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Walks In And Around Christchurch
The Canterbury Plains are a walker's dream: flat rolling land with sweeping views and easy access to the Port Hills, the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean. Whether you want a relaxing stroll or want to get your hiking boots on, there's plenty of choice while staying in Christchurch.
If you want to stay close to the central city, the banks of the Avon River offer a picturesque walk at any time of year. The river will lead you on a winding path through the city, into the Christchurch Botanical Gardens and around the edge of Hagley Park. You could also book a guided tour of inner Christchurch's historic and modern attractions.
Outside the city centre, the Travis Wetland Nature Heritage Park covers sixteen hectares of freshwater wetland between Cathedral Square and New Brighton beach. Its perimeter walkway is a popular choice for walking, jogging and wildlife observation. Nature enthusiasts will also enjoy the range of walks available through the lakes, waterways and farmland in Groynes Reserve near Christchurch International Airport.
The Port Hills and Lyttelton Harbour are outstanding areas of natural beauty, providing great opportunities for walkers. Take your pick of sea views along Godley Head or panoramic views of the Canterbury Plains from Victoria Park. Numerous walks are accessible from the Summit Road that runs along the length of the Port Hills. And when you want to feel the sand between your toes, just head for one of Canterbury's many beaches.
For a more formal expedition you could try Tuatara Tours' guided three day walk from Christchurch to Akaroa. And once you're at Akaroa, the famous Banks Peninsula Track walk begins just over the hill and gives you the opportunity to explore several local farms as well as a marine reserve and penguin colony.
If you've got time and transport, the Craigieburn Conservation Park inland from Christchurch boasts some of Canterbury's best scenery, including the famous limestone geology of Castle Hill. Here you can choose between short nature walks, day walks or longer sub-alpine treks.
So when it's time to stretch your legs during a Christchurch visit, whether for relaxation or exercise in town or country, you'll find a walk that suits you.