exotic plant species, with themed sections such as the rose garden, herbaceous border, and native bush.
A full loop around the gardens can be completed in about an hour, but you’ll want to take your time to explore the many nooks and crannies. The gardens are especially stunning in spring when the daffodils and cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The Avon River meanders through the grounds, and you can often see kayakers and punters gliding along the water.
For families, the playground near the visitor centre is a hit with kids, while the café offers a great spot to relax with a coffee or a bite to eat.
Insider Tip: Combine your walk with a punting trip on the Avon River for a truly relaxing afternoon.
Length: Flexible.
Elevation: Almost none.
Difficulty: Easy.
Dogs: Not allowed anywhere in the gardens.
Starting point: Find the gardens west of Christchurch’s CBD. Start anywhere.
Godley Head Walkway
For a combination of history and dramatic scenery, the Godley Head Walkway is a must. Starting near Taylor’s Mistake, this 9.8-kilometre loop showcases the best of Christchurch’s coastal landscapes and its fascinating wartime history. The track winds through the Port Hills, offering panoramic views of Pegasus Bay, Lyttelton Harbour, and the Kaikōura Ranges on clear days.
As you walk, you’ll come across remnants of WWII gun emplacements, bunkers, and observation posts, a reminder of the area’s strategic importance during the war. The cliffs are also home to various seabirds, and it’s not uncommon to spot a shag or two perched on the rocks below.
This walk is moderately challenging and takes about three to four hours. The combination of rolling hills, historic sites, and breathtaking views makes it a rewarding experience.
Insider Tip: Combine Godley Head Walkway with the Sumner to Taylor’s Mistake walk for a full day out.
Length: 9.8km.
Elevation: 320m.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Dogs: Allowed on leash.
Starting point: Taylor’s Mistake. Look for signage at the southern end of the car park.
Port Hill Walks
For those craving sweeping views and a good dose of exercise, the Crater Rim and connecting walks are a fantastic choice. Stretching along the Port Hills, this network of tracks offers something for everyone, from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes.
Easy Walks: The Harry Ell Walkway is a popular choice, with its wide path and gentle gradient. Conveniently, it takes you to the Sign of the Kiwi café, an excellent spot for a snack. For a short walk with spectacular views, park along Summit Road and pick a section of the Crater Rim walkway.
Moderate Walks: The Mount Vernon Farm Valley Track combines open grasslands with stunning vistas, making it a great option for those looking for a bit more of a workout. Another popular choice is the Sign of the Kiwi to Gondola track, which offers a mix of bush and open hilltop terrain.
Challenging Walks: If you’re up for a serious hike, tackle Lyttelton to Sign of the Kiwi via the Stan Helms Trail or walk up Kennedy Bush track and then along Crater Rim to Cooper’s Knob. Both walks offer climbs and unparalleled views of Lyttelton Harbour and the Canterbury Plains.
Insider Tip: Start your walk early to catch the sunrise over the city – it’s a truly magical experience.
Length: 1-20+ km.
Elevation: Various (but even the easy walks have some elevation).
Difficulty: Various.
Dogs: Varies between tracks. Best to check the rules for the specific track you plan to walk.
Starting point: At the foothills of the Port Hills or along Summit Road.
Fairy Village in Bottle Lake Forest
Right: Fairy Village is a hidden gem within the forest
Bottle Lake Forest is a sprawling pine forest on the outskirts of Christchurch, offering flat and family-friendly walking tracks. One of the forest’s hidden gems is the Fairy Village, a whimsical collection of fairy houses and decorations tucked away in the woods. This magical village is home to hundreds of fairy homes built by families from all over the city.
The Fairy Village covers an area of a few hundred meters along Apple Road, close to the main entrance to Bottle Lake Forest on Waitikiri Drive. However, there are numerous other tracks to extend your walk for however long you want to.
The trail is easy to follow and well-shaded by the towering pines, making it a great option on a hot day. Kids (and adults) will love searching for the tiny fairy doors, houses, and other magical touches scattered throughout the village.
Insider Tip: Bring along a small decoration or trinket to add to the fairy village. It’s a fun way to leave a little magic behind for others to enjoy. You could also go all out and add a fairy house to the village.
Length: 1-10+ km.
Elevation: Almost none.
Difficulty: Easy.
Dogs: Allowed off-leash under effective control (this is a popular dog walking spot, so you will likely encounter other dogs).
Starting point: Find the Fairy Village along Apple Road, by the main entrance to Bottle Lake Forest on Waitikiri Drive.
South Brighton Estuary Walk
For bird lovers and those seeking a serene escape, the South Brighton Estuary Walk is a perfect choice. This walk meanders along the edge of the estuary, offering the chance to spot a wide variety of birdlife, including godwits, spoonbills, oystercatchers, and even a white heron on occasion.
Park along Bridge Street just after crossing the bridge or at the South New Brighton Domain and wander south along the estuary.
The track is flexible in length, ranging from one kilometre to over ten kilometres, making it suitable for walkers of all abilities. If you’re up for a longer outing, you can walk all the way to the end of the spit and loop back via South Brighton Beach.
Once you’re done walking, Dune café at the corner of Bridge Street and Estuary Road is a great place to reward yourself with food and drinks.
Insider Tip: Bring binoculars to make the most of the birdwatching opportunities. The estuary is particularly lively during the early morning and late afternoon.
Length: 1-10+ km.
Elevation: Almost none.
Difficulty: Easy.
Dogs: Allowed off-leash under effective control. Please be mindful that this is a popular breeding ground for birds.
Starting point: Along Bridge Street just after crossing the bridge or at the South New Brighton Domain.
Whether you’re exploring coastal trails, wandering through lush gardens, or soaking in hilltop views, Christchurch’s day walks offer something for everyone. Each walk is a chance to connect with nature, soak up the local scenery, and create lasting memories.
So, lace up your walking shoes and explore the Garden City on foot. You won’t be disappointed!
