Kererū Loop Track

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undisputed star of the show is the forest itself. While many Canterbury walks are dominated by tussock and open plains, the Kererū Loop Track is a sanctuary of dense, native greenery.

• The Fungi Kingdom: For the keen photographers out there, the damp margins of the track are a hotspot for native fungi. Depending on the season, you might spot tiny bright red toadstools, architectural bracket fungi on fallen logs, or even the famous sky-blue mushroom (Entoloma hochstetteri) if you are very lucky.
• The "Adventure" Crossing: The stream crossing near the start of the Kererū Track section is a fantastic photo op. It’s a great spot to stop, let the dog have a splash, and listen to the forest sounds without the crunch of gravel under your boots.
• The Soundscape: Unlike coastal walks where the wind dominates, the deep gully here protects the track. This creates a natural amphitheatre for birdlife. The "whoosh-whoosh" of a kererū flying overhead is a sound you won’t soon forget.
• Family & Dog Friendly: It’s rare to find a track this beautiful that is also so accessible. It is perfectly suited for families with young children who have outgrown the buggy but aren't quite ready for the steep climb to the Mt Thomas summit. Plus, being able to bring your four-legged friend (on a leash) makes it a true family outing.

Getting There

The Kererū Loop Track is located in the Mt Thomas Conservation Area, roughly an hour's drive from Christchurch.

If you are coming from Oxford, follow Ashley Gorge Road for approximately 13 km until you reach Glentui. From there, continue onto Birch Hill Road for another 6 km. Look out for the turn-off into Hayland Road, which you’ll follow for about 4 km to the very end. The road ends at the Wooded Gully camping and picnic area, where there is ample parking, toilet facilities, and plenty of space to prep your gear.

Alternatively, if you are coming from Rangiora, you can head through Loburn and pick up Birch Hill Road from the eastern end. The drive itself is beautiful, taking you through rolling North Canterbury farmland with the imposing silhouette of Mt Thomas drawing closer as you arrive.

Wildlife Spotting

As the name suggests, the Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon) is the resident celebrity here. These large, iridescent green and white birds are common year-round. Look for them in the upper canopy or listen for the heavy flapping of their wings. They are surprisingly clumsy for such beautiful birds, often seen balancing precariously on thin branches to reach berries!

• Fantail (Pīwakawaka): These friendly little birds will often follow you along the track, flitting about to catch the insects your footsteps disturb.
• Bellbird (Makomako) & Tūī: You’ll hear them before you see them. Their melodic, bell-like notes provide the soundtrack to your walk. They are most active in the early morning.
• Grey Warbler (Riroriro): A tiny bird with a big voice. Its long, trilling song is a staple of the New Zealand bush.
• Morepork (Ruru): If you happen to be at the picnic area at dusk, keep an ear out for the distinctive "more-pork" call of our native owl.

Tip: Bring a pair of binoculars if you have them, but the best way to see birds here is simply to stand still for two minutes. The forest is busy, and if you are quiet, the inhabitants will soon forget you're there and go about their business.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Spring: The forest is at its most vibrant, with new growth and a high energy level from the nesting birds.
• Summer: The deep shade of the beech forest offers a cool retreat from the Canterbury heat. However, take note: wasp populations can be high from January to March. Wear light-coloured clothing (wasps are attracted to dark colours) and carry antihistamines just in case.
• Autumn: This is the best time for fungi spotting and enjoying the crisp, clear North Canterbury air.
• Winter: While it can be chilly in the shadows, the track is generally well-sheltered from the biting southerlies. Just watch for slippery sections if there has been a heavy frost.

• Start Time: Mid-morning is perfect. It allows the sun to get high enough to penetrate the canopy, lighting up the ferns.
• Gear: Standard walking shoes or sneakers with good grip are fine, but after rain, the track can get a bit muddy, so boots are a bonus.
• Water & Snacks: There is no drinking water on the track, so bring a bottle. The picnic area at the start/finish is the perfect place for a post-walk "milo and a biscuit."
• Weather: This area can be subject to the famous Canterbury nor'wester (a hot, dry wind). While the forest provides great cover, the drive-in can be gusty, and the tree canopy can be noisy in high winds. Always check the forecast before heading out.

Local & Regional Context

Mt Thomas, or Whakaepa in Māori, holds significant cultural and geographical importance. The area is part of the traditional seasonal trail for Māori travelling between the coast and the inland lakes and mountains.

Historically, this region was heavily forested, but much of the Canterbury Plains were cleared for farming during European settlement. The Mt Thomas Conservation Area represents one of the few remaining significant stands of native beech forest in the area. This makes it a vital "island" of biodiversity.

The tracks here are managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC), and the Wooded Gully area is a popular base for hunters, hikers, and campers. By walking the Kererū Loop, you’re supporting the appreciation of these protected pockets of wilderness. The transition from the tawhai/beech forest to the scattered podocarps (like Totara and Kahikatea) gives you a glimpse into what this entire region would have looked like hundreds of years ago.

After the Walk

No New Zealand hike is complete without the "après-hike" refuel.

If you head back through Oxford, you are spoilt for choice. The Sheffield Pie Shop has a branch in Oxford, and their award-winning pies are legendary — the perfect reward for an hour of exercise. If you prefer a sit-down meal, Café 51 offers a relaxed atmosphere and great coffee. For something more substantial, The Oxford is a classic country pub with a sunny courtyard that is very welcoming to hikers.

If you’re heading back towards Rangiora, stop by Artisans Cafe for some of the best baking in the district. There’s something about the fresh country air at Mt Thomas that makes everything taste just a little bit better!