Waterfalls can be truly magnificent destinations, and for those living in or visiting Christchurch, there are plenty of waterfalls that could be of interest. These waterfalls offer truly incredible views and opportunities to take in the wonder of Canterbury. Indeed, if you are visiting Christchurch and want to make the most of the sights on offer, taking a day out to explore these waterfalls and their surrounding landscapes is an excellent opportunity.
Best Waterfalls near Christchurch (Less than 100 KM)
#1 Glentui Waterfalls
The Glentui waterfalls are incredibly popular and are easily reachable, thanks to its location being just an hour’s drive from Christchurch. The falls are located in the picturesque Mount Thomas conservation Area. It is surrounded by numerous tracks and walkways, giving the potential for a scenic day out when visiting.
The Glentui waterfall track starts with a gentle walk uphill, following a formal road. After this, the falls themselves are easily accessed by a side-track which leads you to the lookout platform over the waterfalls themselves. It is better that you take in the breathtaking sounds and sights of the falls from this area as the land around the waterfalls can be somewhat unstable and venturing closer is highly discouraged.
#2 Ryde Falls
Ryde Falls lies within the Oxford forest conservation area and offers an excellent opportunity for hiking, scenic views, and bird watching. This is the largest waterfall in Christchurch.
The trail accessing Ryde falls is well known for its beauty and slopes. Though the track itself can be a little muddy in places so good hiking shoes are recommended. With that said, the views on offer are incredible.
The Ryde Falls themselves are located just an hour and a half from Christchurch and are well worth the journey there. The waterfalls across five tiers, of which three are particularly noticeable, giving the most incredible ambiance in the area. Though some of the views of the waterfall itself are slightly obscured by trees, it is still safe to say that this wondrous five-tier waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in the Canterbury region.
#3 Washpen Falls
Dated to be as old as 80 million years, these unique falls are just an hour’s drive from Christchurch. They offer a unique day out and are a fabulous destination for anyone looking for a scenic walk with opportunities for wonderful views of nature.
The waterfall and its surrounding natural scenery are often described as being “a pocket of paradise where Moa once roamed”. The team behind the conservation of this ancient waterfall has worked tirelessly to preserve this unspoiled nature while also allowing visitors to take in the beauty of it. Wooden tracks, stairs, and boardwalks have thus been placed strategically to merge with the beauty of the environment, giving visitors the chance to take in the Washpen Falls beauty without compromising it.
Unlike other waterfalls in this list, you have to pay a small entry fee of $10.00 per adult and 5.00 per child under 15. For this fee, you will get a track guide and walking sticks which makes the loop track walking pretty easier.
#4 Gully Falls
Made from two distinct waterfalls, this unique 20-meter-high waterfall is one that attracts many tourists throughout the year. Best of all, located just 30 kilometers from Christchurch, Gully falls are also easily accessible and can be reached quickly!
You can start your walk from Orton Bradley Park, which is located 25 km from Christchurch City. There will be a small dropbox at the entrance where you can deposit a small fee of $5 per person or $10 for a car entry. The walking trail around the falls offers a 3-hour long walking experience and includes splendorous views of the harbor. The track itself is somewhat steep in places and so a moderate level of fitness is needed to traverse them; however, when you reach the falls themselves, the sight is worth the energy used in getting there.
NB: During lambing season (Probably September, October), entry to the walking loop is prohibited and you won’t be able to access the waterfalls. So before heading to the falls make sure that you are at the right time.
