Last updated July 2026
The Quarryman’s Trail (Puari ki Otūmatua) is a major separated cycleway in Christchurch that links the central city with Halswell via Hoon Hay, Spreydon and Somerfield. It provides a safe, traffic-separated route for commuters, families and recreational riders. The trail honours the area’s quarrying heritage while forming part of Christchurch’s post-earthquake cycle network. It connects directly to Halswell Domain and Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre, offering easy access to parks and community facilities. The full route is now open and maintained by Christchurch City Council.
Practical Information
| Status | Open |
| Route | Central city (Antigua Street/Moorhouse Ave area) to Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre via Hoon Hay |
| Length | Approximately 8 km (full route) |
| Surface | Separated cycle paths, smooth paved surfaces |
| Accessibility | Designed for a range of abilities; connects to schools and parks |
| Connections | Links to other city cycleways; near Halswell Quarry area |
| Operator | Christchurch City Council |
About Quarryman’s Trail
Quarryman’s Trail (Puari ki Otūmatua) forms a key south-west spoke in Christchurch’s major cycle route network. It was developed as part of the city’s Urban Cycleways Programme in partnership with Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency to improve safety and encourage active transport after the 2011 earthquakes.
The name reflects the historic quarrying industry in the Halswell area, where stone was extracted for early Christchurch buildings. The route passes through established suburbs and provides direct access to four schools in the Hoon Hay area as well as Halswell Domain.
Construction occurred in stages. The first section between Moorhouse Avenue and Victors Road opened in September 2018. The completed trail, providing a continuous safe link from the central city to Halswell, was fully open by late 2019. Clear signage and separated paths minimise vehicle interaction along most of the route.
The trail integrates with existing paths and offers connections to local parks, shops and community centres. Riders can combine a cycle trip with visits to Halswell Quarry Park for walking tracks and recreation.
Route and Key Features
The trail begins near Antigua Street in the central city and heads south-west through Addington, Somerfield and Hoon Hay before reaching Halswell. It features protected cycle lanes and off-road sections that prioritise rider safety and comfort.
Key highlights include smooth surfaces suitable for everyday commuting and leisure riding, connections to public transport interchanges, and proximity to green spaces. The route supports both short local trips and longer journeys across the city.
What Visitors Often Say
Riders appreciate the separated paths that make commuting feel much safer than on-road routes, especially for families and newer cyclists. Many note the smooth surface and straightforward signage that make navigation easy.
Locals value the direct link between suburbs and the city centre, saying it encourages more regular bike use for school runs and errands. Some mention pleasant green stretches and the convenience of combining the ride with park visits at the Halswell end.
Where to Learn More
Christchurch City Council Cycle Routes: Current status, maps and details for Quarryman’s Trail and the wider network.
Christchurch City Council Newsline: Official announcement confirming completion of the full Quarryman’s Trail route.
Christchurch Bike Map: Interactive and printable maps showing Quarryman’s Trail and connecting routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Quarryman’s Trail suitable for beginners and families?
Yes, the separated cycle paths and smooth surfaces make it accessible for riders of varying abilities, including families and commuters.
Where does the trail start and end?
It runs from the central city near Antigua Street/Moorhouse Avenue to Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre and Halswell Domain.
Is the entire trail open?
Yes, the full route is open following staged construction completed in 2019.
Does it connect to other cycleways?
Yes, it links with the broader Christchurch cycle network and provides access to local parks and schools.
What is the historical connection of the name?
The name references the quarrying heritage of the Halswell area that supplied stone for early Christchurch buildings.
Are there facilities along the route?
The trail passes residential areas, schools, shops and parks with public amenities at the Halswell end.
Who maintains the trail?
Christchurch City Council maintains the route as part of the city’s cycleway programme.
Can I combine cycling with walking at Halswell?
Yes, the trail ends near Halswell Domain and the historic quarry park area, which offers walking tracks.
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