Lyttelton Shore Excursion - Guided Walking Tour and Picnic
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Escape the crowds and enjoy an incredible day in the great outdoors, on this stunning guided Crater Rim Walk. Lyttelton Harbour is nestled inside an extinct volcano crater. You will be met at Lyttleton Port by your guide, and transported in a 12-seater van to Sumner Beach for hot drinks at a cafe overlooking the ocean.
Godley Head Loop Track is undoubtedly one of the best hikes in Christchurch, an undulating track with breathtaking coastal views, historic WW2 landmarks, and quaint little beaches. The distance is approximately 8 km / 5 miles, taking around 3 hours to walk, with lots of time to stop and enjoy the scenery.
Morning tea is served at Godley Head, followed by a picnic lunch at Boulder Bay, a secluded beach looking out over Pegasus Bay, and the majestic Southern Alps. Seals, dolphins, and birds are often spotted.
After the walk, your guide will return you to Lyttleton Port, or if time allows you will also have the option of being dropped into Christchurch City to explore.
Available options
Guided Walk and Picnic
Duration: 5 hours: The best choice for Lyttleton cruise guests! We will meet you at the port, and return you to either Lyttelton or the city.<br/>Picnic: Morning tea, lunch, and water is provided, along with coffee/tea at a cafe on the way to the start of our walk.<br/>Path of the Gods: Lyttelton to Sumner, Godley Head, then you can choose to be dropped back to Lyttelton or into Christchurch City to explore.<br/>12 seater Van: Air conditioned<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Local guide
Walking poles
Snacks
Lunch
Port pickup
Coffee and/or Tea
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
After meeting your guide at Lyttelton Port, you will be transported in a 12-seater van to Sumner Beach (approximately 10 minutes drive), where you will enjoy a hot drink on the deck of a seaside cafe overlooking the ocean and Cave Rock. This is a beautiful landmark and a great start to the day.
2
Your next stop is Taylors Mistake beach (10 minutes drive), a beautiful black sand surf beach, with quaint little baches. Here your guide will hand out backpacks, poles, lunch, water bottles, and snacks, and prepare you for the walk.
3
The next three hours will be spent walking Godley Head Loop Track, undoubtedly one of Christchurch's most beautiful hikes. The track is undulating and well-maintained. Sights include Scott's Hutt (an Antarctic Cabin), WW2 Gun emplacements, a penguin colony, and coastal views in all directions. Picnic lunch will be enjoyed at a remote beach along the way with historic cabins, where we often encounter wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and many birds. Your walk returns to Taylors Mistake Beach.
4
Upon completion of your walk, your guide will drop you back to Lyttelton Port. Alternatively, if time allows, you can request to be dropped into Christchurch City to explore, and then make your own way back to Port.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
16 reviews
5★
16
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
38 reviews
5★
36
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Canterbury
Canterbury is a region in the South Island of New Zealand, known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant city life, and rich cultural heritage. It is home to Christchurch, the largest city in the region, and offers a unique blend of urban attractions and outdoor adventures.
Top Attractions
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
A beautiful 30-hectare garden located in the heart of Christchurch, featuring a diverse collection of plants, a conservatory, and the iconic Boatshed Cafe.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Christchurch Art Gallery
A leading art gallery in New Zealand, showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary and historical artworks, including works by renowned New Zealand artists.
Art
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Lyttelton
A historic port town located on the scenic Banks Peninsula, known for its colorful buildings, vibrant arts scene, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Southern Alps.
Historical
Half-day trip
Free to explore the town, paid activities available
Akaroa
A picturesque French-inspired village located on the Banks Peninsula, known for its charming architecture, dolphin-watching tours, and stunning coastal scenery.
Nature
Full-day trip
Free to explore the town, paid activities available
Arthur's Pass National Park
A stunning national park located in the Southern Alps, known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, including the endangered kea, the world's only alpine parrot.
Nature
Full-day trip or overnight stay
Free to enter the park, paid activities available
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hangi
A traditional Maori method of cooking food in an earth oven, using hot stones. The result is tender, smoky meat and vegetables with a unique flavor.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be adapted for vegetarian and vegan diets.
Whitebait Fritters
A New Zealand classic made from tiny whitebait fish, mixed with egg and fried into a delicate, crispy fritter.
Appetizer
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Lamb Rump
A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, typically served with seasonal vegetables and a red wine reduction.
Main Course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Pavlova
A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Dessert
Contains dairy and eggs, can be adapted for gluten-free diets.
Popular Activities
Hiking and walking trails
Skiing and snowboarding
Dolphin watching
Whale watching
Swimming and boating
Relaxing in the thermal pools
Spa treatments and massages
Golfing and other sports
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season in Canterbury, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities, beach trips, and exploring the region's natural beauty.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Maori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Canterbury is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly and welcoming local community. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxi services, and always agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and payment terminals, and always cover your PIN when entering it.
Getting there
By air
- Christchurch International Airport • 12 km from city center
By train
Christchurch Station
By bus
Christchurch Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Metro bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and a well-integrated network.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Ola
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Christchurch
Sumner
Riccarton
Lyttelton
Day trips
Akaroa
85 km from Christchurch • Full-day trip
Akaroa is a picturesque French-inspired village located on the Banks Peninsula, known for its charming architecture, dolphin-watching tours, and stunning coastal scenery.
Arthur's Pass National Park
130 km from Christchurch • Full-day trip or overnight stay
Arthur's Pass National Park is a stunning national park located in the Southern Alps, known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, including the endangered kea, the world's only alpine parrot.
Hanmer Springs
130 km from Christchurch • Full-day trip or overnight stay
Hanmer Springs is a popular resort town located in the Canterbury region, known for its natural hot springs, spa facilities, and a range of outdoor activities.
Festivals
The Christchurch Arts Festival • Every two years in August/September
The Canterbury A&P Show • Annually in November
The Akaroa French Festival • Annually in November
Pro tips
- Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens for a peaceful escape from the city and a chance to see the iconic Palm House and Rose Garden.
- Take a dolphin-watching tour in Akaroa to see the rare Hector's dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Explore the underground tunnels of the Christchurch Central City for a unique and fascinating insight into the city's history and resilience.
- Visit the International Antarctic Centre for an interactive and educational experience that explores the history, science, and wildlife of the frozen continent.
- Take a scenic flight over the Southern Alps for breathtaking views of the region's dramatic mountain landscapes.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
