West Melton Forest: A Serene Escape into Nature
Explore the tranquil beauty of West Melton Forest, a lush regional park near Christchurch, perfect for nature walks, picnics, and wildlife observation.
Nestled on the outskirts of Christchurch, West Melton Forest offers visitors an enchanting retreat into a lush landscape filled with walking trails, diverse flora, and tranquil surroundings. Ideal for nature lovers and families alike, this park is a peaceful haven for relaxation and exploration.
A brief summary to West Melton Forest
- 580 Chattertons Rd, Christchurch, McLeans Island, 7676, NZ
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated areas within the park.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the trails can be uneven in places.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to dress appropriately.
- Stay hydrated and carry water, especially during warmer months while exploring the park.
Getting There
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Bus
Start your journey at the Christchurch Bus Interchange located at 37-39 Lichfield Street. From there, take the number 29 bus towards the airport. This bus runs regularly and will take you through the city before heading towards the outer suburbs. You will need to get off at the 'McLeans Island' stop, which is approximately a 30-minute ride. Once you exit the bus, walk east along McLeans Island Road for about 20 minutes until you reach Chattertons Road. Turn right onto Chattertons Road, and after a short walk, you will arrive at West Melton Forest, located at 580 Chattertons Road.
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Bike
If you're feeling adventurous and want to bike, you can rent a bike from one of the rental shops in the city center. Start at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and head north along the River Avon path. Continue to follow the river until you reach the junction with the Waimakariri River. Follow the cycle path leading towards McLeans Island. Once on McLeans Island, navigate to Chattertons Road and head to the address 580 Chattertons Road to reach West Melton Forest. The bike ride will take approximately 1.5 hours, depending on your pace.
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Walking
For those looking to walk, begin your journey at the Christchurch City Centre. Head towards the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and make your way to the Waimakariri River. From there, follow the riverside path north until you reach the junction with the Waimakariri River. This will lead you towards McLeans Island. The walk is quite lengthy, approximately 2-3 hours, so prepare accordingly, and make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Once you reach McLeans Island, follow Chattertons Road to 580 Chattertons Road, West Melton Forest.
Discover more about West Melton Forest
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