The foothills and forests of Waimakariri, at the foot of the Southern Alps, are easy to access and offer some wonderful forest environments.  All are popular recreation areas for easy walks, day trips, overnight tramping or mountain biking and picnicking. 

Glentui and Mt Richardson - A very popular recreational area offering a variety of track options from easy walks through native bush to moderately steep climbing to the Mt Richardson summit.  Mountain biking is permitted on the Blowhard Track only.

Mt Thomas Forest Conservation Area - An excellent area for days trips with two picturesque picnic areas and several walking tracks around the two main summits - Mt Thomas and Mt Richardson.

Oxford Forest Conservation Area - Choose from day walks, overnight tramps or mountain biking the Wharfedale Track.

Mt Grey/Mautakere Forest - Three tracks just east of Amberley offering panoramic views across the Plains and North Canterbury.

Ensure you prepare yourself and ensure you:

• Choose a track in keeping with your experience, fitness and ability.
• Allow enough time to to walk at your own pace
• Keep young children in sight
• Wear comfortable footwear
• Dress for the weather (be prepared for it to change)
• Stay on the track
• On longer walks, carry warm clothing, adequate food and water
• Tell someone where you are going
• Take care in the foothill forests for wasps from January to March each year. It is recommended that forest users carry wasp kits as a precaution. These are generally available from chemists.