Shared Pathway: Little River Trail - Hike it, bike it like it!
The Christchurch to Little River Rail Trail is a 49km walkway and cycleway between Christchurch and Little River.
From 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 vast lagoon, Te Waihora or Lake Ellesmere, and its smaller twin, Te Roto o Wairewa or Lake Forsyth. The lakes and associated rivers and wetlands are rich in wildlife and natural vegetation.
The trail can be walked or biked in sections as below: Section 1 - Christchurch (Hornby to Prebbleton) Distance 4km
This section is sealed and follows Shands Road to the intersection with Marshs Road. It then crosses the road to follow the old railway corridor through to Prebbleton.
Points of interest: Hornby is a residential suburb of Christchurch and an important commercial centre. Section 2 - Prebbleton to Lincoln
Distance 7km
Beginning at the intersection of Birches Road and Trices Road. This section comprises of a 7km off-road wide asphalt pathway that runs alongside the original railway line from Birches Road to Lincoln.
Points to note: For those beginning the trail in Prebbleton there is carparking available along Birches Road between Springs Road and Trices Road or at the Prebbleton Reserve. Section 3 – Lincoln to Ahuriri Reserve Distance 10km
This section connects Lincoln to the Ahuriri Reserve utilising a number of sub-sections and onroad segments. The Rail Trail uses a shared pathway along the northern side of Edward Street. Continue to