Christchurch - Little River Rail Trail

The Christchurch - Little River Rail Trail follows a 19th century rail corridor, completed 1886. The line was still used until 1967, and a short section from Hornby to Marshs Road remains in use today. The Little River Station remains as a shop, and the Motukarara Station has been restored for the trail.

There is no camping anywhere on the trail and accommodation is largely limited to Christchurch and Little River. Effectively, the trail is best walked section by section. The section from Motukarara to Little River is of most interest to walkers. Dogs are prohibited on this section. 

Walking times:

• Hornby to Prebbleton: 4km, 1 hour
• Prebbleton to Lincoln: 7km, 1 hour 45 min
• Lincoln to Ahuriri Reserve: 10km, 2 hours 30 min
• Ahuriri Reserve to Motukarara: 4km, 1 hour
• Motukarara to Birdlings Flat: 13km, 3 hours 15 min
• Birdlings Flat to Little River: 7km, 1 hour 45 min