The Rapaki Track

Difficulty rating: 6/10 (moderate fitness required, incline, decline and flat terrain)

The Rapaki Track is a fantastic walk and you don't need to be super fit to get stuck into it either. It's roughly 6.5 km's long (if you complete both the ascent and descent) and hugs the left side of the Mount Vernon "valley". The track is very popular with both mountain bikers and walkers alike and offers varied terrain.

You can expect a winding dirt road with beautiful views over looking Christchurch city. Eventually you will arrive at Summit Rd which follows the length of the Port Hills summit and like most of the tracks or trails in the area, offers fantastic views of both Christchurch, on the north side of the hills, and Lyttleton/ Governers Bay, on the south side.

The track itself is an old farm track and is currently undergoing road works after which it will be open to vehicles. For now though, it is still open to trampers and cyclists.

Pro's: good distance for getting a decent workout, varied terrain, great views, suitable for people of moderate fitness upwards.

Con's: none really. The usual conflicts between walkers and cyclists but everyone seems to be very tolerant and friendly (so no issues). May offer the occasional blister.

Tips: good shoes/ boots, sunblock, the top of summit rd has great viewing spots so is worth considering as a picnic or photographers spot. Take a camera.

To view photo's click here.

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