Edward Street Shared Path

Point to point

1. The Gateway to the Rail Trail: One of the biggest highlights is how this path facilitates access to the famous Little River Rail Trail. For those who aren't quite ready to tackle the full distance to Little River, using the Edward Street path allows you to sample the local network in a safe, low-stakes environment.
2. A Family-Friendly Haven: This is one of the safest places in the district for kids to practice their "road rules" away from actual cars. The visibility is excellent, and the gentle grade means there are no scary downhill bits for novice cyclists.
3. The "Big Sky" Views: Because the Canterbury Plains are so flat, the Edward Street path offers an unobstructed view of the horizon. On a clear day, you can look out towards the Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana) in the distance, their snow-capped peaks providing a stunning backdrop to your suburban stroll.
4. Photography Opportunities: While it may not have waterfalls, the path offers great "golden hour" light. The way the sun hits the surrounding paddocks and suburban greenery in the late afternoon makes it a lovely spot for a few snaps of the kids or the dog.

Getting There

Accessing the Edward Street Shared Path is remarkably easy, given its location between the bustling hubs of Lincoln and Rolleston.

Parking: Most visitors choose to park in the nearby residential streets of Lincoln or Rolleston, depending on which end they wish to start from. If you are coming from further afield or planning a longer day out, Prebbleton Reserve is a fantastic alternative. It serves as a common staging area for the wider shared path network and offers plenty of space, public toilets, and a playground to keep the kids entertained before you set off.

If you are a local, the best way to get there is, of course, by bike or on foot! The path is designed to be part of your daily commute or school run, fostering a community that prioritises active travel over car keys.

Wildlife Spotting

Don’t let the suburban setting fool you; there is plenty of birdlife to be found along this corridor. The Selwyn District is a patchwork of gardens, shelterbelts, and open fields, which creates a fantastic habitat for both native and introduced species.

• Fantail (Piwakawaka): These friendly little birds are almost guaranteed companions. They love to follow walkers, flitting about to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps. Look for their distinctive fan-shaped tails and listen for their "cheep cheep" chatter.
• Silvereye (Tauhou): Often seen in small, busy flocks, these tiny green birds with white eye-rings are common year-round.
• Tūī and Kererū: While they are more "occasional" visitors than permanent residents on this specific path, keep your eyes on the taller trees in the nearby residential gardens. The Tūī’s iridescent feathers and the Kererū’s (New Zealand Pigeon) noisy wingbeats are always a treat to encounter.
• Common Garden Birds: You’ll certainly see plenty of Blackbirds, House Sparrows, and the occasional Thrush hopping along the path edges.

Tip: The best time for bird spotting is early morning or just before dusk when the "dawn chorus" or evening activity is at its peak.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The beauty of a hard-surfaced shared path is that it is truly a year-round destination.

• Spring: Watch the surrounding gardens burst into life. The air is crisp, and the blossom trees in the nearby townships are spectacular.
• Summer: This is the peak time for cycling. However, the Canterbury sun can be fierce. There isn't much shade on the path itself, so sun protection (hat and sunscreen) is a must. Aim to walk early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the midday heat.
• Autumn: My personal favourite. The deciduous trees in the Selwyn District turn brilliant shades of gold and orange, and the air is often still and clear.
• Winter: On a frost-covered Canterbury morning, the path looks magical. Just be mindful of any shaded patches that might hold onto the frost a little longer.

• The Nor’wester: Be prepared for the famous Canterbury Nor’wester wind. It can blow quite strongly across the plains, making a 1.1km walk feel like a bit more of a workout if you’re heading straight into it!
• Gear: You don't need fancy hiking boots here. A pair of comfortable sneakers or even jandals in the summer will do just fine.
• Hydration: Bring a water bottle, especially in the warmer months, as there are no water fountains directly on this specific 1.1km stretch.

Local & Regional Context

The Edward Street Shared Path sits on the vast Canterbury Plains, a landscape shaped over millennia by the braided rivers carrying silt and gravel from the Southern Alps. For hundreds of years, this area was part of the vast seasonal migration routes and food-gathering areas (mahika kai) for Waitaha, Ngāti Māmoe, and Ngāi Tahu.

In more recent colonial history, the area became the agricultural powerhouse of New Zealand. Today, the Selwyn District is undergoing a transformation. It is moving from a purely farming region to a vibrant, multi-cultural hub. Projects like this shared path are a testament to the district’s commitment to "green" infrastructure, ensuring that as the population grows, the connection to the outdoors and a healthy lifestyle remains a priority.

After the Walk

One of the best things about a walk in Selwyn is the "reward" at the end. You are spoilt for choice when it comes to refuelling.

• The Laboratory (Lincoln): Located about 1.5km from the path, this is a must-visit. It’s a quirky, craft beer focused "steampunk" pub with incredible wood-fired pizzas. It even has its own boutique cinema! It’s very dog-friendly in the outdoor area and has a great vibe for families.
• Coffee Culture Lincoln: If you’re a caffeine lover, this is a Lincoln institution. It’s a warm, bustling spot perfect for a flat white and a slice of cake after your stroll.
• The Pedal Pusher (Rolleston): A bit further away (4.5km), but highly themed for cyclists. This gastro pub celebrates the history of the bike, making it the perfect thematic conclusion to your "shared path" journey. Their brunch menu is legendary.
• Robert Harris Rolleston: A reliable and friendly spot in the heart of Rolleston Square. It’s great for a quick lunch or a relaxed coffee while you watch the world go by.

The Edward Street Shared Path might be short, but it’s a vital thread in the fabric of the Selwyn community. It’s a place for a first bike ride, a quiet dog walk, or a convenient commute—all while soaking in the big skies and fresh air of the Canterbury Plains.

Fantail

Rhipidura fuliginosa

Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.

Best time: Year-round

1.5km away

A popular brew pub in Lincoln known for its freshly made, wood-fired pizzas, a rotating selection of on-site brewed craft beers, and even a boutique cinema. It offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere perfect for post-hike refreshments.