Coalgate to Glentunnel Shared Path

Point to point

Highlights & Must-See Features

While the path is short, it is packed with character. One of the standout features is the ever-present view of the Malvern Hills and the distant alpine peaks. On a clear Canterbury day, the contrast between the lush green foreground and the snow-capped mountains is a photographer’s dream.

As you approach the Glentunnel end of the track, the environment shifts slightly. You’ll find yourself drawn toward the Selwyn River (Waikirikiri). The river here is known for its crystal-clear water and stony bed, typical of the braided rivers that define this region. The sound of the water rippling over the stones provides a tranquil soundtrack to the final leg of your walk.

History buffs should keep a keen eye out for the subtle industrial relics scattered around the area. Between Coalgate and Glentunnel, you are walking through a region that was once a powerhouse of Victorian-era industry. While the large-scale potteries and brickworks are gone, the local architecture and some of the older land formations hint at the days when coal and clay were the lifeblood of these communities.

For families, the highlight is undoubtedly the Glentunnel Holiday Park area at the end of the path. With plenty of space for kids to run around and easy access to the river for a bit of stone-skimming, it’s the perfect "reward" at the end of the 2.6-kilometre trek.

Getting There

The trail is located in the Selwyn District, approximately 50-60 minutes’ drive from Christchurch. It’s a straightforward and scenic drive through the plains, heading towards the foothills.

• From Christchurch: Take State Highway 73 (the West Coast Road) or State Highway 77 (the Inland Scenic Route) heading towards Darfield and then follow the signs for Coalgate.
• Parking: You can park in either township. In Coalgate, there is ample street parking near the start of the path. At the Glentunnel end, most visitors find it convenient to park at the Glentunnel Holiday Park. This is a great spot as it is adjacent to the Selwyn River and offers immediate access to the path’s terminus.

Being a point-to-point trail, if you are walking with a friend, you could leave one car at each end, but since the walk is only 2.6km (5.2km return), most people find it enjoyable to simply walk there and back.

Wildlife Spotting

The mix of open farmland, riparian river margins, and pockets of native vegetation makes this path a fantastic spot for birdwatching. The birds here are quite used to human presence, so you can often get a relatively close look at some of New Zealand’s favourite species.

• Fantail (Piwakawaka): These cheeky little birds are almost guaranteed to follow you. They flit around the hedges, using the movement of walkers to stir up small insects for their dinner. Look for their distinctive fan-shaped tails and listen for their "cheep cheep" call.
• Bellbird (Korimako): Known for their incredible song that sounds like chiming bells, these are common year-round. You’ll likely hear them before you see them, usually tucked away in the denser stands of trees near the river.
• Swamp Harrier (Kahu): Keep your eyes on the sky above the paddocks. These large birds of prey are often seen soaring on thermal currents, hunting for small mammals or insects in the long grass.
• Kingfisher (Kotare): If you are quiet near the river sections, you might spot the flash of electric blue as a Kingfisher dives for a snack.
• Silvereye (Tauhou): These tiny, green-hued birds move in busy flocks through the bushes along the path.

The best time for bird spotting is early morning or late afternoon when the "dawn chorus" or "evening song" is at its peak and the light is soft.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Coalgate to Glentunnel Shared Path is a true all-season trail, with each time of year offering a different aesthetic:

• Spring: This is perhaps the most vibrant time to visit. The paddocks are filled with newborn lambs, the mountains are still heavily laden with snow, and the roadside kowhai trees burst into yellow bloom.
• Summer: Expect hot, dry Canterbury heat. This is the best time to combine your walk with a dip in the Selwyn River. Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid the midday sun, as the path is quite exposed with limited shade.
• Autumn: The area features many exotic deciduous trees planted by early settlers. In April and May, the path is framed by stunning golds, oranges, and reds as the leaves turn.
• Winter: On a crisp, frosty morning, the landscape is transformed into a winter wonderland. The air is exceptionally clear, making the mountain views look close enough to touch.

• The Nor'wester: Canterbury is famous for its strong North-West winds. On a "nor'west day," this path can feel quite blustery. Check the weather forecast; if it's a high-wind day, bring a windbreaker!
• Sun Protection: Because the trail is largely open, a hat and sunscreen are essential, even in the cooler months.
• Footwear: While it’s an easy path, comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are recommended. It is also a great track for kids on scooters or bikes.
• Dog Owners: This is a dog-friendly route, but please keep your furry friends on a lead, as the path passes through farming areas and is shared with cyclists.

Local & Regional Context

To walk this path is to walk through layers of history. Long before the arrival of European settlers, this area was a vital part of the Māori seasonal landscape. Coalgate was a known resting place for those on mahinga kai (food gathering) expeditions, particularly for those heading toward the West Coast in search of eels (tuna) and other resources.

The names of the towns themselves tell the story of the 19th-century colonial boom. Coalgate literally served as the "gate" to the extensive coalfields in the Malvern Hills. When coal was discovered here in the 1870s, it transformed the region. Glentunnel became a bustling industrial hub, famous not just for its coal but for its unique white clays. This led to the establishment of massive potteries and brickworks. The bricks made here built much of early Christchurch, and you can still see many historic brick buildings in the township today.

The path represents a modern chapter in this history—repurposing the landscape from one of heavy industry to one of recreation and environmental appreciation.

After the Walk

No Canterbury outing is complete without a bit of local hospitality. Once you’ve finished your walk, you don’t have to go far for a refuel.

The Cafe on the Green, located just 0.5km away at the Hororata Golf Club in Glentunnel, is the local favourite. It’s an incredibly welcoming spot for walkers and families. You can grab a great coffee and a classic Kiwi "big breakfast" or a slice of homemade cake. The best part? The views from the cafe across the lush golf green toward the mountains are spectacular. There is both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a perfect year-round finish to your Selwyn adventure.

If you have a bit of extra time, take a slow drive through Glentunnel to admire the historic cottages—many of which were built for the original pottery and mine workers—before heading back toward the city.