Some of the most breathtaking views in Christchurch are earned after a sweaty uphill hike, or wandering a worn path through nature. Whether you need some fresh air, a good workout, or simply after rewarding scenic views, here’s a list of some of our favourite walking tracks in Christchurch.
The Bridle Path
Hearing this track’s name used to make us cringe, remembering how tough it was! It takes around 1.5 hours to complete and is a steep walk up to the top. You’ll definitely get a workout for those views!
Right beside the Gondola, the Bridle Path is super popular, so you’ll come across plenty of others struggling up the track. Despite the burning in your legs by the time you reach the top, the spectacular scene of Lyttleton Harbour is so worth it!
If you’re interested in the Harbours’ history, walk down into the town to learn about Lyttleton’s past.
The Quarry Rim Track
The last time one of us did the Quarry Rim Track, we started on the wrong path and missed the rim track completely! However, we wandered around the park instead and came across several sculptures, a bridge and some nice picnic spots in the gardens.
This was a good track for an easy stroll, whereas the Rim Track is a bit more of a challenge, walking up and around the ridge of the quarry and giving great hill views.
There’s even a separate dog park, so this one is dog-friendly! But be warned, it gets quite muddy in the winter so watch your step or you’ll end up on your bum like us…
Flowers Track
The Flowers Track is a short and steep walk up a path on the side of a hill at the end of Sumner Beach. Perfect for sunsets (or sunrises!) with the sun’s reflection in the water, and the houses scattered across the side of the hills in the distance.
Also a great idea if you want a short walk before checking out the cute local cafes, or the Sumner Sunday Market. And, in the summer, cool off with a swim in the ocean afterwards!
If you wanted to make a day of it, another option when doing the Flowers Track is the continue on over the hill and all the way through to Taylors’ Mistake. This is where the Godly Head track starts.
Godly Head
The Godly Head Track starts from the car park at Taylors Mistake Beach, making it pretty popular over the summer! It’s a decently long loop taking around 3 hours to get back, with a mix of uphill and flats.
Most of the walk is pretty exposed, so gets very hot when the sun is shining down! A hat and drink bottle is essential. If you go during the summer, reward yourself with a splash in the sea, or even a surf at the beach.
Godly Head is a great walk with superb coastal views, and war bunkers to explore at the peak.
Rapaki
If you want an uphill challenge, Rapaki is the walk to do. Taking around one hour to reach the top, you definitely earn the views! People walk, run and even cycle this track, and it’s pretty popular during the summer.
Surrounded by fields with grazing sheep, the path is out in the open the whole way (sunscreen is essential on those blistering summer days!).
Walking back down is the best part, as you can actually appreciate the views, the fresh air, and you’re finally giving your glutes a much-needed rest.
Pack Horse Hut
If you’re looking for a simple overnight hike, Pack Horse Hut is our pick! It’s close to the city so you’re not having to drive hours to reach the beginning. There are no crazy steep parts, taking between 3 and 4 hours to reach the Hut situated in the hill valley, with epic views on either side!
It’s a great first hut to stay at, or for people with small children not wanting anything too exhausting. However, if you are after a bit more of a challenge carry on to Mount Herbert. It gets slightly more difficult!
Make sure to pack shoes that do well in the mud if you go around the rainy season. Some parts get a bit muddy but are easily avoidable.
Bowenvale Valley Track
There are two options when walking the Bowenvale Valley Track. One is walking up to Victoria Park, taking just over an hour to complete. This path has you on a moderate incline up through tall pine trees and their roots. There are also mountain bike tracks along this track.
The second way proves to be longer, up to Summit Road. Away from the pine trees, it’s a lot more exposed. Awesome if you’re going for a sunset! We like this route, as more often than not we’re accompanied by sheep. Lots of sheep!
Bowenvale is dog-friendly as long as they’re on a leash. They might get a bit too playful with the sheep!
Thanks for reading! DM us on our socials and recommend some of your favourite walks for us to try.
Keen on a multi-day hike? Check out our post on the Queen Charlotte Track or our Abel Tasman Coastal Track guide!
Need to fuel up after a tough walk? We’ve got you covered with cute cafes and excellent coffee in Christchurch here!
Visiting Wellington? Check out our Wellington Walks post!
