Hidden Gem locations in Christchurch

Steven Hyung • May 23, 2024

Popular Hidden Gem locations in Christchurch.

There are few hidden gem locations in Christchurch, and its already popular place for local people. 


  1. Godley Head walkway  : The track starts from the car park at Taylors Mistake beach, one of Christchurch's premier surf breaks and a great spot for swimming and picnicking in summer. Pick up the walkway on the southern side of the bay that leads towards Awaroa-Godley Head, past a row of historic baches. The track hugs the coastline, offering views back to Whitewash Head and across Pegasus Bay to the Kaikoura Ranges. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. There are a variety of seabirds, including white-flippered penguins nesting along this coastline. If you are lucky you may spot a pod of rare Hector's dolphins, some seals or even a whale. At Boulder Bay, it is worth detouring down to the baches lining the rocky beach. The history of the characterful baches dates back to the 1880s, when fishermen started building up the mouths of caves to provide shelter for their weekend's fishing. From here follow the track that hugs the coastline up and around the headland. This area is the site of a WWII coastal defence battery with gun emplacements, old military buildings and tunnels. Continue up the track towards the Awaroa-Godley Head car park – if you've organised transport, finish here. You can also return the same way. However, if you want to complete the circuit, follow the Crater Rim Walkway east for about half an hour. The track takes you through dramatic rocky scenery with views across Lyttelton Harbour.


   2.   Barnett Park Cave : This track can be walked as a loop in either direction from Barnett Park. On both sides of the main valley, it's a steady climb to a staircase that leads up to a cave. The view from the cave back down the valley is superb and well worth the effort. Moderate fitness required. Get ready for this track using Plan My Walk(external link)  by the NZ Mountain Safety Council. You can find track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list, so you are set for your adventure. 


   3.   Sign of the kiwi Cafe : This cafe is a charming spot located at Dyers Pass on the road between Christchurch and Governors Bay. It's in a historic building, originally called the Toll house, built in 1916. It was one of for rest houses constructed for those walking the scenic reserves of the Port Hills, a part of Harry Ell's legacy to Christchurch.


    4.  Christchurch Adventure Park : It's a hub for adventure and relaxation located in Christchurch's port hills. There are varieties including mountain biking, ziplining, sightseeing, and hiking.  It is home to the Southern Hemisphere's largest collection of gravity-assisted mountain baking trails.  





   




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