Last updated October 2026
Awaroa/Godley Head offers a distinctive coastal camping experience on a dramatic headland near Sumner, Christchurch, where visitors can camp within a historic WWII defence battery site while enjoying sweeping ocean views.
The Department of Conservation manages the site at the entrance to Whakaraupō/Lyttelton Harbour. It combines easy walking tracks, wildlife opportunities and significant military heritage just a short drive from the city centre.
Campers and day visitors appreciate the exposed clifftop setting and the chance to explore restored heritage structures. The area reopened to the public on 30 August 2024 following remediation of historic contamination.
Access is via the narrow, winding Summit Road, and the site suits those seeking a basic, scenic overnight stay or a rewarding half-day outing with panoramic Canterbury coastline views.
Practical Information
- Location
- Awaroa/Godley Head, near Sumner, Christchurch
- Access
- 50-minute drive from Christchurch city centre via Sumner, Evans Pass Road and Summit Road; gated campsite entry
- Camping fees
- Adult $18 per night, child (5–17) $9, infant free; DOC Campsite Pass accepted; online booking required
- Facilities
- Toilets, parking, caretaker on-site, mobile coverage; no open fires; follow contaminant signage
- Tracks
- Awaroa/Godley Head Loop Track (easy, family-friendly)
- Status
- Open; dogs on lead only; steep unfenced cliffs require supervision of children
- Nearest services
- Sumner suburb (cafes, beaches); Taylors Mistake for swimming and surfing
About Awaroa/Godley Head
Awaroa/Godley Head sits atop sheer 120-metre cliffs overlooking the entrance to Whakaraupō/Lyttelton Harbour. The headland provides expansive views across the harbour to Banks Peninsula and along the Canterbury coastline on clear days.
The site features a WWII coastal defence battery constructed in 1939 and ranked among New Zealand’s top ten coastal defence heritage sites. Visitors can explore the battery buildings, underground chambers and interpretation panels that detail its role protecting the port during the war.
The name Godley Head honours John Robert Godley, a founder of the Canterbury settlement, while Awaroa reflects the area’s Māori heritage. The dual naming highlights the layered cultural and historical significance of the location.
Vegetation consists mainly of modified grasslands, and the exposed setting means strong winds and changeable weather are common. The area supports white-flippered penguins (kororā) at nearby Boulder Bay through active conservation efforts.
Basic camping is available within the military compound, making it one of the closest DOC campsites to central Christchurch. The site also offers mountain biking options and connects to longer coastal walks.
Camping at Awaroa/Godley Head
The campsite provides a rustic experience with toilets and parking. Campers must book online in advance and receive a gate code; bookings close at 8 pm on the day of arrival. The DOC Campsite Pass is accepted.
The site is very exposed to wind and weather, with a noted treefall risk in stormy conditions. Open fires are not permitted. Visitors must follow all signage regarding capped historic contaminants and keep dogs on leads at all times.
A lighthouse cottage is also available for booking nearby. The campsite lies about 50 minutes’ drive from Cathedral Square and is close to Sumner’s beaches and cafes.
Walking and Cycling
The easy-graded Awaroa/Godley Head Loop Track passes through the campsite and offers spectacular coastal views suitable for families and all fitness levels. It showcases the headland, heritage structures and harbour vistas.
From the car park, a mountain bike track descends below the road toward Breeze Col and connects to the Anaconda Track leading to Taylors Mistake beach. The Summit Road itself is popular with cyclists, so drivers should take extra care on the narrow, winding route.
Longer options include sections of the aspirational Head to Head Walkway around Whakaraupō/Lyttelton Harbour.
Wildlife and Nearby Attractions
White-flippered penguins (kororā) can be observed at Boulder Bay, where restoration projects are underway. The headland also provides opportunities to see other coastal bird species.
Popular nearby spots include Taylors Mistake beach for swimming and surfing, and the historic baches along the coast. The area forms part of the Port Hills recreational network managed jointly by DOC and Christchurch City Council.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation – Awaroa/Godley Head Campsite: Official details on fees, bookings, access and current conditions.
Department of Conservation – Awaroa/Godley Head: Overview of the headland, heritage battery, tracks and safety information.
Christchurch City Council – Godley Head: Local context on Port Hills tracks and recreational opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Awaroa/Godley Head open for camping?
Yes, the site reopened on 30 August 2024 after remediation of historic contamination. Check the DOC website for any temporary restrictions before travel.
What are the camping fees and booking requirements?
Adult $18 per night, child (5–17) $9, infant free. Online booking is required before arrival to receive the gate code; the DOC Campsite Pass is accepted.
Are there facilities at the campsite?
Toilets and parking are available with a caretaker on-site. No open fires are permitted. Follow all signage about capped contaminants and keep dogs on leads.
Is the Awaroa/Godley Head Loop Track suitable for families?
Yes, the easy-graded track offers coastal views and passes through the heritage site, making it appropriate for children and walkers of varying abilities.
Can I reach the site by public transport?
Public transport serves Sumner, but there is no direct service to Godley Head. Driving via Summit Road is the main access method.
What wildlife might I see?
White-flippered penguins (kororā) are present at nearby Boulder Bay. The headland also supports other coastal bird species.
Are there any safety considerations?
The area features steep, unfenced cliffs and strong winds. Supervise children closely and check weather conditions before visiting.
Is mountain biking available?
Yes, a track starts from the car park and connects toward Taylors Mistake. The Summit Road is shared with cyclists, so drive with care.
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