Crater Rim - Rapaki to Sign of the Kiwi : Christchurch City Council

This wonderful track passes through open tussock, native forest remnants and stands of exotic forest. The summit ridge clearly shows the volcanic origins of the Port Hills.

top of rapaki track

Start	Rāpaki Track, Port Hills
Finish	Sign of the Kiwi, Summit Road, Port Hills
Distance	4 km
Time	1 hour one way
Toilets	Located at the Sign of the Kiwi
Dogs	Must be kept on a leash
Description	From the car park at the top of Rāpaki Track, the walkway climbs steeply through tussock grassland to the top of Mt Vernon. Some of the best views on the Port Hills are enjoyed from this summit. The track then makes its way down to Summit Road. The next section of track traverses through Scott Reserve which is heavily wooded with exotic pines and a pleasant section to be in on a hot windy day. The track exits the forest to traverse through more tussock before reaching the entrance to Sugarloaf Reserve on the harbour side of the ridge. From this point, it's best to take Mitchells Track which takes you through native bush before descending to Dyers Pass and the Sign of the Kiwi tea rooms. Get ready for this track using Plan My Walk(external link) by the NZ Mountain Safety Council. You can find track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list, so you are set for your adventure. Continue to the next section: Sign of the Kiwi to Sign of the Bellbird Go back to Bridle Path to Rapaki