Whether you’re a visitor keen to fit in as many sites as possible, or a local with an afternoon to spare, hitting up one of Christchurch’s stunning short walks is always memorable. Taking short walks in Christchurch is one of the best ways to see its scenery, observe local flora and fauna, and breathe in that crisp South Island air. These are all walks you can bring the family along for, and sometimes even a furry companion. Christchurch offers dramatic views and remarkable landscapes, and the best part is, you can experience them after just a few minutes of walking. Check out six of the best short walks Christchurch has to offer!
1. Dry Ridge Track, Mt Vernon Farm Park (25min one way)
While the Dry Ridge track is often used as an access track to other routes, it makes for a highly enjoyable short walk in its own right. Starting at the end of Hillsborough Terrace, it’s easy to park and get stuck into, and not long before you start to see what makes this track one of the more unique family walks Christchurch offers. Before long, walkers come across a cave, and most of the track features views of the Southern Alps as well as the central city. From here, walkers can decide whether to connect with any of the other popular tracks, or head back to the carpark.
2. Port Levy Saddle to Rod Donald Hut (50min)
This fun track is part of the Te Ara Pātaka / Summit walkway, and takes you through a gorgeous old tõtara forest before ending at the Rod Donald hut. The forest is on private land. Once at the cabin, you can stay the night, or turn back to make a day walk of it. Note, this walk is considered moderate in difficulty, so it better suits hikers who are confident with occasionally steep and rough terrain.
3. Mitchells Track, Port Hills (30mins)
If stunning views are what you’re after, Mitchell’s track is one of the best walks around Christchurch. In just thirty minutes, walkers come across native trees, and breathtaking views of the Whakaraupō or Lyttelton Harbour. If magnificent views of earth, sky, and water are your forté, this track is for you! Walkers can access the track from the carpark opposite local cafe Sign of the Kiwi, which is also an excellent excuse for a post-walk flat white.
4. Old Halswell Quarry Loop (36min)
In the time it takes to watch an episode of a TV show, you could take a scenic walk around the Halswell quarry loop. The park was once an operating quarry between 1861 and 1990, but has now been repurposed as a popular park for walking, running, and hiking. You can even bring your dog for a walk so long as it’s kept on a leash. Along the way, you can enjoy the view and check out some fascinating rock shapes from its quarry era. With a 4.5 star rating on AllTrails, it’s a commonly trafficked route for walkers.
5. Lyttelton Coastal Path (15mins-20mins-15mins)
For those who love relaxing coastal walks in Christchurch, the Lyttelton Coastal Path connects local bays along the Whakaraupō / Lyttelton Harbour. Walkers can take their dogs from Motukauatirahi / Cass Bay to Motukauatiiti / Corsair Bay and the Magazine Bays before continuing for another 15 minutes to Pony Point Reserve. Along the way, those on their stroll can appreciate views of Ōtamahua / Quail Island, as well as Diamond Harbour and Church Bay.
6. Naio Point Track, Duvauchelle (1hr return)
The Naio Point Track features scenic views of the Onawe Peninsula, after delivering walkers through thriving native bush. This track is leashed-dog friendly, and one of the great active family walks in Christchurch for outdoorsy squads. There are many beaches for summer swimming during low-tide, including a15 minute return track down to sandy Archdalls Beach. Don’t forget good walking shoes though, as there can be slippery clay patches along the walk.
