Christchurch Walks & Hiking Guide

Read about our Christchurch walks with full details and photos by © Freewalks.nz

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Here’s our pick of the best walks in Christchurch

Just because the earthquakes destroyed so much of Christchurch, it doesn’t mean that there isn’t still plenty of walks and hikes in the region. In fact, we’ve been out walking Christchurch and have reviewed some of the best, like Godley Head, Halswell Quarry and the Bridle Path just to name a few. So whether you’re from Christchurch or just visiting, make sure you check out our walks chch below.




There’s no need to leave the city…

…to enjoy a great free walk experience. Christchurch has some excellent options right in its centre. The Avon River walk provides a lovely stroll, while Hagley Park is perfect for a longer hike. Both offer beautiful views of the Avon River and plenty of chances to take in the fresh air. 

Walks in Christchurch with dogs

If you’re a dog owner who loves walking in Christchurch, there’s no need to leave your furry friend at home. Christchurch has some great walks that are perfect for both of you! Get more details on the 5 dog friendly walks around Christchurch.

List of all our walks in Christchurch we've personally reviewed:

We’ve personally walked each one and reviewed them ourselves along with taking all the photos so we do know what we’re talking about! Just be sure to bring your camera!

Punts on the Avon River Walk (City Promenade Walk), Christchurch, New Zealand Freewalks.nz Canterbury RegionChristchurch

Avon River Walk (City Promenade Walk)

4 km • 2 Hours • Very Easy • Starting from the hospital end of Oxford Terrace, follow this riverside path to see some eels before continuing along it. You’ll soon arrive at Victoria Square – a historic marketplace and popular spot for events! From there head into Cambridge Terrace where you can find many bars & restaurants. Be sure to stop off by John Court house which houses the Museum Of Canterbury Earthquake Historic Site Information Centre and Art Gallery.

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Views out to the ocean on the Barnett Park Walk, Christchurch, New Zealand Freewalks.nz Canterbury RegionChristchurch

Barnett Park Walk

3.50 kms • 2 Hours • Medium

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Boardwalk on the Godley Heads Walk, Christchurch, New Zealand Freewalks.nz Canterbury RegionChristchurch

Godley Head Loop Track Walk

7 kms • 3 Hours • Easy • It’s a long but very interesting walk, with no shortage of history and amazing views of Lyttleton and Christchurch.

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Looking down into Halswell Quarry from the top of the walk, Christchurch, New Zealand Freewalks.nz Canterbury RegionChristchurch

Halswell Quarry Walk

1.30 kms • 40 Minutes • Easy

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Beautiful Riccarton House in Christchurch, New Zealand Freewalks.nz Canterbury RegionChristchurch

Riccarton House

0.30 kms • 30 Minutes • Very Easy

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Stone walking path on the Sign of the Takahe walk, Christchurch, New Zealand Freewalks.nz Canterbury RegionChristchurch

Sign of the Takahe

0.20 km • 1 Hour • Very Easy

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Oyster Catcher birds on the beach at Spencer Park walk, Christchurch, New Zealand Freewalks.nz Canterbury RegionChristchurch

Spencer Park Walk

9 kms • 2 Hours 30 Minutes • Very Easy

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Sandra walking along The Bridle Path walk in Christchurch, New Zealand Freewalks.nz ChristchurchLyttelton

The Bridle Path

5 kms • 6 Hours • Medium

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Path going through the Travis Wetlands Walk, Christchurch, New Zealand Freewalks.nz Canterbury RegionChristchurch

Travis Wetlands Walk

3.50 km • 1 Hour 30 Minutes • Very Easy

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We’ve partnered with Macpac outdoor walking & hiking gear to bring you the very best products designed exclusively for our New Zealand climate. They’ll ship for FREE within NZ on orders over $100 (if under $100 it’s only $5). Worldwide international shipping is available except to the USA. Bulky orders will be $20.

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We’ve partnered with Macpac outdoor walking & hiking gear to bring you the very best products designed exclusively for our New Zealand climate. They’ll ship for FREE within NZ on orders over $100 (if under $100 it’s only $5). Worldwide international shipping is available except to the USA. Bulky orders will be $20.

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