Summit Road is a 28.2 km paved scenic drive along the high ridge of the Port Hills, running from the Sumner Road end south of Christchurch to Gebbies Pass Road near Motukarara. It is the longest road owned by Christchurch City Council, and it follows the rims of the extinct volcanoes that make up Banks Peninsula, topping out at 490 metres above sea level. The road opened to traffic in February 1938. The 2010 and 2011 earthquakes closed it under the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Act because of rockfall risk, and some sections have since reopened while others remain closed.
Visitors describe stunning views, with the city and its surrounds laid out below, and a quiet atmosphere when few other people are about. The road is narrow and can be misty, and one reviewer found the stretch from the Evans Peak Lookout side the most frightening narrow road they had driven, though they got through to Mount Pleasant. Reviewers mention the viewpoints and a good picnic spot. Our pick in Sumner for a drive with a view over the city.