The Pareora River Walk follows the Pareora River from Evans Crossing upstream to the historic Pareora Dam and back — a 4.5-kilometre out-and-back track through limestone gorge country south of Timaru. The walk passes through native shade trees with limestone cliffs on either side of the river, and the dam makes a clear destination and turning point.
Practical Information
| Start | Evans Crossing on the Pareora River — south of Timaru, Hunters Hills area |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~4.5km out and back (2.2km each way) |
| Time | ~1hr 15min return |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate — uneven surface with tree roots; can be muddy in wet conditions |
| Surface | Grass then beaten earth under trees, with tree roots and limestone rocks |
| Access note | Arrive at Evans Crossing and drive or walk across the ford to reach the track on the true left (north) bank |
| Dogs | Welcome, on leash |
| Entry | Free |
About the Walk
The Pareora River Walk follows the Pareora River through limestone gorge country, with the track running along the true left bank upstream from Evans Crossing. The setting is one of Timaru’s more scenic walking environments — tall native and exotic trees shade the river, limestone rocks line the river banks, and the river runs through a narrow valley away from farmland.
The track is grassed at the start but transitions to beaten earth and tree roots under the tree canopy. It is well-trodden but uneven in places — good footwear helps, particularly in wet conditions when the track can become slippery.
The Pareora Dam
The Pareora Dam is the destination for the walk — a historic water supply dam that has served the Timaru district for over a century. It makes a natural turning point with a good view of the impoundment and the surrounding limestone hillsides. Swimming near the dam is not advised.
Access at Evans Crossing
Evans Crossing is a river ford — the road crosses the river on a flat, gravelled crossing. The track begins on the north (true left) bank of the river, so visitors arriving by car need to drive or walk across the ford to reach the track start. The ford is generally passable in dry conditions but should be approached carefully after rain when the river level may rise.
Birdlife
The limestone and tree-lined river corridor provides good habitat for native birds. The river valley away from farmland offers a quieter environment than the open Pareora flats, and birdsong is a feature of the walk under the tree canopy.
Where to Learn More
Timaru District Council — Pareora River Walk — official page with access, track information and facilities.
AllTrails — Pareora River Walk — trail reviews, photos, track map and current conditions from walkers who have completed the route.
Venture Timaru — Pareora River Track — local tourism overview of the walk with directions and what to expect.
Free Walks NZ — Pareora River Walk — walk description with track details and visitor notes.
FAQ
Where does the Pareora River Walk start?
At Evans Crossing on the Pareora River, south of Timaru in the Hunters Hills area. Drive or walk across the ford to reach the track start on the north bank.
How long is the walk?
About 4.5km return (2.2km each way to the dam), taking around 1 hour 15 minutes at a comfortable pace.
Is the track suitable for young children?
The track is easy to moderate in character, but the uneven surface and tree roots make it less suited to very young children. Good walking shoes are recommended.
Can I swim in the Pareora River on this walk?
Swimming near the dam is not advised. The Pareora’s main swimming spot is at Evans Crossing itself — see the Pareora River swimming post for water quality information.
Are dogs allowed on the track?
Yes — dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
Is the ford crossable in all conditions?
Generally yes in dry conditions, but the Pareora River rises after rain. Check conditions before crossing, particularly after heavy rain in the Hunters Hills.
The Pareora River Walk is listed in the Timaru Walking Tracks guide. The Pareora River swimming post covers water quality and the Evans Crossing swim spot in more detail. The Centennial Park Walk is the other main Timaru walking destination with historical quarrying interest.
