Your first experience today will probably not be the highlight of your New Zealand visit. But it's probably worth noting that you'll be driving down the longest city street in New Zealand. It's called Colombo Street and you'll drive down the 4-miles of Colombo St on the way to your first stop for today, the Cashmere Hills Lookout.
From the Cashmere Hills Lookout, you'll get great views to the west, across the city, the Canterbury Plains and in the distance the Southern Alps.
View from the Cashmere Hills Lookout
Then it's just a 10-minutes drive to the top of the Cashmere Hills, before driving down the other side to Governors Bay.
This Map will show you the routing we might suggest, including the the location of Governors Bay.
At Governors Bay there's lots to explore. Maybe start with a breakfast or lunch at the popular and historic Ōtoromiro Hotel, established back in 1870.
After your visit, take a 5-minute stroll down to the recently refurbished Governors Bay Jetty for some close up views of the harbor.
The original Governors Bay Jetty, before an extensive $3.8 million dollar upgrade that was completed in 2022.
On your walk down to the jetty, a slight detour will take you past the home of Margaret Mahy, (1969–2012) who will be known to many of our readers in the United States, as a writer of wonderful children's books, including 'A Lion in the Meadow', 'The Seven Chinese Brothers and 'The Man Whose Mother was a Pirate'.
From the jetty you might then decide to continue along the Governors Bay Foreshore Track or one of the many other walks available from the Bay, most of which offer stunning views over the harbor.
Walking Trail overlooking the harbor.
Those who love gardens will want to visit the historic home at Ōhinetahi, considered by many to be the best in the country.
And well worth a visit is the 10 minute drive from Ōhinetahi to the summit of Gebbies Pass for even better views of the harbor and surrounding valleys and hills.
Gebbies Pass.
Then, for the drive home, we suggest you follow the harbor from Governors Bay, around to the port of Lyttleton, and if it's a Saturday call at the very popular Lyttleton Market Day site.
Finally, make a stop at the seaside village of Sumner, a great place for a seaside walk or enjoying a coffee at one of the local cafes.
Sunny Sumner.
This blog includes just some of the experiences you can enjoy on a visit to Christchurch. But like all New Zealand Vacations customers, we listen carefully to your input, and from that, we'll tailor make your Christchurch visit according to your particular interests.
