Northbrook Wetlands

Northbrook

20, January 2009

The Northbrook Wetlands was once the site of early European industry including; flax mills, a brewery, fellmongery and a tannery. In recent years restoration of this area has created an extensive wildlife and recreation reserve. As well as the remnants of the past, in the native plantings there is space for birds to breed, tracks to wander and for kids to ride their bikes along.
30 minutes return.

Matawai Park

A native park of plant communities established from Canterbury wildplants; lowland podocarp, swamp beech forest, churn tussock, grassland and coastal. Explore the many tracks in the park that wind through bushy dells and open info secluded alcoves or bigger grassy spaces. Great for family walks and picnics.
30 minutes return.

Mike Kean Walkway - Ashley River

This walking track follows alongside the Ashley River, commencing by the Ashley River Bridge Picnic Area, Inland Scenic Route 72. Follow the winding track to the railway bridge and return along the stop bank or track. The braided Ashley River is home to the wrybill and the river bed is a significant breeding ground for this endangered bird. 
20 minutes return.

Ashley River

Informal mountain biking tracks are formed along and on either side of the stop banks of the Ashley River in this area – cyclists take care and watch for other track users. Environment Canterbury are currently (2011/12) creating tracks for various user groups; mountain biking, motor biking, running / walking, and once complete tracks will be available from the west of Rangiora to Waikuku Beach, along the stopbanks and beside the Ashley River.

Ashley-Rakahuri Rivercare Group

The Ashley-Rakahuri Rivercare Group is a community group formed to assist with management of the lower reaches of the Ashley River. Its main aims are to protect birds and their habitat in the riverbed, to monitor breeding success, and to promote these activities to the wider public.