Main South Stopbank

Discover an intriguing off-road opportunity along the Main South Stopbank, where you'll experience a compact yet scenic route through the Fendalton-Waimari-Harewood community near Christchurch. This 1.2 km trail offers a unique chance to explore local waterway infrastructure while enjoying gentle terrain that won't demand extreme technical skills. You'll traverse a section of Canterbury's stopbank system, providing views across the surrounding landscape and a taste of rural driving without the commitment of longer expeditions.

The driving experience here is straightforward, with minimal grade challenges making it accessible for a variety of 4WD vehicles and skill levels. The relatively flat terrain means you can focus on enjoying the scenery and understanding the local landscape rather than navigating steep obstacles. Before heading out, ensure your vehicle is in good working order and bring supplies, as this is a rural area with limited services nearby. The compact length makes it perfect for combining with other local trails or as a quick outing for those testing their vehicles or learning off-road driving techniques.

As one of the less-trafficked routes in the region, you'll appreciate the quieter driving experience and opportunity to explore an often-overlooked part of the Canterbury backcountry. Track your journey with the Newtracs app to share your experience and help build the community's knowledge of this accessible local route.