The Christchurch Gondola was closed for two years after the February 2011 earthquake. It re-opened recently, so today was a perfect day to venture up to the top. Apparently a lot of other people also decided today was a great day too – it was busy! But great to see this wonderful tourism attraction being so well patronised. It can’t have been easy getting it back up and running – just take a look at the boulders on the Summit road in the photos below.
Apparently, some cyclists are still using summit road – you can see there’s a little pathway cleared through the rocks. The road is obviously closed, and quite frankly I think anyone would have to be mad to cycle on it. Also, based on the view from the Gondola, you are taking your chances walking the Bridle Path track which is still closed – yet people are still walking it. I noticed the fence that was blocking the entrance to the pathway has been knocked over. I was a regular walker of it and miss this track, but I certainly won’t be taking my chances!
Got to say though, I felt perfectly safe in the Gondola. So much so that I’ve got myself an annual pass (at $45 bucks for a year it’s a steal) – so expect to see lots of photos from the top of the hills in the near future.
Ah what a view! Looking east towards New Brighton.
And now looking down over Lyttelton to the Banks Peninsula.
Oh, how I love those hills.
Ōtautahi / Christchurch Daily Photo 
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