Staveley: Hiking, Ice Skating and Lime Kilns

In Staveley, early industrial history, a long-established outdoor ice rink and walking tracks on Mount Somers come together. When planning, it is worth distinguishing the short loop at Sharplin Falls from the multi-day Mount Somers routes.

Lime Kilns from the Early Industrial Era

The Staveley lime kilns were built in the late 19th century and are examples of early New Zealand industry. The marked access route leads from the car park at the end of Boyds Road, beyond Staveley, across private farmland. If you plan to visit the lime kilns, check the access conditions before setting out.

Walking Tracks at Sharplin Falls and Mount Somers

The Sharplin Falls Track is at the end of Flynn Road in Staveley. This easy family walk passes through native bush to a cascading waterfall in the foothills of Mt Somers. The loop leads to a viewing platform and takes about an hour. As track conditions can vary, check them before setting out.

For a longer trip, consider the Mount Somers Track, which runs from the Sharplin Falls car park to the Woolshed Creek car park on the north side of Mount Somers. In Staveley, the two-day hike starts at a car park and leads beyond the settlement. Alpine conditions can affect the difficulty and walking time. In the Ashburton District, two walking tracks in Awa Awa Rata Reserve lead to Scott's Saddle or the ridge.

Individual sections can also be planned by duration. The section of the Mount Somers Track from the Sharplin Falls car park to Pinnacles Hut is 5.8 kilometres long and takes 3.5 hours. On the loop that starts and ends at the Sharplin Falls car park, the section from Woolshed Creek Hut to the car park is a challenging tramping track: it is listed as 14 kilometres and 8 hours. These figures refer to that section. The full loop is longer and more challenging than the Mount Somers Track. Check track conditions before longer hikes.

There is a shelter, toilets and an information board at the Sharplin Falls car park. Check the condition of the facilities on site.

The Staveley Ice Rink

The Staveley Ice Rink has been operating since 1951 and is one of the few remaining outdoor ice rinks in New Zealand. Native beech forest and the Southern Alps surround the rink. Its seasonal operation depends on conditions and the current season schedule. Check before your trip whether the rink will be open during your stay.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: West Melton, Glenavy, Waiau, Maungati, Ashburton Lakes, Diamond Harbour, Ferniehurst, Waimate District

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