Step back in time with The Whakaraupō Time Warp Walk at this year's Christchurch Heritage Festival in Ōhinehou Lyttelton with Te Ūaka The Lyttelton Museum!

Embark on a nostalgic journey around the scenic Whakaraupō harbour, from the vibrant Ōhinehou Lyttelton township, to the bustling Te Ana Marina, and along the picturesque coastal promenade to Magazine and Corsair bays. Experience the juxtaposition of past and present through 24 photographic stands along the way, each offering a framed glimpse into our past. See the majestic sailing ships that once docked a century ago where today’s modern freighters now anchor. View the grand old buildings, the tunnel constructions, and the beachside pleasure resorts of yesteryears. Each stand is a living history lesson, seamlessly blending the old with the new in a unique, family-friendly exploration of our shared history.

There is a guided and self-guided option for this 5km walk based on the Rod Donald Banks Peninsula Trust’s Coastal Walk map:

Guided walks, noon Saturdays

Museum volunteers will leave from the Museum Cabin at 35 London Street, Ōhinehou Lyttelton, Saturdays (market days) at noon for a two/three hour walk. 

Self-guided walks, 9am-5pm on event days

Commence from the Lyttelton Information Centre (maps/booklet available), Te Ana Marina, or Corsair Bay (with parking facilities at the latter two starting points). The route includes a necessary road crossing at Norwich Quay, where pedestrian crossing lights are available for safety.

Guides in high-visibility clothing will be stationed at key points (Museum Cabin, Te Ana Marina, Corsair Bay) to provide historical insights and assist with directions over each of the three festival Sundays. 

Given the outdoor nature of the event, participants are advised to prepare for various weather conditions and uneven terrain. The Whakaraupō Time Warp Walk is a family-friendly event, intertwining shared historical heritage with the excitement of exploration.

Map/Booklet available $10: Museum Cabin (Saturdays), and Lyttelton Information Centre, 20 Oxford Street, Ōhinehou Lyttelton, open daily, 10am to 3pm.

Image: Te Ūaka The Lyttelton Museum eHive collection