Our latest guest blog comes from Sonya Olykan, Acting Secretary and Project Coordinator for the Railtrail Trust, with a great update on the awesome things that are happening down in Christchurch:
The murmurings around the country have been getting louder as more and more people grab their bikes and head down to experience for themselves the Christchurch to Little River Railtrail.
In 2003, The Christchurch-Little River Railtrail Trust, was formed to transform the former railway route into a trail catering for walkers and cyclists wishing to view the region at close quarters, while avoiding the traffic on the busy road between Little River and Christchurch. The first two sections were opened in 2006 after years of planning and working behind the scenes to open this beautiful area up for walkers and cyclists.
The first section is a 20km stretch between Motukarara and Little River, which follows the old preserved railway embankment and goes alongside Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere. We‘ve had many people tell us how much they enjoy seeing up close the plants and birds found in this unique wetland, and all along the route there are a number of sites of natural, cultural and historic importance. We’ve found that section of the trail is used mostly during the weekend and for many people a round trip on a bike – with a lunch break at Little River of course! – makes for a great day excursion. Make sure you also take a side trip to Bridlings Flat to check out the breath-taking ocean views.
The second section of the trail runs between the townships of Prebbleton and Lincoln, providing a convenient and safe route for commuters travelling to and from Lincoln. Recreational cyclists, walkers and runners are also out there using it regularly to get some exercise and enjoy views of the countryside.
Thanks to the popularity, we are also pleased to say that by early 2009 there will be an extension on this second section linking Prebbleton northwards toward Hornby. Environment Canterbury are also building a 4 km section of the Railtrail through the Ahuriri Reserve to Motukarara, and a temporary extension of the Railtrail into Little River will be completed before the summer season.
We have been really pleased with the public response to the Railtrail and are always keen to see new faces enjoying this very special area, so check out www.littlerivertrail.co.nz for the latest news and all the information you need to plan your own trip. We are also on YouTube, so you can get a taste of the fun as well.
