Lake Coleridge And Rakaia Walks
Lake Coleridge was built around New Zealand's first state-owned hydroelectric power station, which was constructed between 1911 and 1914. Discover the history of the area with a great range of tracks from easy walks to longer day hikes.
Lake Coleridge Tail Race Walk
Visit a place which is reputed to be a moa cooking site (discovered in 1960). Spectacular views stretching up the valley to the head of the Rakaia River with a stunning display of colour in autumn.
Time to complete:
5 to 30 minutes.
Starting point:
Lake Coleridge Domain information board.
Washpen Falls
Walk through a canyon formed by an ancient volcano. See waterfalls and views across the Canterbury Plains. Enjoy a track full of native bush and bird song.
What you need to know:
One hour drive from Christchurch.
The walk is situated on a high country working farm.
The walk is a loop track.
A fee is charged which includes a track guide & use of walking sticks $10.00 per adult $5.00 per child (under 15).
Walkable all year round except in extreme weather.
Warm clothing & sturdy footwear required.
Prams are not suitable.
Dogs are not permitted.
Time to complete:
3 hours return.
Starting point:
380 Washpen Road.
Rakaia Gorge Walking Track
See spectacular geological areas, showing lava flows of rhyolite, pitchstone and andesite. View the Snowdon coal mines and enjoy the view of the bright blue crystal clear water of the Rakaia River.
Time to complete:
3 - 4 hours return.
Starting point:
The track starts off State Highway 72 Inland Scenic Route on the northern edge of the Rakaia River, upstream of the Rakaia Gorge Bridge.
Rockwood Bush Walk
See native ferns, black beech, matai, white pine and bird life. Walk alongside the Rockwood stream.
Time to complete:
1 hour.
Starting point:
Rockwood farm, Darts Road (off Washpen Road). Please note access permission is by advance telephone arrangement with the land owner. There is a $10 charge for this walk.
Te Araroa (the long pathway); New Zealand National Walkway
The Te Araroa Trail is a national walkway covering the length of New Zealand, with a portion of it going through the Lake Coleridge area in 3 sections. Walk alongside wetlands, farms, pine forest and the lake.
Time to complete:
4 hours return.
Starting point:
Hart Arboretum Gate on Intake Road in the village.
