1 Jan 2017

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Looking for a New Year’s resolution with a difference this year? How about setting a challenge to walk the Christchurch 360 Trail?

The Christchurch 360 Trail is a great way to explore the city and all it offers.

The 135 kilometre walk is made up of eight different sections, and spans the entire city – from beaches, to the estuary, Port Hills, water ways and tree-lined streets.

Christchurch City Council Ranger Nick Singleton said setting a goal of completing the Christchurch 360 Trail over the course of the year was an excellent way to see and engage with the very best Christchurch has to offer.

“This trail highlights everything that there is to love about Christchurch. From the beach, to the snow-capped mountains, the wetlands, the iconic Port Hills and the ever changing city-scape,” Mr Singleton said.

“We are so lucky to live in an incredibly diverse region and this walk showcases amazing aspects of Christchurch.”

The trail is the outcome of a 25-year vision of world-renowned ecologist Colin Meurk. He had guided Forest and Bird members on walks for many years over variations of the route, and advocated for years that the concept of a trail would be a great attraction for the city.

Linking up with many existing trails and urban routes, the 360 trail almost completely encircles Christchurch, with just one section of the trail (from McLeans Forest to Avonhead Park) not yet open as there is no walking infrastructure at present.

“The 360 trail is a great way to get to know the parks and backstreets of your city. While it's a great physical challenge the delights are all the natural and historic features you uncover.

“There are great contrasts between what you experience - the wide open rural views of Canterbury Agricultural Park, the intimate nature of Riccarton Bush / Putaringamotu, fabulous views of Lyttelton harbour / Whakaraupo as you stride along the Crater Rim walkway, the wind-swept Waimakariri River and the tree-lined back streets in Ilam and Fendalton.

“I think setting a goal of walking each section of the 360 trail is a great way to start the year. It’s an amazing trail in winter or summer and you’ve got the next 360-odd days to make it happen!”

Find out more on the Christchurch 360 Trail.