Heathcote towpath

A wonderful walk along the estuarine salt marshes of the lower Heathcote River with extensive views of the Port Hills. The walk is best at mid-to-low tide as some of the paths can get flooded at high tide.

Start End of Gould Crescent, Heathcote
Finish Ferry Road or Settlers Crescent
Distance 4km
Time 1 hour 15 minutes return
Dogs Must be kept on a leash around the estuary
Description

From the end of Gould Crescent walk along the Heathcote River and follow the grassy banks downstream to Tunnel Road. There is a concrete path under the bridge, which can be taken at mid-to-low tide but can get very slippery with river silt.

On the other side is a bollard monument indicating that the early coastal vessels used to harbour here at what became known as Stream Wharf from 1856. A trail heads downstream with native plantings shielding busy Ferry Road. The path swings around the back of the factories on Settlers Crescent with excellent views of the Port Hills.

Footbridges cross small tidal inlets and the path passes a viewing platform before leading around to the well-positioned bird hide. The path continues along a line of macrocarpa trees beside a row of factories and goes over a low mound to an information platform opposite Ferrymead Historic Park. This was the site of the first European ferry across the river in 1851.

Retrace your steps back along the towpath.

 

Walking tracks


Shared use


Connecting tracks


Closed


Parking square 100x100

Parking


bus

Bus stop


Toilets

Toilets


water fountain marker

Water fountains


 
Accessible tracks


Punt Tahi pointer 85x125

Challenging feature


Pukeko Tahi pointer 85x125

Entry and exit point


Avon River Rua pointer 85x125

Point of interest


Takiuru ki ā mātou ratonga
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