Rapaki to Bowenvale

Point to point

Highlights & Must-See Features The undisputed highlight of this traverse is the panoramic views from the top. While the Rapaki ascent gives you great views of the city, reaching the Crater Rim unlocks the "other side." Standing at the top of the ridge, you can see the cargo ships entering Lyttelton Harbour and the tiny houses of the bays nestled into the hillsides.

Keep an eye out for the volcanic rock formations. The Port Hills are the eroded remains of two massive volcanoes, and the jagged outcrops along the Rapaki-Bowenvale ridge are a stark reminder of this fiery past. These rocks are popular spots for a quick photo or a snack break.

If you are a fan of big horizons, the view to the north-east is unbeatable. On a clear day, you can look right across Pegasus Bay all the way to the Kaikoura Ranges, where the mountains meet the sea in a dramatic white line on the horizon.

Getting There Because this is a point-to-point trail, a little bit of logistics planning goes a long way.

• Starting Point: The most popular start is the junction of Rapaki Road and Centaurus Road in Hillsborough. Parking here can be a bit of a challenge on sunny weekends. If the main spots are full, try Vernon Terrace or Centaurus Road.
• Pro Tip: For a slightly longer warm-up, park at Hansen Park or along Fifield Terrace and enjoy a flat, scenic stroll along the Heathcote River before you start the climb.
• Finishing Point: The trail ends at the bottom of Bowenvale Avenue in Cashmere.
• Transport: If you aren't doing a "car swap" with a friend, you can use the local bus network to get back to your starting point, or simply walk the flat 2.5km through the residential streets of Cashmere and Hillsborough to complete the loop.

Wildlife Spotting The Port Hills are a haven for native birdlife, thanks to extensive trapping and restoration efforts by local community groups. As you move through the scrub and gullies of the Bowenvale Valley, keep your ears open for the distinct, bell-like chime of the Korimako (Bellbird).

The cheeky Pīwakawaka (Fantail) is almost guaranteed to make an appearance, often flitting along the track beside you to catch the insects you stir up as you walk. In the more forested sections of Bowenvale, look up to see if you can spot a Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon) perched heavily on a branch. If you are very lucky—and very quiet—you might even see the Kārearea (New Zealand Falcon) soaring high above the rocky outcrops. They are rare but are known to hunt in the open tussock lands of the Port Hills.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips This trail is a true year-round adventure, but each season brings its own flavour: - Spring: The hills are at their greenest, and the native birds are at their most vocal. - Summer: It can get very hot and exposed. There is very little shade on the Rapaki side, so an early morning or late evening "golden hour" start is highly recommended. - Autumn: Often provides the most stable weather and the clearest views of the Southern Alps. - Winter: Crisp, cold air makes for incredible visibility. Just be prepared for a bit of mud on the Bowenvale descent.

• Footwear: While the Rapaki section is fine in running shoes, the Bowenvale descent is better suited to sturdy walking shoes or boots with good grip.
• Sun protection: The Port Hills are notorious for their lack of shade. Wear a hat and plenty of sunscreen.
• Windbreaker: Even if it’s calm in the city, the nor’west winds can whip over the Crater Rim with surprising force. A light windproof jacket is a must.
• Water: Carry at least 1.5 litres of water, as there are no taps along the track.

Local & Regional Context The Port Hills, or Ngā Kohatu Whakarakaraka a Tamatea-pōkai-whenua, hold deep significance for Ngāi Tahu. The ridges were traditional travel routes connecting the settlements of the Canterbury Plains with the mahinga kai (food gathering) sites of Lyttelton Harbour.

The Rapaki Track itself follows a historic route used by early European settlers and Māori alike. As you walk, you are traversing a landscape that has shifted from dense podocarp forest to farmed tussock land, and is now slowly being restored through native plantings. The area is a vital "green lung" for Christchurch, providing a necessary escape from the urban environment below.

After the Walk You’ve done the hard work, now it’s time for the reward. There are some fantastic spots nearby to refuel:

• The Sign of the Kiwi Cafe: Located just 3km from the top of the Rapaki Track at the Dyers Pass junction. This historic stone building is a Christchurch icon. It’s the perfect place for a celebratory coffee, a big bowl of hot chips, or a piece of their famous cabinet fudge. The views from the outdoor seating are some of the best in the city.
• Christchurch Adventure Park Cafe: A short drive into the valley will bring you here. It’s a vibrant, busy spot popular with hikers and bikers. They have a great range of healthy options, local craft beers, and plenty of space for kids to run around.
• The Halswell: If you’re looking for a proper "pub" feel, this is a local favourite. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly in the outdoor areas, and serves up hearty meals that are exactly what you need after burning 325m of elevation.

Whether you're a local looking for your weekly hill fix or a visitor wanting to see Christchurch from its best angle, the Rapaki to Bowenvale traverse is a walk that never fails to deliver.

4.5km away

A vibrant social hub in the Port Hills, ideal for post-hike refreshments. This cafe offers a unique menu with healthy, locally sourced options, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices, along with a fully licensed bar.