The day begins with a departure from Christchurch, heading through New Zealand's second-longest road tunnel until you arrive in Lyttelton. Enjoy some free time here to explore the historic port town, which is steeped in Antarctic exploration history. Leave Lyttelton via the exceedingly steep and narrow side streets, stopping briefly at the historic Timeball Station and the lookout on Evans Pass.
Follow Evans Pass over the Port Hills and down onto Sumner Beach, where your guide lays out a refreshing morning tea. A short drive from Sumner Village brings you to Taylors Mistake Beach. From here, set out on the walking tour of Godley Head, which follows a well-formed loop track of approximately 8 km (3-hours).
From Taylors Mistake Beach, the coastal track climbs a small hill before traversing above scenic cliffs. Descend onto a small rocky section of the coast, home to the rare White Flippered Penguin (only found in 2 places in New Zealand). The visit to the penguin colony is optional. Once you’ve worked up a bit of an appetite, lunch is provided at Boulder Bay or Godley Head. After lunch, spend some more free time discovering the remnants of the WWII defences. The location offers excellent photographic opportunities with uninterrupted views of Lyttelton Harbour, Banks Peninsula, and Christchurch City.
On the return journey back to Taylors Mistake Beach, your guide explains the use of the military outpost at Godley Head and New Zealand's involvement in WWII. Finally, the drive back from Taylors Mistake to Christchurch passes through Sumner Village and along the estuary before reaching the inner city, where you will be dropped back at your hotel or the city centre.
1/2-Day Walking Tour:
- Track grade: Very easy, 2.5 hrs of walking time
- Walking distance: 3-5 km (flexible depending on group ability)
- Total elevation gain: ~180 m
- Lunch not included
Full-Day Walking Tour:
- Track grade: Easy – Moderate fitness required, 3-4 hrs of walking time.
- Walking distance: 6-9 km (flexible depending on group ability)
- Total elevation gain: 380-440 m
- Lunch included
