Dry Run to Tamatea's Leap

An absolute gem and one of the best little Port Hills Missions you can find, on trails that are local knowledge unless you are in the know. 75% of this route is not replicated on any other Trail Directory. New territory for most! Note the Lyttelton side on Te Poho O Tamatea is on Māori Land, but we've had it confirmed from local iwi and tramping clubs that its completely ok to explore so long as you respect the mana of the place.

This route takes you from St Martins up the length of Dry Valley, the top half being a poled route that is little explored but gives you some very unique views of Christchurch City as you climb. Start by ascending the spur to pick up Dry Bush Track part way up the Mt Vernon Spur. Follow Dry Bush Track all the way to the top. Be sure when you pass the shelter half way up to pick up the waratah poles and orange markers, pretty straightforward as you make your way up to the Summit Road intercepting the top of Huntsbury track.

Cross the summit road and head west on the Crater Rim Track over the small hill. When you rejoin the road follow the unmarked tails through new plantings and then gain the amazingly cool obvious ridgeline that takes you out to the peak and commanding view over Lyttleton of Te Pohu O Tamatea (The Breast of Tamatea). This is the stopping point to soak up clifftop views before you turn around. Don't fall off!

The return to base is to follow the way you came in, and note how different the views are going the other way.

This author calls this the best kept little grunty 10km secret gem in Christchurch.