I stood there on top of the Whakaraupo Reserve slowly taking in the stunning views of the Lyttelton Harbour. Lyttelton is also known as the gateway to Canterbury region located in the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand. Before the pandemic, this harbour would have been frequented by cruise ships. It didn’t look like there was a cruise ship that day, however there were a few ships carrying container goods. Lyttelton port handles the movement of exported and imported goods for much of the South Island.
The turquoise water drew me in and many people who visited the area that day. It was a perfect day. Light breeze, plenty of sunshine with a scatter of clouds.
To get to the top you can take the cable car from Christchurch city centre. Once you arrive on the top, there is a viewing platform which gives you almost a panoramic view of the Banks Peninsula. The area has a volcanic origin from million years ago which created two large harbours - Lyttelton and Akaroa as well as bays, coves and hills. Don your hiking shoes and you won’t be disappointed as there are plenty of hiking trails you could explore here to appreciate the beauty of this area.
