Exploring the Port Hills: A Scenic Adventure
The Port Hills, located over 400 metres above Lyttelton Harbour and Christchurch / Ōtautahi, offer breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities. A drive up to Summit Road at the Sign of the Kiwi provides a stunning vantage point and access to numerous tracks, viewpoints, reserves, and rocky peaks. This area is a haven for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Discovering Summit Road
Starting from Governors Bay, Summit Road leads north along the crater rim towards Lyttelton. One of the first stops is the Bowenvale car park, situated above the Thomson Scenic Reserve and north of Te Heru o Kahukura / Sugarloaf. This area is known for its large transmitting tower. From here, visitors can choose to follow the main track south along the side of Sugarloaf or explore an informal track heading north and then east.
Scenic Views and Rocky Outcrops
The informal track leads to a rocky point, possibly Taukahara on Topo Map NZ. This spot offers superb cliff-edge views and features a distinctive "head" formed by one of the rocky outcrops. The scenery here is captivating, providing a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.
How to Get There
To reach the Port Hills and Summit Road, drive from Christchurch towards Governors Bay. From there, turn onto Summit Road and follow the crater rim north towards Lyttelton. The Bowenvale car park, located above the Thomson Scenic Reserve, is a convenient starting point for exploring the area. Nearby attractions include the Sign of the Kiwi and various tracks offering different views and experiences.
