ACTIVE & OUTDOORS
Oxford is full of charm, offering a variety of local attractions that showcase the beauty and character of North Canterbury. Explore scenic walking tracks, relax by the Ashley Gorge, or take in the peaceful surroundings of the Waimakariri River. Discover boutique shops, art galleries, and local markets, or enjoy a bite to eat at one of the town’s welcoming cafés. Whether you’re after outdoor adventure or a laid-back day exploring, Oxford has something for everyone to enjoy.
OXFORD DARK SKY
The Oxford Area School Observatory is likely the only operational observatory in New Zealand, owned by and operated under auspices of a school. We pride ourselves in this facility and commit ourselves to furthering astronomy education for all ages.
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Website: https://oxford.ngawhetu.nz/index.php
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OXFORD FITNESS CENTRE
Located next to the community swimming pool and sports fields, the Oxford Fitness Centre has one of the most picturesque outlooks of any gym in the country.
With over 200m2 floor area the gym includes a wide range of cardio and weights machines as well as free weights and other gym equipment to cater for members of every age in the local community.
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The gym runs a small number of group fitness classes led by experienced and passionate instructors and provides Personal Training services and other opportunities all designed to help you reach your fitness & health goals.
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Website: https://www.sportstrust.org.nz/oxford-fitness-centre
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OxfordFitnessCentre
Email: oxfordgym@sportstrust.org.nz
OXFORD COMMUNITY AQUATIC CENTRE
The Oxford Community Aquatic Centre is an outdoor heated pool open from late November until late March. The facility includes a 4-lane 25m lap pool with an accessible access ramp and a smaller learners pool with toddlers stand for small children.
Website: https://www.waimakariri.govt.nz/leisure-and-recreation/facilities/aquatic-centre/seasonal-summer-pools
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Oxford-Community-Aquatic-Centre/100063713793166/
Email: aquatic@wmk.govt.nz
WAIMAKARIRI GORGE GOLF CLUB
Situated at the foothills of the magnificent Southern Alps and only a 45-minute drive from Christchurch International Airport is an 18-hole golf course that will delight from the learner to the most experienced player.
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As well as the manicured fairways and greens, the Waimakariri Gorge Golf Course boasts some of Canterbury's finest scenery. If not for the challenging course, then come and play for the spectacular gorge, river views, and snow-capped mountains. With the wide open spaces, the course gives a feeling of isolation. You’ll feel like the only person playing the entire course most days.
We have ample parking and are a registered Park Over Property with the NZMCA with the ability to park up a camper or caravan while on a golfing holiday.
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Website: https://www.waimakgolf.nz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/waimakagolf
Email: info@waimakgolf.nz
OXFORD FOOTBALL CLUB
Oxford Football Club is your local club for football for all ages and abilities. We are the only team sports club in Canterbury to offer completely FREE football memberships for children aged 4 years and upwards.
Our First Kicks and Fun Football programs run on Saturday mornings at Pearson Park for children between the ages of 4 and 8. Our Mini Football teams and Youth Teams, for players aged 9 to 16, take part in the Mainland Football competitions.
We have a strong senior team and offer options for Womens Indoor Football and Over 50’s Walking Football.
Get in touch with us to find out more details.
Website: www.oxfordfc.co.nz
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oxfordfootballclubnz/
KOWHAI RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL OF RIDING
A unique riding school for people interested in improving their equestrian skills. Well-schooled horses and ponies.
Enjoy lessons from complete basics to dressage. Show jumping and cross country combined with scenic farm trekking.
Transfers from Christchurch airport or the city are available. Complimentary transfers from Oxford.
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Website: https://www.kowhai.co.nz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kowhairidingschool?ref=ts
Email: info@kowhai.co.nz
OXFORD SQUASH CLUB
We are home to Oxford Squash, providing two squash courts for all ages and abilities.
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Wednesday is our social club night starting from 6 pm for all players.
Junior Coaching and club night begins from 4.30 pm-6 pm
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OxfordSquashNZ
Email: mkfoxnz@gmail.com
OXFORD CLUB BOWLS
Oxford Club Bowls is a bowling club for the whole community. The club boasts a high-quality full-size maniototo grass green and a large car park with a full kitchen and dining facilities.
