Derek Turnbull Track

Out and back

Highlights & Must-See Features

The Derek Turnbull Track isn’t just a walk in the woods; it’s a journey through a unique geological and biological landscape.

The Viewing Platform Loop: About midway through, you’ll find a signposted 1.5-kilometre loop that climbs slightly higher than the main track. This is the "cherry on top" of the walk. It leads to a sturdy viewing platform sitting roughly 200 metres above sea level. From here, the Southland Plains unfold beneath you in a patchwork of green, stretching all the way toward the coast. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas are breathtaking and provide a wonderful sense of perspective on the scale of the region's agricultural heartland.

The Weta Cave: For a bit of "creepy-crawly" fun, keep an eye out for the signposted weta cave. This small limestone cavity is a fantastic spot to teach kids about New Zealand’s unique invertebrates. You’ll definitely want a small torch or a bright phone light to peer into the crevices. If you’re lucky (and quiet), you might spot the prehistoric-looking cave weta hanging out in the shadows.

Limestone Boulders: The reserve is famous for its limestone outcrops. Throughout the walk, you’ll encounter dramatic, weather-worn limestone boulders cloaked in moss and ferns. These geological features are remnants of an ancient seafloor, pushed up over millennia. They offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially when the light filters through the canopy and hits the grey stone and vibrant green moss.

The Derek Turnbull Legacy: The track is named after a local legend—Derek Turnbull. A world-renowned masters athlete, Derek was known as the "World’s Fastest Old Man," holding numerous world records into his 80s. He used this very reserve as his training ground, often running these trails daily. Knowing you’re walking in the footsteps of a sporting icon adds a layer of inspiration to the journey.

Getting There

The Derek Turnbull Track is incredibly easy to access, making it a popular choice for a half-day trip from Invercargill or Winton.

From Invercargill, head north on State Highway 6. After about 15 minutes, turn onto Forest Hill Crossing Road, then follow the signs toward the Tussock Creek Picnic Area. The trailhead is located at the end of the road.

The carpark is a large, gravelled area with plenty of space for cars and campervans. Even on busy weekends, you’ll usually find a spot without any hassle. There are basic toilet facilities and picnic tables at the trailhead, but no water taps, so make sure you fill your bottles before leaving home.

Wildlife Spotting

The Forest Hill Scenic Reserve is a sanctuary for native birds, and the "bird song" here is often loud enough to drown out your own footsteps. Because the forest is so dense and well-preserved, it supports a high density of species.

• Tūī and Bellbirds (Makomako): You’ll hear these before you see them. Listen for the tūī’s complex melodic whistles and the clear, bell-like tones of the makomako.
• Kererū: The heavy beat of wings usually announces the arrival of the New Zealand wood pigeon. Look for them perched high in the branches of matai or rimu trees, looking plump and colourful.
• Fantails (Pīwakawaka): These cheeky little birds will likely follow you along the track, flitting about to catch the insects stirred up by your feet.
• Tomtit (Miromiro): Keep an eye out for these small, bobbing birds with their distinctive white chests (males) or greyish tones (females).
• Rifleman (Tītitipounamu): New Zealand’s smallest bird can sometimes be spotted darting like a tiny green thumb along the tree trunks.

Tip: The best time for bird watching is early morning or late afternoon when the forest is most active. If you stand still for five minutes, the birds often become curious and move closer to the track.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Derek Turnbull Track is a true four-season trail, with each time of year offering a different vibe.

• Spring: The forest is at its most vibrant. The new growth is a bright, lime green, and the birdlife is particularly vocal as breeding season begins. Look for the Shining Cuckoo which arrives during this time.
• Summer: The deep shade of the podocarp canopy provides a cool refuge from the Southland sun. It’s the best time for a picnic at the Tussock Creek area.
• Autumn: The air is crisp, and the forest floor is often covered in interesting fungi of all shapes and colours.
• Winter: The track can be quite muddy, so sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are a must. The forest takes on a moody, misty atmosphere that is incredibly peaceful.

• Footwear: While the track is easy, it can be slippery when wet. Sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended.
• Layers: Even on a warm day, the forest interior can be cool. Bring a light fleece or windbreaker.
• Water and Snacks: There are no water sources on the trail, so bring at least 1.5 litres of water per person.
• Torch: Don’t forget a small light if you plan on exploring the weta cave!
• Sun protection: Even though you’re under the trees, the Southland sun is harsh. Apply sunscreen before you head in.

Local & Regional Context

Before it was the Derek Turnbull Track, this area was known to Māori as Puke Ngahere or Puke Kahere. It served as an essential mahinga kai (food gathering) route. The forest was a rich pharmacy and supermarket, providing birds for food and a wide variety of plants for rongoā (traditional medicine). The bark of certain trees and various ferns were used to treat everything from skin ailments to digestive issues.

Geologically, Forest Hill is a limestone ridge that stands out against the flat alluvial Southland Plains. It’s a remnant of a much larger forest system that once covered the entire region before being cleared for farmland in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the reserve is a vital "island" of biodiversity, and local conservation efforts continue to protect it from invasive pests, ensuring the birdlife continues to thrive.

After the Walk

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you have a few great options nearby to refuel.

If you head ten minutes north to the town of Winton, check out The Magnolia Tree. It’s a charming cafe with a fantastic garden setting, perfect for a coffee and a slice of homemade cake. If you’re after something more substantial, The Middle Pub in Winton offers classic Kiwi pub fare and a friendly atmosphere where you can chat with the locals about your hike.

If you’re heading back toward Invercargill, stop in at The Batch. It’s one of the city’s most popular spots, known for its excellent coffee and a "cheese roll" (a Southland delicacy) that will satisfy any post-hike cravings.

The Derek Turnbull Track is more than just a walk; it’s an accessible way to connect with Southland’s natural heritage. Whether you’re training for your next big race like Derek himself, or just looking for a quiet place to walk the dog, this forest trail never disappoints.