7. Beaches

In my final day in Christchurch, I had planned to make use of my metrocard and travel the bus network a bit to see the more outlying areas. Unfortunately with that day the rain came in, so it wasn't going to be quite so pleasant. I mused the idea of finding indoor things to do, but in the end took the bus out to the beaches anyhow.

Sumner Beach

7.1. Cave Rock

The bus route finishes near Sumner Beach, and this is where I got off to take a look around. I was aware of a rock called “Cave rock”, but didn't realise beforehand what an interesting structure it is. There's a network of caves that go through the rock, from a large open mouth at one end, to some small tunnels out to the surf at the other end. It's really quite a spot to explore, and even the rain didn't really dampen the experience.

Cave Rock

Cave Rock

7.2. Shag Rock

Shag Rock is a short walk away. It isn't quite as interesting, but it and it's birds still makes for a sight where it guards the river entrance.

Shag Rock

7.3. Northern Beaches

On the other side of the river inlet, there's the long, flat expanse of beaches and sandbar. I made a trip out there fairly early on a Saturday morning, and was greeted by a somewhat surreal experience. There was mist, and kilometres of weed washed up on a slightly grimy-looking beach. Amid that, there were people jogging and walking dogs.

New Brighton Beach

At New Brighton itself, there's a large concrete pier extending out into the ocean, which adds a touch for a community focus to the seaside area.

New Brighton Pier

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