Harry Ell Walkway
Located in the Christchurch Port Hills area in the Canterbury region, New Zealand.
A walk that if done in a good pace would be under 30 minutes each way, takes something more like an hour each way when you let a little one lead the way! This is a super easy track, perfect for getting the kids used to the idea of a bush walk. Plus there's the Sign of the Kiwi at the top providing great coffee and awesome views to sip that coffee over (but BYO cup if you're after a takeaway cause those guys are saving the world.
Christchurch Port Hills Area
Further Information
Harry Ell Walkway
Track Access / Information
There are numerous entry/access points to Harry Ell from Dyers Pass Road and from Victoria Park. If you start from the rear of the Victoria Park Visitor Centre, zigzag down through the native plantings to cross Victoria Park Road and continue downhill to the junction with the Harry Ell Walkway. Turn left and walk up the well-maintained track which climbs gradually through a mixture of native and exotic woodland before emerging at the Summit Road, 100 metres from the Sign of the Kiwi.
Weather / What to wear?
With such a short day outing dress for the conditions (checking with your trusted weather service) As always its always a good idea to have access to some wind/waterproof jacket just in case Christchurch's southwesterly winds pick up.
Facilites
The Sign of the Kiwi, (originally called Toll House) is a small café and shop situated on Dyers Pass on the road between Christchurch and Governors Bay. It was built in 1916–17 by Harry Ell as a staging post and opened as a tearoom and rest house. With a selection of food and drinks that are much-needed incentive after your Harry Ell climb. There are also toilet facilities access here and at the Victoria Park main carpark.
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Child friendly hike
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Christchurch City Council (CCC)
For full Harry Ell Walkway information please use the click-through provided
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Entering the elements
Choosing the right gear/food options can be daunting, here's how to keep the whole family safe, feed, warm and happy
Directions
Google map track infomation
There is plenty of off-street parking via Dyers Pass Road from the beginning of the Harry Ell walkway. There are a number of different entry points on along this road and also access from Victoria Park.
So how did the children find it?
A message from Alba and Maya
Alba says: I LOVE IT! It’s so peaceful and sometimes there are lots of dogs. There’s a cafe at the top where you can get a broccoli smoothie! I’m kidding. Hahaha.
Maya says: I liked walking up the hill and I liked my smoothie.
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0% = Bad/Low | 100% = Great/High
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