Port Levy

About an hour’s drive from Christchurch lies historic Port Levy bay. The long, sheltered bay is home to less than 100 people, but in the mid-19th century it was the largest Māori settlement in Canterbury with a population of about 400 people.

There is still a marae at Port Levy, as well as a stone memorial marking the spot where the first Māori Anglican church was built.

Keen historians will enjoy wandering around the settlement while Port Levy’s old wooden jetty, which featured in Peter Jackson’s 1994 film Heavenly Creatures, provides the ideal jumping off spot for those keen to take a cooling dip in the water. 

Port Levy is unspoiled by commercial activity so make sure you bring your own supplies for the day.