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Staveley
2.6 km
1 hour 30 minutes
90 metres
If you are looking for a classic Canterbury bushwalk that combines a bit of local history with stunning natural beauty, the Sharplin Falls Track in Staveley is a must-visit. Tucked away in the foothills of the majestic Mount Somers, this track is a true community success story. For over a decade, the path was closed to the public following the devastating 2010 Christchurch earthquake, which caused significant rockfall and damage to the original route. However, thanks to the tireless dedication of the Mt Somers Walkways Society, a brand-new path was carved out and officially reopened in the winter of 2023.
Today, the track is a celebrated "local treasure revived," offering an accessible, family-friendly adventure through some of the finest native forest in Mid Canterbury. Whether you are a local resident looking for a Sunday afternoon stroll or a tourist exploring the Inland Scenic Route (Highway 72), this 2.6-kilometre return journey provides the perfect dose of nature without requiring a full day’s commitment.
The journey begins at the end of Flynns Road, where the air immediately feels cooler and fresher as you step under the canopy of the Sharplin Falls Scenic Reserve. The track is an "out and back" style, meaning you’ll return the same way you came, but the changing light through the trees often makes the return leg feel like a completely different experience.
The terrain is primarily a well-formed gravel path, which is a testament to the recent rebuild. While the forest floor is rugged, the track itself is smooth enough that you can leave the heavy tramping boots at home—a pair of sturdy running shoes or sneakers will do the job perfectly. The walk is rated as "easy," but don't let that fool you into thinking it's completely flat. The path undulates through the forest, featuring a series of gentle climbs and descents that keep things interesting.
The most notable section for those looking to get their heart rate up is the "zig-zag" ascent. This clever bit of engineering helps you gain elevation comfortably as you wind higher into the forest. Along the way, the Mt Somers Walkways Society has thoughtfully placed several wooden bench seats. These are perfectly positioned for those who want to take a breather, enjoy the silence, or simply watch the sunlight filtering through the lush, dense native beech forest.
Parking is available at the Sharplin Falls car park, located at the end of Flynns Road in Staveley. The car park offers toilets and an information panel. While the main car park is somewhat small, additional gravelled parking spaces can be found along the road, approximately less than half a kilometre from the track's start.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Anthornis melanura
Endemic songbird with bell-like calls. Males are olive-green with a purple head sheen; females are browner with a narrow white-yellow stripe across the cheek.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
2km away
A charming and historic cafe established in 1876, renowned for its delicious homemade goods, award-winning coffee, and famous bacon and egg butties. It's a favourite stop for hikers, offering a cosy, vintage atmosphere with friendly service.
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Out and back
As you walk, you are encased in a "verdant tunnel of green." The moisture in the air supports a rich variety of mosses and ferns that carpet the ground and cling to the trunks of the ancient beech trees. It is a tactile, sensory experience—the crunch of gravel underfoot, the smell of damp earth, and the constant, melodic backdrop of the nearby Bowyers Stream.
The undeniable crown jewel of this hike is, of course, Sharplin Falls (Tāhekerua). The waterfall is named after an early Staveley sawyer, linking the modern track to the region’s colonial timber-milling past. The walk culminates at a newly constructed, sturdy viewing platform. From here, you get a front-row seat to the falls as they cascade over ancient boulders into crystal-clear, blue-green pools below. It is a scene straight out of a postcard and a fantastic spot for photography.
However, the falls aren't the only highlight. The two large wooden bridges spanning Bowyers Stream are impressive feats of construction in their own right. The first bridge, located relatively early in the walk, offers easy access down to the water’s edge. On a warm Canterbury day, this is the ultimate spot for a summer picnic. The water is crisp and refreshing, and children will love exploring the rocks or dipping their toes in the shallows.
The second bridge provides a more elevated perspective of the rushing water below. From here, you can truly appreciate the power of the stream as it carves its way through the rocky gorge. These bridges aren't just functional; they provide some of the best vantage points for looking back toward the forest or up toward the mountain.
To find the trailhead, head towards the small village of Staveley in Mid Canterbury. From the main road, turn onto Flynns Road and follow it to the very end. The drive itself is scenic, offering great views of the rugged Mount Somers range.
At the end of the road, you’ll find the Sharplin Falls car park. It’s a relatively small area, but it is well-equipped with clean toilets and an informative panel that details the history of the track and the local environment. If the main car park is full—which can happen on sunny weekends—don't worry. There are additional gravelled parking spaces located along the road, less than half a kilometre back from the start of the track. Just be mindful of local residents and ensure you park well off the driving surface.
The Sharplin Falls Scenic Reserve is a haven for native New Zealand birdlife. Because the forest is so dense and well-preserved, you are almost guaranteed to hear or see several iconic species.
Tip: The best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon when the forest is at its quietest and the birds are most active. Bring a pair of binoculars if you have them, but often just standing still for two minutes will reveal movement you might otherwise miss.
The Sharplin Falls Track is a brilliant year-round destination, with each season offering a unique perspective:
The area is known to Māori as Tāhekerua, a name that connects the land to its ancestral roots. For generations, the foothills of Mount Somers served as a source of food and materials for local iwi.
In more recent history, the reopening of this track in 2023 was a major milestone for the Mid Canterbury community. After the 2010 earthquakes, many feared the falls would be lost to the public forever. The Mt Somers Walkways Society, a group of passionate volunteers, spent years planning, fundraising, and physically building the new route to ensure future generations could enjoy this special place.
While the Sharplin Falls Track is a fantastic standalone day hike, it’s also worth noting that it serves as a gateway to the wider Mount Somers Track network. For those seeking more of a challenge, the trailhead here links up with the multi-day tramps leading to Pinnacles Hut and Woolshed Creek Hut. However, the beauty of the Sharplin Falls section is its accessibility; it’s a dedicated short walk designed for everyone to enjoy.
No trip to Sharplin Falls is complete without a stop at the Staveley Store. Located just 2km from the car park, this historic cafe dates back to 1876 and is the heart of the local community.
It’s the quintessential post-hike stop. The atmosphere is cosy and vintage, with plenty of outdoor seating for sunny days. Hikers flock here for their "award-winning coffee" and their legendary bacon and egg butties. If you have a sweet tooth, their homemade cakes and slices are the perfect reward for your 2.6km journey. It’s the kind of place where you can relax, chat with the friendly locals, and reflect on the beautiful forest you’ve just explored.
Best time: Year-round
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
Best time: Year-round
Gerygone igata
Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.
Best time: Year-round