The river mouths and lower reaches of the Ashley and Waimakariri
Rivers are popular sites for whitebaiting. The Waimakariri is also an
excellent salmon and trout fishery. Other District rivers of significant
interest for seasonal fishing are the Ashley, Cust, Kaiapoi and Upper
Kaiapoi (Silverstream).
Public access to the lower Kaiapoi River can be gained via Council
riverbank reserves within the Kaiapoi area. The south branch of the
upper Kaiapoi River (Silverstream) meanders through Silverstream Reserve
near Clarkville. This large reserve allows public access to a
significant stretch of the waterway. Silverstream Reserve Management
Plan.
Many of the District’s rivers and streams pass through private land.
Permission should be sought from landowners before attempting to gain
access to these sites.
For further information, visit the North Canterbury section of the Fish and Game New Zealand website.
Whitebaiting Beach Access Permits
A
permit is required for vehicle access to the Ashley River mouth during
the whitebaiting season (mid August to end of November). This permit
allows beach access through an otherwise locked gate at North Waikuku on
the south side of the River. A permit fee is charged. Please contact
WDC Customer Services at the start of the season for further details.