The Waimate Trail/Te Waimatemate Ara

A shared-use trail for walkers and mountain bikers

A 66km walk/cycle trail based on the district’s natural geography and picturesque surroundings was proposed after community consultation, and in 2021 the Department of Internal Affairs supported a feasibility study of the trail options around Waimate District. The study identified a walk/cycle trail through the Hunter Hills as a viable and popular option.

We’ve completed the detailed design stage of the trail with professional engineer and master trail builder Hamish Seaton, and we’re ready to begin construction. Hamish has also worked on design, construction, quality control and safety audits of some of the great rides of New Zealand including the Alps2Ocean, Paparoa Track, Old Ghost Road and Kawatiri Coastal trail.   

Waimate District Council will hold the easement agreements with the private landowners. We have support from our local Iwi and have completed archaeology, geology and environment reports.

The Waimate track will be managed by Waimate2gether working closely with Waimate Trackways and Waimate District Council through a memorandum of understanding.

Our goal

Our goal is to develop a dual-use loop trail that links existing track networks between Studholme, Kelcey’s and Gunn’s Bush (existing DOC reserves) via Mt Studholme at the top of the Hunters Hills in the Te Tāpuae a Urihia conservation area and through the old Waimate branch to Waihao Forks.

Linking Studholme, Kelcey’s and Gunn’s Bush with the Tāpuae a Urihia conservation area provides for an exciting and adventurous opportunity for public recreational users to take in some of the most stunning readily accessible vistas available in South Canterbury, New Zealand.

A “Footsteps of our Ancestors” proposed sculpture trail will add an educational element to the  journey allowing people of all ages to interact with nature and learn about Waimate district’s cultural history.in a fun and enjoyable way. 

We aim for it to be a world-class visitor experience that reflects the significant cultural and heritage values of the area. 

Over the next five years, Waimate2gether aims to manage and construct the 66km educational walking/cycle trail with hut options for all the family to enjoy. It is proposed to be constructed in three stages.