Safe rock climbing on the Port Hills has been limited by the earthquakes. Many other crags have been severely damaged.

Christchurch City Council does not actively manage rock climbing cliffs (crags) on their land except Cattlestop crag.

Open for use by outdoor education groups and individuals. You must comply with all signage.

This is the only crag on Council land that has been formally assessed and is managed for climbing.

You can find Cattlestop crag at 795 Summit Rd, Heathcote Valley, Christchurch.

Contact us or email PortHillsGeotech@ccc.govt.nz to report any safety concerns.

There is an increased likelihood of rockfalls and cliff collapse. Climbers must make careful choices about where they climb. The risk is unknown for the following DOC crags:

  • Lyttelton Rock
  • Crag X
  • Black Wall
  • Farm Park
  • Breeze Bay
  • Boulder Bay

Contact the Department of Conservation(external link) for further information.

Albert Terrace Crag(external link) is open. This is managed by the Mt Vernon Park Management Committee(external link).

Gibraltar Rock(external link) is open. It is managed by the Summit Road Society(external link).

You must get approval from the Christchurch City Council ranger team before any new bolting can take place.

Contact us to request new bolting.