Randolph

References to our past are everywhere, you just have to look. The Randolph Motel Apartments on Papanui Road complete with a image of the ‘Randolph’, one of the first four ships to arrive in Lyttelton in 1850. *Photo taken by Annette Bulovic*

Lyttelton Gaol

Just a year after the first four ships arrived, it came apparent that Canterbury needed a gaol! What was to be a perfect new colony soon was tainted by the nature of man. So Lyttelton Gaol was opened in 1851, designed by Benjamin Woolfield Mountford (also designed the Cathedral and Museum) and built by the …

Pilgrim’s Rock

Pilgrims Rock at Lyttelton, marking the spot where the Canterbury Settlers first set foot on their new land. It was unveiled in 1934 by The Lyttelton District Community Arts Council. During the re-enactment ceremony, a large red flag was lowered to half-mast at the Time-Ball Station indicating a ship (The Charlotte Jane) was approaching. The …

Fendalton – Walpole Cheshyre Fendall (1830 -1913)

Walpole Fendall arrived in Christchurch on the Sir George Seymour, one of the first four ships. From England, his father had purchased an 50 acre block for Walpole which he subdivided quickly. With a road already going through his land (now Fendalton Road) and with the development of housing, it soon became known as Fendall …

Godley’s Farewell Spot

On the right hand-side as you drive into the Riccarton Ave carpark of Hagley Park (by the tennis courts) sits this historical gem. The memorial tablet acknowledges the departure of John Robert Godley from New Zealand, the founder of Canterbury in 1852. This breakfast event was set up in a spacious marquee, catered by the …