4WD Trip

Methven Lions organise a back country 4WD trip every few years. The last trip was held in 2016.

Thanks to the generosity of the Todhunter families the public have a unique chance to see some beautiful Mid Canterbury high country.  Funds raised all contribute to Methven Lions Charitable fund, assisting several local community projects.

Methven Lions are hosting a self-drive tour running through the back country of the Rakaia and Ashburton gorges. Beginning at a checkpoint on Blackford road, a few km inland from the turnoff on SH72, $50 per vehicle is paid.  The checkpoint will be running from 8 am, with the last cars through by 2 pm. You will be given a map with extensive info on the properties along the route.  After 50 minutes of so driving on public shingle roads along the south bank of the Rakaia River you will arrive at Glenfalloch Station, where a barbecue will be running.  There will also be tea, coffee and light snacks available at Glenfalloch, thanks to some Selwyn House students, please support their fundraising efforts.

The map you were given when paying at the checkpoint is your ticket to continue on the private tracks through Glenfalloch Station and then Lake Heron Station. The tracks are mostly well formed but there are sections across shingle fans that may be a bit rough, take your time. You will see some beautiful views of the upper Rakaia area, before finally arriving at the Lake Heron Campground, where you rejoin public roads through the Hakatere Consevation area, back to Mt Somers township.  Allow a good 3 hours for the trip at a leisurely pace.

We ask you to please respect these working farms – do not venture off the tracks, watch out for livestock on the tracks, please do not bring your dogs and of course please leave no rubbish. Just enjoy the beautiful scenery.