Orari Gorge Track

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The Orari Gorge Track might be short, but it is high in "wow" moments. The primary highlight is undoubtedly the scenic highpoint. Standing at the top, looking down into the deep carve of the Orari Gorge with the Southern Alps as a backdrop, you get a real sense of the geological forces that shaped this region. It is the perfect spot for a panoramic photo or a quick snack while you soak in the silence.

For the nature lovers, the botanical diversity is a major drawcard. Seeing the different stages of forest regeneration is fascinating. You’ll move from the younger kānuka stands into areas where the ancient giants like tōtara and kahikatea are reclaiming their space. These trees are icons of the New Zealand wilderness, and seeing them up close is a reminder of what much of the Canterbury plains looked like before human arrival.

The historical tramway at the start of the walk adds a layer of depth to the experience. It serves as a poignant reminder of the area’s colonial past and the intensive logging that once took place here. Seeing how the forest has bounced back since those days is a testament to the resilience of New Zealand’s native ecosystems.

Getting There

The Orari Gorge Scenic Reserve is located approximately 15 kilometres from the centre of Geraldine, making it a very accessible half-day trip.

To get there from Geraldine: 1. Head north out of town on Main North Road (SH72) for about 4.5 kilometres. 2. Turn left onto Tripp Settlement Road. 3. Continue along Tripp Settlement Road for approximately 7.5 kilometres. 4. Turn left onto Yates Road. 5. The reserve and parking area are situated directly opposite the Glenburn Youth Camp.

The drive itself is lovely, taking you through rolling green farmland with the mountains growing larger in your windscreen as you approach the gorge.

Wildlife Spotting

The Orari Gorge is a haven for native birdlife, and the "bird choir" is one of the best parts of the walk. Because the track winds through dense regenerating bush, the birds often feel very close, even if they are playing hide-and-seek in the foliage.

• Bellbird (Korimako): These are very common year-round. You’ll hear their distinctive, chime-like song long before you see them. Look for a flash of olive-green high in the canopy.
• Fantail (Piwakawaka): These friendly little birds are almost guaranteed to follow you. They love the insects stirred up by your footsteps. Watch for their erratic, aerobatic flight and iconic fanned tails.
• Tūī: Recognisable by their white throat tufts and iridescent feathers, Tūī are common year-round. Listen for their complex mix of tuneful notes and mechanical-sounding clicks and whistles.
• Kererū: Keep an ear out for a heavy "whoosh-whoosh" sound of wings. The New Zealand Wood Pigeon is an occasional visitor, often seen perched heavily on a branch while feasting on native berries.
• Grey Warbler (Riroriro): More often heard than seen, their long, trilling song is a staple of the New Zealand bush.

Tip: For the best birdwatching, try to start your walk in the early morning or late afternoon when the forest is most "vocal." If you stay still and quiet for a few minutes near the tōtara stands, the birds will often get curious and move closer to investigate you.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Orari Gorge Track is a true year-round destination, but each season brings a different flavour to the walk:

• Spring: The forest is vibrant and dripping with new growth. The birdsong is at its peak during the breeding season, and the air is fresh.
• Summer: The deep shade of the native bush provides a cool sanctuary from the Canterbury heat. It’s the driest time for the track, though summer rain can still make things slick.
• Autumn: The light is golden and softer, making for excellent photography at the highpoint. The temperatures are perfect for the steeper climbing sections.
• Winter: Crisp, clear days offer the best visibility from the lookout. The forest feels quiet and mystical, though this is when the track will be at its muddiest and most challenging.

• Footwear: This is not a "flip-flop" walk! Because of the 317-metre elevation gain and the potential for mud, sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good tread are essential.
• Kids: This is a great kid-friendly adventure for children with a bit of energy. The historical tramway and the "adventure" feel of the bush keep things interesting, but be prepared to help younger ones on the steeper bits.
• Water & Snacks: Even though it’s only 1.5 hours, that elevation gain will make you thirsty. Carry a litre of water per person and a light snack to enjoy at the top.
• Weather: While the bush offers great protection from the wind, the highpoint is exposed. If a "Nor'wester" is blowing, it can be quite gusty at the top, so bring a windbreaker.

Local & Regional Context

The Orari Gorge sits within a wider landscape that is deeply significant to the South Canterbury region. While nearby Peel Forest is perhaps more famous, the Orari Gorge offers a quieter, more intimate look at the same type of ancient podocarp forest that once blanketed the foothills of the Southern Alps.

For the local Māori, the wider Geraldine and Peel Forest area provided important seasonal resources. The Orari River, which carves through the gorge, was a path for travel and a source of mahinga kai (food gathering).

In the colonial era, the area was heavily utilised for its timber. The giants like kahikatea were highly prized. Today, the reserve is a symbol of conservation and recovery. The fact that we can walk through regenerating forest and see these species returning is a testament to New Zealand's commitment to preserving its unique natural heritage. By walking here, you are participating in the modern history of the land—one defined by appreciation and protection rather than extraction.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished the loop and scraped the mud off your boots, it’s time to head back into Geraldine (15km away) to refuel. For a small town, Geraldine has an incredible food scene that is perfect for hungry hikers.

• Verde Geraldine: If the sun is out, head here. It’s set in a stunning garden and offers a contemporary menu. It’s a very relaxing spot to sit among the flowers and enjoy a high-quality lunch.
• Barker’s Foodstore & Eatery: You can’t visit Geraldine without acknowledging Barker’s. This modern eatery is right in the heart of town. It’s spacious and bright, offering inventive meals. Plus, you can hit the tasting stations to try their famous preserves and syrups before you head home.
• The Running Duck: This is the place for a classic, laid-back Kiwi vibe. If you’re craving a "proper" burger, a thick milkshake, or a great coffee, this is your spot. It feels like a retro Kiwi bach and is incredibly welcoming.
• The Village Inn Sports Bar & Restaurant: If your hike has left you with a "pub grub" kind of hunger, the Village Inn is a great family-friendly choice. It’s got a wide selection of beers on tap and a hearty menu—perfect for a post-walk debrief with friends.

Whether you're a local looking for a weekend "leg-stretcher" or a tourist exploring the gems of South Canterbury, the Orari Gorge Track offers a rewarding slice of the New Zealand wilderness that lingers in the memory long after the mud has been washed off your boots.

15km away

Located in the heart of Geraldine, this modern eatery offers inventive daytime meals and a spacious dining area. Hikers can also explore a wide range of Barker's products and tasting stations.