Discover the Best Walks in Christchurch
Christchurch is a city made for exploring on foot, with scenic tracks that wind from the heart of the city to the hills and coastline beyond. Whether you’re after easy walks in Christchurch perfect for families and prams, or harder walks in Christchurch that reward you with epic views and a good leg stretch, there’s something here for everyone. From peaceful family friendly walks along the Avon River and through lush wetlands, to more challenging Port Hills adventures like the Bridle Path or Crater Rim Track, this guide highlights some of the best walks in Christchurch to suit every pace and interest.
Travis Wetland Walk (Easy)
This gentle 3.4km walk is perfect if you have little ones with you – it’s a flat well made track (suitable for prams/buggies) and loops around a natural wetlands and heritage park full of birdlife. Located 10km from Christchurch town centre you can find the start of this track (and car parking) on Beach Road in Burwood.
Te Ara Ōtākaro Avon River Trails (Easy / Easy-Moderate)
Follow the gentle curves of the Avon River and discover two ways to enjoy one of Christchurch’s most picturesque walks. For a relaxed urban wander, start in the city centre and trace the river through Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens — a flat, easy walk of around 3–4km return, perfect for families or a leisurely afternoon. Enjoy leafy paths, resident ducks and swans, and the backdrop of heritage bridges and gardens in full bloom.
For a longer adventure, begin near Fitzgerald Avenue and follow the Avon River Trail all the way to New Brighton Beach. This 13km one-way route winds through the city’s Red Zone, where nature is reclaiming the land with native plantings and open green spaces. It’s an easy, mostly flat walk or cycle that reveals a fascinating side of Christchurch’s regeneration — ending with the salty air and seaside views of New Brighton Pier and if you’re not up to the walk back there’s options to jump on a city bus.
Te Ara Ōtākaro Avon River Trail
Harry Ell Track (Easy-Moderate)
This track is located in Victoria park and was named after naturalist and visionary, Harry Ell, without whom we would not have so many amazing public reserves in the Port Hills. This gentle 3km uphill track winds and leads you up through native bush to a perfect view over the city to the Southern Alps following Dyers Pass Road. Plus, there’s the Sign of the Kiwi at the top providing great coffee, amazing scones, and stunning views to sip it over. The track can start from the historic Sign of the Takahe or from the carpark in 74 hectare Victoria park and is suitable for buggies (although there are a handful of short steps) but not wheelchairs. Take care at the top of the track if you have little ones with you as it joins to the Summit Road and there’s no footpath. To reach the Sign of the Kiwi you need to walk along the edge of Summit Road for about 100 metres and then cross over Dyers Pass Road.
Quail Island (Easy-Moderate)
Accessible only by boat… or kayak if you’re the adventurous type – this historic island was once a former leper colony and now a family friendly destination. On your walk around the island you can visit the ships’ graveyard and the quarantine barracks, as well as enjoy swimming and water skiing beaches and a bird-watching barricade. The easy-moderate grade makes these walks suitable for small children and family groups. All walks start from the ferry jetty and can be walked in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction. Free trail maps are available at the ferry depot. Allow a minimum 2.5 hours to complete the full loop of the island, but you’ll need longer if you’re stopping for breaks and exploration. Keep an eye out for discounted ferry fares during school holidays and ensure you pack a picnic lunch and snacks (or stock up at one of the many delicious cafe’s in Lyttelton before catching the ferry) as there are no shops on the island.
Godley Head (Moderate)
This walk is one of our favourite walks in Canterbury. The track is around 3 hours return from Taylors Mistake and has amazing coastal views. On a good day you may spot dolphins, seals or whales playing in the blue green waters of the harbour. You can explore the military buildings and gun turrets left behind from World War II and visit the colourful old batches in Boulder Bay. This track can be done as an out and back trail from Taylors Mistake to the Gun Turrets or as a loop – both end up being around 10km in distance. The track is quite exposed so take plenty of water and sun-protection in summer.
Crater Rim (Moderate to Challenging)
This track extends the length of the Port Hills from Godley Head to Gebbies Pass and gives spectacular views of Lyttleton Harbour which is an extinct volcano! Want an extra grind? Try starting from the bottom of the Rapaki Track and head up east toward Mt Cavendish Saddle which has been touted as the most interesting section of the track.
Popular sections to complete are:
- Godley Head to Sumner or Lyttleton
- Bridle Path to Sign of the Kiwi
- Sign of the Kiwi to Sign of the Bellbird
You can do as little or as much of the track as you wish – the whole track which comes in at 27km! Hiking boots or trail-running sneakers with good tread is a must as the trail has a mix of terrains. Remember to take plenty of snacks and water with you too.
Bridle Path (Challenging)
Walk in the footsteps of the British Settlers who arrived in Lyttelton Harbour in 1850. Be prepared, this 3km walk is a steep one but the view from the top is worth it. If you started from the city side of the track, once you reach the summit you’ll descend into the harbour and from there you can explore Lyttelton township and grab a bite to eat at one of the many great cafes. Do this on a Saturday morning and you’ll be in Lyttelton for their popular farmers market. A great tip is to walk over the path from Heathcote Valley and then catch a bus back from Lyttelton.
Christchurch City Council is a great resource for inspiration and maps – an absolute must if you’re new to Christchurch. Check out their Walking Track Map page – it includes nearby bus stop locations and other useful information to help you along your way.
