Rapanui Rock

In the February 2011 Christchurch earthquake it shattered and the remains, which are still easily seen from the road, have, with dark humour by some locals, been called "Shag Pile" (a pun referencing the style of carpet).

Although no longer used by shipping, the estuary is accessible as far as Ferrymead using shallow draught vessels up to about 30 tons if the Sumner bar is crossed in favourable wind, sea and tidal conditions.

[1][2] According to Waitaha Taiwhenua o Waitaki tradition the name means the great sternpost and is one of the oldest landmarks of Te Wai Pounamu, standing at the entrance to the Ōpāwaho/Ōtākaro (Heathcote/Avon) estuary.

[11][additional citation(s) needed] During the 19th century the estuary outflow flowed much closer inshore, across the beach towards the nearby Cave Rock before sweeping out to sea.

[11][additional citation(s) needed] The former shoreline is apparent from historic photographs and painting of Sumner beach showing roads at the water's edge, and a jetty into the bay where the beachside tea rooms are now.

[citation needed] Although no longer used by shipping, the estuary was accessible as far as Ferrymead using shallow draught vessels up to about 30 tons, if the bar is crossed in favourable wind, sea and tidal conditions.

[19][20] A "Rogue Art" sculpture of a paper airplane, about a metre long and made from sheet steel, was installed on top of the rock in late February 2020.

[3][21] The "Rogue Artist" late contacted a local reporter to apologize for their ill-informed actions and explain the artwork was called "Crash but we do not burn – February 22, 2011" and installed to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the 2011 Christchurch earthquake.