Rangiora there are plenty of things to do. Rangiora is a service town both for the nearby rural countryside and as a commuter ‘town’ for Christchurch. Tourism is not high on the radar for this attractive, flourishing town. There are outstanding civic achievements in wetland restoration.
What to do, highlights in Rangiora
- Mike Kean walkway
Ashley River is braided and home to critically endangered wrybill birds. Start the walk along the river at the Ashley River bridge picnic area.
- Northbrook wetlands
A great recycling waste water scheme, now a great place for kids, wheelchairs, bikes and people to enjoy the natural spaces. Series of ponds are fed by Rangiora’s stormwater system linked by weirs filtering water until it has lost 66% of dirt, 40% of excess nitrogen and 27% of phosphorus. (Source Walking in Waimakariri). Wide gravel paths, wooden jetties inviting visitors to peer into the wetland depths and observe aquatic life.
- Matawai Park
The concept of a native park representing the native vegetation of Canterbury, with hill country, plains and swamp vegetation is now covering over 4 hectares. Wide paths, seating and easy access encourages locals and visitors alike to enjoy natural spaces within the town’s boundary.
- Rangiora Sunday Market
The market is every third Sunday of the month increasing to fortnightly in summer. A classic rural market from home baked cake stalls, local artists, school groups fundraising to rotating professional pop up stall holders.
- Rangiora Museum
Rangiora Museum has an extensive collection of photographic and archival materials relating to Rangiora’s history. In 1972 a two-roomed cob cottage was built in front of the museum with cob blocks from Fernside. Its furnishings include gifts from local families reflecting the era of the day. The museum also features a 1905 sitting room, a c.1900 bedroom and early kitchen. Admission fees apply, open Wednesday and Sunday 1.30 pm – 4 pm or by appointment.
- Art gallery
Art in Rangiora is housed in the former Council Chambers with the brief to support local emerging and established artists. The historic building is also home to concerts.
What to do nearby Rangiora
Ashley Rakahuri Regional Park is the place to go for fishing, walking, swimming, cycling and family picnics. There are over 8 km of mountain biking trails suitable for all skill levels.
The North Canterbury Cycling Club have developed the Rakahuri MTB Park, which is a great area of single tracks off the Rakahuri Trail. Car parking and new picnic areas have been established along the trail.
This area can be combined with further rides on to Waikuku Beach, Tuhaitara Coastal Park and Pegasus.
What to do with the kids in Rangiora
- Northbrook Wetlands is a superb example of recycling town stormwater and it’s very attractive
- There is an extensive range of shops, cafes and cinemas for a rainy day
- Local museum with its photographic collection providing an insight into the lives of early industry
Where to take the best selfie in Rangiora
- Romance, couples walking the little jetties of Northbrook Wetlands
- Matawai Park has plenty of opportunities featuring native vegetation as a backdrop
Rangiora’ s social media
Population in Rangiora
- 19,219 (2019)
Judgment on Rangiora
Definitely you will find something to do in Rangiora if you are in the neighbourhood.
Every town adds to the richness of things to do and see. For more details about what to do nearby Rangiora check out Things To Do In Canterbury § Places to Visit, Activities & Sightseeing.
What keeps Rangiora ticking?
Commuter town for Christchurch being 29 km north of the city. Rangiora is the largest town and seat of the Waimakariri District, in Canterbury.
What to do nearby Rangiora, Canterbury?
Rangiora is nearby Amberley, Oxford and Springfield (selfie heaven with its massive concrete pink doughnut).
Want to go camping in Rangiora check out 9 Hurunui campsites & budget accommodation ideas.
Check out our favourite instagram posts for Rangiora
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