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Selwyn District
3 km
30 minutes
10 metres
If you find yourself in the heart of the Selwyn District with an hour to spare and a desire for some fresh Canterbury air, the Lincoln to Springston Shared Path is an absolute gem. This isn't just a way to get from A to B; it’s a beautifully maintained route that captures the essence of rural New Zealand. Whether you are a local looking for a new "daily bread" walk or a visitor wanting to see the "real" Canterbury beyond the city limits of Christchurch, this path delivers a peaceful, scenic, and surprisingly moving experience.
The Lincoln to Springston Shared Path is a gentle, 3-kilometre stretch that serves as a vital link between two of the region's most charming townships. Because it is a point-to-point trail, you can start at either end, though many people prefer to begin in Lincoln and head towards Springston for a mid-walk coffee or vice versa.
The terrain is exactly what you would expect from the Canterbury Plains: gloriously flat. With only 10 metres of elevation gain over the entire distance, it’s the kind of walk where you can actually hold a conversation without getting breathless. The path itself is wide and smooth, making it a fantastic "all-access" route. You’ll see everyone here—mums and dads pushing prams, toddlers on balance bikes, local runners getting their kilometres in, and retirees enjoying a morning stroll with their dogs.
As you move along the path, which largely follows the generous shoulders of the roadside, you are treated to an immersive rural experience. To one side, you have the open expanse of North Canterbury farmland. Depending on the time of year, you might be walking past paddocks of swaying wheat, emerald-green pastures, or newly ploughed earth that smells rich and loamy. The views are expansive, and on a clear day, the Southern Alps stand like a jagged, snow-capped wall in the distance, providing a stunning backdrop to the humble agricultural landscape.
Because it is a shared path, there is a lovely sense of community here. You’ll get a friendly "morning!" from cyclists passing by and likely a tail wag from the many local dogs who consider this their favourite backyard. It’s an easy, 30-minute stroll one way, but if you have the time, we highly recommend doing the return trip to make it a solid hour of outdoor activity.
Parking is available in the town centres of Lincoln and Springston, near the respective start/end points of the shared path. Specific trail carparks are not widely advertised for this local path, but public parking in the townships should suffice.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Best time: Year-round
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
800m away
A well-known hotel and gastro pub in Lincoln offering a main bar, garden bar, and separate restaurant with a fabulous all-day menu, including breakfast. A great spot for a hearty meal or a refreshing drink after your walk.
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Point to point
While the scenery is undeniably pretty, the Lincoln to Springston Shared Path holds a deeper significance. Also known as the Springs Memorial Cycle Way, the path serves as a living memorial. It commemorates the brave individuals from Springs County, Springston, and Lincoln who served their country in various conflicts. Walking this route offers a moment of reflection, connecting the peaceful present-day landscape with the history of the people who shaped this community.
The highlight for many is the sheer sense of space. In a world that often feels crowded, the "big sky" of the Selwyn District is a breath of fresh air. If you are a fan of photography, the golden hour just before sunset is spectacular here. The light hits the paddocks at a low angle, turning the dry grasses to gold and making the shadows of the hedgerows stretch long across the path.
Another highlight is the seamless connection between the two towns. It allows you to experience the distinct personalities of both Lincoln—a bustling university town with a sophisticated cafe culture—and Springston, which retains a quieter, traditional rural village feel.
The path is incredibly easy to find. If you are coming from Christchurch, it’s a quick 20-minute drive southwest.
Because this is a local shared path rather than a remote hiking track, there isn't a dedicated "DOC-style" gravel carpark, but the township parking is more than sufficient and puts you right next to the local amenities.
Don't let the proximity to the road fool you; there is plenty of birdlife to enjoy along this route. The thick shelterbelts and garden borders that line parts of the path are prime real estate for New Zealand’s smaller native birds.
Keep your eyes peeled for the pīwakawaka (fantail). These cheeky little birds are almost guaranteed to make an appearance, flitting around your head to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps. You’ll also hear the high-pitched "tseep" of the tauhou (silvereye) moving through the hedges in small, busy flocks.
In the more open sections of the path, look towards the farm ponds and damp paddocks. You are likely to spot the bold orange and black plumage of the pūtangitangi (Paradise Shelduck). They are often seen in pairs and are known for their loud, honking calls. If you’re lucky, you might also see a pūkeko stalking through the long grass with its distinctive red beak and blue feathers.
Top Tip: The best time for bird spotting is early morning when the air is still and the birds are most active. Bring a pair of compact binoculars if you’re a keen twitcher!
The Lincoln to Springston Shared Path is truly a year-round destination, with each season bringing its own flavour to the Selwyn landscape.
The Selwyn District is often referred to as the "breadbasket" of Canterbury, and walking this path gives you a front-row seat to that heritage. The area was originally a vast wetland and tussock plain, home to Mahinga Kai (food gathering) sites for Ngāi Tahu. With the arrival of European settlers, the land was transformed into some of the most productive farmland in the country.
Lincoln itself is home to Lincoln University, New Zealand’s specialist land-based university. This influence is felt in the town's vibrant, international atmosphere and its focus on agricultural science. The shared path reflects the region's modern commitment to "active transport"—encouraging people to get out of their cars and connect with the landscape at a slower pace.
One of the best things about this walk is the selection of "refuelling stations" at the Lincoln end. After you’ve crushed your 3km (or 6km return!), you have some fantastic options:
The Lincoln to Springston Shared Path proves that you don't need to climb a mountain to have a meaningful outdoor experience. It’s a walk that celebrates community, history, and the simple beauty of the Canterbury countryside.
Tadorna variegata
Large, colourful duck endemic to New Zealand. Males have dark plumage; females have white heads and chestnut bodies.
Best time: Year-round
Zosterops lateralis
Small bird with distinctive white eye-ring. Commonly seen in flocks, feeding on insects, fruit, and nectar.
Best time: Year-round
Porphyrio melanotus
Purple swamphen with distinctive red bill and frontal shield. Common in wetlands and grasslands.
Best time: Year-round
1km away
A popular local café in the heart of Lincoln, known for its comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, great coffee, and a range of food options, perfect for a post-hike refuel. They also offer free WiFi.
1.2km away
A local neighbourhood café renowned for its awesome coffee and delicious food, all made fresh on the premises. It boasts a warm atmosphere and a thoughtful brunch menu with options for various dietary requirements.
1.5km away
More than just a brew pub, The Laboratory offers handcrafted wood-fired pizzas and an ever-changing selection of house-brewed craft beers in a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Ideal for a casual meal with character.