Coronation Reserve -- Hillside Reserve & Walking Tracks, Christchurch
A Port Hills reserve above Cashmere with walking tracks, native bush, and panoramic city views -- with a new trail network and firebreak being developed by CCC
Address: Domain Road, Cashmere, Christchurch 8022 | Ward: Spreydon-Cashmere | Nearest suburb: Cashmere
About Coronation Reserve
Coronation Reserve sits on the lower slopes of the Port Hills above Cashmere, one of Christchurch's most prestigious hill suburbs. The reserve offers walkers elevated views across the Canterbury Plains towards the Southern Alps and acts as a gateway into the broader Port Hills reserve network. The terrain is characterised by regenerating native bush, tussock grassland, and rocky outcrops typical of the Port Hills, with a developing network of walking tracks connecting the residential edge to the open hillside above.
Christchurch City Council has an active project at Coronation Reserve focused on two priorities: creating a firebreak around the reserve boundary and developing a walking track network that connects the main entranceways. The firebreak work is a direct response to the devastating 2017 Port Hills fires, which swept through the hills above Cashmere and caused significant damage to reserve vegetation and nearby properties. Better firebreak infrastructure improves both public safety and the long-term resilience of the reserve ecosystem.
Adjacent to the reserve, the historic Coronation Hall -- a heritage-listed community building -- is undergoing repairs following fire damage. Once restored, the hall will be available for leasing by a suitable community group. Together, the reserve development and hall restoration represent a meaningful investment in the Cashmere hillside community, preserving both natural and built heritage while improving public access to one of Christchurch's most scenic hill reserves.
Facilities at Coronation Reserve
- Walking track network (under active development by CCC)
- Firebreak infrastructure (under construction for fire safety)
- Native bush and tussock hillside
- Panoramic views over Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains
- Coronation Hall (heritage building -- under restoration)
Getting There
Coronation Reserve is accessed from Domain Road in Cashmere, approximately 7 km south of the Christchurch CBD. The reserve is most easily reached by car -- parking is available on Domain Road. The Port Hills Walkway and Cashmere Road also provide access to the wider reserve network. Note: walking tracks in the Port Hills may be subject to fire-season closures.
Council Investment at Coronation Reserve
| Project | Status | Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Coronation Reserve Development | In Progress | See project page |
| Coronation Hall Repairs | In Progress | See project page |
Coronation Reserve Development: Create a firebreak around the reserve boundary and develop a walking track network connecting the main entranceways. Improves fire safety and public access to this Port Hills reserve above Cashmere.
Coronation Hall Repairs: Repair and upgrade the heritage-listed Coronation Hall following fire damage, to allow for leasing and occupancy by a suitable community group.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Coronation Reserve in Christchurch?
Coronation Reserve is on Domain Road in Cashmere, approximately 7 km south of the Christchurch city centre. The reserve sits on the lower slopes of the Port Hills above the Cashmere suburb. It is most easily reached by car, with parking available on Domain Road.
Are there walking tracks at Coronation Reserve?
Yes. Christchurch City Council is actively developing a walking track network at Coronation Reserve as part of a current capital project. The tracks will connect the main entranceways and link into the broader Port Hills reserve network. Note that Port Hills walking tracks may be subject to seasonal fire-risk closures during dry summer conditions.
Can you see the city from Coronation Reserve?
Yes. Coronation Reserve sits on elevated terrain on the Port Hills above Cashmere and offers panoramic views over the Christchurch CBD, the Canterbury Plains, and on clear days, the Southern Alps. The viewpoint is one of the main drawcards for walkers accessing the reserve from the Cashmere residential area.
What is the Coronation Hall?
The Coronation Hall is a heritage-listed community building adjacent to Coronation Reserve in Cashmere. The hall sustained fire damage and is currently being repaired and restored by Christchurch City Council. Once works are complete, the hall will be made available for leasing by a community group. It is protected under the Christchurch District Plan as a heritage building.
Is Coronation Reserve affected by Port Hills fire risk?
Yes. Coronation Reserve sits within the Port Hills fire risk zone. The 2017 Port Hills fires caused significant damage in the wider area, which is why CCC's current project at the reserve includes creating a firebreak around the boundary. Walking tracks in the reserve may be subject to seasonal closures during high fire-risk periods -- check ccc.govt.nz for current track status before visiting.
Nearby Places
- Victoria Park (Reserve & walking tracks)
- Port Hills Walkway (Walking and mountain biking)
- Sign of the Takahe (Heritage viewpoint & café)