Lake Coleridge Walks

Out and back

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undeniable highlight of the Peak Hill Route is the perspective it gives you on the Canterbury landscape. Most people see the Southern Alps from the flat plains, but from here, you are eye-to-level with the giants.

• The 360-Degree Panorama: From the summit cairn, you can see the Wilberforce River joining the Rakaia, the deep blue depths of the lake, and the endless rows of mountains stretching toward the Main Divide.
• The Braided Rivers: Seeing the Rakaia River from this height is a masterclass in geography. The intricate patterns of the water channels are a photographer’s dream, especially in the late afternoon light.
• The Tussock Landscapes: The golden-yellow hue of the high-country tussock against the deep blue of the lake provides a colour contrast that is uniquely New Zealander. It’s a rugged, beautiful palette that changes with every shift of the clouds.
• Geological Wonders: Keep an eye out for the "roche moutonnée" formations—rock outcrops shaped by ancient glaciers that carved this valley thousands of years ago.

Getting There

To get to the trailhead from Christchurch, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive (roughly 100km). Head west on State Highway 73, then turn off onto Coleridge Road at Glentunnel. Follow this road all the way to Lake Coleridge Village.

Once you pass through the village, continue onto Algidus Road (which becomes unsealed/gravel). Drive for about 9 kilometres. You’ll see a DOC information sign on the right-hand side of the road with a small area to park on the grass verge. Be mindful of not blocking the road or any farm gates, as this is an active high-country station area.

Wildlife Spotting

While the terrain is rugged, it is far from empty. The open tussock is the preferred playground for the New Zealand Pipit (pihoihoi). These little birds are often confused with skylarks, but you’ll recognise them by their habit of wagging their tails up and down as they run along the ground ahead of you on the track.

You will also likely see Fantails (pīwakawaka) flitting around the lower scrub, and you’ll certainly hear the "honk" of Paradise Shelducks (pūtangitangi) echoing from the farm ponds below. If you look down toward the lake edges, you might spot the rare Australasian Crested Grebe (kāmana) diving for fish.

On very lucky days, especially if there is a bit of a chill in the air, a Kea might fly over from the nearby alpine ranges. Keep a sharp ear out for their distinctive "kee-aa" call—though they are more occasional visitors here than in the deep Alps, they love the high-country ridges.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Peak Hill Route is a true four-season track, but each season demands a different level of preparation:

• Spring: The mountains are still heavily capped in snow, making for the best photos, but the track can be very muddy and "greasy" as the winter frost thaws.
• Summer: It gets incredibly hot here. There is zero shade on this entire hike. Start as early as possible (sunrise is best) to beat the heat and the strongest winds.
• Autumn: This is arguably the best time to go. The air is crisp, the light is golden, and the winds are often more settled.
• Winter: If you are an experienced hiker, a winter ascent is stunning, but you must be prepared for snow and ice. Crampons or at least micro-spikes are often necessary on the steep sections.

• Water: Take at least 2 litres per person. There are no streams or water sources on the ridge.
• Wind Protection: Even on a calm day in the city, the wind at the summit of Peak Hill can be fierce. Bring a high-quality windbreaker or hardshell jacket.
• Sun Protection: The Canterbury sun is brutal. Wear a hat and high-SPF sunscreen.
• Footwear: Do not attempt this in sneakers. The loose, steep terrain requires boots with excellent grip to prevent slipping on the descent.

Local & Regional Context

Lake Coleridge is more than just a scenic spot; it holds a significant place in New Zealand’s industrial and natural history. The lake sits in a basin formed by a massive glacier during the last ice age. Interestingly, the lake has no natural surface outlet; its water seeps through the glacial moraine into the Rakaia River.

In 1914, Lake Coleridge became the site of New Zealand's first major state-owned hydroelectric power station. This scheme was a massive feat of engineering at the time and helped bring electricity to the South Island.

For Māori, the Rakaia River was a vital ara tawhito (ancient trail) for those travelling between the East Coast and the West Coast in search of pounamu (greenstone). The high country provided seasonal resources, and the spirits of the mountains remain significant to the local Ngāi Tahu iwi. When you stand on the summit, you are looking out over a landscape that has served as a highway and a home for centuries.

After the Walk

Once you’ve navigated the steep descent back to your car, your legs will likely be feeling the burn. There are a few great spots to refuel on the way back to the main highway:

• The Lake Coleridge Lodge: Sometimes open for coffee and snacks, it’s worth a check to see if they are serving.
• Hororata Village Bar & Café: A classic local haunt about 30 minutes back toward Christchurch. They do great "pub-style" food and cold drinks—exactly what you need after a 600-metre climb.
• Glentunnel Store: Perfect for a quick ice cream or a meat pie to keep you going for the drive home.

The Peak Hill Route is a "hard" walk not because of its length, but because of its intensity. However, the moment you see the blue of the lake meeting the white of the mountains, you'll forget all about your tired legs. It is a quintessential Canterbury experience that every hiker should have on their bucket list.

Australasian Crested Grebe (Pūteketeke)

Podiceps cristatus australis

Famous for their elaborate courtship displays and carrying their chicks on their backs, these diving birds have distinctive head plumes.

Best time: Year-round