Porters Pass

Porters Pass is a dramatic alpine saddle on State Highway 73, linking Canterbury’s plains to the Southern Alps. At 945 metres, this exposed pass offers staggering mountain views, a sense of isolation, and a gateway to high-country adventures. In winter, the road can be icy, but clear days reward with sweeping panoramas of Craigieburn Forest Park and the distant peaks of Arthur’s Pass National Park.

Highlights & What to See

• Summit Viewpoint: Pull over at the top to photograph the braided Waimakariri River snaking through the valley below.
• Craigieburn Forest Park: Walk the short but steep Craigieburn Track for beech forest and tussock-clad slopes with views of the Torlesse Range.
• Castle Hill Conservation Area: Just south of the pass, explore the surreal limestone boulder formations – a favourite for climbers and photographers.
• Porters Ski Area: In winter, this club field offers uncrowded slopes and a classic Kiwi ski experience with a cosy lodge.
• Kowai River Gorge: A scenic detour off the main road with turquoise pools and steep cliffs – perfect for a picnic stop.

Suggested Time to Spend

Porters Pass is best treated as a scenic stop on a day trip from Christchurch or Hanmer Springs. Allow 30–60 minutes to soak in the views and stretch your legs on a short walk. If you plan to ski or hike deeper into Craigieburn Forest Park, set aside half a day. The pass itself is a 90-minute drive from Christchurch, making it an easy add-on to a journey over Arthur’s Pass.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Arthur’s Pass National Park – alpine walks and waterfalls, 45 minutes west
• Castle Hill – limestone labyrinths and bouldering, 20 minutes south
• Hanmer Springs – thermal pools and adventure activities, 1 hour north via SH7
• Christchurch – city culture and gardens, 1.5 hours east
• Methven – gateway to Mount Hutt skiing, 1 hour south-east

Please check official sources for current details.