Timeline
20:24
Grab a hot drink or snack from a local shop in Christchurch before heading up. Check opening hours to ensure it is open at this time.
20:44
Drive, bike, or take the bus up Summit Road to reach the crest. The road and Crater Rim Walkway offer breathtaking views over Christchurch, the Southern Alps, Pegasus Bay, Lyttelton Harbour and Banks Peninsula.
21:09
Find a spot on the walkway to watch the sun set toward the WSW. Look out for sheep grazing on the walkways that traverse working farms.
21:39
Head back down as the light fades. The descent takes you past the working farms and back toward the city or harbour.
Local tip
The road can be busy. If you are driving, allow extra time to find parking near the walkway access points. If you are biking, be aware of traffic on Summit Road.
Check before you go
- Check bus timetables if you are not driving.
- Ensure your snack or drink shop is open before you leave.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Christchurch (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).