Plans for the 11km shared-use pathway that will travel through the heart of the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor (OARC).

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Anticipated construction commencement: Summer 2023-2024.

Estimated completion: 2025.

The City to Sea Pathway runs through the heart of the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor. The 11-kilometre-long, shared-use, all-weather route will largely follow the course of the Ōtākaro Avon River from Barbadoes Street in the central city to Pages Road in New Brighton.

The pathway will generally be four metres wide and designed to meet best practice safety and accessibility standards. It may feature short sections of boardwalk to allow for drainage and contours in the land.

It is designed to be enjoyed by everyone, and a network of minor paths will connect the pathway to the surrounding communities. It’s being designed as a fun route, with play activities, such as interactive elements and areas to explore, along its length.

We’re working with mana whenua and key interest groups to finalise the route and inform the design.

The City to Sea Pathway links all of the planned landings and includes a fourth walking and cycling bridge at Dallington, where the pathway crosses the river. This bridge has been designed in collaboration between the Council and engineering and fine arts students from the University of Canterbury.

At the same time, the Anzac Drive bridge underpass will be upgraded to reduce the likelihood of flooding the pathway and improve public access.

Due to the length of the pathway, it will be designed and constructed in three sections:

  1. Section one is from Fitzgerald Avenue to Kerrs Road and includes the Dallington Bridge.
  2. Section two is from Kerrs Road to Wainoni Road.
  3. Section three is from Wainoni Road to Pages Road.