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
Bus stop
Toilets
Water fountains
Accessible tracks
Challenging feature
Entry and exit point
Point of interest