Saltwater Creek

Out and back

Getting There

Accessing the Saltwater Creek trail is incredibly straightforward, with several entry points depending on where you want to start.

• King Street Entrance: This is the most popular starting point. You’ll find parking right beside the Saltwater Creek bridge on King Street. It’s a convenient spot to lace up your boots and head straight onto the gravel path.
• Rothwell Street: For those who prefer to start near the coast, there is parking available near the Timaru Rowing Club on Rothwell Street.
• Additional Access: You can also join the trail from the Leckie Street Reserve, Redruth Reserve (via Shaw Street off SH1), or the Centennial Park entrance located opposite Church Street on Otipua Road.

All of these points offer relatively easy parking, though King Street remains the easiest "hub" for first-timers.

Wildlife Spotting

For bird lovers, Saltwater Creek and the adjacent Otipua Wetlands are a paradise. The regeneration of native plantings has encouraged a massive return of local birdlife.

The most common resident you’ll see is the Pūkeko, with its striking blue plumage and bright red beak, usually seen foraging in the marshy edges. You will also see plenty of Pied Shags, Paradise Shelducks, and Black-backed Gulls year-round.

If you are lucky, you might spot the Royal Spoonbill (Kōtuku Ngutupapa) during the spring and summer months—they are hard to miss with their distinctive spatula-shaped bills. Even rarer is the White Heron (Kōtuku), which occasionally visits in the winter. Closer to the bushier sections and native plantings, the friendly Fantail (Pīwakawaka) will likely flit across your path, following you to catch the tiny insects stirred up by your footsteps.

Pro Tip: Bring a pair of compact binoculars. The wetlands have several vantage points where you can sit quietly and watch the birds go about their business without disturbing them.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Saltwater Creek trail is a true "all-seasons" destination, but each time of year brings its own flavour:

• Spring: The wetlands are at their most vibrant, with new growth on the native plants and plenty of ducklings and pūkeko chicks about.
• Summer: Great for a morning or evening walk to avoid the midday heat. The coastal breeze often provides a welcome cooling effect.
• Autumn: The light in South Canterbury during autumn is golden and soft—perfect for photography, especially with the reflections in the creek.
• Winter: Thanks to the all-weather gravel surface, the track doesn't turn into a mud bath. It’s a great way to get some vitamin D on a crisp, clear winter day.

• Sun protection: Much of the trail is quite exposed, so a hat and sunscreen are essential, even on overcast days.
• Hydration: There aren't many water fountains along the creek, so carry a bottle with you.
• Footwear: While it’s a gravel track, a pair of sturdy sneakers or walking shoes is perfectly fine. You don't need heavy hiking boots here.
• Windbreaker: Being close to the Canterbury coast, you might encounter the famous "Nor'wester" wind or a chilly southerly. A light windbreaker is always a good idea.

Local & Regional Context

The Saltwater Creek area is more than just a place for exercise; it is a testament to Timaru’s commitment to environmental restoration. The Otipua Wetlands project is a massive community-led initiative that has seen thousands of native trees and shrubs planted over the years. This effort has not only improved the water quality of the creek but has created a vital "green lung" for the city.

In a wider sense, the trail sits on the edge of what was once a very different landscape of lagoons and rich mahinga kai (food gathering) sites for Māori. Today, the walk bridges that history with Timaru’s colonial past—represented by the nearby historic stone bridge—and its modern industrial life near Redruth. Walking this trail gives you a real sense of how Timaru is balancing urban growth with the preservation of its natural beauty.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your 7km trek, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite. Timaru’s CBD is just a few minutes' drive away and offers some fantastic spots to refuel:

• Mrs M’s Cafe (3.8km away): This is the quintessential "cosy" cafe. Known for its warm hospitality and hearty home-style meals, it’s a great place for a big breakfast or a slice of cake and a coffee. It’s very family-friendly.
• The Oxford (3.9km away): If you’re after something a bit more sophisticated, The Oxford is housed in a stunning historic building. They focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and serve some of the best coffee in town.
• Pier 64 (4.2km away): For those who want to keep the coastal vibes going, head to Pier 64. It overlooks Caroline Bay and offers excellent seafood and contemporary Kiwi dishes.
• Grosvenor Hotel (3.7km away): If your idea of a post-hike reward is a cold pint and a classic pub meal, the "Grovvie" is a local institution. It has a great traditional atmosphere and plenty of space to relax.

The Saltwater Creek trail is a reminder that you don't always have to head deep into the Southern Alps to find peace and natural beauty. It’s right here on Timaru's doorstep—easy, accessible, and full of life.

3.8km away

A cosy, family-run cafe in Timaru CBD known for its warm hospitality, hearty home-style meals, and excellent coffee, perfect for a post-hike refuel.