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Peel Forest
1.9 km
1 hour
0 metres
If you are looking for a slice of ancient New Zealand right in Canterbury’s backyard, look no further than the Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve. Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Southern Alps, about 22 kilometres north of the charming town of Geraldine, this 4,077-hectare reserve is a breathtaking remnant of the lowland podocarp forest that once blanketed the region. For locals and tourists alike, it offers an accessible escape into a world of towering giants, lush ferns, and hidden waterfalls.
While the reserve offers everything from high-altitude tramps to gentle strolls, the Kahikatea Walk is the perfect introduction to this magical landscape. At just 1.9 kilometres and taking about an hour to complete, it is an easy, flat loop that is incredibly kid-friendly and perfect for a family day out.
Stepping onto the Kahikatea Walk feels like stepping back in time. The trail is almost entirely flat, making it a breeze for those who prefer a leisurely pace or for families with little ones in tow. The path is well-maintained and features sturdy boardwalks that glide over sensitive wetland areas, allowing you to get up close to the forest floor without getting your boots muddy.
As you wander through the regrowth kahikatea swamp forest, you’ll be struck by the vertical scale of the trees. These young giants are reaching for the light, surrounded by a dense understorey of native shrubs and ferns. The air here is cool and damp, carrying the earthy scent of moss and decaying leaves—a true sensory experience.
One of the most evocative parts of the walk is passing the remnants of ancient saw pits. These depressions in the ground are silent witnesses to the area’s intensive logging history in the 19th century. It’s a poignant reminder of how much of this forest was nearly lost, and how precious this remaining pocket of greenery really is.
Because the track is a loop, the scenery is constantly changing. You’ll move from the open, airy swamp forest into denser pockets of bush where the canopy knits together overhead. There are no significant challenges or steep climbs on this particular trail, so you can keep your head up and your eyes peeled for the local birdlife rather than worrying about your footing.
Ample parking is available at several key trailheads within the Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve. For walks like the Big Tree Walk and Fern Walk, roadside spaces are found at Te Wanahau Flat. Access to the Kahikatea Walk and Acland Falls Track is available from Clarke Flat, located near the campground. For the Emily Falls Track and tracks leading to Little Mount Peel, parking is provided at Blandswood Road, near Kowhai Stream. Additional marked car parks along Rangitata Gorge Road offer access to other northern sections of the reserve.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Gerygone igata
Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
500m away
A local hub offering a selection of cabinet food, coffee, and basic groceries, perfect for a pre-hike snack or post-walk refreshment. It also offers fast food options.
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Loop
While the Kahikatea Walk is a gem, Peel Forest Park is home to several other "must-see" features that are easily accessible:
Peel Forest is an easy drive from Geraldine (approx. 20 minutes) or Ashburton (approx. 45 minutes). From State Highway 72 (the Inland Scenic Route), follow the signs for Peel Forest onto Peel Forest Road.
The restoration of the forest has seen a wonderful return of native birdlife. As you walk, keep your ears open for the melodic, bell-like song of the Bellbird (Korimako); they are very common year-round and often congregate in the flowering fuchsia or kōwhai trees.
You are also highly likely to be greeted by the Fantail (Pīwakawaka). These friendly little birds often follow hikers to snack on the insects stirred up by your footsteps. Look up into the high canopy to spot the New Zealand Pigeon (Kererū)—you’ll often hear the distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings before you see them.
If you sit quietly for a few minutes near the stream or in a clearing, you might spot the tiny Rifleman (Tītitipoumanu), New Zealand’s smallest bird, flitting nervously along tree trunks. The Tomtit (Miromiro) and the ever-present Grey Warbler (Riroriro) are also frequent residents. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times for birdwatching, as the "dawn chorus" in Peel Forest can be truly spectacular.
Peel Forest holds deep cultural significance. To the local Māori, the peaks of the area are steeped in legend. It is said that Tarahaoa and his wife Huatekerekere were transformed into the mountains we now know as Mount Peel and Little Mount Peel. This spiritual connection to the land is palpable as you walk beneath the ancient trees.
In the colonial era, the forest was a hive of industry. The timber was highly sought after for building the nearby city of Christchurch and the surrounding farms. Thankfully, visionaries in the late 19th century realised the ecological value of the area, leading to its protection. Today, it is managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC) as a vital sanctuary for threatened ecosystems. It is one of the few places in Canterbury where you can see what the region looked like before human arrival.
No hike is complete without a bit of "après-walk" refreshment! Fortunately, Peel Forest has two fantastic spots just half a kilometre from the main tracks:
Whether you are looking for a quick nature fix or a full day of exploration, Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve is a place that stays with you long after you’ve brushed the dust off your boots. It’s a testament to the resilience of nature and a beautiful reminder of New Zealand's wild heritage.
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
Best time: Year-round
Anthornis melanura
Endemic songbird with bell-like calls. Males are olive-green with a purple head sheen; females are browner with a narrow white-yellow stripe across the cheek.
Best time: Year-round
Petroica macrocephala
The Tomtit is a small, inquisitive forest bird, with males having striking black and white plumage and a yellow breast.
Best time: Year-round
Acanthisitta chloris
New Zealand's smallest bird, the rifleman can often be seen creeping up and down tree trunks and branches in search of insects.
Best time: Year-round
500m away
A relaxed and welcoming cafe and bar, known for its great food, warm fire, craft beer, and regular live music. They also serve evening meals on select nights.