Explore the Scenic Little River Rail Trail
Discover the Little River Rail Trail: a scenic journey through New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The Little River Rail Trail, starting at Section 5, offers a breathtaking escape into nature, perfect for tourists looking to experience New Zealand's stunning landscapes. This trail, designed for walking and cycling, takes you through picturesque scenery, charming rural vistas, and the serene atmosphere of the South Island's countryside. It’s a trail where adventure meets tranquility, making it ideal for families, solo travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Little River Rail Trail (start of Section 5)
- Park Rd, Motukarara, 7672, NZ
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up while you explore the trail.
- Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Wear comfortable footwear to ensure a pleasant experience on the varied terrain.
- Check the weather beforehand, as conditions can change quickly in this area.
- Look out for local wildlife, including birds and other animals, during your journey.
Getting There
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Bus
From Christchurch Central City, walk to the Bus Interchange located at 1 Tuam Street. Take the bus route 83 (to Little River) or route 28 (to Akaroa, via Little River). The journey takes approximately 1 hour. Get off at the 'Motukarara' stop, which is near Park Road. From there, walk along Park Road for about 10 minutes until you reach the starting point of Section 5 of the Little River Rail Trail.
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Bike
Rent a bicycle from one of the rental shops in Christchurch, such as 'Bicycle Junction' or 'Recycled Bicycles'. Start your ride from the city center and head towards the Christchurch Estuary through the Ferrymead area. Follow the designated cycling paths and roads towards Motukarara. The total distance is approximately 30 km, which should take about 2-3 hours. Once you reach Motukarara, follow Park Road for about 10 minutes to find the start of Section 5 of the Little River Rail Trail.
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Train and Bus
From Christchurch Central, take the TranzAlpine train to Springfield. Once you arrive in Springfield, walk to the bus stop and catch the bus heading to Little River. Ensure to check the bus schedule as it may vary. Upon arrival at the 'Motukarara' stop, walk along Park Road for about 10 minutes to reach the beginning of Section 5 of the Little River Rail Trail.
Discover more about Little River Rail Trail (start of Section 5)
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