Forest Loop (via Kererū, Wooded Gully and Summit Tracks)

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The Forest Loop might be short in distance, but it is high in quality. One of the standout features is the diversity of the vegetation. You’ll walk through stands of mature beech trees, but you’ll also notice occasional sections of pine forest. These are fascinating remnants of past forestry operations, showing the transition of the land back into a conservation-focused area.

For those who love a good "forest bathe," the section along the Wooded Gully stream is a must-see. The air here is noticeably cooler and fresher, and the sound of the running water provides a meditative soundtrack to your hike. It’s a fantastic spot for a quick photo, especially if you can catch the sun hitting the ferns.

The steep 300-metre climb on the Forest Track is a highlight in its own right for fitness enthusiasts. It serves as a great training ground for longer hikes in the Southern Alps. Once you reach the top of this section, take a moment to breathe and listen; the silence of the high forest, occasionally broken by the call of a tūī, is incredibly peaceful.

Finally, the Wooded Gully picnic area itself is a highlight. With its open spaces and proximity to the start of several tracks, it’s the perfect place to reward yourself with a thermos of tea or a picnic lunch after you’ve completed the loop.

Getting There

To find this slice of paradise, you’ll want to head towards the township of Oxford. From Oxford, follow Ashley Gorge Road for about 13 kilometres until you reach Glentui. From there, continue onto Birch Hill Road for another 6 kilometres. Keep a sharp eye out for the turn-off into Hayland Road.

Follow Hayland Road for 4 kilometres right to the very end. The road leads you directly into the Wooded Gully Camping and Picnic area. The drive is scenic and relatively straightforward, though you should always be mindful of gravel sections. There is ample parking available, but it is a good idea to check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website or the signs at the gate for any seasonal closing times, particularly in the shorter winter months.

Wildlife Spotting

The Mt Thomas Conservation Area is a haven for native birds, and the Forest Loop provides some of the best viewing opportunities in the region.

• Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon): These large, iridescent green and white birds are very common here year-round. You’ll often hear them before you see them—listen for the distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their heavy wingbeats.
• Fantail (Pīwakawaka): These friendly little forest acrobats will likely follow you along the track, flitting about to catch the insects you stir up as you walk.
• Bellbird (Korimako) & Tūī: The forest is often alive with the chime-like songs of the bellbird and the complex, mechanical melodies of the tūī. Look up into the canopy of the flowering trees.
• Rifleman (Tītitipounamu): Keep an eye out for New Zealand’s smallest bird. They are tiny, high-pitched, and move incredibly fast along the trunks of the beech trees.
• Morepork (Ruru): If you happen to be there near dusk, you might hear the haunting "more-pork" call of our native owl.

Tip: The best time for birdwatching is early morning when the "dawn chorus" is at its peak, or late afternoon as the forest begins to cool down.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Forest Loop is a true all-season track, but each time of year brings a different flavour to the experience:

• Spring: This is when the forest is at its most vibrant. New growth is everywhere, and the birds are particularly active and vocal.
• Summer: The thick canopy offers a welcome escape from the North Canterbury heat. However, be aware of wasps between January and March. They can be a nuisance in beech forests, so carry antihistamines if you are allergic.
• Autumn: The air is crisp and clear, making the steep climb feel a little less taxing. The light during the "golden hour" in the late afternoon is spectacular for photography.
• Winter: While it can get chilly, the track rarely sees heavy snow, making it a great option for a winter leg-stretcher. Just watch out for slippery sections on the stream crossings if there has been a hard frost.

• Gear: Wear sturdy walking shoes or boots with good grip. The steep section can be slippery after rain.
• Water & Food: There is no drinking water on the track, so bring a bottle with you. A light snack is a good idea to enjoy at the picnic area afterwards.
• Dogs: This is a dog-friendly walk, but they must be on a leash at all times. This is vital to protect the native birdlife and to keep your pup safe, as possum trapping (which sometimes involves traps or bait) occurs in the wider area.
• Weather: North Canterbury is known for its strong Nor'west winds. While the forest provides good shelter, it can still be gusty on the higher sections of the loop.

Local & Regional Context

Mt Thomas (known to some as Whakaepa) holds a significant place in the North Canterbury landscape. For centuries, the area has been part of the wider cultural landscape for Ngāi Tahu, who used the surrounding plains and forests for food gathering (mahinga kai) and travel.

The forest you see today is a mix of resilience and recovery. During the early colonial era, much of the surrounding land was cleared for farming and timber. The fact that this pocket of native beech and podocarp forest remains—and is now being bolstered by the removal of exotic species—is a testament to New Zealand’s shifting focus toward conservation. Walking these tracks isn't just about exercise; it’s about witnessing the slow, steady return of the original New Zealand wilderness.

After the Walk

Once you’ve worked up an appetite on those 300 metres of elevation, the nearby town of Oxford (just 15km away) is the place to be. It’s a charming rural town with a "village" feel and some excellent spots to refuel:

• Cafe 51: This is a multi-award-winning spot and a local favourite. It’s incredibly homely and serves a fantastic mix of traditional Kiwi baking and modern cafe meals. Their coffee is the perfect post-hike pick-me-up.
• Black Beech Wine & Pizza Bar: If your hike finishes a bit later in the day, head here for gourmet pizzas and a glass of boutique wine or craft beer. It has a wonderful, relaxed atmosphere that is very welcoming to hikers.
• The West Oxford Hotel: For a classic country pub experience, you can’t beat "The West." It’s a historic hotel offering hearty pub meals—think big steaks and classic fish and chips—and a warm, friendly atmosphere where you can swap stories with the locals.

Whether you’re a local looking for a regular training loop or a visitor wanting a taste of the Canterbury foothills, the Forest Loop at Mt Thomas is a rewarding way to spend a few hours immersed in the best of New Zealand's natural beauty.

15km away

A unique restaurant in Oxford showcasing boutique wine, craft beer, and gourmet pizzas, providing a popular and friendly spot for hikers to unwind and enjoy quality food and drinks.