We heard that New Zealand was famous for having more sheep than people and after being in Christchurch for a couple of days, quite amazed that we hadn't seen any sheep, that was until we had a ride up the gondola.....
The gondola is a 945 mitre ride from the bottom of the port hills (very steep hill that the first settlers walked over on their arrival - i.e. had to get from the port to the flats). 500 meters above sea level. Take a trip to the crater rim of Christchurch famous extinct volcano.
At the top you have a spectacular view of Christchurch, Lyttleton and depending on the clouds... Diamond Harbour/Governers Bay, etc.
It's quite expensive to go up - $22 for an adult and $10 for school age kids (family pass - 2 adults and 3 kids $55). I do know at the centre of town they have an offer for a tram ride and gondola (tram ride about $12) and they do a bit of a discount, however, the tram didn't appeal to me.
Expensive as at the top of the ride is a cafe (Summit cafe) which with the fare of the gondola is another expense to have a cup of tea and scone each - about another $15 added to the bill. (Sign of the Kiwi a cafe on top of the Port Hills is a fantastic place for home made scones and home made jam and cream so save your money for scones at this place. Not really within walking distance unless you walk a couple of hours).
At the top there is also;
a souvenir shop,
a restaurant (quite expensive so not been and just heard that it is ok - nothing flash). If you go to the restaurant your gondola ride is only $12 per person but you must book.
a small museum which has exhibits showing the make up of the South Island (volcano's) and how the settlers came and set up. This was only a 5/10 minute experience and kids would get bored as it involves a bit of reading. They have just got a new machine which rides round (won't be anything flash - just be slow moving vehicle going round).
Walks - the port hills are massive and you can walk for miles and miles. Some gorgeous settings and views. Take your camera and hiking boots, can be muddy and lots of sheep poo ! Some people actually hire a bike to come down from the gondola. The port hills is famous for moutain biking, road biking.... they have some great down hill moutain bike tracks.
Glad I did pay to go up the gondola however I wouldn't necessarily go up again. If they brought their prices down it might encourage people to go up on a more regular basis.
However, treat yourself and have a go. To get your monies worth, make sure its a clear day otherwise you won't get to see the views which is the main reason for going up there.
There are buses from city centre and shuttle runs to the gondola centre. (About 20 minute car journey from city centre). Lots of car parking facilities. Nothing within the immediate vicinity to do besides go up gondola (Ferrymead Heritage Centre is about a 10 minute car journey).
Check out; http://www.gondola.co.nz
Open 10am till 9pm.
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