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Godley Head Walkway

4.8
·323 reviews·Christchurch, New Zealand

Stunning coastal walkway with panoramic views, abundant wildlife, and historical remnants. Perfect for a scenic hike.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunny days

Best views and light

CrowdMedium
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coast

Godley Head Walkway

Best Time

Sunny days

Best views and light

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Stunning coastal walkway with panoramic views, abundant wildlife, and historical remnants. Perfect for a scenic hike.

4.8
(323 reviews)

"You will be rewarded with views they are hard to top in Christchurch."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

The track has some inclines and uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for this scenic loop.

📸 Camera ready!

The views are spectacular! Allow extra time for photo stops to capture the stunning coastal scenery.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Coastal Views

Panoramic Coastal Views

Breathtaking vistas of the Canterbury coastline, Pegasus Bay, and the Southern Alps. Unforgettable scenery.

Seal Colony Spotting

Seal Colony Spotting

Keep an eye out for New Zealand fur seals basking on the rocks below. A thrilling wildlife encounter.

Lambing Season Delights

Lambing Season Delights

During spring, the hillsides are dotted with playful lambs. A charming and picturesque sight.

Historic Remnants

Historic Remnants

Discover remnants of military history, including old gun emplacements, adding a unique layer to your walk.

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Planning Your Visit

Best Time for Views & Wildlife

Visit during daylight hours for the best panoramic views of Christchurch and the surrounding bays. Early mornings or late afternoons offer stunning light for photography and increased chances of spotting seals and lambs during lambing season.

Trail Variety & Access

The Godley Head Walkway offers a loop track suitable for most fitness levels, with some brief inclines. You can also connect to Lyttelton or explore nearby Taylor's Mistake beach. Be mindful of narrow, windy roads leading to some access points.

Best Times

When
Sunny days
Why
Best views and light
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunrise/Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Low
When
Spring (lambing season)
Why
Cute lambs abound
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Godley Heads...

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

The track has some inclines and uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for this scenic loop. Reddit

📸 Camera ready!

The views are spectacular! Allow extra time for photo stops to capture the stunning coastal scenery. Reddit

reddit.com

Hiking from Sumner to Lyttelton around Godley Head

reddit.com

What’s the best way to get to the Godley Head loop track from the City?

💧 Bring water & snacks

While there are some facilities, it's wise to carry your own refreshments for the walk. Reddit

🚗 Drive carefully

Access roads can be narrow and windy, especially the residential road. Consider alternatives if in a large vehicle. Reddit

reddit.com

Decent walks in chch?

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

The track has some inclines and uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for this scenic loop. Reddit

📸 Camera ready!

The views are spectacular! Allow extra time for photo stops to capture the stunning coastal scenery. Reddit

💧 Bring water & snacks

While there are some facilities, it's wise to carry your own refreshments for the walk. Reddit

🚗 Drive carefully

Access roads can be narrow and windy, especially the residential road. Consider alternatives if in a large vehicle. Reddit

🐶 Dog-friendly (on leash)

Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs here, but ensure they are kept on a leash. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(323 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning coastal views and abundant wildlife, particularly seals and lambs. The loop track is praised for being manageable for most fitness levels, though some note brief steep sections. The convenience of facilities like toilets and picnic areas is also a plus, though driving access can be challenging for larger vehicles.

"Such a good walk. Relatively easy going, only some fairly hilly part, but the majority reasonably flat. Great views and lots of wildlife. Saw lots of sheep, lambs and a couple of seals on our walk. Def recommend."

Shaun B

"If you’re unsure about doing the Awaroa/Godley Head Loop Track, this is your sign to do it. There are stretches of steep incline, but they are brief. You will be rewarded with views they are hard to top in Christchurch. It’s just you, nature and your thoughts out there. Allow 2.5 hours to complete the loop, based on moderate fitness and plenty of photo stops! If you visit during lambing season you will spot many cute faces."

Lina Bui

"One of my favourite places to go walking! The views are so beautiful! The walk is really nice and easy to turn around! Theres a cute village on the side track that you can visit within some bush which is so nice to go to! There’s a number of maps, toilets, rubbish bins and drinking fountains! There’s even a biking track, but am yet to try! I love exploring here and the fact that it is next to Taylor’s mistake beach is so nice so you can walk and then go for a dip in the ocean! Theres also a playground and picnic tables next to the car park as well as changing rooms and showers! I can’t wait to come here again!"

Katharina Kammerer

What People Like

Spectacular coastal views
Abundant wildlife sightings
Manageable loop track

What People Dislike

Narrow, steep access roads

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can drive to the Godley Head Walkway. The most common access point is via a car park near the start of the loop. Be aware that some access roads are narrow and winding, so drive carefully, especially if you're in a larger vehicle. Alternatively, you can start from Sumner and hike towards the walkway. Reddit

Yes, it's possible to hike from Sumner towards Godley Head. Some visitors even combine this with the loop or continue on to Lyttelton. Google Maps can help plan routes, but be prepared for varied terrain. Reddit

Yes, there is a car park available at the start of the Godley Head Loop Track, which is convenient for accessing the walkway. Reddit

The residential road leading to Godley Head can be steep, narrow, and windy. It's advisable to drive cautiously and consider if your vehicle is suitable. Reddit

Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of Godley Head are limited. Driving or cycling are the most common ways to reach the trailhead. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Godley Head Walkway is a public reserve and is free to access. You don't need to purchase any tickets to enjoy the trails and views. Reddit

The Godley Head Walkway is accessible at all times, as it's an outdoor public space. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and the best experience. Reddit

