Rolleston

Rolleston is a rapidly growing town in the Selwyn District, approximately 22 km south-west of Christchurch. It is one of New Zealand's fastest-growing towns, with new housing developments attracting families and commuters who work in Christchurch.

Rolleston was established in the 1860s as a railway town and is named after William Rolleston, a former Superintendent of Canterbury Province. The town has extensive retail and commercial development centred around the Rolleston Town Centre. The climate is dry and temperate.

By Plane

The nearest major airport is Christchurch Airport (CHC), approximately 20 km north-east.

By Car / Road

Rolleston is on State Highway 1, about a 20-minute drive south-west of Christchurch. Bus services connect Rolleston to Christchurch city centre.

The town centre is walkable. A car is needed for exploring the wider Selwyn District.

Rolleston Town Centre — Modern retail and commercial hub.

Rolleston Reserve — Park with walking paths, sports fields, and a playground.

Ellesmere Wetlands — Near Rolleston, a birdwatching area.

Walk or cycle the Rolleston trails. Visit the Rolleston Sunday Market. Play golf at nearby courses in the Selwyn District.

Rolleston has a growing dining scene with cafes, Asian restaurants, and fast-food outlets along the main retail strip.

Cafes in the town centre serve coffee. Several bars are located in the area.

Rolleston has motel accommodation. Christchurch, 20 minutes north, offers a wider range.

Rolleston has a large shopping centre with supermarkets, department stores, and specialty shops. The town centre has cafes and restaurants.

• Christchurch — 22 km north-east, New Zealand's second-largest city
• Lincoln — 8 km east, university town with the Lincoln University campus
• Akaroa — 80 km south-east, French-influenced harbour town
• Darfield — 30 km west, gateway to the Canterbury high country
• Lake Ellesmere / Te Waihora — 20 km south, large coastal lake with birdlife