Explore Christchurch by Bike: Sumner Beach Picnic Ride

Visit the shorelines and beaches of the lovely coastal surburb of Sumner by bike. The ride encapsulates the Christchurch Coastal Pathway; a world class 6.5km shared pathway. Once in Sumner you can enjoy one of many cafe options, stroll down the beaches and stop for a swim or have a fish and chip picnic on the beach. Finish with a gourmet ice cream from Utopia Ice on Wakefield Ave.

Difficulty: Easy – Flat sealed road
Distance: 12 km one way, 24 km round trip
Rental Time: 5 hour – 1 day
Key Features: Sumner Beach
Suitable for: City bikes, City e-bikes
Models available: City Bike Cruiser, Cube Cross Diamond, Cube Cross Trapeze, Felt Versa

Leaving the heart of Christchurch, the Puari ki Rapanui cycleway leads you eastward through quiet residential streets, crossing Worcester Street and Fitzgerald Avenue. From there, the route winds through Linwood Park and follows Linwood Avenue—where daffodils bloom in spring—toward the coast.

You’ll pass through the green expanse of Charlesworth Reserve, a peaceful tidal wetland alive with native birds and more than 100,000 trees and shrubs. The cycleway continues across the Ferrymead Bridge and into the coastal suburb of Redcliffs, eventually reaching Rapanui Shag Rock.

From here, the journey becomes part of the Christchurch Coastal Pathway—a scenic route shared with pedestrians—tracing the shoreline all the way to Sumner. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sea views and a relaxed pace as you make your way to the beachside suburb.

The entire route is roughly 12 kilometres one-way, fitting for a 5 hour or 1-day rental.