Weka Pass

The Weka Pass is a gorge in the northern Canterbury region on the South Island of New Zealand between the villages of Waipara and Waikari.

The gorge was cut from the Waipara River, which eroded the soft limestone and mudstone here. The erosion formed out some characteristic limestone formations in the Weka Pass, where names like " Frog Rock" ( stone frog ) and "The Seal" ( the seal ) were added. The pass is home to various species of birds, including Wekaralle, Kaka and kiwi. Earlier also the now extinct Moa came on here.

Under the overhang of a limestone rock are rock carvings of Māori. These are the main attractions of the " Weka Pass Historic Park ". The Māori explored the area about 1000 years ago and used the limestone overhang as protection. Early European explorers use the surplus for the same purpose.

Through the pass lead the State Highway 7 and the Waiau Branch. This branch line was built in 1882 and was originally intended to be a part of the main line Main North Line from Christchurch to Nelson and Blenheim. However, the main line then followed a route along the coast about Waipara, which is part way through the Weka Pass became part of the Waiau Branch. After cessation of operation on 15 January 1978, the stretch was obtained by the Weka Pass through a club. It is operated under the name Weka Pass Railway as a tourist railway.