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Godley Head Walking Tour

South Island

Adventure By Nature

from
NZ$299
per adult
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Bright blue water and rocky coastline seen from the Godley Head coastal trail near Taylors Mistake

Experiences

Small Group Tours Small Group Tours Shore Excursions Shore Excursions Family-friendly Tours Family-friendly Tours Half-Day Tours Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Christchurch
Locations: Christchurch, Lyttelton
Duration: 3.5 hours
Difficulty: 2

Details

History and Scenery on the Godley Head Walk

Set out from Christchurch for a guided half-day walking tour that blends breathtaking scenery with fascinating history. The journey begins with a drive through Lyttelton and Sumner before arriving at Taylors Mistake, a beautiful beach where the walk begins. From here, the coastal track leads above dramatic sea cliffs with views across the Pacific Ocean and Lyttelton Harbour.

Along the way, you’ll pass historic WWII bunkers, gun emplacements, and old military sites that once defended New Zealand’s shores. The track is well-formed and offers opportunities to spot local wildlife, including dolphins or the rare white-flippered penguin. With a small-group setting and a friendly local guide, this tour is the perfect mix of nature, history, and stunning Christchurch landscapes.

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Two hikers standing on cliff edge with Pacific Ocean views
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Couple taking a selfie with coastal views on Godley Head tour
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Two white tour vans parked with panoramic views of Lyttelton Harbour and surrounding hills
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View over Lyttelton Port and Harbour from walking trail
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Pouring hot coffee into a French press during a walking tour picnic
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Golden cliffs and waves at Taylors Mistake Beach
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Panoramic view of Lyttelton Harbour from Godley Head lookout

Tour Inclusions

  • Local tour guide
  • A/C Transport and pick-up with Christchurch city centre
  • Snacks and drinks
  • Visit Lyttelton Port
  • Stroll through Taylors Mistake Beach
  • Explore Godley Head’s WWII defences
  • Capture the stunning coastal scenery

Options

  • Half day tours
  • Full day tours
  • Private groups

Important Information

  • Pick-up: 8.30am or 1pm
  • Drop-off: 12pm or 4.30pm
  • Options include direct hotel pick-up within 3.5 km of Christchurch city centre, Citizens' Memorial, Zeroes Cafe, and Lyttelton Port for shore excursions.
  • Group size: Minimum of 2; maximum of 8.

Age Information

  • Adults: 13 years and over
  • Child: 5-12 years

Cancellations & Refunds

  • More than 48 hours before departure: Full refund**
  • Between 24 and 48 hours: 50% refund
  • Less than 24 hours: No refund
  • No shows: No refund

Note: **Refunds exclude credit card or booking fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Itinerary

Your tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation or the central meeting point in Cathedral Square. The first stop is the historic Sign of the Takahe, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views and photo opportunities. From there, the journey continues to the Sign of the Bellbird Scenic Reserve for a light snack while taking in sweeping views across the Canterbury Plains and Lyttelton Harbour.

Next, travel to Governors Bay Jetty to enjoy the peaceful coastal setting before heading to Lyttelton Township, where you’ll have time to browse local shops and soak up the area’s historic charm. At Evans Pass lookout, take in dramatic views of Lyttelton Harbour and learn about the port’s role in trade and Antarctic exploration. The final stop is Sumner Beach, where you can relax with a small picnic, stroll along the shoreline, or explore the village before returning to Christchurch for drop-off.

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