Church Hill (Public)
Set right in the heart of Nelson City, Church Hill –Piki Mai is home to many historical features as well as being a beautiful park.
At the top of the park is Christ Church Cathedral, which is open most days for public viewing. See displays inside the Cathedral about the history of present and past churches on this site.
In front of the Cathedral, the Church Steps lead down to the city centre. These granite steps were gifted by Thomas Cawthron in 1913 and replaced earlier wooden steps.
A grant of 150 pounds was made by the Provincial Government to buy trees for Church Hill. Other benefactors also donated and cared for trees resulting in many magnificent specimens visible today.
These include the large Sequoia that are found all over the hill and two of the coastal Californian Redwood variety are seen either side of the steps. Another Sequoia, the Wellingtonia also grow on the hill.
Victorian gardens favoured exotic plants as well as the familiar English plants. The Victorian theme has been respected with Phoenix Palms flanking the steps to mark a commemorative route. These were planted in the 1940s.
Five big English Oaks can be found, one with a span of over 23 metres.
More recent plantings are Camellias and Rhododendrons, which thrive in the shade of the tall trees.
Church Hill is a much loved and well used park right in the centre of Nelson, make sure you take the time to explore it.
Opening Hours and Tariffs
Open all year
Entry Free
Contact Details and Location
Physical Address: Trafalgar Square, Nelson City
Phone: 03 546 0200
Email: enquiries@ncc.govt.nz
Website: http://nelson.govt.nz/recreation/recreation/walks-and-walkways/heritage-walks/church-hill-walk/
