Te Ara Walking Tour
Discover the hidden stories of Christchurch’s Avon River.
Te Ara in te reo Māori means “the pathway”. Te Ara is a 60-minute Māori cultural walking tour in central Christchurch and a must-do experience for visitors exploring the city. Follow the Ōtākaro Avon River corridor and discover hidden stories, taonga, and places of cultural significance on a guided cultural walk.
About this experience:
Te Ara is a guided Christchurch walking tour that explores Māori history, storytelling, and cultural landmarks along the Ōtākaro Avon River corridor — a meaningful way to experience the city’s cultural landscape.
Reflecting the traditions of whanaungatanga (connection, relationships, and shared experiences), this experience is led by kaiārahi (local guides) who share the stories, symbolism, and cultural significance woven throughout the city landscape.
Your journey begins with a mihi whakatau (traditional Māori welcome), before setting off on an interactive storytelling walk through central Christchurch, including Victoria Square, where Māori and colonial histories are reflected through architecture, carvings, design, and places of significance.
Along the way, you will explore:
Māori storytelling and local history in Christchurch
Traditional carvings and cultural symbolism
Sustainable mahinga kai practices (customs and values associated with food gathering and the protection of natural resources)
Community-led restoration of the Ōtākaro Avon River
The Ōtākaro Orchard community gardens and food hub
This experience also highlights the important role volunteers play in restoring the river corridor and revitalising traditional knowledge and sustainable practices for future generations.
Every booking directly supports the ongoing restoration and care of the Ōtākaro Avon River and mahinga kai gardens.
This tour is perfect for visitors who are looking for:
Things to do in Christchurch city centre
Guided walking tours in Christchurch
Māori cultural experiences in Christchurch
Family-friendly and educational activities
A deeper understanding of Christchurch’s history and landscape
Pricing:
Adult
$89
Child (5-15)
$55
Infant (0-4)
Free
Family (2A+2C)
$230
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Te Ara is a 60-minute guided walking experience.
This guided walk is approximately 1km.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. Christchurch conditions can change quickly, so layers are recommended.
Yes, the walking tour is designed to be gentle and suitable for most ages and fitness levels, with short walking distances and regular stops for storytelling.
You will explore cultural landmarks, Māori storytelling sites, carvings, sustainable mahinga kai gardens, and regeneration projects along the river corridor in central Christchurch.
Mahinga kai refers to traditional Māori customs and practices associated with food gathering. It includes the values, traditions, and protection of natural resources that sustain communities over time.
Yes, the experience operates in most weather conditions. In cases of severe weather, guests will be contacted directly regarding any changes.
Explore our other experiences
adult
Manaaki
An in-depth 75-minute waka experience in Christchurch on the Ōtākaro Avon River. Begin with a traditional welcome, then learn the kaihoe warm-up and kaihoe haka before paddling a traditional waka on the river. A deeper journey into manaakitanga (the spirit of hospitality), storytelling, and the river as a mahinga kai (customs and values associated with food gathering and the protection of natural resources).
adult
Kaitiaki
A 45-minute Māori waka experience in Christchurch on the Ōtākaro Avon River. Begin with a traditional welcome and step into the role of kaitiaki (guardian) as you paddle a traditional waka and learn about the river’s cultural significance as a restoration site and mahinga kai (customs and values associated with food gathering).