Acland Falls Peel Forest

Loop

The return leg completes the loop, bringing you back through the forest to the flats. It’s a short journey—usually taking about 45 to 50 minutes—but the density of the nature around you makes it feel like you’ve travelled much further from civilization.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The obvious star of the show is Acland Falls itself. While it may not have the thunderous volume of the larger falls in the Southern Alps, its charm is in its intimacy. The falls have carved out a lush, circular grotto that feels like a secret cathedral. It’s a fantastic spot for long-exposure photography, especially on a moody, overcast day when the greens of the moss and liverworts truly "pop."

Beyond the water, keep your eyes on the canopy. This specific track sits on the drier, northern flank of Peel Forest, which creates a unique microclimate. Unlike the deep, dark podocarp sections elsewhere in the reserve, this area is home to a stunning array of flowering native trees. Look out for the fuchsia (kōtukutuku), which is New Zealand’s only truly deciduous native tree and has distinctive peeling orange bark. In spring, the kōwhai trees drip with yellow blossoms, attracting nectar-loving birds.

The geological setting is also a highlight. The way the small stream has sliced through the rock to create this secluded nook provides a wonderful example of how water shapes the Canterbury landscape over millennia.

Getting There

Peel Forest is located in South Canterbury, roughly a 25-minute drive from Geraldine or about 2 hours from Christchurch.

To find the trailhead, follow Rangitata Gorge Road into the heart of the Peel Forest village. You have two main parking options:

1. Te Wanahu Flat: This is the main hub of the reserve. It’s well-signposted and features a public shelter, informative displays about the area, and clean toilet facilities.
2. Clarke Flat: Located just a bit further along the road near the Peel Forest DOC Campground, this provides a slightly more direct start to the Acland Falls loop.

Both parking areas are clearly marked and easily accessible for standard cars and campervans.

Wildlife Spotting

The Acland Falls Track is a symphony of birdsong. Because the track features many flowering and berry-bearing trees, it is a favourite haunt for native avian life.

• Bellbird (Korimako): You will almost certainly hear their liquid, chiming notes before you see them. They are common year-round and love the nectar of the kōwhai and fuchsia.
• Fantail (Pīwakawaka): These friendly little birds often follow hikers along the streambed, flitting about to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps.
• Kererū (NZ Wood Pigeon): Look for these large, heavy birds in the upper canopy. You’ll often hear the distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings before they land clumsily on a branch to feast on berries.
• Rifleman (Tītitipounamu): Keep a sharp eye on the tree trunks for New Zealand’s smallest bird. They look like tiny, high-pitched green ping-pong balls darting up and down the bark.
• Tomtit (Ngirungiru): Occasionally, you might spot the black-and-white (male) or grey-and-white (female) tomtit perched on a low branch, watching the forest floor for a meal.

Tip: Early morning or late afternoon are the best times for birdwatching, as the "dawn chorus" or evening activity provides the best chance to see these locals in action.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Acland Falls Track is a true all-seasons destination, but each time of year offers a different flavour:

Spring: This is arguably the best time for botany lovers. The kōwhai and fuchsia* are in bloom, and the forest is loud with birds celebrating the return of the warmth. * Summer: The deep shade of the podocarp forest provides a cool escape from the Canterbury heat. The stream at the end is a refreshing place to splash your face. * Autumn: The forest takes on a slightly golden hue, and the air is crisp. It’s often the most stable weather for hiking in the region. * Winter: While it can be chilly, the falls are often at their most impressive after winter rains. Just be aware that the streambed section can be extra slippery when icy or very wet.

• Footwear: Even though it’s an "easy" walk, please wear sturdy shoes with good grip. The streambed rocks can be very slippery, and the initial climb can be muddy after rain.
• Water & Snacks: It’s a short walk, but the elevation gain might make you thirsty. Bring a bottle of water.
• No Dogs: To protect the delicate birdlife and the integrity of the scenic reserve, dogs are not permitted on this track.
• Family Friendly: This is a great one for kids! Children around seven years and older usually find the climb manageable and the streambed section exciting.

Local & Regional Context

Peel Forest (Te Ngāhere o Te Wanahu) is a place of immense significance. Named after the early settler John Acland, who established the nearby Mount Peel Station in the 1850s, the forest was luckily recognized early on for its beauty and ecological value.

While much of the Canterbury Plains were cleared for farming, this pocket of bush was preserved. It contains some of the most impressive podocarp trees in the country. Within the wider reserve, you can find mataī, kahikatea, and tōtara that are estimated to be over 1,000 years old.

The fact that such a lush forest exists on the "leeward" (eastern) side of the Southern Alps is something of a natural miracle. Usually, the east is much drier, but the local topography of Peel Forest traps enough moisture to support this ancient, jungle-like environment. Walking here is like taking a step back in time to what New Zealand looked like before human arrival.

After the Walk

No trip to Peel Forest is complete without a visit to The Green Man at Peel Forest Cafe & Bar. Located just 1.5 kilometres from the trailheads, this is the social heart of the village.

It’s an incredibly welcoming spot for hikers. In winter, you can warm up by the roaring fire; in summer, the outdoor seating is perfect for soaking up the mountain views. They pride themselves on using local produce—be sure to try anything featuring Peel Forest Honey. Whether you’re after a craft beer, a flat white, or a hearty meal, it’s the perfect place to sit back and reflect on your walk through the ancient bush. If you’re lucky, you might even catch some live music on a weekend afternoon!