Explore the Natural Beauty of Waimakariri River Regional Park
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene environment of Waimakariri River Regional Park, a perfect getaway for nature lovers in Christchurch.
Nestled in the heart of Christchurch, Waimakariri River Regional Park offers tourists a serene escape into nature. This picturesque park is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying breathtaking river views, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.
A brief summary to Waimakariri River Regional Park
- Christchurch, Belfast, NZ
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and to avoid crowds.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the river; there are plenty of beautiful spots.
- Wear sturdy shoes; some trails may be uneven and require good footwear.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially birds; bring binoculars for better viewing.
- Check the weather before your visit; the park can be quite different in various conditions.
Getting There
-
Bus
To reach Waimakariri River Regional Park from central Christchurch, start by heading to the Bus Interchange located at 37 Lichfield Street. From the interchange, catch the Metro bus route 95, which travels towards Belfast. Make sure to check the bus schedule as it may vary. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Stay on the bus until you reach the Belfast School stop. Once you get off, walk north along Belfast Road for about 10 minutes until you reach the entrance of Waimakariri River Regional Park.
-
Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, rent a bike from one of the rental shops in central Christchurch. Start your ride heading north on Papanui Road, then turn left onto Main North Road. Continue north until you reach the intersection with Marshland Road and turn left. Follow Marshland Road until you reach the Waimakariri River. The ride should take around 1.5 hours depending on your pace. Once you reach the river, you will find various access points to the park.
-
Walking
For those who enjoy walking, you can take a longer route. Begin at Cathedral Square in central Christchurch and walk north along Colombo Street. Continue until you reach the intersection with Main North Road, then turn left. Walk along Main North Road until you reach the Belfast area, which may take about 1.5 to 2 hours. When you reach Belfast, follow Belfast Road north for another 10 minutes to arrive at Waimakariri River Regional Park.
Discover more about Waimakariri River Regional Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scottish Pioneer Tribute
11.5 km
Discover the Scottish Pioneer Tribute in Christchurch, a historical landmark celebrating the legacy of Scottish settlers in New Zealand.
Christchurch Town Hall
11.5 km
Explore the stunning Christchurch Town Hall, an architectural gem and vibrant cultural hub, perfect for music, arts, and community events.
Pou Pou Monument
11.7 km
Explore the Pou Pou Monument in Christchurch, a stunning tribute to Maori heritage and culture, nestled in the heart of Victoria Square.
Canterbury Provincial Council Buildings
11.8 km
Explore the historical grandeur of the Canterbury Provincial Council Buildings, a stunning Victorian landmark in the heart of Christchurch, New Zealand.
Old Government Building
12.0 km
Discover the architectural grandeur of the Old Government Building, a historic landmark in the heart of Christchurch's Cathedral Square.
Chalice The Sculpture
12.0 km
Discover Chalice The Sculpture at Cathedral Square, a stunning landmark embodying the spirit and resilience of Christchurch, New Zealand.
Robert Falcon Scott Memorial
12.0 km
Explore the Robert Falcon Scott Memorial in Christchurch, a poignant tribute to exploration and adventure in the heart of New Zealand.
Otautahi Christchurch isite Visitor Information Centre
12.0 km
Discover Christchurch through the Otautahi i-SITE Visitor Information Centre, your go-to for local insights, bookings, and travel tips in New Zealand's vibrant city.
Cathedral Square
12.0 km
Explore Cathedral Square, a vibrant hub in Christchurch, showcasing the iconic ChristChurch Cathedral and a lively atmosphere of culture and community.
Kate Sheppard House
12.1 km
Explore the legacy of women's suffrage at Kate Sheppard House, a preserved heritage site showcasing New Zealand's progressive history in Christchurch.
Escape Artists Christchurch
12.2 km
Experience thrilling adventures at Escape Artists Christchurch, where teamwork and creativity unlock unforgettable escape room challenges.
Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds)
12.4 km
Discover the serene charm of Punting on the Avon, a must-try experience in Christchurch, where nature and history intertwine beautifully.
Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial
12.4 km
Explore the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial, a poignant tribute to resilience and recovery in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Sculpture of Numbers
12.6 km
Discover the Sculpture of Numbers in Christchurch - where art meets mathematics in a captivating urban installation.
NZ Museum of Toys & Collectibles
12.8 km
Explore the enchanting NZ Museum of Toys & Collectibles in Christchurch, where nostalgia meets joy through a vast array of vintage toys and memorabilia.
Unmissable attractions to see
Alpine Jet Thrills - Braided Shallows (Christchurch)
1.0 km
Discover the thrill of jet boating through the breathtaking braided shallows of Christchurch at Alpine Jet Thrills, a must-visit for adventure seekers.
