West Melton Forest
Short Walks
The pine trees in West Melton Forest were originally planted as a flood protection measure, now they continue to do their job whilst providing scenic tracks for horse riders of all abilities. Walkers and runners also welcome but horses have the right of way.
Quick tips
- Used for recreational horse riding, however, walkers and runners welcome
- A well designed car park for horse floats
- Picnic area and public toilet available
- Dogs must be on leash
- Main park entrance is off Chattertons Road.
West Melton Forest is a section of the Waimakariri River Regional Park, covering approximately 350 hectares of pine forest between Chattertons and Weedons Ross Roads. Used mainly for recreational horse riding and horse-carriage driving, walkers and runners are also welcome - although horses have the right of way. Picnic areas are provided, with hitching posts for horses.
The beautiful Kowhai Savannah, north of the car park, is covered by native grassland with indigenous trees and shrubs. It’s a snapshot of what the Canterbury Plains would have looked like before European settlement, and home to endangered mosses, lichens and other plants.
Gates open 7am to 7pm in winter and 7am to 10pm during daylight saving.
Dogs must be kept under effective control and close to you at all times.
No barbecues are provided but visitors are welcome to bring their own, provided they are gas only and used in areas clear of vegetation.
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