Media release

18 August 2015

New horse riding park announced for Selwyn District

A new 350ha horse-riding area is being developed in the Waimakariri River Regional Park to provide a dedicated facility that links with established equestrian facilities in the Mcleans Island area.

The trails will be developed in the forest between Chattertons and Weedons Ross Roads and will provide a safe environment for riding away from motorised recreational activities.

David Owen, Environment Canterbury Regional Parks Team Leader, said the new facility is being developed in response to demand from local horse-riding enthusiasts.

“With the Selwyn District experiencing significant growth in recent years, there is now even more demand for outdoor amenities that local people can enjoy.

“We have been working closely with the Selwyn District Council to secure funding and develop a plan for the new area and we’ve met with interested parties and formed an advisory group. Fulton Hogan is also contributing to the project by providing direct assistance with staff and machinery.

“The dedicated horse riding area will include at least 10km of safe riding trails through pine forest. There will also be plenty of parking for horse floats and toilet facilities so we’re sure it will be very popular with the local community,” he said.

The development will be completed in stages and it is expected the facility will be open by late summer / early autumn.

The Waimakariri River Regional Park provides a great mix of recreational opportunities and biodiversity and conservation hot spots. The Park offers the community a wide-range of activities including mountain-biking and walking, trails and trail bike riding riding, horse riding, fishing and general river access.

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