Discover Glenavy on the Waitaki River

Glenavy lies on the north bank of the Waitaki River, near where the river meets the sea. The river is a defining landmark for the town. Exploring Glenavy, you can combine views of the water with an activity on land: the Glenavy Track is used for walking and cycling. This brings nature and movement to the fore, without limiting your visit to just one way of enjoying the outdoors.

Walk or cycle on the Glenavy Track

The Glenavy Track is flat and about 1.2 kilometres long. It runs alongside a stream beneath a small pine plantation and close to State Highway One. In Glenavy, you can start the track on Ruane Street. The track is also considered suitable for people with a low level of fitness. Its flat profile, approximate length and this rating provide practical guidance if you are looking for a manageable bout of exercise.

There are toilets and several picnic benches at the Glenavy Track. Picnic spots can be found by the stream and at the car park at the far end, near the bridge. This means you can plan the track not just as a route, but also with a potential place to take a break in mind. Whether you prefer to walk or cycle, the named track is used for both activities.

Walking tracks and a bike park at the Recreation Reserve

Glenavy Recreation Reserve is also one of the options described for outdoor exercise. The first phase of its redevelopment included restoring walking tracks and building a new bike park. The Waimate District Council announced the completion of this phase in a notice dated 7 December 2023. Glenavy’s outdoor options therefore include both the flat Glenavy Track, with its stream and pine-plantation scenery, and walking tracks and a bike park at the Recreation Reserve.

River scenery, fishing and nature

Glenavy is associated with fishing at the mouth of the Waitaki River, where both salmon and trout are caught. Whitebaiting is also among the activities associated with the town and the river mouth. These fishing activities offer a different focus from the Glenavy Track: there, the emphasis is on walking and cycling alongside a stream; here, it is on the river and its fish species.

Near Glenavy, the Waitaki Riparian Enhancement Society operates a salmon-rearing facility. Volunteers restock the Waitaki River with fish. This work provides another connection to the river and complements the fishing activities with a focus on fish stocks.

Choose the right accommodation

There are different accommodation options in Glenavy. Waitaki River Motor Camp offers powered and unpowered sites, cosy cabins and shared facilities. Glenavy Hotel offers accommodation and meals. You can weigh up, for example, a campsite or cabin with shared facilities at the camp against the combination of accommodation and meals at the hotel.

Check availability for your travel dates before booking; for Glenavy Hotel, it is also advisable to confirm that it will be open during your travel period. This lets you match your accommodation choice with the activities that matter to you: the track offers a route for walking and cycling, while the fishing activities put the Waitaki River in the spotlight.

Discover more destinations

Lincoln University, Rakaia, Temuka, Waipara, Diamond Harbour, Hororata, Ferniehurst, Little River

For the broader travel overview: Canterbury.