Discover Awaroa / Godley Head
Awaroa / Godley Head is a striking headland located on the northern side of the entrance to Lyttelton Harbour / Whakaraupō. This area is named after John Robert Godley, a key figure in Christchurch's founding, whose statue stands in Cathedral Square. The headland is geologically significant as it forms part of the rim of the ancient Lyttelton volcano, contributing to the unique landscape of Banks Peninsula.
Historical Significance and Naming
The Māori name for the headland, Awaroa, translates to "long river," possibly referring to the harbour itself. In 1838, the French whaler Cachalot, led by Captain Jean Langlois, encountered difficulties here and named the area Cachalot Head. Later, in 1849, Captain Joseph Thomas, the chief surveyor for the Canterbury Association's, renamed it Godley Head during his survey of Canterbury. Thomas also recommended the site for a lighthouse, which was constructed in 1865. During World War II, the New Zealand army established a coastal defence battery here, with over 400 soldiers stationed at one time. The military presence ended in 1963, and today, the area is a highlight for walkers exploring the headland.
Walking Tracks and Historical Features
You can explore Godley Head via two main routes. One option is to drive along Summit Road from Evans Pass, accessible from Sumner via Evans Pass Road or from Lyttelton via Sumner Road, leading to the Godley Head car park and campsite. Be cautious, as the road is sealed but narrow, with blind corners and steep drops. Alternatively, you can walk from Taylors Mistake along the Pilgrims Way Coastal Track, which connects to the Godley Head Loop Track. This route passes historic baches at Taylors Mistake on Rotten Row and Boulder Bay. Note that Google Maps incorrectly labels Pilgrims Way as part of the Godley Head Loop Track.
The Godley Head Loop Track begins and ends at the Godley Head car park. Informative panels around the car park detail the site's history. Starting on the southeast side above Lyttelton Harbour, the trail leads to the east towards concrete bunkers, remnants of the WWII coastal defences. After about 20 minutes, you'll reach the gun emplacements, offering stunning views and historical insights through panels and murals. One mural highlights the Women's Auxiliary Army Corps, who played active defence roles during the war.
From the gun emplacements, you can return to the car park in about 45 minutes or extend your walk northwest to the Taylor Battery, which takes an additional 15 minutes. This route features two more emplacements and impressive views. You can continue to Boulder Bay, connect with the Pilgrims Way Coastal Track to Taylors Mistake, or head towards the historic Scott's Cabin, named after Antarctic explorer Robert Scott. Climbing onto the cabin's roof provides another vantage point. To complete the extended loop, continue south and uphill back to the car park, allowing 90 minutes to two hours.
How to Get There
To reach Awaroa / Godley Head, drive along Summit Road from Evans Pass. Access the pass from Sumner via Evans Pass Road or from Lyttelton via Sumner Road, leading to the Godley Head car park and campsite. Alternatively, walk from Taylors Mistake along the Pilgrims Way Coastal Track to connect with the Godley Head Loop Track. The area is part of the extensive Port Hills and Banks Peninsula track system, offering further exploration opportunities.
