If you have young children, whether you’re a painted rock enthusiast or not, you’re going to love Fairyland at Leithfield Beach. And if you don’t have young children… go anyway. It’s a nice walk with something that will appeal to anyone.
If you’re looking for a less-than-half-day forest nature walk within a short drive from Christchurch that’s easily accessible, varied and interesting for young children, and offers the reward of a waterfall for those want to add a more challenging extension, then the Ashley Gorge Loop Track ticks a lot of boxes.