Diamond Harbour is one of the sunniest and unspoilt destinations on Banks Peninsula and is great for a day trip. Getting there is easy, the best option is to take the Diamond Harbour Ferry from Lyttelton harbour (departs from B Jetty).  Black Cat Cruises run the ferry over there on a regular basis throughout the day.  check out the website for timetable information and more.

Diamond Harbour ferry video

Top things to do while there:-

Road and mountain biking has become one of the most popular activities for New Zealanders, mainly due to our fabulous scenery and relatively quiet roads and of course easy access to the countryside.  Take your bike on the ferry from Lyttelton (an extra $2 fee applies) and bike around Diamond Harbour and back to Lyttelton again.

Walking would be a close second to biking for most loved activities for locals and overseas visitors or maybe its the other way round! walk from the jetty to the fabulous new look Diamond Harbour Store, the food and coffee are quickly becoming legendary.  Once you have refreshed and re-energised there are plenty of wonderful walks to choose from including Mt Herbert (you will need all day for this one).  Ask the wonderful friendly staff at the store to point you in the right direction.

If excercising is not your thing, there are four wonderful beaches to choose from, Diamond Harbour beach, Paradise Bay, Purau and Camp Bay.  Pack a picnic, take the togs and relax!

There is a beautiful golf course at Charteris Bay with some wonderful views across the harbour and looking back at Lyttelton.