Explore Lyttelton

Lyttelton, situated about a 20-minute drive from Christchurch on the northwestern end of Banks Peninsula, is a historic port town located in the suitably-named Port Hills on the site of an extinct volcano.

Historically known as the ‘Gateway to Canterbury’ for colonial settlers who arrived in the late 1700’s, modern Lyttleton is a charming, quaint, and lively town that is well worth a visit on any trip to Christchurch.

History

Lyttelton was the original European settlement in the district, with sealers and whalers occupying the area in the late 18th century, and about 300 settlers in the town by the year 1850. Originally called Port Cooper in the 1830’s after Daniel Cooper, and then known as Port Victoria, the name Lyttelton was formalised by the governor in 1858 in honour of George William Lyttelton of the Canterbury Association, who aimed to form a Church of England colony in New Zealand and had led the colonisation of the area. As Christchurch was hampered by a shortage of building supplies and money, Lyttelton was originally the primary area of settlement in Canterbury.

Lyttelton Port, which opened in 1877, was the main port in the Canterbury Region and continues to be today, while the rail tunnel that opened in 1867 connected the small town to Christchurch. The harbour can accommodate large ships bringing in products such as petrol, fertilisers, iron, and steel, and exports products such as wool, dairy products, wheat, frozen meats, and timber.

In 2011, Lyttelton was close to the epicentre of the devastating 6.3 magnitude earthquake which struck the Christchurch area, and suffered widespread damage to historic buildings, infrastructure, and wharves.

Today, almost all of the historic buildings are gone, but this charming town has an old, historic feel to it nonetheless.

Things to do 

Corsair Bay: For those who are visiting this picturesque town in summer, a day spent swimming at the beach in Corsair Bay is an absolute must. Enjoy a picnic, spend the day sunbathing, or check out the coastal walking tracks to the nearby Magazine Bay or Cass Bay.

Famer’s Market: If you happen to be here on a Saturday, the Lyttelton Farmers Market is a slice of Kiwi culture at its finest.

Check out the local artisan products, buy some fresh fruit and veges, and treat yourself to some delicious homemade goods.

Quail Island: A ferry ride over to Quail Island is a must-do for any history buff or for those wanting to experience some stunning walks and swimming spots.

From a quarantine facility, to housing a leprosy colony, to the training ground where Scott and Shackleton trained their sled-dogs and ponies for Antarctic exhibitions, Quail Island is brimming with fantastic historical tales.

Check out the local art gallery: View local contemporary art at Oxford Street Art, with solo and group exhibitions updated on a monthly basis.

Transport

Lyttelton is a roughly 20-minute drive from Christchurch city, with the number 28 bus going between Christchurch and Lyttelton. 

To plan your journey, visit the Metro Info website here.