The Waimakariri River Regional Park covers 15,000 hectares of river and river's edge land so we've broken it down into several park areas that cater to activities ranging from mountain biking, picnicking, horse riding, walking, game bird hunting, fishing and more.
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Prior to European settlement, the Waimakariri River was a vast and unconstrained braided river that frequently overflowed surrounding land, including through the site of present-day Christchurch.
Over the past 150 years, people have worked to contain the mighty river and prevent it from overflowing into Christchurch and neighbouring towns and properties. The Waimakariri River Regional Park was originally created as a way of managing the Environment Canterbury-owned river protection land along the length of the Waimakariri River.
McLeans Forest
McLeans Forest is a section of the Waimakariri River Regional Park popular with mountain bikers of all ages, walkers and runners
West Melton Forest
A 350-hectare forest ideal for recreational horse riders, horse-carriage driving, walkers and runners.
Kaiapoi Island
Popular for motocross, whitebaiting, fishing, mountain biking, picnicking, swimming, kayaking and jet boating.
Te Rauakaaka
Discover a saltmarsh near the Styx River nature reserve for relaxing walks or a spot of bird watching.
Baynons Brake
A valuable natural recreation area to relax, go horse riding, walking, picnicking and fishing.
McIntoshs
Picnic while watching anglers and whitebaiters. A wheelchair access and blind anglers' fishing platform is provided.
Templars Island
Stroll through a sizeable freshwater swamp to find regenerating native plants and bird life. Cycle or walk between McLeans Forest and Brooklands.
The Willows
The Willows is a great spot for walking, cycling, and fishing near the Waimakariri River.
Weedons Forest
Following the development of The Willows for non-motorised recreation, trail bikers are encouraged to use Weedons Forest.