No booking is required. As it's a public walking track, you can visit anytime without prior reservation. Reddit

The main restriction is to respect the natural environment and wildlife. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash. Reddit

The loop track is generally open year-round. However, it's always a good idea to check local conditions or weather forecasts, especially after heavy rain or during extreme weather events. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Godley Head Loop Track typically takes around 2.5 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop for photos. Reddit

The walkway is generally considered easy to moderate. There are some brief, steep inclines, but the majority of the path is relatively flat and well-maintained. It's suitable for beginners. Reddit

You can often spot New Zealand fur seals on the rocks below, as well as numerous sheep and lambs, especially during lambing season in spring. Reddit

Yes, there are toilets, rubbish bins, and drinking fountains available near the car park. There are also picnic tables and changing rooms/showers. Reddit

Absolutely! You can extend your walk to Lyttelton or explore the nearby Taylor's Mistake beach. There are various track combinations possible. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For photography, aim for sunny days for clear, expansive views. Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light, creating dramatic landscapes and enhancing wildlife shots. Reddit

The viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the coastline and bays are prime photography locations. Don't miss opportunities to capture seals on the rocks and the charming lambs in spring. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient to capture the beauty of Godley Head. However, a zoom lens can be helpful for getting closer shots of wildlife like seals. Reddit

There are no specific photography restrictions, but always be mindful of the environment and wildlife. Avoid disturbing seals or nesting birds. Reddit

Expect stunning landscape shots of the coastline, ocean, and distant mountains. You can also capture wildlife, historical remnants, and the charming rural scenery with sheep. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Godley Head Walkway is a great option for families looking for an accessible outdoor adventure. The loop track is manageable for most children, with only short, steep sections that can be tackled with encouragement. The chance to see lambs in spring and potentially seals is a huge hit with younger visitors. Reddit

Near the car park, you'll find picnic tables, a playground, and even changing rooms and showers, making it convenient for a family outing. Remember to bring plenty of snacks and water, and ensure children stay on the marked paths and away from cliff edges. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Hikers & Dog Walkers

Solo hikers will appreciate the sense of peace and solitude Godley Head can offer, especially outside peak times. The well-defined paths and clear signage make it easy to navigate independently. It's also a popular spot for dog walkers, with many visitors bringing their canine companions along for the adventure. Just remember to keep your dog on a leash to respect the wildlife and other visitors. Reddit

The ability to easily turn back or choose shorter routes provides flexibility for solo travelers. The stunning views also offer a great backdrop for personal reflection or simply enjoying nature's grandeur. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Godley Head is a dream destination. The panoramic coastal views are spectacular at any time of day, but sunrise and sunset offer particularly dramatic lighting. Capture the rugged cliffs, the vast expanse of the ocean, and the distant Southern Alps. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the wildlife, from the seals on the rocks to the lambs in the fields. The historical military remnants also provide unique photographic subjects. A zoom lens can be beneficial for wildlife shots, but a standard camera or smartphone will capture the essence of this beautiful location. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Godley Head Loop Track

The Godley Head Walkway is most famously explored via its loop track, offering a comprehensive experience of the area's natural beauty and historical significance. This track is generally considered beginner-friendly, with most of the path being relatively flat. However, be prepared for a few brief, steep inclines that will test your stamina but reward you with incredible views. The loop typically takes about 2.5 hours to complete, allowing ample time for photo stops and soaking in the scenery. Reddit

Along the loop, you'll encounter historical remnants of the area's military past, including old gun emplacements, which add a unique dimension to the walk. The wildlife viewing opportunities are a major draw; keep a keen eye out for New Zealand fur seals lounging on the rocks below and, during spring, the adorable lambs frolicking in the paddocks. Reddit

For those looking to extend their adventure, the Godley Head Loop can be integrated into longer walks. It's possible to hike from Sumner to Lyttelton, incorporating parts of the Godley Head trails. This flexibility makes it a versatile destination for various hiking preferences. Reddit

Wildlife Encounters at Godley Head

Godley Head is a fantastic spot for observing local wildlife in their natural habitat. The most sought-after sightings are the New Zealand fur seals, which often haul themselves out onto the rocky shores below the cliffs. It's crucial to maintain a safe distance and observe them respectfully without disturbing their rest. Binoculars can enhance your viewing experience from the clifftop paths. Reddit

During the spring months, the hillsides surrounding the walkway become a nursery for countless sheep and lambs. Witnessing their playful antics adds a charming, pastoral element to the coastal scenery. Remember that these are working farmlands, so stick to the marked paths to avoid disturbing the livestock. Reddit

Beyond seals and sheep, the area is also a haven for various seabirds. While not as prominent as the seals, birdwatchers might spot gulls, shags, and other coastal species. The diverse ecosystem makes Godley Head a rewarding destination for nature enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

Access and Driving Considerations

Getting to Godley Head requires some attention to road conditions. While there's a convenient car park at the start of the loop, the access road itself can be narrow, steep, and windy. This is particularly true for the residential road leading directly to the main access point. Visitors with larger vehicles, such as campervans, should exercise extreme caution or consider alternative access routes to avoid potential difficulties. Reddit

An alternative approach involves driving up Evans Pass, which offers beautiful scenery and leads to a wider road access point to the car park. For those who prefer to avoid the challenging drive altogether, starting the walk from Sumner is a viable option. This allows you to experience the coastal path without navigating the trickier roads. Reddit

It's also worth noting that the area is popular with surfers heading to nearby Taylor's Mistake beach, so be mindful of other traffic. Planning your route and being prepared for the road conditions will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable visit to Godley Head. Reddit

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