.jpg) The memorial in 2020 | |
 | |
| 43°35′36.8″S 172°42′29.3″E / 43.593556°S 172.708139°E | |
| Location | Bridle Path, Port Hills, Christchurch |
|---|---|
| Designer | Heathcote Helmore (structure) Frederick Gurnsey (mural) |
| Opening date | 14 December 1940 |
| Dedicated to | Women pioneers of Canterbury |
| Alternate name | Pioneer Women's Memorial |
The Canterbury Pioneer Women's Memorial commemorates the pioneer women of Canterbury in New Zealand. After arrival by sea in Lyttelton Harbour, early settlers had to cross the Port Hills via the Bridle Path to reach Christchurch or the Canterbury Plains. The memorial was unveiled at the summit of the Bridle Path in 1940, 90 years after the First Four Ships had arrived in Lyttelton. The impetus for having a memorial was for Christchurch to have a contribution for the New Zealand centennial commemorating the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840. Hence, the Canterbury Pioneer Women's Memorial commemorates two events that happened ten years apart.