Everyone who’s anyone knows New Zealand will deliver when it comes to walking tracks and the heart of Canterbury is certainly no exception. From your 30-minute morning run before work to a Sunday spent adventuring the outdoors, Christchurch has it all. With spectacular views and plenty to get the blood pumping, we’re here to share the best walking tracks and trails of our suitably titled Garden City. Starting with the notorious Port Hills, there are options for all kinds of activity levels.
Hagley Park
Christchurch Central City
The green oasis in the heart of the city, Hagley Park is the jewel in Christchurch’s ‘Garden City’ crown. A delight in all four seasons, the park offers a stunning array of experiences, from daffodil meadows and cherry blossoms in spring, to the fiery hues of autumn leaves, frosty winter mornings, and cool summer shade beneath the trees.
Follow the well-trodden pathway that frames the park’s outer edge, a favourite of the inner city’s runners and walkers, or blaze your own route via the numerous footpaths and trails that criss-cross the park. The Botanical Gardens within the park are a must-see; take your time to meander through the beautifully curated collections of native and exotic plants, while the Otakaro/Avon River winds lazily beside you, adding a touch of tranquillity to your stroll.
Whether you're after a quick escape from the daily grind or a scenic route for your fitness goals, Hagley Park provides one of the best walks in the city.
THE DETAILS
- Distance: Varies, depending on your chosen route
- Walking time: As above
- Difficulty: Easy
Riccarton Bush
Riccarton, Christchurch
Right in the heart of Riccarton, Riccarton Bush/Puringamatou is like a time capsule of Christchurch’s past, preserving a fragment of the ancient forest that once cloaked the land where the city now stands.
Take a wander around the easy track, where you can step away from the buzz of the city, and tune in to the native birdsong, and stand in awe of towering kahikatea, rimu, and matai trees; some of these forest giants are 600 years old!
Within the grounds of Riccarton Bush is Riccarton House, a historic gem from 1856, and home to The Quarters restaurant. Stop in for lunch, or enjoy a picnic in the gardens outside. Swing by on a Saturday to catch the Christchurch Farmers’ Market—a prime spot to snag some fresh produce, local delicacies, and tasty treats.
THE DETAILS
- Distance: From 450m, depending on your chosen route
- Walking time: From 15 minutes, depending on your chosen route
- Difficulty: Easy
Godley Head
Taylors Mistake, Christchurch
Kick off your walk at Taylor’s Mistake and take on the Godley Head/Awaroa loop walkway, where history meets stunning scenery at the northern entrance of Lyttelton Harbour.
The track climbs the headland to connect with Crater Rim Walkway, as you trek past historic WW2 gun emplacements, with info panels providing insight into the foreign threat. Admire the stunning views of rugged coastal cliffs toward Sumner, as the track rounds the headland and heads back towards the start. This is a great walk for cliff-top panoramas and contrasting hues, where the vivid blues of Pegasus Bay and Lyttelton Harbour pop against the golden grasslands of the Banks Peninsula coastline.
THE DETAILS
- Distance: 9.3km
- Walking time: 3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Halswell Quarry
Kennedys Bush, Christchurch
Halswell Quarry is a go-to spot for families, where kids and dogs can run wild through the park’s grassy opens and native plantings.
Start with the Quarry Rim track, a loop track that winds around the historic quarry, which once supplied materials for Christchurch’s early buildings.As you climb, take in the sweeping views from the top, with vistas stretching across native wetlands and out to the Southern Alps.
Feeling ambitious? Push on up Kennedy’s Bush Track to Summit Road for an extra challenge. If you’d rather take it easy, the Quarry Café at the car park is the perfect spot to recharge after your walk.
THE DETAILS
- Distance: From 1km, depending on your chosen route
- Walking time: From 40 minutes, depending on your chosen route
- Difficulty: Easy-moderate
Rapaki
Cashmere, Christchurch
Some of the best views from the Port Hills are provided by Rapaki Track, taking you through greenery and grasslands, making this a worthy addition to our list of Christchurch's best walks. After the steep climb towards Summit Road, you’ll find more panoramic views of the city, beach and ocean. The 3.5km track calls for keeping your camera and/or phone handy. It’s also popular with runners and mountain bikers, as well as the weekend dog-walker.
THE DETAILS
- Distance: 3.5km
- Walking time: 45 minutes one way
- Difficulty: Easy-moderate
New Brighton Beach
New Brighton, Christchurch
Looking for an easy-peasy beach stroll? New Brighton Beach is where you can literally wander for miles; nearly 20km of uninterrupted sand stretches from New Brighton to the Waimakariri River. Just pick a direction and start exploring.
The iconic New Brighton Pier is your perfect landmark, guiding you as you roam. Along the way, you’ll spot sand sculptures, kite surfers, and more.
