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New Zealand

What’s So Great about Diamond Harbour - Things to Do in 2025

  • Kiwi Towns

Canterbury, South Island

Discover a quiet corner of the Lyttelton Harbour. Diamond Harbour offers visitors a chance to explore the Banks Peninsula landscapes. Enjoy time in a historic Stoddard cottage where contemporary art exhibitions are held and savour a leisurely lunch at the local cafe.

 

DIAMOND HARBOUR HIGHLIGHTS

@Diamond Harbour Ferry
@Diamond Harbour Ferry
  • Orton Bradely Park walks, rhododendron gardens, farm buildings and campground
  • Coastal Walkway
  • Heritage Stoddard Cottage & art exhibitions
  • Wharf, beach, cafe and quiet spaces
  • Perfect place for a leisurely brunch at Diamond Harbour Cafe

Reviews & More on TripAdvisor

ORTON BRADLEY PARK

Orton Bradley Park is one of top fourteen picnic spots in Canterbury … Orton Bradley Park

A private working farm with a park, paddocks, creeks and short easy walks among mature rhododendrons.

  • Paddle in the creek
  • Mature rhododendron garden
  • Tennis court
  • Farming heritage buildings and agricultural memorabilia
  • Working farm with horse treks to outstanding views
  • Leisurely walks to climbs to enjoy views of Lyttelton Harbour
  • Entrance fees apply

Reviews & More on TripAdvisor

@Orton Bradley Park
@Orton Bradley Park
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TIP

A great spot to go camping on the Banks Peninsula, check out 8 camping places on Banks Peninsula, Akaroa: trip guide (location map included) for more details.

 

 

STODDARD COTTAGE

@Stoddart Cottage Gallery
@Stoddart Cottage Gallery

Heritage meets art in a beautifully restored Stoddart colonial cottage. The birthplace of well known Canterbury artist, impressionist Margaret Stoddard is a drawcard for art & heritage fans alike.

More about Stoddart Cottage

@DiamondHarbourEatery
@DiamondHarbourEatery

Eat & Drink at Diamond Harbour Cafe

Location says it all. Gaze over the harbour and water activity as you enjoy a classic kiwi cafe fare with friendly service as part of the experience.

Reviews & More on TripAdvisor

 

Diamond Harbour’s Fame

Margaret Stoddard, 19th century impressionist artist. A quiet pioneer in women doing what they love best. Her cottage is open to the public during the weekends, check Stoddard Cottage for more details.

Diamond Harbour’s Social Media

Diamond Harbour Community

 

Population

1,497 (2018). The settlement supports a primary school.

 

Best Time to Go

December to mid March.

Check out Christchurch travel guide for details about Canterbury weather.

 

Weather

Diamond Harbour, New Zealand Weather Conditions

Diamond Harbour, The Port of Lyttelton on an Autumn Morning, Canterbury, New Zealand
Dimond Harbour, The Port of Lyttelton, Canterbury

 

GETTING TO DIAMOND HARBOUR

@BlackCatCruises
@BlackCatCruises

Black Cat Wildlife Cruises

Departs Lyttelton 1.30pm daily with Diamond Harbour as part of a regular itinerary, check out BLACK CAT for up to date details. For ferry timetable check out Ferry & Bus | Diamond Harbour Community.

BOOK HERE

 

Sailing Charters – Lyttelton

Sails billowing and you are on a ketch in the middle of the harbour. Glorious memorable moments with Jack Tar sailing charters. The vessel is 36 ft Gaff Yawl “Oyster” built in 1902 by Charles Bailey Jr lovingly maintained by Jack Tar. Check out Jack Tar Sailing Co for up to date information.

BY ROAD

A scenic drive around the bays, including Governors Bay. Lyttelton to Diamond Harbour.

 

WHAT TO DO NEARBY DIAMOND HARBOUR, CANTERBURY

Diamond Harbour is nearby Rangiora, Amberley, Oxford and Springfield (selfie heaven with its massive concrete pink doughnut).

Every town adds to the richness of things to do and see. For more details about what to do nearby Diamond Harbour check out Things To Do In Canterbury: Places to Visit, Activities & Sightseeing.

Historic Church Of The Holy Passion Of Our Lord, Amberley, Canterbury, New Zealand
Historic Church Of The Holy Passion Of Our Lord, Amberley, Canterbury, New Zealand

 

Check Out Our Favourite Instagram Posts for Diamond Harbour

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TRAVEL PACK INFORMATION

Mark Pringle Stoddard arrived in Lyttelton from Australia in 1851. A gentleman farmer, he soon purchased 55 acres in the bay that lay opposite to the Port of Lyttelton.  He named his farm Diamond Harbour, explaining to others how the sun glittered on the nearby waters like diamonds. Source: DIAMOND HARBOUR – Mark Pringle Stoddard (1819 – 1885) | Discover The Delights Of Peeling Back History

Diamond Harbour has a dedicated historical society check out Historical Association | Diamond Harbour Community for details.

 

 

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