Little River Rail Trail 20-years

‘Little River All Aboard’ Event and Photo Competition!

Celebrate 20 years of the Little River Rail Trail by getting inspired to explore using some wonderful itineraries we have put together to explore this part of Banks Peninsula.
The Little River All Aboard event invites walkers, cyclists, families, history lovers, foodies and adventurers to discover the Rail Trail through a series of suggested itineraries, a fun children’s ’Passport’ challenge and a photo competition judged by renowned New Zealand photographer Colin Monteath.
Whether you’re planning a half-day outing or a weekend adventure, there’s an itinerary to suit every age, interest and ability.
Many thanks to Bupa for partnering with us for this event.

Competition dates: October 10th – November 15th

ITINERARIES
Need some inspiration? We’ve developed a range of self-guided itineraries showcasing the best experiences along and around the trail for you to discover:

  • Family-friendly adventures
  • Food and local produce experiences
  • Nature and wildlife encounters
  • Walking and cycling escapes
  • Accessible and relaxed day trips

Explore, Discover, and Create Your Own Adventure

The Little River Rail Trail is more than just a trail. It is a journey through stunning landscapes, welcoming communities, fascinating history, and unique local experiences. From peaceful rural escapes and nature reserves to vibrant townships, cafés, galleries, and coastal adventures, there is always something new to discover.

These itineraries have been created to inspire your next adventure and showcase some of the many experiences available both on and beyond the trail. Whether you follow them exactly or use them as a starting point for your own journey, we hope they encourage you to get out, explore, and support local communities along the way.
We have done our very best to provide helpful and accurate information, but conditions, opening hours, transport services, and attractions can change. Please do a little research before you travel, make any necessary bookings, and always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
And don’t forget your camera – we’d love to see your Little River Rail Trail adventures so ENTER OUR PHOTO COMPETITION! 📸 Share your favourite photos with us during the campaign for your chance to be in to win a share of a prize pool valued at over $1,000. Capture the scenery, the people, the wildlife, and the memories, then show us what makes your journey special. Happy exploring!

 

PLAN A FAMILY ADVENTURE
View the various ‘Families & Tamariki’ itinerary details via the following links:

  1. Motukārara Family Adventure
  1. Motukārara to Kaituna Quarry Passport Adventure
  1. Kaituna Quarry to Birdlings Flat Explorer
  1. Tamariki Nature Discovery Ride
  1. Tamariki Rail Trail Treasure Hunt
  1. Village-to-Village Explorer

HOW ABOUT A SOCIAL BIKE OR WALK WITH SOME FRIENDS? 

View the various ‘Social Cyclists/Nature lovers’ itinerary details via the following links:

WE ALSO HAVE SOME SUGGESTIONS FOR KEEN WALKERS AND RUNNERS

View the various ‘Walkers & Runners’ itinerary details via the following links:

OR ‘SMASH THE GRAVEL’ FOR THE ULTRA-KEEN CYCLISTS!

View the various ‘Fitness & Performance Cyclists/Touring’ itinerary details via the following links:

Enter our Photo Competition!

Capture your Little River Rail Trail experience, enter our competition, and go in the draw to win over $1,000 worth of great prizes.
Photo entries may be submitted as part of the event and will be judged by renowned landscape photographer Colin Monteath.
For entry details click HERE to read our instructions, terms and conditions.

Watch our Little River Rail Trail Video

See the trail come to life and discover why thousands of people enjoy the Little River Rail Trail each year. Watch our Little River Rail Trail video for some handy information before you plan your adventure – many thanks to the Christchurch City Council for compiling this for us.

Tips for Riding the Rail Trail

Planning to cycle the trail? Check out our handy tips for information on trail conditions, safety, bike preparation, facilities, and getting the most from your journey.

Lake Flies

Like many natural environments, some areas around Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere Te Roto o Wairewa/Lake Forsyth may experience seasonal lake fly activity. While they can occasionally be noticeable, lake flies are harmless and form an important part of the local ecosystem. Most visitors find they do not affect their enjoyment of the area, particularly when conditions are breezy.
A useful tip is to pop a Covid mask or neck gaiter/buff around your neck and be ready to pull it up if required! Wearing glasses or sunglasses helps protect your eyes.

Acknowledgements

The Little River All Aboard campaign is made possible through the support of our funding partners and collaborating organisations.
We gratefully acknowledge the contribution of:
Bupa
Christchurch City Council

 

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