The Christchurch to Little River Rail Trail is a cycleway and walkway from Cathedral Square and Hornby to Little River. The route follows much of the Little River Branch railway line which operated from 1875 until 1967, providing a vital means for farmers to get stock and produce to market. The trail passes through rural areas and settlements on the Canterbury Plains, skirts past the massive flanks of the ancient volcanoes which make up Banks Peninsula, and hugs the shoreline of a Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere. This is New Zealand's 5th largest lake, its largest coastal lagoon, an internationally recognised wetland, home to 167 species of birds and 40 generations of human history. It also follows the edge of  Te Roto o Wairewa/Lake Forsyth which is a large, shallow coastal lake. The lake holds high cultural significance among local Māori and is regarded as mahinga kai resource. The lakes and associated rivers and wetlands are rich in wildlife and natural vegetation.

 

The Little River Rail Trail is made up of eight sections, with the full trail length being 65km from the Christchurch city centre.  Find out about them on the Trail Sections page, where you can also fina a printable brochure.  And see some of the things you can do and will encounter on the Trail in the Exploring On The Trail page.  Find out more about the Trail on the About The Trail.  Have any questions?  You'll find the answers on the Q & A page.  And check out the Gallery with loads of photos.