The future of Canterbury's iconic beachside baches in Taylors Mistake could soon be decided.

The Christchurch City Council has been debating the future of the privately owned baches on public land at Taylors Mistake, Hobsons Bay and Boulder Bay, for three decades.

Some of the 45 baches are over 120 years old.

The council has now opened discussions ahead of formal public consultation beginning next month.

Taylors Mistake Association president Brent Gilpin says there has been a change of attitude recently.

"In the past, I think the attitude has been a managed removal of the baches, and what we are hoping now is to really secure the ongoing future of them. My grandparents bought a bach at Taylors Mistake in 1942, I would like it to be protected for my children and grandchildren."