Last updated July 2026
At Godley Head, near Christchurch, visitors discover dramatic coastal cliffs and preserved military heritage on the eastern edge of the Port Hills. The headland rises above sheer 120-metre cliffs overlooking Pegasus Bay and Lyttelton Harbour, offering panoramic views on clear days that can extend to the Kaikōura ranges. Access is straightforward by car via Sumner and Evans Pass Road, with the main car park about a 45 to 50 minute drive from central Christchurch. The area combines walking tracks, historic structures from the Second World War, and opportunities to see returning white-flippered penguins at Boulder Bay.
Practical Information
| Location | Awaroa/Godley Head, Port Hills, Christchurch |
| Access | 45–50 minute drive from Christchurch CBD via Sumner and Evans Pass Road; walking or cycling options from Sumner or Taylors Mistake |
| Key Track | Awaroa/Godley Head Loop Track, approximately 7–9 km, 3 hours |
| Facilities | Toilets and parking at Godley Head and Taylors Mistake car parks |
| Dogs | Allowed on a lead (not on Taylors Mistake beach in summer) |
| Best For | Walking, history, coastal views, wildlife spotting |
| Management | Christchurch City Council and Department of Conservation |
About Godley Head
Godley Head occupies a strategic headland on the Port Hills east of Christchurch. Its exposed position atop 120-metre cliffs provides sweeping views across the harbour, coastline, and Banks Peninsula. The landscape features modified grasslands and rugged coastal terrain shaped by wind and sea.
The area supports returning wildlife, including white-flippered penguins (kororā) at Boulder Bay. Easy-graded tracks make the headland suitable for families and visitors of varying fitness levels, though steep unfenced cliffs require caution and close supervision of children.
Recent remediation work completed in 2024 addressed historical soil contamination at the WWII sites. Visitors must follow on-site signage, keep dogs on leads, and avoid digging.
Coastal Walking Trails
The main route is the Awaroa/Godley Head Loop Track. It can be started from either the Taylors Mistake or Godley Head car parks and typically takes three hours to complete. The track follows cliff tops, passes Boulder Bay baches, and offers continuous coastal views.
Sections include the Pilgrims Way Coastal Track and connections via Black Rock Track. The route is predominantly flat or gently graded with some short climbs. Mountain biking is not permitted on the loop track, though other nearby trails allow it.
Walkers should carry water, wear sturdy footwear, and be prepared for exposed conditions. Livestock graze the area, so gates must be closed and animals given space.
WWII History
The Godley Head coastal defence battery was constructed in 1939 as one of 44 New Zealand coastal defence sites during the Second World War. It served as a counter-bombardment battery to protect Lyttelton Port and later assisted in defending Brighton Beach approaches.
At its peak in 1942, more than 400 personnel operated the battery around the clock, including members of the Women’s Auxiliary Army Corps. The site includes gun emplacements, observation posts, an underground magazine, and associated camp structures. It is ranked among New Zealand’s top ten coastal defence heritage locations and contains over 110 associated historic features.
Interpretation panels and graffiti celebrating the WAAC’s role remain visible. Scott’s Cabin, built for Captain Robert Scott’s Antarctic expeditions, lies a short walk from the military compound and adds an earlier layer of exploration history.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers praise the spectacular cliff-top views and the well-preserved WWII gun emplacements that bring history to life. Many appreciate the moderate loop track that combines coastal scenery with easy access to historic sites.
Families note the track’s gentle gradients and interesting features for children, while highlighting the need to stay on the formed path near unfenced cliffs. Visitors often mention the returning penguin colony as a highlight when conditions allow sightings.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation – Awaroa/Godley Head: Official details on tracks, history, safety, and current conditions.
Christchurch City Council – Godley Head Track: Track description, access information, and Port Hills context.
Heritage New Zealand – Godley Head Battery Historic Area: Heritage listing and significance of the WWII structures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Awaroa/Godley Head Loop Track?
The loop is approximately 7–9 km and usually takes about three hours to complete at a moderate pace.
Can I see penguins at Godley Head?
White-flippered penguins (kororā) are being reintroduced at Boulder Bay. Sightings are possible but not guaranteed; observe from a respectful distance.
Is the track suitable for families?
Yes, the graded track suits families and visitors with reasonable fitness. Keep children supervised near unfenced cliffs.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are permitted on a lead throughout the reserve but are prohibited from Taylors Mistake beach during summer months.
What is the best way to reach Godley Head from Christchurch?
Drive via Sumner and Evans Pass Road to the Summit Road. The journey takes 45–50 minutes from the city centre.
Can I mountain bike on the loop track?
No, mountain biking is not allowed on the Awaroa/Godley Head Loop Track, though other trails in the Port Hills permit it.
Are there any recent site changes?
Soil contamination remediation was completed in 2024. Follow all signage regarding capped areas and restrictions on digging.
Is there parking and toilets?
Yes, parking and toilets are available at both the Godley Head and Taylors Mistake car parks.
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