Last Updated: 24th Oct 2023

Beginner

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I've done it Done

Heathcote Meander

Christchurch, Canterbury

Submitted by Katie Smith

Last Updated: 24th Oct 2023

Beginner

Save Trail Save

I've done it Done

Open

Grunt Factor: 7

Gnarl Factor: 14

9.4km

20m

20m

10m

  

  

  

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Trail Map

Type of Run

Urban

Loop

Totally/mostly flat

Native bush

Coastal

Riverside

Other

Run Makeup

10%
75%
15%

Sealed Road

Easy Single Track

Moderate Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +0.4%

Average Downhill Gradient: -3.2%

Trailhead

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Estimated Times to Run

1:00

Slow

0:50

Moderate

0:40

Fast

This is a flat cruisy run right in town that is almost all off-road on paths beside the Heathcote River.

This loop can be done starting at any point but is described starting from Richardson Terrace. Cross the footbridge opposite Mackenzie Ave and head straight down Sheldon Street, right to the end where you will see a track along the river on your right. From here follow the river downstream, through a small park then right at a T-junction by the main river. Keep following the right bank wherever possible.

The track narrows through some scrub and ducks under a bridge before coming out into Ferrymead Reserve. It broadens out here and you leave the houses behind. The narrow river track joins the main track in the reserve - follow along to the end past the golf course. Immediately after crossing the train tracks head left back towards the river. This takes you through Ferrymead Heritage Park and along to the old tramlines and station. Follow your nose though here to join the road (Bridlepath Road) briefly - head left towards the river again, cross the mouth and immediately head down towards the river, now on the left bank heading upstream.

Just before 8km take the footbridge back across into the park - you are now back at the T-junction. Head right on the track you haven't taken yet along the main river through some nice shady trees until you meet the road (Radley St). Cross this onto Clarendon Terrace and continue following the river back to the footbridge where you started.

Birdlife in the Heathcote Estuary, the old station at the Tramway Historical Society

Plenty of on-street parking

5 km

11 minutes

Unknown

No

Easy.

Jut follow your nose and the river and you can't go too far wrong!

Perfect throughout.

Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map.

None (don't drink the Heathcote!)

Some of the track is close to the estuary edge and could be underwater at very high tides

Trail Legend

HR

Hayden Ross

has completed Heathcote Meander 4 times in the last year.

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Trail Reviews

A lovely flat run along the river and mainly on trails. Will be back to enjoy this one again.

Stefanie Parks

September 30, 2021

The Ferrymead tow path has been a regular running spot for me for years, its great to have this native bush covered track so close to home. A great flat run, really enjoyed it. The tides can effect the track in places.

Callum Templeton

October 22, 2020

Loved this run. Beautiful spring evening and nice way to spend an hour or so - enjoy the river views, bush and bird life and easily ignore the bits of old industry. An easy track to follow around the loop. Recommend starting from The Tannery - similar distance with beer rewards to finish...

Tom Steele

August 31, 2020

Agreed with the other reviewers - shockingly pleasant, would never have guessed that such a nice run was tucked away along the river there. Good on Chch for investing to create/transform the space. I would happily run this again!

Matt Halverson

July 18, 2020

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