Walking to Washpen Falls

Local writer Jennifer Parkes writes about discovering Washpen falls with her family.

Washpen Falls are such a hidden beauty and is one of the best waterfall walks in Canterbury.  Unlike most walks around New Zealand, this is not looked after by the Department of Conservation. Instead, Washpen Falls in a private track that the local farmers have looked after, and allow us to access on their farmland.  I have to say, I’m glad they have, as this is such a gem.

I loved the story about how Washpen Falls got its name, so just have to share.  When the Europeans moved onto the land, they decided that the wool that they were going to sell back to England would sell better and fetch more money if it was washed prior to being shorn.  So in the stream, now called Washpen Creek, they built the sheep pens and the poor sheep were “washed.” So now you have Washpen Creek and its beautiful Washpen Falls. Such a cute story!

If you are heading to the Methven Area for skiing at Mt Hutt, local jetboating adventures on the Rakaia Gorge or to relax at the luxury Terrace Downs Resort, then this is a great Canterbury walk to add to your must do list in Mid Canterbury.  It’s a lovely walk near Christchurch, so you could also pop out for a day trip and explore the region.

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