Halswell Quarry (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Halswell Quarry?
What makes it 80% Couple-Friendly: Couples find romantic garden walks, panoramic lookouts and picnic spots ideal for low-cost dates, but the park lacks evening lighting and a full-service restaurant for late outings.
Positives:
- Free entry: All main walking tracks and picnic spots have no entry fee.
- Easy parking: Large car park off Kennedys Bush Road lies close to toilets and trailheads.
Challenges:
- Muddy tracks: Gravel and dirt paths can get slippery after rain; wear hiking shoes.
- Limited shade: Few covered areas along cliff-top trails; carry a hat and sunscreen.
What is Halswell Quarry?
- A former basalt quarry on Christchurch’s Port Hills, repurposed into a public urban park
- A landscaped reserve combining exposed volcanic rock faces, themed Sister City Gardens and native wetland habitats
- A Christchurch City Council-managed section of Port Hills Reserve that blends industrial heritage with ecological restoration and public amenities
What is so special about Halswell Quarry for couple trip?
- Complete the 1 km Quarry Rim Track for cliff-top panoramas
- Stroll six themed gardens for a romantic, global-flora walk
- Share a picnic beside the pond at Findlay’s Picnic Area
- Sip coffee and grab snacks at the mobile café by the Visitor Centre
- Cycle the easy 5 km Kennedys Bush Track through bushland
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can complete key walks, enjoy a picnic and café break without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Halswell Quarry
Quarry Rim Track:
Walk the 1 km loop around the historic quarry face and info panels.
Tip: Start at the Visitor Centre car park and rest on benches at viewing platforms.
Quarry View short walk:
Follow a 250 m paved path to a 360° overlook of the quarry and gardens.
Tip: Go at sunrise or sunset for dramatic light on the rock faces.
Sister-City Gardens stroll:
Wander through six themed gardens planted with flora from Christchurch’s sister cities.
Tip: Pause at each garden to compare plant species and snap photos.
Picnic at Findlay’s Picnic Area:
Share a meal at tables beside a tranquil pond with nearby toilets.
Tip: Bring local cheese and wine to enjoy by the water.
Coffee & snacks at Quarry Café:
Grab coffee, burgers or ice cream from the mobile café by the Visitor Centre.
Tip: Visit weekends for the full menu; arrive before midday to avoid queues.
Mountain biking on Kennedys Bush Track:
Ride the 5 km easy–moderate loop through bush and rolling hills.
Tip: Bring your own bike or hire nearby and lock it at the Visitor Centre.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Halswell Quarry
- Plan your loop: Start with Quarry Rim Track then finish at Quarry View for best light.
- Pack a picnic: Buy supplies in Halswell before arrival to save time onsite.
- Download a map: Use the CCC park map PDF to plot Sister-City Gardens and trails.
Reviews of Halswell Quarry
Laura Wilson
Beautiful place with beautiful scenery and history along the way. Great for the whole family my children love searching for little lizards and the wild hare. They often have sheep on the hill too
Yuka
Kurashiki Garden was absolutely beautiful with the cherry blossoms in full bloom. The walking trail up the hill has lovely views, and it’s fun for dogs, kids, and of course adults too.
Michael Shattock
Went for a walk 10:30am Monday 1 September 2025. Met a lovely man and had some great views on such a clear day. Great gardens and a museum type thing, which I obviously didn't go in to cause I'm not even sure what it was called.😂😂😂
Alexander Griffin
Very cool to see all the rocks and to have an amazing walk.
James Rawin
Love to visit the place for photographs. Spot the rabbit 🐰, coffee then return home. If you have digs, good to bringing along. I travel there by bus from bus interchange but other than that you can drive car or bike for good exercise.
When is the best time to visit Halswell Quarry (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
Spring brings wildflowers in the Sister-City Gardens. Summer needs sun protection and water. In winter wear sturdy shoes for muddy sections and enjoy quieter trails. Autumn offers golden hues on the quarry walls.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking | NZD 0 |
| Two coffees | NZD 10 |
| Two snacks | NZD 16 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 26 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Halswell Quarry
Address: Kennedys Bush Road, Kennedys Bush, Christchurch 8025, New Zealand
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Halswell Quarry (Christchurch)?
About Halswell Quarry
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+64 3 941 899910 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇳🇿 New Zealand, couple trip
🇺🇸 United States, couple trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, couple trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities