MAP / LANDMARKS / KERRS REACH FLATWATER CLUBS
Kerrs Reach Flatwater Clubs
Kia ora, trail trekkers!
You’re at Kerrs Reach, a stretch of river popular for rowing, waka ama and other paddle sports.
In the 19th century, this modified part of the river actually started off as a drainage channel for surrounding properties (including the 6000 acre Sand Hills Run).
The river and channel were altered in the 1940s and 50s to create the reach, which is named after local landowner Peter Kerr (1814-1877). Peter and his wife Margaret were well known for offering hospitality to men (no women!) who plyed this part of the Avon Ōtākaro River.
You can still see the original route of the river: it meanders around Porritt Park.
Changes are afoot again: the Christchurch City Council has been talking with the community about relocating all the club facilities to the other (western) side of the river. It’s thought the new location would offer more space and the land itself is better quality for building on.
There’s a possibility that the existing area will be developed into ‘Wainoni Landing’. New facilities on this side of the river may include event and eating spaces, a river-viewing platform, and improvements to the natural surroundings.
As you follow the trail along the river’s edge, you might see rowers and others sportspeople practising. The river here is popular for recreation and competitive sports. Yet, at one time, the river was a key transport route: all sorts of vessels – punts, schooners, ferries and (originally) waka – plied the river. Can you imagine it?
See you at the next stop, folks!
[If you are heading north, follow the path parallel to Kerrs Reach/the main river, and cross the footbridge on the other side of the park.]
Links:
History of water transport (informal blogs)
https://lostchristchurch.wordpress.com/2012/12/07/shipping-on-the-avon/
Kerrs Reach history
https://www.peelingbackhistory.co.nz/kerrs-reach/
https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Kerr-12099