Don’t miss the Seaside Market and, if you need to unwind, the He Puna Taimoana hot pools are right there for a relaxing soak.
THE DETAILS
- Distance: From 1.5km, depending on your chosen route
- Walking time: From 20 minutes, depending on your chosen route
- Difficulty: Easy
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Crater Rim Walkway
Port Hills, Christchurch
Ready to tackle a hike along the rim of an ancient volcanic crater? The Crater Rim Walkway, extending from Godley Head in the east, to Coopers Knob Gebbies Pass in the west, offers epic harbour views on one side and mountain vistas on the other. Perfect for those with a bit of fitness and time to spare, this trail showcases the best of Christchurch’s outdoor beauty, with the golden tussock grasslands forming the iconic backdrop of the Port Hills.
The walkway extends from Godley Head (as mentioned above) in the east, winding its way through the crater’s rim and offering diverse sections to suit different fitness levels and time constraints. As there are lots of sidetracks and connections, you can choose to hike a shorter segment, (Godley Head to Summit Road, or Mt Pleasant to Bridle Path are manageable short options). Alternatively, go big and take on the full length for a more challenging adventure. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the city, Lyttelton Harbour, the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps (and a potential pit stop at the Sign of the Kiwi Cafe).
Heads up—you’ll want to pack plenty of water and sun protection, especially on hot summer days when the treeless hillsides can make this track a thirsty workout.
THE DETAILS
- Distance: From 8-20km+, depending on your chosen route
- Walking time: From a couple of hours to a full day, depending on your chosen route
- Difficulty: Moderate-hard
Te Ara Ōtākaro Avon River Trail
Christchurch Central City
Te Ara Ōtākaro Avon River Trail spans 11km from the CBD to New Brighton, tracing the Avon River through Christchurch’s infamous Red Zone, a poignant reminder of the 2011 earthquake. As you walk, you’ll pass through empty lots where homes once stood, with power lines and streetlights still in place, creating an eerie yet fascinating atmosphere. The upside? No traffic. The trail follows now-closed roads left abandoned, offering a peaceful, uninterrupted route.
You can tailor this walk to your preferred distance, thanks to the regular bridges that let you loop back on the other side of the river.
THE DETAILS
- Distance: Varies, depending on your chosen route
- Walking time: 1-4 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Ohinetahi Reserve
Governors Bay, Christchurch
Ohinetahi Reserve protects the remnant native bush on the harbour side of the crater rim, above Governors Bay. Managed by the Summit Road Society, this reserve boasts a well-maintained network of hiking tracks, which connect seamlessly with the Crater Rim Walkway. Community-made signs guide you through ferny gullies and regenerating forests beneath steep volcanic bluffs.
Ohinetahi Reserve is perfect for a quick native bush fix with great loop options. If you’re up for a challenge, take on the Mt Ada Grand Loop, a full-day hike that covers the entire reserve.
Sturdy footwear is a must, especially in winter when the tracks can get wet and slippery. The trail network offers various routes, allowing you to tailor your hike to your preferences. For ideas on different routes, check out the Banks Peninsula Walks website.
THE DETAILS
- Distance: Varies, depending on your chosen route
- Walking time: 2-6 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate-hard
Victoria Park
Port Hills, Christchurch
Perched on the Port Hills, high above the suburb of Cashmere, Victoria Park is one of Christchurch's most beloved recreation spots. It's perfect for those looking to enjoy stunning views while getting their heart rate up—be prepared for a bit of climbing.
Start your adventure by parking at the Sign of the Takahe and follow the Harry Ell Track as it winds through the wooded trails of Victoria Park. When you reach the top, reward yourself with a visit to the Sign of the Kiwi, a local favourite that's been serving up treats since 1917. If you've got some energy left, push on to the transmitter atop Sugarloaf for some of the best views in the city, before enjoying the easy downhill leg back to where you started.
THE DETAILS
- Distance: Varies, depending on your chosen route
- Walking time: As above
- Difficulty: Moderate
Otukaikino Track
Belfast, Christchurch
Located in Christchurch’s northwest, the Ōtukaikino Track offers a peaceful escape as it winds through lush wetlands surrounded by dense native plantings, serene ponds, and grassy picnic areas. Passing the popular recreational spot The Groynes and the adjacent Clearwater Resort, this well-maintained track provides a tranquil setting where birdsong fills the air and the gentle flow of water creates a calming backdrop.
Consider linking Ōtukaikino Track with Waimairi Track, Roto Kohatu Reserve or Templars Island Reserve for an extended adventure. Perfect for those who enjoy exploring multiple parks in one go, this track offers an ideal starting point for a day of outdoor exploration. Check out the city council’s info page for ideas on planning your walk.
THE DETAILS
- Distance: 8.9km
- Walking time: 2.5 hours one way
- Difficulty: Moderate
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Main image credit: Crater Rim Walkway by Christchurch City Council | Website
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