NZ Walking Access Commission
Media release
16 May 2011

Dry Acheron Track established in Canterbury

A walkway has been established in Canterbury to enhance access along parts of the Dry Acheron Stream to the Big Ben Range in the Korowai/Torlesse Tussocklands Park.

The walkway offers a variety of walks for people of varying fitness levels and is accessible via Coleridge Road, south of Lake Coleridge and about an hour’s drive west of Christchurch.

New Zealand Walking Access Commission Chief Executive Mark Neeson said the Commission’s recent completion of the final legal steps required to establish the Dry Acheron Track was great news for recreational walkers and others who loved the outdoors.

“Enhanced access to the Dry Acheron Stream and the Korowai/Torlesse Tussocklands Park will help ensure more Kiwis can access the outdoors and see this beautiful part of Canterbury.”

Mr Neeson said a section of the walkway crossed private land, so it was important that walkers adhered to the Outdoor Access Code and stayed on the marked route, crossed fences only at stiles, did not disturb stock, and left gates as they found them (whether open or shut). The Outdoor Access Code, available online at www.walkingaccess.govt.nz, outlines people’s responsibilities when accessing the outdoors.

Selwyn MP Amy Adams, who recently walked the Milford Track with her family, is looking forward to having a new walkway in her electorate.

“I’m sure many Cantabrians and those from further afield will take up the chance to see more of the stunning Lake Coleridge area. Having this access will make sure more Kiwi families can get out and about in our great outdoors, in just under an hour’s drive from the central city. It’s a fantastic opportunity to view some of the high country that makes the South Island so special,” she said.

The Dry Acheron Track is the first walkway established by the New Zealand Walking Access Commission under the Walking Access Act 2008. Its day to day administration is carried out by the Department of Conservation.

ENDS

© Scoop Media