Crater Rim Walks
Walk the Crater Rim, our top-notch guided 1-day walk on Banks Peninsula, a spectacular extinct volcano within 30 minutes of Christchurch. Experience stunning views of Lyttelton, Whakaraupō (the harbour) and surrounding bays, and enjoy a day's walk with our experienced local guides.
The spectacular Godley Head Loop Track is undoubtedly one of the best hikes in Christchurch, this undulating track boasts breathtaking coastal views, historic landmarks from WW2, and quaint little beaches to boot. Pass by a white-flippered penguin colony and an Antarctic cabin. You will look back over the water towards Christchurch City, taking in the beautiful Pegasus Bay stretching north, and the majestic Southern Alps beyond. Eastern Vistas include the serene Lyttelton harbour which nestles inside the Volcano Crater, and the wide open expanses of the wild Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline. This walk is suitable for all levels of fitness, covers 8 km, and the elevation gain is 320m.
For those looking for adventure, hike up through Urumau Reserve on the prominent lava flow ridge that borders Lyttelton township to the east. Enjoy stunning vistas down on the harbour and beyond. This area is teaming with history and another of the best walks in Christchurch with several interesting historic sites. A reasonable level of fitness is required for this walk as it is a moderately challenging climb uphill to the Gun Emplacements, a good physical and mental challenge, but well worth the effort for the 360° views at the top. The walk back down into the village is a lovely contrast through the trees.
Your guide will fill you in on the history of this lovely area, and if you are lucky enough to be in Lyttelton on a Saturday you will also experience the Lyttelton Farmers Market.
On a full day walk the afternoon is complete with a picnic lunch and an easier walk around the coastal track to include Cass Bay and Corsair Bay. This walk covers 8 km, and the elevation gain is 420m.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Picturesque & scenic port town of Lyttelton
Stunning Harbor views
Mt Pleasant Heavy Anti-aircraft Artillery Battery
360° vistas back over Christchurch and the Southern Alps
Excellent hike for your fitness
Full day walk includes a stop at a local village cafe
Lyttelton Farmers Market (Saturdays only)
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
Personal guided walking tour for small groups of up to 10
Transport from Christchurch City or Lyttelton Port to the walk in a 12 seater van (30mins)
Return hotel transfers (within 5km of Central Christchurch)
Hot drink at a local cafe
Light morning/afternoon tea
Water bottle to keep
Gourmet Picnic Lunch (full-day walk only)
Walking sticks and a day bag
WHAT TO WEAR/BRING:
Comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots (sneakers with good traction are fine)
Comfortable clothes depending on the season (shorts/leggings and a t-shirt)
A warm layer of clothing and a jacket
Sunblock and a sun hat
Camera/phone
