709 Ashley Gorge Road, Starvation Hill, Waimakariri

Ashley Gorge Reserve

Waimakariri Reserves

The Ashley Gorge Reserve is located on the south side of the Ashley River where the gorge exits to the plain and is formed from several sloping terraces nestled in amongst the hills. It has a backdrop of steep slopes, covered on two sides with native beech forest.  Its northern boundary provides access to the Ashley River which is a major attraction to the area.

The closest area of foothills natural bush to Christchurch, which is readily accessible to the public, is contained within the reserve. Other parts of the reserve have been cleared and replanted with exotic plant species. These now form mature exotic woodland areas.

The top terrace of the reserve has been developed as a campground and the other terraces as open space for casual recreation pursuits such as picnicking, walking, ball games and so forth.

The overall character attributed to the reserve is of an ‘area of natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere created by the gently flowing river, mature trees, native bush and birdlife’.

Part of the reserve’s attraction is the visual beauty of the bush across the river. The massed species of plants that are there add to this, for example, the Kowhai trees in flower are a spectacular sight.

The character of the reserve provides a distinct contract to the dry, open landscape of most of Canterbury. The reserve’s natural attributes combined with good swimming holes and bush walks are scarce in Canterbury and attract large numbers of people from a wide catchment, especially during the warmer months.

Features

  • Walkways
  • Swimming
  • Picnic Areas

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