Whitehorse Walkway

Out and back

Highlights & Must-See Features The undisputed star of the show is, of course, the Whitehorse monument. Carved into the hillside and constructed from concrete slabs, this 60-foot tribute is a sight to behold up close. It’s a popular spot for a "summit" photo, but the real magic lies in the 360-degree views.

Looking east, the patchwork quilts of the Canterbury Plains roll out toward the Pacific Ocean. On a clear day, the blue horizon seems infinite. Turn your back to the sea and look west, and you’ll be greeted by the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana). It is one of those rare spots where you can truly appreciate the "mountains to sea" geography of New Zealand in a single glance.

Don't forget to check out the interpretive signage at the top. It tells the story of the monument and the agricultural grit of the early settlers. For those with a bit of extra energy, the area connects to the Whitehorse Big Easy, a smoother, winding track often used by mountain bikers and runners, which offers a different perspective of the hillside.

Getting There Waimate is located just off State Highway 1, about 30 minutes south of Timaru. To find the trailhead, head to the centre of the Waimate township and follow the signs for Point Bush Road. Drive all the way to the very top of the road, where you’ll find a dedicated carpark.

The carpark is well-signed and serves as the primary hub for the walkway. It’s easily accessible for standard cars, so you don’t need a 4WD to get to the starting line. Just make sure to double-check that you’ve locked your vehicle and kept any valuables out of sight, as this is a popular spot for both hikers and mountain bikers.

Wildlife Spotting Thanks to the tireless work of the community-led Point Bush EcoSanctuary, the birdlife along the Whitehorse Walkway is flourishing. As you move through the tōtara and regenerating native bush, keep your ears open for the melodic, bell-like chimes of the Korimako (Bellbird) and the boisterous, multi-toned call of the Tūī. These two are very common year-round and are often seen flitting through the pittosporum and tī kouka (cabbage trees).

If you’re lucky, you might hear the heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of wings—that’ll be the Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon). Look for them perched precariously on thin branches, looking slightly too large for their seats! The tiny, energetic Pīwakawaka (Fantail) will likely follow you for parts of the track, darting around to catch the insects your boots disturb.

For the keen-eyed, keep an eye on the thermals rising above the hills. The Kārearea (New Zealand Falcon) is a rare but spectacular sight in this area. Unlike the common Harrier Hawk, the Falcon is smaller, faster, and much more aggressive in its flight patterns.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips - Best Seasons: The Whitehorse Walkway is a fantastic year-round track. Summer offers the clearest views and the most stable footing, while Spring brings a vibrant burst of green and active birdlife. Autumn provides cooler hiking temperatures and crisp air, and Winter can be truly spectacular when the Southern Alps are heavily coated in snow—just be extra cautious of ice or slippery mud on the steep sections. - Time of Day: Early morning is highly recommended. Not only is the light hitting the Pacific Ocean stunning, but you’ll also beat the midday heat on the exposed lower sections. - What to Bring: Good hiking boots or sturdy sneakers with decent grip are a must—the "climbing rope" section isn't there for decoration! Bring a windbreaker, as the ridge can be quite exposed to the famous Canterbury nor'west winds. Carry at least a litre of water per person, as there are no taps along the route. - Family Friendly: While the track is kid-friendly, the steepness and the rope section mean it is best suited for "active" kids. If you have toddlers, you might find yourself carrying them more than you'd like! - Note on Dogs: Please leave your furry friends at home for this one; the track is not dog-friendly due to the sensitive conservation work and birdlife protection in the EcoSanctuary.

Local & Regional Context The Whitehorse isn't just a random piece of art; it is a heartfelt tribute to the Clydesdale horses that were the backbone of Waimate’s early European history. In the 19th century, these "gentle giants" were instrumental in clearing the dense scrub and tilling the land to create the productive farms the region is known for today. The monument was the vision of local resident Norman Hayman and was officially unveiled in 1968.

Culturally, the area is significant for its conservation efforts. The Point Bush EcoSanctuary is a testament to the local community’s dedication to the land. By planting thousands of native trees like kahikatea and implementing strict pest control, they are slowly returning the hillside to its pre-colonial state. Hiking here means you are walking through a living restoration project.

After the Walk Once you’ve descended and your legs are feeling that "good kind of tired," it’s time to refuel. Waimate has some fantastic spots that are very welcoming to hikers:

• The Waimate Bakery (1.5km away): This is a local legend. Their gourmet pies are exactly what you need after a 255m elevation gain. They have a great outdoor seating area and a playground, making it the perfect spot if you’ve got the kids in tow.
• The Waimate Kitchen & Bar (1.5km away): For a more substantial sit-down meal, this spot is located in a beautifully restored historic building. Their pizzas are top-tier, and the atmosphere is the perfect blend of modern and rustic.
• Artifax Cafe (1.8km away): Located in the historic Queen's Lodge, this cafe is full of character and curiosities. It’s a great place for a coffee and a slice of something sweet while you soak in the local history.
• Butler's Berry Farm & Cafe (5km away): If you’re visiting in the warmer months, you cannot leave Waimate without trying some local berries. Their fresh fruit ice cream is the ultimate reward for a hike well done.

Whether you're here for the history, the birds, or the burn in your quads, the Whitehorse Walkway is a South Canterbury classic that always delivers. Enjoy the climb!

1.5km away

A popular spot for gourmet pies, sandwiches, salads, pastries, and excellent coffee. Features a spacious outdoor seating area and a playground, making it very hiker and family-friendly.