Port Hills
Christchurch, Canterbury
Walking and cycling trails crisscross the green, rumpled Port Hills landscape. To get to know this outdoor playground, skip the tunnel linking Christchurch and the harbor community of Lyttleton to the southeast. Instead, take the long way around and over the hills. The extra travel time pays off in scenery and gorgeous views.
The basics
The Port Hills are an easy escape from Christchurch—reachable by car in just a few hours—and offer a unique perspective on the winding coastline to the east. Before you head for the hills, pick up a brochure with walking and cycling trail maps from a visitor center or download maps available online. For an easier route to the ridgeline, take the Christchurch Gondola to Mt. Cavendish, which offers 360-degree views.
The hills are also an included stop or pass-through on some tours of Christchurch and the surrounding area, including shore excursions from the cruise port at Akaroa.
Things to know before you go
- The Port Hills are a top destination for bird-lovers. Bellbirds, gray warblers, and shining cuckoos are just some of the native birds commonly spotted here.
- Trails here can be quite muddy after rain. At these times, plan to bring sturdy hiking boots.
- The Christchurch Gondola can accommodate folding wheelchairs.
How to get there
If you’re driving yourself, the main point of access into the Port Hills is Dyers Pass Road, and an especially scenic offshoot is the narrow, winding Summit Road. There are also a handful of bus stops with good access to Port Hills trailheads. Near Harry Ell and Latters Spur trails is the Hackthorne Road bus stop; the Huntsbury Avenue bus stop is the starting point for the shared-use Huntsbury Track, Farm Track, and Gorge Track.
When to get there
The most popular time to visit Christchurch is in New Zealand’s summer months, from December through February. At this time of year, expect sunny days and busy trails in the Port Hills. The spring months from September to November are an appealing shoulder season, and fine weather also can continue into the fall, which goes from March through May.
Walking trails in the Port Hills
Climbing to big views from Summit Road, the 1.9-mile (3-kilometer) Harry Ell Walkway is a popular hike and goes right past the Sign of the Kiwi Café, where many walkers pause for snacks and drinks. To view the morning light over the Banks Peninsula, choose the wide and well-graded 4.3-mile (7-kilometer) Rapaki Track. A lesser-known option that’s also suitable for kids to hike is the 1.25-mile (2-kilometer) Hidden Valley trail from Bowenvale.
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