Godley Head

If you’re looking for the ultimate Christchurch coastal stomp, the Awaroa/Godley Head Loop Track is hard to beat. This is the kind of walk that makes you feel incredibly lucky to live in or visit Waitaha Canterbury. It’s a quintessential local favourite that serves up a perfect cocktail of dramatic cliffside views, unique Kiwi history, and a decent bit of exercise to earn your post-hike coffee.

The Route at a Glance * Distance: 9.3km loop * Duration: Approx. 3 hours * Elevation Gain: 300m * Difficulty: Moderate

What to Expect Starting from the golden sands of Taylors Mistake Beach (a legendary local surf spot), the track immediately sweeps you into the rugged charm of the Port Hills. You’ll first wander past the quirky, historic baches at Boulder Bay. These tiny, colourful huts cling to the hillside and offer a nostalgic glimpse into a simpler era of seaside living.

As you begin to climb, the path hugs the 120-metre-high cliffs. The views here are nothing short of spectacular—you’ll look across the vast Pacific Ocean, out toward Pegasus Bay, and on those crisp, clear days, the snow-capped Kaikōura Ranges appear like magic on the horizon.

The terrain is mostly well-formed gravel, but don't let that fool you—there are a few "thigh-warming" sections as you gain those 300 metres of elevation. Because the headland is quite exposed, you’ll likely feel the famous Canterbury easterly breeze, so a windbreaker is usually a good shout.

A Journey Through History What really sets Godley Head apart is its status as a Tohu Whenua heritage site. The headland is home to a remarkably well-preserved WWII coastal defence battery. Exploring the old gun emplacements and observation posts feels like stepping back in time. There are excellent interpretive panels and murals that explain how this site stood sentinel over Lyttelton Harbour.

Keep an eye out for Scott’s Cabin too—a historic hut originally intended for Captain Robert Scott’s Antarctic expeditions. It’s a poignant reminder of Christchurch’s long-standing connection to the icy continent.

Wildlife Spotting Nature lovers, keep your binoculars handy! You’ll often see shags sunning themselves on the rocks below. If the sea is calm, watch for the tell-tale dorsal fins of Hector’s dolphins playing in the surf. This area is also home to the kororā (white-flippered penguin); while they are elusive during the day, they nest in the secluded bays below.