Paddling near Rolleston, Canterbury
Rolleston sits on the Canterbury Plains, close to a spread of waterways that suit flatwater and moving-water paddling alike. Lake Ellesmere / Te Waihora and the braided Waimakariri River are the most prominent nearby options, while the Avon River / Ōtākaro in Christchurch draws kayakers looking for an accessible urban paddle. The Canterbury Sea Kayak Network has used Rolleston as a meet-up point for trips further afield, including alpine lakes in the Hakatere area.
Top waters to paddle near Rolleston

Selwyn River / Waikirikiri

Ōpāwaho / Heathcote River

Lake Ellesmere / Te Waihora

Waimakariri River

Avon River / Ōtākaro

Canterbury Bight

Ashley River / Rakahuri

Ellesmere / Te Waihora

Pegasus Bay

Ashburton River North Branch
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