Overview:
The Huntsbury Track is a popular shared-use trail in the Port Hills, connecting Huntsbury Avenue to Summit Road. It’s well-used by walkers, runners, and mountain bikers looking for a moderately challenging route with stunning views.
Trail Details:
Distance: Approximately 2.5 km one way
Duration: Around 1 hour one way
Elevation Gain: About 183 meters
Difficulty: Moderate
Surface: Starts as an earth-surfaced path, transitioning to a gravel 4WD track
Access Points:
Start: End of Huntsbury Avenue, Huntsbury suburb
Finish: Mt Vernon car park on Summit Road
Key Features:
Panoramic views of Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains
Scenic open tussock grasslands
Connects to other trails like the Crater Rim Walkway and Bowenvale Traverse
Facilities and Info:
Parking: Available at the end of Huntsbury Avenue
Toilets/Water: None along the track – come prepared
Dog Policy: Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash
Tips:
Good in most weather conditions; suitable year-round
Can be extended by linking to nearby tracks for a longer hike
Wear sturdy footwear and bring water and sunscreen