Down beside the Selwyn River, an easy run out from Christchurch, this riverside reserve has plenty of room to park and good natural wind shelter. The river setting suits fishing, swimming, picnics and a bit of bird watching, though the depth varies, so worth checking water quality before you jump in.

There's a decent seating area for meals and a free public cooking and BBQ station, so it's easy to settle in for a night. The toilets are clean and well lit with dish-washing sinks, though the water is non-potable, and there are rubbish and recycling stations on site.

Camping is free, with a donation box to help keep the reserve ticking over. Dogs are welcome but need to be under control at all times. Tidy little spot that gets busy over summer.