New Members and casual bowlers are always welcome.
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This great game of lawn bowls is all about fun and people. Why not come down to the club and give it a go? You won't regret it!
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Website: https://www.oxfordclubbowls.co.nz/
SKATE PARK AND PLAYGROUNDS
Between the Town Hall and the swimming pool, you will find a popular skate park and playground.
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There is a second playground by the war memorial cenotaph, along with picnic tables.
TRAMPING, HIKING AND WALKING
The 11,350-hectare Oxford Forest Conservation area features walking and mountain biking tracks and a Recreational Hunting Area.
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From the beautiful Ryde Falls track to the challenging Wharfdale Track or a climb up Mt Oxford to admire the stunning scenery, there is something to suit everyone.
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RIBBLESDALE GARDEN
The garden will surprise and enchant you! Over the last 38 years, it has been transformed into a succession of surprises as you move from one landscaped area to the next.
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Lose yourself in 4 acres of tranquillity - beautiful at all times, breathtaking in spring. Friendly fantails follow you around while you chance upon a host of gardens. The variety of textures and colours is endless.
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For garden lovers and all other interested clubs, Ribblesdale is an absolute must for those wanting to get away from the rush of everyday life into a relaxing, unique NZ garden experience.
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RibblesdaleGardensOxford/
Email: ribblesdale@xtra.co.nz
MEARS TRACK
Mears Track is a 2 km loop just minutes from the centre of Oxford.
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A rustic walkway, this stand of native bush is one of few near the Oxford township and is a QEII Covenant. The track is clearly defined with native plants identified and incorporates seating and a lookout.
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Access from Main Street, turn right into Mill Road, left into Bush Road on a bend and right into Crallans Drain Road (approx 3kms). There is a gravel parking area approx 1km from the turnoff.
ASHLEY GORGE & GLENTUI FOOTHILLS
Explore the Beauty of Glentui Foothills & Ashley Gorge
Looking for a scenic outdoor escape just a short drive from Oxford? The Glentui foothills and nearby Ashley Gorge are two of the Waimakariri region’s best natural attractions, offering stunning landscapes, walking tracks, picnic areas, swimming spots, and unforgettable Canterbury countryside views.
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Located within the beautiful foothills of North Canterbury, these destinations are ideal for day trips, family adventures, or anyone wanting to enjoy the fresh air and peaceful surroundings. Whether you are after an easy nature walk or a more challenging hike, there is something for everyone.
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Glentui Foothills Adventures
Part of the Mount Thomas Forest Conservation Area, the Glentui area is known for native bush, birdlife, rivers, and rewarding walking tracks. Popular options include:
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Glentui Waterfall Track – A short walk leading to a picturesque waterfall.
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Glentui Nature Walk Loop – A scenic forest circuit with beautiful surroundings.
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Mt Richardson Track – A rewarding climb with panoramic views across the plains and surrounding ranges.
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Glentui is perfect for walkers, photographers, and nature lovers wanting to experience the beauty of inland Canterbury.
Relax at Ashley Gorge.
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Just nearby, Ashley Gorge is a much-loved local spot for picnics, swimming, camping, and riverside relaxation. Surrounded by mature trees and set beside the Ashley River, it is a fantastic place to cool off in summer or simply unwind with family and friends.
Walking tracks around the reserve make it easy to explore, while open spaces provide plenty of room for games, picnics, and enjoying the outdoors.
OXFORD OAKS RESERVE DOG PARK
The Oaks Walkway is a fantastic local destination for dog walkers, located at 90 High Street in Oxford beside the Oxford Cemetery.
Spanning around 3.6 hectares, there is plenty of space for both you and your four-legged companion to enjoy.
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Take a leisurely stroll around the grassed walking loop, let your dog stretch their legs in the fully fenced off-leash exercise area, or relax beneath the shade of the stunning oak trees. With seating, easy access, and a rubbish bin with poo bag dispenser provided, it’s a welcoming and practical space for everyday adventures.
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Exciting ideas are also being explored for future enhancements, including dog agility equipment and expanded walking paths to make the reserve even better for locals and their pets. Watch this space for more information to come.