Gunns Bush Track

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undisputed stars of the Gunns Bush Track are the ancient tōtara trees. These giants of the New Zealand forest stand like sentinels throughout the bush, some of them having seen centuries of history pass by. Their thick, furrowed bark and sprawling canopies are a reminder of what much of the South Canterbury hill country would have looked like before it was cleared for farmland.

• The Mossy Wonderland: Look for sections where the moss is particularly thick on the branches. With the sunlight filtering through the canopy (the "dappled light" effect), it makes for stunning, ethereal photographs.
• Creek Crossings: The small bridges and stepping stones over the Gunn’s Bush Creek provide the perfect "adventure" shot for the family album.
• The Grassy Glades: Occasionally, the thick bush opens up into small, quiet glades. These are perfect spots to pause, breathe in the fresh forest air, and take a panoramic shot of the native forest.

What makes this trail truly worth doing is its accessibility to such high-quality native forest. You don't have to drive deep into the Southern Alps to find a forest this rich; it’s sitting right here in the Waimate back garden.

Getting There

Finding the Gunns Bush Track is straightforward. It is located approximately 11km northwest of the Waimate township.

To get there, head out of Waimate and follow the signs toward the Hunters Hills. You will eventually turn onto Gunns Bush Road. Drive to the very end of the road, where you will find the entrance to the Gunn’s Bush Camp. There is ample parking available at the start of the track.

Please be mindful that the track begins near a private camp facility, so keep to the marked trails and respect the quiet of the area.

Wildlife Spotting

The Gunns Bush Track is a haven for native birdlife. Because this area is a remnant of original forest, it supports a much higher density of birds than the surrounding farmland.

• Tūī: You will likely hear them before you see them. Listen for their complex whistles, clicks, and chimes. They are common year-round and are often seen high in the canopy.
• Bellbird (Korimako): Similar in song to the tūī, the korimako has a beautiful, bell-like note. They are olive-green and tend to blend into the foliage, so look for movement near flowering trees.
• Fantail (Pīwakawaka): These friendly little birds are almost guaranteed to join you on your walk. They love to follow hikers to catch the tiny insects stirred up by your footsteps.
• New Zealand Wood Pigeon (Kererū): Look for these large, heavy birds perched on branches. They are famous for the loud "whooshing" sound their wings make in flight.
• Morepork (Ruru): While primarily nocturnal, you might occasionally spot one roosting in a dark, sheltered part of the bush during the day.
• Swamp Harrier (Kāhu): You may see these large birds of prey circling the skies above the grassy glades or the edges of the forest.

Tip: For the best birdwatching, try to walk quietly and stop for a few minutes in one of the grassy glades. If you stay still, the bush "wakes up" around you.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Gunns Bush Track is a fantastic year-round destination, but each season brings its own flavour:

• Spring: The forest is at its most vibrant. The birdlife is incredibly active and vocal as the breeding season begins, and the fresh growth on the ferns is a stunning bright green.
• Summer: This is the perfect place to escape the heat. The thick canopy provides excellent shade, and the temperature inside the bush is often several degrees cooler than in the open paddocks of Waimate.
• Autumn: The light in autumn is golden and low, creating beautiful shadows through the tōtara trees. It’s usually a drier time of year, meaning less mud on the track.
• Winter: While it can be chilly, the bush takes on a moody, atmospheric feel. The mosses are at their plushest thanks to the winter moisture. Just be sure to wear sturdy boots as the track can get quite boggy.

• Footwear: Even though it’s an "easy" walk, wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots. The mud and tree roots can be slippery.
• What to bring: Carry a bottle of water and some light snacks. Even on a short walk, a muesli bar at the halfway point is always a hit with kids.
• Sun & Bug Protection: Even under the canopy, NZ’s sun is strong, so apply sunscreen. You may also want a bit of insect repellent if the sandflies are out near the creek.
• Weather: Waimate can experience strong nor'west winds. While the bush provides good shelter, be cautious of falling branches during extreme wind events.

Local & Regional Context

The Gunns Bush area is a precious remnant of the vast podocarp forests that once blanketed the South Canterbury region. For the local Māori, these forests were vital sources of food, medicine, and timber. The tōtara in particular was highly prized for its durable wood, used for everything from waka (canoes) to intricate carvings.

In the colonial era, much of the surrounding land was cleared for sheep and dairy farming. Gunns Bush survived as a pocket of biodiversity, and today it serves as a vital "island" for native species. Exploring this track gives you a glimpse into the ecological history of the Hunters Hills. It’s a restorative experience that connects you to the deep natural heritage of the Waitaki region.

After the Walk

After you’ve worked up an appetite, head back into Waimate (only an 11-minute drive) to sample some local hospitality. Waimate has some fantastic spots that are very welcoming to hikers.

• The Waimate Bakery: This is a "must-visit." Located in a beautifully restored historic building, it’s famous for its gourmet pies (perfect for a post-hike refuel). Their selection of sandwiches and sweets is legendary in the region.
• The Waimate Kitchen & Bar: If you’re looking for something more substantial, this restaurant offers an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere in another iconic historic building. Their pizzas are available all day and are a great option for a family lunch.
• The Royal Tavern: For a classic Kiwi experience, head to the "Royal." It’s a local favourite with a great garden bar and big, honest meals like burgers and roasts. It’s the perfect place to sit outside and chat about the day's adventure.
• The Barn: Known for its warm and welcoming vibe, The Barn is a fully licensed cafe and bar. It’s a great spot for coffee and cabinet food, and if you time it right, you might even catch some live music.

The Gunns Bush Track is more than just a walk; it’s an invitation to slow down and appreciate the quiet beauty of the South Canterbury landscape. Whether you're five years old or seventy-five, the "enchanting embrace" of this forest is sure to leave you feeling refreshed.

11km away

A beautifully restored historic building housing a bakery and café, offering a huge selection of gourmet pies, sandwiches, salads, pastries, and sweets, perfect for a post-hike refuel.