Castle Hill Rocks
Described as one of New Zealand's finest rock climbing and bouldering
locations, it's also one of the most accessible. About one hours drive from
Christchurch, Castle Hill actually features five areas with around 250 climbs
and well over 1000 boulder problems.
The quality of the Limestone and the ability to climb virtually all year make
the Castle Hill climbing area very popular through the year. I still recall a
fine day spent at Castle Hill climbing on the superb Limestone, with snow on the
ground and having to take off my shirt because I was getting too hot.
For more information on climbing and bouldering
Cave Stream Reserve
Two short tracks lead from the reserve carpark to the cave entrances. The
track to the upstream entrance goes north, through a diverse karst (limestone)
landscape of solution holes, rillenkarren (water-grooved rocks) and sculptured
rock formations.
The other track leads to the edge of a terrace overlooking
the outflow entrance of the cave. It drops down the face of the terrace to the
junction of Cave Stream and Broken River.
Please observe the warning signs about entering the cave - it has claimed
lives. You must be properly equipped if you plan to walk through the cave.
The limestone formations nearby were the setting for the filming of "Narnia:
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe".
Cave Stream Reserve - Caving to read more about walking through the Cave Stream Reserve