Kaiapoi Island Trail - Forest Route
1.1 km
Embark on a captivating journey through the Kaiapoi Island Trail, where nature's beauty meets adventure in Canterbury, New Zealand.
Adrenalin Forest Christchurch
4.7 km
Experience the thrill of zip-lining and adventure sports in the stunning landscapes of Adrenalin Forest Christchurch, a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts.
Baynons Brake
6.0 km
Explore the serene beauty of Baynons Brake in Swannanoa, New Zealand - a perfect park for nature lovers and families seeking tranquility.
South Island Wildlife Hospital
6.1 km
Experience the heartwarming efforts of wildlife rehabilitation at the South Island Wildlife Hospital in Christchurch, New Zealand, and encounter native species up close.
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
6.1 km
Experience the magic of New Zealand's wildlife at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, a top destination for conservation and family-friendly adventures.
Aikmans Merivale
10.1 km
Explore the vibrant bar scene at Aikmans Merivale, a must-visit spot for tourists in Christchurch seeking a lively atmosphere and great drinks.
Sprig + Fern Merivale
10.1 km
Experience the vibrant local bar scene at Sprig + Fern Merivale, offering craft beers, delightful wines, and a warm, inviting ambiance.
Avon River / Ōtakaro
10.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Avon River / Ōtakaro, Christchurch's iconic waterway adorned with lush gardens and rich culture.
International Antarctic Centre
10.8 km
Discover Antarctica's wonders at the International Antarctic Centre, a unique attraction featuring wildlife encounters and immersive exhibits near Christchurch Airport.
Mona Vale Gatehouse
11.3 km
Explore the enchanting Mona Vale Gatehouse, a historic heritage building surrounded by stunning gardens and tranquil waterways in Fendalton, Christchurch.
Victoria Clock Tower
11.3 km
Discover the Victoria Clock Tower, a historic monument in the heart of Christchurch, blending architectural beauty with rich cultural heritage.
Woodham Park
11.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Woodham Park in Linwood, Christchurch - a tranquil oasis perfect for relaxation, picnics, and family fun amidst nature.
Christchurch Casino
11.5 km
Discover excitement and entertainment at Christchurch Casino, the ultimate gaming and dining destination in the heart of Christchurch, New Zealand.
Mona vale green house
11.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Mona Vale Green House in Riccarton, Christchurch, a botanical garden perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.
Essential places to dine
Lume Restaurant
4.9 km
Experience the rich flavors of New Zealand at Lume Restaurant in Harewood, Christchurch – where exceptional cuisine meets warm hospitality.
Costas Taverna Greek Restaurant and Ouzo Bar
7.7 km
Indulge in the rich flavors of Greece at Costas Taverna - a delightful restaurant offering authentic dishes and a warm ambiance in Christchurch.
Chillingworth Road
7.8 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Chillingworth Road in Christchurch, where diverse flavors meet elegant ambiance for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Fig
8.9 km
Experience the essence of New Zealand's culinary scene at Fig in Papanui, Christchurch - where fresh ingredients meet exceptional flavors.
Dinner With Cany
9.5 km
Experience the best of local cuisine at Dinner With Cany in Edgeware, Christchurch – where flavor meets hospitality.
Kinji Japanese Restaurant
9.7 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Kinji Restaurant in Christchurch—where tradition meets taste in every dish.
No.4 Bar and Restaurant
10.0 km
Discover No.4 Bar and Restaurant: A Fusion of Culinary Excellence and Lively Atmosphere in Christchurch's St Albans.
Tutto Bene
10.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Tutto Bene in St Albans, Christchurch - where every dish tells a story.
Carlton Bar & Steakhouse
10.9 km
Discover a steak lover's paradise at Carlton Bar & Steakhouse in Christchurch – where quality meets flavor in every bite.
Gatherings Restaurant
10.9 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Gatherings Restaurant in Merivale, Christchurch – where every meal is a celebration of local ingredients.
Strawberry Fare
10.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Strawberry Fare in Christchurch - where every dish tells a story of flavor and creativity.
The Dish
11.3 km
Discover vibrant Asian fusion cuisine at The Dish in Christchurch – where every bite tells a story.
The Lane
11.3 km
Experience delightful cuisine and warm hospitality at The Lane, Christchurch's premier dining destination celebrating local flavors.
Rangoon Ruby Christchurch New Zealand
11.4 km
Experience authentic Burmese cuisine at Rangoon Ruby in Christchurch—where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
50 Bistro
11.5 km
Discover culinary excellence at 50 Bistro in Christchurch Central City - where local flavors meet exceptional dining experiences.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
My Favourite Things Boutique
8.8 km
Explore My Favourite Things Boutique in Bishopdale, Christchurch, for unique gifts, local crafts, and festive treasures that celebrate New Zealand's creativity.
