Lyttelton A Natural Playground

Follow the footsteps of early European settlers and walk the Bridle Path linking Christchurch to Lyttelton, where you will be rewarded with sweeping views of the city and Lyttelton at the top. Along the path, you'll find memorial seats honouring the pioneers and the first four ships to Canterbury who walked or rode over from Lyttelton.

For a seaside walk, head from Lyttelton along the Coastal Path to Corsair Bay. Named after a whaling vessel that drifted onto rocks in 1861 and was wrecked, Corsair Bay is a beautiful spot to spend the day. The track takes about an hour but if you're after something a little shorter, the self-guided Heritage Walk explores the historical sites of Lyttelton township.

Alternatively, head up into the hills behind Lyttelton for magnificent vistas over Whakaraupō Lyttelton Harbour. The walk takes you through Urumau Reserve, which has been the focus of community native tree planting over the past few years. Note that this 3.5 hour walk includes steep hill climbs and narrow cliff paths.

A blanket, a basket of treats and a beautiful view? Yes please. Close to Lyttelton you'll find plenty of spots to lay back and enjoy a seaside picnic. Corsair Bay and Cass Bay are popular spots for good reason with playgrounds, tables, and toilets making them easy spots to park up for an afternoon. If you take the walking track between Corsair Bay and Cass Bay, you'll also find a tiny private beach about halfway. A little further west of Cass Bay you'll find Pony Point, a grassy scenic reserve surrounded by native plants and stunning views.

For some of the best views the city has to offer, a trip up the Christchurch Gondola is a must. Discover postcard-worthy views of Lyttelton Harbour, the mighty Southern Alps, the sparkling waters of Pegasus Bay and panoramic views of the city.

A fun family activity or romantic way to spend the afternoon, the Gondola and Summit Station offers more than just stunning scenes. Get your heart rate up and explore the many walking tracks nearby. Or, if relaxation is more your style take some time to sit back and soak in the views with a drink or something to eat from the Red Rock Café.

A short way across Lyttelton Harbour you'll find Diamond Harbour, a lovely little day trip to get away without the hassle of too much travel. Take a quick ride on the Black Cat Ferry from Lyttelton with crossings every hour. On arrival explore the coastal track, Stoddart Cottage, art gallery and the delightful Diamond Harbour Eatery overlooking a reserve. There's also a great spot to fish off the wharf or enjoy a dip in the harbour.

Another option is Quail Island, a short 15-minute ferry ride from Lyttelton. Spend a full or half-day exploring the picturesque and historic destination by jumping on a Black Cat Cruises Quail Island Ferry. The island's scenic walkway passes by shipwrecks, a former leper colony and a former quarantine station used by the early European settlers. Be sure to keep a look out for the incredible bird life, as the island is home to a range of native birds including the fantail, kingfisher, silvereye and many sea birds.