Ready to dive into the wonders of Quail Island? This guide covers everything you need for a perfect day out: quick facts, stunning scenery, a bit of history, parking tips, and more. Let’s get your adventure started!
| Location: | Lyttelton Harbour, Christchurch |
| Difficulty Level: | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration: | 2 to 4 hours |
| Walking Distance: | Approximately 4.5 km |
| Walk Type: | Loop |
| Elevation Gain: | Around 100 meters |
| Suitable for: | Families, history buffs, nature lovers |
| Terrain and Track Surface: | The trail is mostly well-formed and easy to walk |
| Toilets: | At the main beach and picnic areas scattered around |
| Dogs: | Sorry, dogs are not allowed on Quail Island |
Quail Island offers some stellar views of Lyttelton Harbour and the surrounding areas. Keep an eye out for historic sites, like the old leper colony buildings and shipwrecks. The birdlife here is fantastic too, so bring those binoculars!
Quail Island (Ōtamahua) has a fascinating past. It was used as a quarantine station, a leprosy colony, and a training ground for Antarctic explorers. The island’s history is well-documented with informative signs along the track.
You’ll need to park in Lyttelton and catch a ferry over to Quail Island. There’s plenty of parking near the ferry terminal, but it can fill up quickly on weekends.
The trail is mostly well-formed and easy to walk, with a few steeper sections. It’s a mix of gravel paths and dirt tracks, suitable for most walkers.
There are toilets at the main beach and picnic areas scattered around. No water refill stations, so bring plenty of your own.
Spring and autumn are perfect, with fewer crowds and milder weather. Summers can be quite busy, especially on weekends.
Sorry, dogs are not allowed on Quail Island.
Not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs due to the uneven terrain.
Absolutely! The island’s history and natural beauty make it a great family outing.
There’s a basic campground on the island. You need to book in advance through the Department of Conservation.
Start from the main beach and follow the well-marked trail around the island. You’ll pass historic sites, beaches, and forested areas. It’s a loop, so you’ll end up back where you started.
Check the weather forecast before you go. The island can be exposed, and conditions can change quickly. There’s limited cell phone reception, so plan accordingly.
No, drones are not permitted on the island.
Once back in Lyttelton, grab a bite at the Lyttelton Coffee Company or Fisherman’s Wharf for some fresh seafood.
Lyttelton Information Centre: Lyttelton Information Centre
Capture the stunning harbour views in the morning light. Use panorama mode for those wide shots and get close to the historic sites for detailed pics.
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. Layers are a good idea since it can be windy.
The trail is well-marked with plenty of information boards detailing the island’s history and points of interest.
No permits required. Ferry costs apply, so check the latest prices with Black Cat Cruises.
No, biking is not permitted on Quail Island.
Pack a picnic and make a day of it. Don’t forget your camera, and take some time to read the historical information along the way. Bring more water than you think you’ll need – it’s surprising how thirsty you can get exploring this fascinating island.
A steep, historical trail connecting Lyttelton to Christchurch, offering fantastic views of the harbour and city. It’s a challenging 2-hour return walk that’s rich in local history.
Starting from Sumner Beach, this 8 km loop track takes you to Godley Head, where you can explore WWII bunkers and enjoy panoramic ocean views. Suitable for most fitness levels and takes about 3 hours.
A popular 7 km return walk in the Port Hills. It offers a moderate climb with rewarding views of Lyttelton Harbour and the Southern Alps. Perfect for a brisk 2-hour hike.
Stretching over 20 km, this track offers various entry points around the Port Hills. It’s a long but rewarding hike with stunning views of both Lyttelton Harbour and Christchurch.
An extension of the Quail Island Discovery Trail, this 3-hour loop takes you around the island’s coast, offering more secluded beaches and wildlife spotting opportunities.
To get to Quail Island, you’ll need to catch a ferry from Lyttelton. Black Cat Cruises runs regular services. Lyttelton is about a 20-minute drive from Christchurch, or you can take the number 28 bus from the city.
Absolutely! Quail Island is perfect for kids. The trails are easy to moderate, and there’s loads to explore, like old shipwrecks and historic buildings. Just keep an eye on them, especially around the ruins and water.
Yes, you can! There’s a basic campsite on Quail Island. You’ll need to book in advance through the Department of Conservation’s website. Facilities are minimal, so bring what you need.
Make sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), comfortable walking shoes, and a camera. Since there aren’t any shops on the island, you’ll need to bring everything you might want for the day.
Yes, there are guided tours. Black Cat Cruises offers guided tours that provide a deep dive into the island’s history and nature. Other local tour operators also offer customised experiences.
FREE Auckland Walks eBook
Subscribe for walking and hiking tips.
Walking Day Pack made in New Zealand
