There are very few cities that let you swap a riverside stroll for a coastal cliff walk in the same afternoon. But with its compact layout and flat terrain, Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s easiest cities to explore on foot.
Stroll along the Avon River, and you’ll spot many of our main attractions, or travel half an hour from the city and you’ll swap riverside paths for rugged coastal cliffs and panoramic hilltop views.
Whether you’re after a gentle stroll before breakfast or a more challenging half-day hike, here are some of the best walks in Christchurch.
Hagley Park & Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Distance: 4-6km (depending on your route)
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 1-2 hours
Hagley Park is the city’s green heart, with wide paths that wind along the Avon River and through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. You can easily spend an hour taking in the scenery, wandering along without following any particular route.
One of the biggest advantages for guests of The George is that the park is directly across the road, so you can step out for an early morning walk before breakfast or finish the day with a sunset stroll.
Godley Head Walkway
Distance: Around 10km return
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 3-4 hours
The Godley Head Walkway follows the clifftops above Lyttelton Harbour and the Pacific Ocean, and on a clear day, you’ll have uninterrupted views stretching along the coastline, With historic WWII structures along the way, and seals and seabirds below the cliffs, there’s plenty to spot along your way.
Be aware that those coastal views are made possible by exposed headlands, so it can get a bit windy in places. Be sure to bring along an extra layer with you.
Summit Road & Port Hills Walks
Distance: Varies
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Time: 1-4 hours
If you’re chasing the best views of Christchurch, head for the Port Hills. There are dozens of tracks from Summit Road, from shorter lookouts if you don’t want to stray far, to longer walks along the ridge. Some climbs are steep, but they don’t take long before you’re rewarded with sweeping views across Christchurch, Pegasus Bay, Lyttelton Harbour and, if the weather favours you, the Southern Alps in the distance.
If you’re only able to fit one hill walk in during your visit, this is where we’d send you.
Bottle Lake Forest
Distance: Multiple loops from 3-15km
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 45 minutes-3 hours
The wide gravel tracks of Bottle Lake Forest weave through towering pines, which makes this walk a good choice if you want shelter from the summer sun or winter wind. A popular choice for local walkers, runners and mountain bikers, it’s easy terrain for families and mixed abilities groups.
Sumner to Taylors Mistake
Distance: Around 8km return
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 2–3 hours
A local favourite, this track starts from Sumner Beach and climbs above the coastline before winding towards Taylors Mistake. With ocean views almost the entire way, you might even be lucky enough to spot Hector’s dolphins swimming offshore.
Afterwards, treat yourself to fish and chips on Sumner Beach before heading back into the city.
Christchurch Walks at a Glance
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Allow |
| Hagley Park & Botanic Gardens | 4-6km | Easy | 1-2hrs |
| Godley Head Walkway | 10km | Moderate | 3-4hrs |
| Summit Road & Port Hills | Varies | Moderate-Hard | 1-4hrs |
| Bottle Lake Forest | 3-15km | Easy | 45mins-3hrs |
| Sumner to Taylors Mistake | 8km | Moderate | 2-3hrs |
Before You Set Off
Christchurch weather can change quickly, particularly once you leave the city centre or head into the Port Hills. Comfortable walking shoes are enough for Hagley Park and Bottle Lake, but hill and coastal tracks are much more enjoyable if you’ve packed sturdy footwear, a waterproof layer and plenty of water.
If you’re planning a longer walk, it’s worth checking the forecast before setting out. Canterbury’s north-westerly winds can sneak up quickly and put a damper on the day if you’re not prepared.
Stay Close to Christchurch’s Best Walks
One of the benefits to guests staying at The George is that we have Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens on our doorstep, so you can stroll beneath the trees or walk along the riverside, all while being close to the city.
If you’re planning a trip to Christchurch, there’s no better place to stay. Learn more about The George, or explore our Special Offers.