Grants Knob Track (Croydon Bush Scenic Reserve)

Out and back

The undisputed highlight of this walk is the Grants Knob summit. While the climb through the bush is beautiful, emerging onto the knob feels like stepping out onto a balcony overlooking the bottom of the South Island. The contrast between the dark green of the forest and the patchwork greens and yellows of the Southland farmland below is a photographer’s dream.

Another standout feature is the native flora. If you are lucky enough to visit in late December or early January, keep your eyes peeled for the southern rātā. When these trees are in bloom, the forest canopy is dotted with brilliant crimson flowers, providing a stunning contrast to the deep greens of the podocarps. Even outside of flowering season, the sheer scale of the kahikatea (New Zealand's tallest native tree) is enough to inspire awe.

For the more ambitious hikers, the fact that this track connects to the wider network of the Hokonui Hills is a major drawcard. You can choose to extend your day by linking up with the Middle Ridge Track and the Richardson Track. This loop leads you toward East Peak, which stands at 627 metres and offers an even more expansive perspective of the southern landscape.

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is straightforward, making it a perfect quick escape from the daily grind. From the centre of Gore, it’s a short 10-minute drive. Head northwest on Reaby Road, then turn onto Croydon Bush Road.

Follow the road until you reach the eastern end of the Croydon Bush Scenic Reserve. You’ll find the Grant's Bush car park well-signposted. There is plenty of room for vehicles, but as this is a popular spot for locals on the weekends, it can fill up during the middle of the day. The track starts directly from the car park area, marked with standard Department of Conservation (DOC) signage and additional markers maintained by the Hokonui Tramping Club.

Wildlife Spotting

The Croydon Bush Scenic Reserve is a haven for native birdlife, thanks in large part to ongoing conservation efforts in the area. Because the forest is so thick and ancient, it provides the perfect habitat for a variety of species.

• Tūī and Bellbird (Korimako): These are the stars of the show. You’ll likely hear them long before you see them. The bellbird’s melodic chime and the tūī’s complex whistles and clicks create a constant soundtrack to your climb.
• South Island Fantail (Pīwakawaka): These inquisitive little birds are known to follow hikers along the trail, flitting between branches to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps.
• Tomtit (Ngirungiru): Look for the small, black-and-white birds (males) or brownish ones (females) perched low on trunks. They are often quite bold and will watch you pass with curiosity.
• Grey Warbler (Riroriro): Their long, trilling song is a staple of the New Zealand bush, though they are notoriously difficult to spot amongst the foliage.

Tip: For the best birdwatching, try to start your walk in the early morning. The "dawn chorus" in Croydon Bush is spectacular, and the birds are generally more active before the heat of the day sets in.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Grants Knob Track is accessible year-round, but each season brings a different flavour to the experience:

• Spring: The forest is at its most vibrant, and the birdlife is incredibly active. The track can be particularly muddy during this time due to spring showers, so good boots are a must.
• Summer: This is the best time for clear views and the chance to see the rātā in bloom. It can get surprisingly warm in the Hokonui Hills, so ensure you carry at least 1.5 litres of water.
• Autumn: The air is crisp and the light is golden, making for excellent photography. The track is often slightly drier than in spring.
• Winter: A winter tramp here is bracing and beautiful. You might even find a dusting of snow on the summit of Grants Knob or nearby East Peak. Be prepared for very slippery sections and shorter daylight hours.

• Gear: Because the track is rated as hard and involves steep, unmaintained sections, sturdy tramping boots with good ankle support are essential. This is not a trail for sneakers or jandals.
• Weather: Southland weather is famously unpredictable. A "southerly buster" can bring a sudden drop in temperature and rain even in mid-summer. Always carry a waterproof jacket and a warm layer (merino or fleece).
• Difficulty: Due to the steepness and the rugged nature of the trail, this walk is not recommended for young children. It requires a good level of fitness.
• No Dogs: Please note that dogs are not permitted in this scenic reserve to protect the native wildlife.

Local & Regional Context

The Hokonui Hills hold a special place in the heart of Southlanders. Geologically, they are a series of folded hills that rise sharply from the plains, creating a unique microclimate. For local Māori, the hills and the surrounding forests were historically significant for food gathering and transit.

In more recent colonial history, the Hokonuis gained a bit of a "rebel" reputation. During the prohibition era in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the thick bush and hidden gullies of these hills were legendary for being the home of illicit "Hokonui Moonshine" whiskey stills. While you won't find any hidden distilleries on the Grants Knob Track today, the rugged, secretive feel of the forest makes it easy to see why it was the perfect hiding spot.

The maintenance of the track by the Hokonui Tramping Club is a testament to the local community's love for this area. Their volunteer work ensures that despite the "unmaintained" sections mentioned in some guides, the route remains navigable for experienced trampers, keeping this piece of Southland wilderness accessible for everyone to enjoy.

After the Walk

Once you’ve made it back down and dusted the Hokonui mud off your boots, you’ll likely be ready for some refreshments. Gore is just a stone's throw away and has some excellent spots to refuel:

• The Green Room: A local favourite for a reason. They serve great coffee and have a fantastic selection of cabinet food and hearty brunch options. It’s the perfect place to sit back and scroll through your summit photos.
• Oven Fresh Bakery: If you’re after a classic Kiwi post-hike treat, you can’t go past a Southland cheese roll (or "Southern Sushi" as it’s affectionately known) from a local bakery.
• Traffers Bar: If your hike has worked up a thirst that only a cold beer can quench, this is a friendly spot with a classic Southland atmosphere.

Whether you're a local looking for a weekend workout or a tourist seeking an authentic Southland bush experience, the Grants Knob Track delivers a sense of isolation and beauty that is hard to beat. Just remember to pack your boots, respect the bush, and enjoy those views!