Silver Boutique
8.8 km
Explore sustainable fashion at Silver Boutique, Christchurch's premier destination for unique used clothing and baby apparel.
Coco Gifts
9.4 km
Discover unique and locally crafted gifts at Coco Gifts in Christchurch’s charming Merivale suburb, perfect for capturing New Zealand's spirit.
Belish Boutique
10.0 km
Explore Belish Boutique in St Albans, Christchurch for unique, stylish furniture pieces that elevate your home decor and reflect your personal style.
Untouched World Christchurch
10.0 km
Explore sustainable fashion at Untouched World Christchurch, where style meets eco-consciousness in the heart of New Zealand.
Untouched World Outlet Christchurch
10.1 km
Shop sustainably at Untouched World Outlet Christchurch, where eco-conscious fashion meets unique New Zealand style.
Treasure Box By Biani
10.1 km
Explore Treasure Box By Biani in Christchurch for a unique shopping experience featuring stylish clothing, handbags, and accessories that reflect contemporary fashion.
Lynn Woods
10.1 km
Discover Lynn Woods, the go-to women's clothing boutique in Christchurch for trendy fashion and unique accessories in a welcoming atmosphere.
Husk Home
10.1 km
Discover Husk Home, a unique shopping destination in Merivale, Christchurch, offering an exquisite collection of homeware and gifts with a local touch.
Frogmore
10.1 km
Explore Frogmore Gift Shop in Christchurch for unique artisan gifts and local treasures that perfectly capture New Zealand's charm.
Merivale Mall
10.2 km
Explore the vibrant Merivale Mall in Christchurch, a shopping paradise offering stylish stores and delightful dining options for every visitor.
Exquisite Gift AJ
11.0 km
Explore the charm of Exquisite Gift AJ, a delightful gift shop in Merivale, Christchurch, offering unique souvenirs and local craftsmanship.
Seaside Vintage New Brighton
11.5 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Seaside Vintage New Brighton, where every piece tells a story and every visit is an adventure.
New Regent Street Precinct
11.8 km
Explore the historic and vibrant New Regent Street Precinct in Christchurch, where shopping, dining, and culture come together in a charming setting.
Forget Me Not
12.0 km
Explore the heart of Christchurch with unique souvenirs and local crafts at Forget Me Not, a charming store filled with New Zealand's cultural treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tavern Harewood
8.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delectable cuisine at Tavern Harewood, a must-visit bar and restaurant in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Bishop Brothers Public House
8.8 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Christchurch at Bishop Brothers Public House - delicious food, live music, and a friendly atmosphere await you.
Gav's Endeavour
9.5 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Gav's Endeavour, a cozy bar in North New Brighton, Christchurch, perfect for unwinding with friends.
Richmond Club, The Borough
10.6 km
Discover the Richmond Club: A lively pub in Christchurch offering delicious food, local brews, and a vibrant atmosphere for all.
Vesuvio Jazz & Tapas Bar
10.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of tapas and live jazz at Vesuvio Jazz & Tapas Bar in Merivale, Christchurch - a culinary oasis for food lovers.
Boo's | Whiskey, Food & Music
11.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Christchurch at Boo's, where whiskey, food, and live music come together for an unforgettable evening.
The Dirty Land
11.2 km
Discover The Dirty Land, Christchurch's vibrant cocktail bar known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
The Bog
11.4 km
Experience a slice of Ireland in Christchurch at The Bog, where hearty meals and a lively atmosphere await you.
Pomeroy's Old Brewery Inn
11.5 km
Experience the charm of Pomeroy's Old Brewery Inn, a historic pub in Christchurch offering local cuisine and craft beers in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Last Word
11.8 km
Experience the chic vibe of The Last Word, a premier bar in Christchurch, offering exceptional cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.
gin gin
11.8 km
Discover Christchurch's finest cocktail bar, Gin Gin, where mixology meets creativity and ambiance in a vibrant setting. Perfect for unforgettable evenings.
O.G.B Bar & Cocktail Bar
12.0 km
Discover the lively O.G.B Bar & Cocktail Bar in Christchurch, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a vibrant atmosphere and delicious food.
Astro Lounge
12.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Astro Lounge, a bar and live music venue in the heart of Christchurch, where great drinks and entertainment await.
Mr. Brightside Rooftop Bar
12.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views, exquisite cocktails, and vibrant atmosphere at Mr. Brightside Rooftop Bar in Christchurch.
Micky Finn's
12.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Micky Finn's in Christchurch, where Irish charm meets Thai culinary delights and live music.