Fir Trail Circuit

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undisputed stars of this show are the trees themselves. The Douglas fir and larch plantations are a striking sight, especially for those more used to the dense, tangled greenery of native broadleaf forests. The larches are particularly interesting; they are one of the few deciduous conifers, meaning they change colour and drop their needles, creating a vibrant golden spectacle in the autumn months.

Midway through the loop, the landscape shifts as you encounter areas of wetland restoration. This provides a wonderful contrast to the dry, needle-strewn forest floor. These pockets of wetland are vital for local biodiversity and offer a different palette of colours and textures—think lush grasses and water-loving plants that thrive in Hanmer’s alpine basin.

If you’re feeling more ambitious once you’ve finished the circuit, one of the best features of the Fir Trail is its connectivity. It acts as a gateway to the wider forest network. You can easily link up with the Waterfall Track or the Spur Track if you want to extend your walk into a multi-hour adventure. The nearby Fir Trail Connector also allows you to bridge over to different sections of the forest, making this little loop a versatile starting point for any exploration.

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is straightforward, as it’s located just a short drive or a pleasant bike ride from the Hanmer Springs village centre.

The primary starting point is the Larches car park, which offers plenty of space and puts you right at the heart of the action. Alternatively, if that area is busy, you can access the circuit from the Mullans Road End. For those who are already exploring the upper reaches of the forest, there is a Fir Trail Connector that links the track from the Waterfall car park at the top of Mullans Road.

All these access points are well-signposted, and the forest tracks are generally very well-maintained by the local authorities and conservation groups, ensuring a smooth start to your stroll.

Wildlife Spotting

While the Fir Trail Circuit is dominated by exotic timber, the local birdlife has made itself right at home in the mixed forest environment. As you walk, keep your ears open for the rhythmic chatter-chatter of the Fantail (Pīwakawaka). These tiny, friendly birds are common year-round and will often follow hikers along the trail, darting through the air to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps.

You are also very likely to hear the melodic, bell-like chime of the Bellbird (Korimako). They are common throughout the year and tend to hang out in the mid-to-upper canopy. If you look closely among the branches, you might spot the occasional Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon)—look for a large bird with a shimmering green coat and a bright white "singlet." While Tūī are a bit more occasional in this specific patch of firs, their distinctive gurgles and whistles can often be heard echoing from the nearby pockets of native mountain beech.

Pro tip: The best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon when the forest is at its quietest and the "dawn chorus" or evening activity is at its peak.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

One of the best things about Hanmer Springs is that it truly experiences four distinct seasons, and the Fir Trail Circuit changes beautifully with each one:

• Spring: Watch for the fresh, lime-green growth on the larch trees and listen to the increased bird activity as the forest wakes up.
• Summer: The thick canopy provides excellent shade, making this a "cool" escape when the Canterbury sun is beating down.
• Autumn: This is perhaps the most stunning time to visit. The larches turn a brilliant, fiery gold before dropping their needles, carpeting the track in orange hues.
• Winter: Hanmer often gets a dusting of snow. Walking through the tall firs when they are draped in white is like stepping into a Narnia-esque winter wonderland.

• Best time to start: Aim for mid-morning to catch the sun filtering through the high branches, or late afternoon for a golden-hour glow.
• What to bring: Even though it’s a short walk, mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring a light windbreaker, a bottle of water, and definitely your camera or phone for those forest shots.
• Sun protection: Even under the trees, the NZ sun is fierce—apply sunscreen before you head out.
• Weather considerations: Hanmer can experience strong nor'west winds. While the forest provides some shelter, be cautious of falling branches during high wind events.

Local & Regional Context

The area surrounding the Fir Trail Circuit is rich in history. Hanmer Springs, or Te Whakataka, has long been a place of significance for Māori, primarily for the healing properties of the thermal waters.

The Hanmer Forest itself is a fascinating piece of New Zealand’s colonial and botanical history. Established in 1901, it was one of the country's first commercial plantations. The mix of species here—including the exotic Douglas firs and larches you see on this trail—was part of early scientific interest in how northern hemisphere trees would adapt to Southern Alps conditions.

Today, the forest is a successful example of "mixed use" land—combining commercial forestry, scientific research, and world-class recreation. As you walk the Fir Trail, you are walking through over a century of forestry heritage, where conservation efforts now work to balance these exotic stands with the restoration of native beech and wetland ecosystems.

After the Walk

Once you’ve completed your loop and filled your lungs with that crisp forest air, you’ll likely be ready for some refreshments. Luckily, Hanmer Springs is famous for its hospitality.

For a historic touch, head to the Powerhouse Cafe (about 2km away). It’s located in a stunning old hydroelectric station and serves up fantastic local coffee and fresh, seasonal food. It’s a great spot for hikers, with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options to refuel your tank.

If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, the Monteith's Brewery Bar in the village centre is the place to be. There’s nothing quite like a local craft beer or a gourmet burger on their balcony while you look back toward the hills you just explored.

For those with the whole family in tow, Fire & Ice Cafe, Restaurant & Bar is a fantastic choice. It’s right in the heart of town and has a massive menu that caters to everyone, from seafood lovers to picky eaters on the kids' menu. It’s the perfect place to sit back, relax, and plan your next Hanmer adventure.

2.5km away

A relaxed bar in the town centre offering a selection of local craft beers and ciders, along with hearty pub fare and gourmet burgers. Features a balcony with views, perfect for unwinding after a walk.