Last updated July 2026
The Opihi Walkway is a long, flat riverside route that follows the grassy tops of stopbanks along the Ōpihi River from the Temuka area to Pleasant Point. It takes around three hours one way at a comfortable pace and offers open river flats with distant views of the Southern Alps and willows lining most of the route.
Practical Information
| Start | Arowhenua Road carpark, about 100 metres from the SH1 bridge at Arowhenua (Temuka side) |
| End point | Pleasant Point (one-way walk — arrange transport or return the same way) |
| Time | 3 hours one way |
| Difficulty | Easy — flat stopbank walking throughout |
| Surface | Grassy stopbank tops, mostly flat |
| Uses | Walking, running, mountain biking |
| Entry | Free |
| Dogs | Permitted (under control) |
About the Opihi Walkway
The Opihi Walkway follows the grassy tops of the river stopbanks along the Ōpihi River, one of South Canterbury’s main lowland rivers. It is a flat, exposed route with open farmland and pasture on the inland side and willows lining the river edge. The Southern Alps are visible as a backdrop on clear days. The walk has a gentle, rural character without significant elevation change, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
At the start from the Temuka end, open pasture sits to the left with the river and willows to the right. The route requires a short detour of about 150 metres across a small bridge at one point to stay on the stopbank closer to the river. Several small roads cross the banks along the way.
As the route approaches Pleasant Point, it passes Parr’s waterwheel at Butlers Crossing, a historic feature on the riverbank, and holiday cribs nestled in the trees near the water. Fishing and swimming are popular in the Pleasant Point section of the river. The river is not often visible from the stopbank tops due to the willows.
The walkway is listed in the Timaru District Council Walk and Bike Trail Guide, which notes the opportunity to stop for a picnic, swim or fish along the way. It forms part of the broader network of recreational tracks in the Timaru district.
Access and Route Details
Start at the carpark on Arowhenua Road. Go through the gate onto the stopbank and turn left. When crossing under the bridge at Halstead Road, take the right stopbank to reach Tengawai Bridge rather than the left option. The route ends near Pleasant Point, where users can connect with local roads or arrange return transport.
The full distance is approximately 11–13 km one way according to district trail guides. Shorter out-and-back sections are possible from either end for those seeking a less demanding outing.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers describe the route as peaceful and easy with wide open views and a genuine rural feel. Many appreciate the flat terrain suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and note the chance to spot the historic waterwheel near the Pleasant Point end.
Reviewers often mention combining the walk with a swim or picnic by the river at the Pleasant Point end. Some highlight the need to arrange transport for the one-way option or plan for a full day if returning the same way.
Where to Learn More
Timaru District Council — Opihi Walkway: official page with start point, route notes and features.
Timaru District Council Walk and Bike Trail Guide (PDF): district-wide trail information including the Opihi Walkway.
AllTrails — Temuka and Opihi River Walk: user maps, photos and reviews of sections of the route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Opihi Walkway start?
The main access point with a carpark is on Arowhenua Road, about 100 metres from the SH1 bridge at Arowhenua on the Temuka side.
How long does the Opihi Walkway take?
About 3 hours one way at a comfortable pace. Most people either return the same way or arrange transport at the far end.
Is the Opihi Walkway suitable for cycling?
Yes — the flat stopbank surface makes it suitable for mountain biking as well as walking and running.
What is the waterwheel at Butlers Crossing?
Parr’s waterwheel is a historic feature on the riverbank near the Pleasant Point end of the walkway, visible as the route passes Butlers Crossing.
Are dogs allowed on the Opihi Walkway?
Dogs are permitted but should be kept under control near other users.
Is the Opihi Walkway free to use?
Yes, the walkway is free and open to the public.
Can I swim or fish along the Opihi Walkway?
Fishing and swimming are popular in the Pleasant Point section of the river near the end of the route.
Is there parking at both ends?
Parking is available at the Arowhenua Road start. At the Pleasant Point end, users typically arrange transport or return the same way.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.