Things to do In Waiau

Enjoy a summer afternoon cooling off by the river. 

Summer in Waiau

Summer in Waiau

Details   Waiau is a great Summer destination. With the Waiau and Mason Rivers on your back step there is always plenty to do.

Riverside Reserve Swimming Hole

Details   Each Summer Environment Canterbury prepare a new swimming hole in the Riverside Reserve and is well used by both locals and visitors to the area. The river provides an excellent natural alternative to the amazing community pool.

New Zealand Jet Boat River racing

Details   The Waiau River is host to a round of the New Zealand Jet Boat River racing.

River racing is a pure adrenaline rush where Race boats navigate the challenging waterways of New Zealand at speeds of up to 140mph. Nerves of steel and total mechanical reliability are essential to success in one of the most challenging action packed sports around.
Pump Track

Pump Track

Details   Test your skills on the Pump Track. Located within the grounds of Waiau School this track is for locals and visitors alike.

Available for use outside of school hours.
The Waiau Speed Shear

The Waiau Speed Shear

Details   Contact Hamish for more information
Date   November 14, 2025
Phone   022 040 97058

Walking Tracks

Walking Tracks in Waiau

Cycle Routes

Cycle Routes

Waiau Historical Trail

Historical Trail

Waiau Community Pool

Waiau Community Pool

Events

Events, activities, festivals for the whole family

Mt Lyford

Visit Mt Lyford
Mainpower Waiau Community Pool

Mainpower Waiau Community Pool

Details   Located right in the heart of the Waiau township, adjoining Waiau Primary School and within walking distance of the Waiau Motor Camp & Cabins, the pool is open throughout the summer season for community & visitor use.

Click below for more information
Mt Lyford Lodge

Mt Lyford Lodge

Details  

Mt Lyford Lodge, is an ideal destination for a Sunday drive less than 2hrs from Christchurch, and 45 minutes scenic drive from Kaikoura.

Owned and operated by Rodin Cars, Mt Lyford Lodge is one of the largest Log Cabins in the Southern Hemisphere, and has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment.


Open Thursday to Sunday, we offer Stone grill, all day menu, local produce, craft beer and our very own Lyford Porter on Tap. Our friendly team look forward to hosting you, pop in for a cool summer refreshment or a winter warmer through the cooler months.

Phone   0274 119 840
Address   10 Mt Lyford Forrest Drive, Mt Lyford