Mt Richardson Track

Loop

Reaching the 1047-metre summit of Mt Richardson is a genuine "wow" moment. On a clear day, the 360-degree panorama is nothing short of spectacular. To the west, you can peer into the remote Lees Valley and across to the rugged Puketeraki Range. Turn around, and the vast Canterbury Plains stretch out like an endless quilt, meeting the blue arc of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean in the far distance.

To complete the loop, most hikers continue along the Blowhard Track. The name is a bit of a giveaway—this ridgeline is exposed and can be notoriously breezy, but the walking is sublime. You’re essentially walking on top of the world with continuous views. Finally, you’ll hook into the Bypass Track for the descent. Be warned: your knees will get a workout here. It’s a steep trip back down through the forest, eventually depositing you back at the Glentui picnic area for a well-earned rest.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undeniable star of the show is the summit of Mt Richardson. Unlike some peaks where the view is partially obscured by bush, this is a true 360-degree vantage point. It’s the perfect spot to pull out the thermos and a sandwich while you try to spot the Banks Peninsula on the horizon.

Another highlight is the ridge walk along the Blowhard Track. There is something incredibly liberating about walking along a high-altitude spine where the land falls away on both sides. It offers a sense of scale that you just don’t get from the forest floor.

For those interested in native flora, the transition zones are fascinating. Watch how the lush tawhai forest transforms into the alpine scrub. The Dracophyllum plants, with their long, pointed leaves, look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book and are a hallmark of the New Zealand high country.

Getting There

Getting to the trailhead is straightforward. From Christchurch, head north towards Rangiora or Oxford. If you go through Oxford, follow Ashley Gorge Road, then turn onto Glentui Bush Road. Follow this to the very end, where you’ll find the Glentui picnic area.

The road is generally well-maintained, though it can be narrow in places. There is ample parking available, but on a sunny Saturday or Sunday, it can fill up quickly with locals heading out for their weekly "tramping fix." You’ll find a basic long drop toilet at the picnic area—it’s best to use it before you start, as there are no facilities once you’re on the mountain.

Wildlife Spotting

The Mt Thomas Conservation Area is a haven for native birdlife. Because the forest is relatively thick, you’ll often hear them before you see them.

• Fantail (Pīwakawaka): These friendly little birds are almost guaranteed to follow you. They flit around the track, catching the insects you stir up as you walk.
• Bellbird (Korimako) & Tūī: Listen for the beautiful, bell-like chimes and complex melodies high in the canopy. They are particularly active in the early morning.
• Kererū: Keep an ear out for a heavy "whoosh-whoosh" sound—that’s the New Zealand pigeon. You’ll often see them perched precariously on thin branches, looking slightly too heavy for their seat.
• Grey Warbler (Riroriro): You might hear their long, trilling song throughout the forest, though they are notoriously difficult to spot.

A quick tip: If you stop for a break in the forest, sit quietly for five minutes. The birds are naturally curious and will often come closer once the sound of your heavy boots has stopped.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Spring: The forest is vibrant and damp, and the birdlife is at its most vocal.
• Summer: Great for clear views, but it can be hot. Warning: Wasps are common in beech forests during summer (January–March). If you have an allergy, bring your medication and be mindful of nests near the track.
• Autumn: Often provides the most stable weather and crisp, clear days for the best visibility.
• Winter: The summit can see a dusting of snow, and the track can be very muddy and slippery. If you’re heading up in winter, sturdy boots with good grip are non-negotiable.

• Footwear: This is "advanced tramping" territory. Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended due to the roots and steep gradients.
• Water: There are no water sources once you leave the picnic area. Bring at least 2 litres per person, especially in summer.
• Sun protection: The ridgeline is very exposed. Even on a cool day, the NZ sun is fierce.
• Layers: Canterbury weather can change in a heartbeat. Even if it’s warm at the bottom, a cold wind can whip across the Blowhard Track, so pack a windbreaker or fleece.

Local & Regional Context

The Mt Thomas Conservation Area sits within the traditional lands of Ngāi Tahu. For centuries, these foothills served as important transit routes and mahinga kai (food gathering) areas for Māori moving between the coast and the inland plains.

The area is part of the "foothills" that stand as sentinels before the Great Divide of the Southern Alps. Geologically, these hills are composed largely of greywacke, the hard, grey rock that forms the backbone of New Zealand. Over the years, the area has seen various uses, from early colonial timber milling to its current status as a protected conservation area managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC). Today, it is a vital pocket of native biodiversity in a region largely dominated by farmland.

After the Walk

After five hours on your feet, you’ll likely be starving. The best place to head is the nearby town of Oxford (about a 15-minute drive).

• The Oxford Pies: You can’t claim you’ve visited North Canterbury without trying a local pie. Several spots in town serve up these legendary, flaky delicacies.
• Cafe 51: A great spot for a proper barista coffee and a big brunch or lunch. It has a relaxed atmosphere that is very welcoming to dusty hikers.
• Village Cookery: Known for its great cabinet food and hearty meals, it’s a perfect spot to refuel and chat about the views you just witnessed.

Taking on Mt Richardson is more than just a hike; it’s a classic Canterbury rite of passage. It’s challenging, beautiful, and offers a perspective on the South Island landscape that you just can't get from the window of a car.