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Best Places to Ride E Scooters in Christchurch
Christchurch E-Scooter Guide (Contents):
E-scooters are fast becoming one of the most popular ways of travelling in Christchurch, and that’s no surprise considering how easy, energy-efficient, and economical it is to ride them.
So if you’re wondering where exactly you can ride e-scooters in Christchurch, check out our Christchurch Electric Scooter Guide below that includes a list of cool spots in and around the city.
But, before we get into those locations, let’s quickly go through the basics. We checked with the Christchurch City Council to give you some answers to some common questions about e scooter rules.
FAQs on E-Scooter Rules in Christchurch
Where can I legally ride an electric scooter in Christchurch?
You can ride an electric scooter on footpaths, roadways and shared paths. Electric scooters with seats, like the ones here, can be ridden on cycle lanes and roads.
When you're riding on the footpath you need to,- be considerate of pedestrians and take care to not put them at any risk.
- give way for pedestrians and those using mobility devices.
- ride as per the speed limit- see limits on speed for e-scooters.
On roadways, you need to ride as close as practicable to the edge of the road.
Source: Christchurch City Council
Do electric scooters need to be registered?
No - If your electric scooter wheels do not exceed 355mm and the motor has a maximum power output not exceeding 300W, it’s considered by the NZ government as a low-powered vehicle. This means you can use it without registration.
Can I ride an electric scooter without a license?
Yes - if your scooter doesn’t have wheels exceeding 355mm and a motor exceeding 300W maximum power output, you don't need to have a license to ride it.
Do I need to wear a helmet on a scooter?
The short answer is no. According to the Christchurch City Council, it is not a legal requirement to wear a helmet when you ride an electric scooter, but it is highly recommended you wear one for your safety.
Check out the ultra-cool Livall Smart Helmet - BH51M that's currently on sale at Storm Rides.
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How fast can I go on an e-scooter?
A speed limit of 15km/h (about running speed) is recommended for escooters used on the footpath by the NZ Government.
Got more questions about electric scooter laws? Check out our comprehensive guide here.
ELECTRIC SCOOTER LAWS IN NZ – THE INS, THE OUTS, AND THE IDIOCY
Basics sussed. Now…
Where Can You Ride E-Scooters In Christchurch?
Here are some of the best shared pathways and cycleways to ride your electric scooter in Christchurch!
NORTHERN CORRIDOR SHARED PATHWAY
This relatively new shared path provides access to South Kaiapoi via the Waimakariri Bridge. It conveniently links to existing shared tracks (such as the Papanui Parallel Cycleway), and additional council plans are underway!
See Map from Auckland Council
PAPANUI PARALLEL CYCLEWAY
This popular cycleway makes travelling from Papanui to the city centre a breeze! On route, you may be tempted for a pit-stop at Edgeware Village or Northlands Shopping Centre.
You can also get your sweat on or go for a swim, with the track providing easy access to the Graham Condon Recreation and Sport Centre.
HAGLEY PARK SHARED PATHWAY
As the city’s ‘largest urban outdoor space’, Hagley Park has been a go-to leisure spot in Christchurch for over 160 years.
the 1.65 km2 area is located near the city centre and contains a section of the Avon River, charming Victoria Lake, several sports clubs, a golf course (and more).
it’s also home to the botanic gardens—but this is a no-riding zone. if you head around the north perimeter of Hagley Park via the hospital, the shared track offers a 4.5km ride. or for a slightly shorter option, the southern boundary is 3.9km in length.
QUARRYMAN'S TRAIL CYCLEWAY
Connecting the Halswell area to the city centre, the Quarryman’s Trail Cycleway is perfect for those in the outer south-west suburbs wanting to plan their scooter commute into the CBD.Remember to share with care, particularly during ‘peak’ school hours, as Haswell School is right on the route.
Please click here to see the map
MCLEANS FOREST
Located just 15 minutes away from the CBD, the rural McLeans Forest makes for an epic weekend escape. Here you can emerge yourself in nature with a refreshing ride through native bush.
The area’s Templars Island Trail is a popular shared option—offering 11km of adventure. But with its relatively “off-road” terrain, you’ll want to ensure you’ve got a durable ride.
RAPANUI SHAG ROCK CYCLEWAY
Riding through Linwood, this cycleway connects Ferrymead Bridge to the city centre. That means it's ideal if you want to visit Eastgate Mall, the Stanmore Road shops, or the Linwood Pool.
The path also gets the tick for natural scenery —meandering by the wetland edge of Charlesworth Reserve.
NORTHERN LINE CYCLEWAY
The Northern Line Cycleway connects the suburb of Belfast to the CBD. The path is popular amongst walkers and riders. If you’re based out North, this is the route for you!
OXFORD TERRACE PROMENADE
In addition to its iconic riverfront steps, Oxford Terrace is also a bustling spot for pedestrians, cyclists, and scooterists. This wide, paved path is 2km in length and runs along the eastern side of the Avon River.
When riding here, it's essential to remain alert of your surroundings, especially between 4pm-10am—when vehicles can also access the area.
Best places to ride electric scooters in Christchurch City Centre
Beyond the terrace, the flat streets of Christchurch CBD are also ideal for a scoot! Most areas are suitable to ride (except Victoria Sq and the Margaret Mahy Playground, which are no-riding zones).
LITTLE RIVER TRAIL SHARED PATHWAY
The 50km Little River Trail follows the railway line from Hornby to Little River. Known for its wetlands, lakes, birdlife, and farmland—it’s an experience that you won’t easily forget. Plus, there’s plenty of history (such as old rail stations) to explore along the way.
Depending on your scooter range and how much time you have, you may want to ride just one or two sections of the track.
SOUTHERN LIGHTS CYCLEWAY
As the name suggests, this cycleway connects the southern suburbs of Christchurch to the city centre. While most of the track is open, work is underway to link the cycleway to other shared paths.So, it’s a good idea to regularly check the cycleway status on the Christchurch City Council website.
HEATHCOTE EXPRESSWAY CYCLEWAY
Likewise, parts of the Heathcote Expressway Cycleway are still in the works. However, you can currently use the completed ‘city-side’ section, which runs from the Tannery (shopping mall) to the CBD.
Once complete, the track will extend to Heathcote, enhancing Christchurch’s growing cycleway network.
Test Ride an Electric Scooter in Christchurch
Storm Rides is your go-to destination for electric scooters, mini bikes, skateboards and accessories. You can shop our range of scooters right here online, and get it delivered to you in Christchurch. We’ve got e-scooters to fit every size, budget and style.
If you'd like to arrange a time to test ride a escooter in Christchurch, get in touch with our dealers George or Julie on the numbers below.
George 021 025 46489
Julie 027 573 1929
You can also call our national hotline 0800 448 366 or email support@stormrides.nz
Ready, Set, Ride!
We hope you’re feeling better equipped with the knowledge to navigate the e-scooter life in Christchurch. As mentioned above, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
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