The Acland Falls Track is a short walk of 600–800 metres through native bush in Peel Forest, leading to a 14-metre waterfall on the Acland Stream. The walk takes about 25–30 minutes return and is one of the easiest waterfall tracks in the park.
Practical Information
| Location | Peel Forest, 55km northwest of Timaru |
|---|---|
| Distance | 600–800 m return |
| Time | 25–30 minutes return |
| Difficulty | Easy — flat, well-formed track |
| Falls height | 14 metres |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Entry | Free |
About the Walk
The Acland Falls Track runs through the dense podocarp forest of Peel Forest Scenic Reserve, one of the largest remaining stands of lowland kahikatea, matai and totara forest in the South Island. The track follows Acland Stream through the bush to a 14-metre waterfall — a straightforward walk on a well-formed path suitable for most visitors.
The falls are named after the Acland family — early Canterbury runholders who owned the land before it was gifted to the Crown. The J.B. Acland connection to Peel Forest is significant: it was the Acland family’s protection of the bush that helped preserve what exists today. The stream and falls bear their name as a lasting acknowledgment of that history.
Peel Forest
Peel Forest is one of the most significant lowland native forest remnants in Canterbury. The park contains New Zealand’s largest remaining stands of kahikatea, mataī and tōtara — podocarps that once covered the Canterbury Plains before European settlement. The forest supports a rich bird community including kererū, rifleman (tītipounamu), bellbird (korimako), tomtit (miromiro) and long-tailed cuckoo (koekoeā). The area is also one of the best places in Canterbury to hear bellbirds.
Other Tracks in Peel Forest
The Acland Falls Track is the shortest of several walks in Peel Forest. The Emily Falls Track (1.6km, 45 min return) leads to a second waterfall deeper in the park. Longer options include the Kahikatea Walk and the Big Tree Walk, which pass through the oldest and largest trees in the reserve.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Acland Falls Track — official track information including distance, time, difficulty and access details.
DOC — Peel Forest Scenic Reserve — full park information including all tracks, camping, and natural history of the reserve.
FAQ
Where is the Acland Falls Track?
In Peel Forest, about 55km northwest of Timaru. Access is via Peel Forest Road off SH72 near Geraldine.
How long is the Acland Falls walk?
600–800 metres return, taking about 25–30 minutes at a relaxed pace.
How high are the Acland Falls?
14 metres.
Who are the falls named after?
The Acland family — early Canterbury runholders whose protection of the bush helped preserve Peel Forest. J.B. Acland in particular is associated with the area.
What other walks are in Peel Forest?
The Emily Falls Track (1.6km, 45 min), the Big Tree Walk, and the Kahikatea Walk are the main options alongside Acland Falls.
The Acland Falls Track is listed in the Timaru Walking Tracks guide. The nearby Emily Falls Track is the longer waterfall walk in the same park. Peel Forest has further information on the full range of tracks and camping in the reserve.
