Lessons from Harry Ell
Join us for a guided walk to learn about conservation efforts on the Port Hills taking in stunning views of Lyttelton Harbour and Christchurch City.
This event is fully booked.
The walk will be led by Paula Jameson (Harry Ell’s great granddaughter) and will focus on Harry Ell and the Summit Road Society’s efforts to protect the Port Hills. The walk offers spectacular views of both the harbour and city and some of the finest native bush on the Port Hills.
Harry Ell is recognized as one of Christchurch’s early conservationists. Harry Ell became increasingly concerned about the loss of native bush and public access on the Port Hills and he became determined to protect what was left. It is thanks to his legacy that we have the network of reserves on the Port Hills, the Summit Road and the four rest houses for travelers to rest on their journey. The Summit Road Society was formed in 1948 by Harry Ell’s grandson, the late John Jameson, to continue this vision to protect, enhance and restore the Port Hills. This vision is more relevant than ever given the ecological and climate crises we face.
Starting at the Hoon Hay Reserve carpark on the Summit Road, this walk will follow the Crater Rim Walkway to the Sign of the Bellbird and the top of Kennedys Bush. We will descend down into Kennedys Bush, one of New Zealand’s first scenic reserves. We will follow Ōrongomai Trail (a loop track) back to the Summit Road where we will have a break and light lunch/snacks at the new John Jameson Lookout opposite the Sign of the Bellbird. Walkers will also have a chance to view the pou whenua and nearby interpretation panels which highlight the cultural significance of Ōrongomai to Ngāti Wheke of Rāpaki. We will return to the Hoon Hay Reserve carpark along the Crater Rim Walkway.
The 9km return walk will follow a well-formed tramping track across hilly terrain including some rocky and muddy sections. Walkers need to be reasonably fit, wear sturdy walking/tramping shoes and dress for the conditions.
Photo: Richard Mallet
This event is fully booked.
The walk will be led by Paula Jameson (Harry Ell’s great granddaughter) and will focus on Harry Ell and the Summit Road Society’s efforts to protect the Port Hills. The walk offers spectacular views of both the harbour and city and some of the finest native bush on the Port Hills.
Harry Ell is recognized as one of Christchurch’s early conservationists. Harry Ell became increasingly concerned about the loss of native bush and public access on the Port Hills and he became determined to protect what was left. It is thanks to his legacy that we have the network of reserves on the Port Hills, the Summit Road and the four rest houses for travelers to rest on their journey. The Summit Road Society was formed in 1948 by Harry Ell’s grandson, the late John Jameson, to continue this vision to protect, enhance and restore the Port Hills. This vision is more relevant than ever given the ecological and climate crises we face.
Starting at the Hoon Hay Reserve carpark on the Summit Road, this walk will follow the Crater Rim Walkway to the Sign of the Bellbird and the top of Kennedys Bush. We will descend down into Kennedys Bush, one of New Zealand’s first scenic reserves. We will follow Ōrongomai Trail (a loop track) back to the Summit Road where we will have a break and light lunch/snacks at the new John Jameson Lookout opposite the Sign of the Bellbird. Walkers will also have a chance to view the pou whenua and nearby interpretation panels which highlight the cultural significance of Ōrongomai to Ngāti Wheke of Rāpaki. We will return to the Hoon Hay Reserve carpark along the Crater Rim Walkway.
The 9km return walk will follow a well-formed tramping track across hilly terrain including some rocky and muddy sections. Walkers need to be reasonably fit, wear sturdy walking/tramping shoes and dress for the conditions.
Photo: Richard Mallet
Hoon Hay Reserve carpark, Summit Road, Kennedys Bush
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