Christchurch Gondola Reopens after Earthquake

The Christchurch Gondola reopened on Monday 25th March 2013. This was more than two years after the 6.3 magnitude 22nd February earthquake that devastated Christchurch. Remedial work had to be done on the hillside to prevent the possibility of rockfalls and the top station was revamped after a water tank burst during the quake.

 

 

Each car can hold four people and offers spectacular views across Christchurch and the coast as it rises almost one kilometre to the top of Mount Cavendish. The route passes over Summit Rd and visitors can observe the masses of rocks that fell during the earthquake. The road is seriously damaged and closed to the public although cyclists have made a path through the rockfalls and continue to ride up there. From the top station, visitors are able to walk around and see Lyttelton and Banks Peninsula on one side and Christchurch and surrounds on the other.

 

 

 

 

The Red Rock cafe offers a good range of food and coffee and the Time Tunnel traces the history of the area from its volcanic beginnings through to post earthquake Christchurch. This presentation has been updated and ends with a message of encouragement.

 

 

It is fantastic to see the Christchurch Gondola in action again and tourists and locals poured in over Easter to support the newly opened venture. The cost is $25 for adults and $12 for children aged 5-15. Locals can buy an annual pass for $45 with a child's one costing $20. More details can be obtained from their website.