Last updated June 2026
The Hook Bush Track is a 4.7-kilometre out-and-back route in the Hunters Hills south of Timaru that climbs through regenerating native bush and gorse to expansive views over the Canterbury Plain and coast. The track begins at the end of Jacksons Bush Road and forms part of the public Hook Bush Conservation Area managed by the Department of Conservation. It offers a steady climb with rewarding ridge-line views and is one of the more challenging half-day options in the Timaru district. The route passes remnants of podocarp forest that escaped the 1878 fire and continues toward the 960-metre trig point on the main Hunters Hills ridge.
Practical Information
| Access | Jacksons Bush Road end, Hunters Hills (about 30 km south of Timaru via SH 1 to Makikihi then inland; or 14 km northwest of Waimate) |
| Distance | 4.7 km return |
| Elevation gain | 301 m |
| Time | 2–3 hours return |
| Difficulty | Moderate to hard — steady climb, uneven and gorse-choked sections |
| Wildlife | Bennett’s wallabies common; fallow deer and native birds also present |
| Entry | Free |
About the Track
The Hook Bush Track follows an unmarked route from the road end to a tributary of the Makikihi River before ascending steeply through thick gorse to a ridge. Long pants are recommended for the gorse sections. Once on the ridge the route offers wide views across the Canterbury Plain to the coast and over the Hook Bush Conservation Area itself.
The area contains some of the best remaining podocarp forest along the Hunters Hills, including tōtara, mataī and miro that largely escaped the 1878 fire. The bush also features large broadleaf, māhoe and coprosma, with kōwhai and lacebark/houhere lining the stream section. The track continues along the ridge toward the 960 m trig point on the main Hunters Hills range.
Hook Bush Conservation Area is public conservation land managed by the Department of Conservation. Hunting and camping are permitted in parts of the wider Hunters Hills reserves, though visitors should check current regulations and conditions before planning extended stays.
Wildlife
Bennett’s wallabies are reliably seen in the wild in the Hunters Hills, centred on the area near Waimate. The species was introduced from Australia in the 19th century and has established a population here. Fallow deer are also present in the district. Native birdlife typical of South Canterbury podocarp-broadleaf forest can be observed in the bush remnants.
Access and Getting There
From Timaru, travel south on State Highway 1 for approximately 30 km and turn inland at Makikihi onto Hook/Hunter Road. Continue following the signs to the Hook Bush Conservation Area. From Waimate, take Maytown Road then Waimate Hunter Road for about 12.5 km before turning left onto Jacksons Bush Road to its end. The entrance is marked by a Hook Bush Conservation Area sign. The final section of road is unsealed.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers describe a steady uphill grind through gorse that opens to excellent views over the plain and coast. Many note the track is short but steep and recommend sturdy footwear and long pants.
Reviewers appreciate the quiet, uncrowded nature of the route and the chance to see wallabies in their natural habitat. Some continue along the ridge for longer outings to the trig point.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation — Hook Bush Route: official page with access details, route description and conservation context.
AllTrails — Hook Bush Track: trail map, elevation profile, recent photos and visitor reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Hook Bush Track start?
At the end of Jacksons Bush Road in the Hunters Hills, reached via SH 1 south of Timaru or from Waimate.
How hard is the Hook Bush Track?
Moderate to hard. The 4.7 km return route gains 301 m on an uneven track with gorse sections; allow 2–3 hours.
Can I see wallabies on the Hook Bush Track?
Yes — Bennett’s wallabies are common in the Hunters Hills and are frequently observed along or near the route, especially at dawn or dusk.
What trees and plants are in Hook Bush?
Remnants of tōtara, mataī and miro podocarp forest plus broadleaf, māhoe, coprosma, kōwhai and lacebark/houhere along the stream.
Is Hook Bush a Scientific Reserve?
No — it is the Hook Bush Conservation Area, public land managed by the Department of Conservation for conservation and recreation.
Are dogs allowed on the Hook Bush Track?
Dogs are generally not permitted on conservation land unless otherwise specified; check current DOC rules before visiting.
What is the best time to walk the Hook Bush Track?
Year-round, though conditions can be muddy after rain. Early morning or evening improves chances of seeing wallabies.
Can I continue beyond the main ridge?
Yes — the ridge can be followed further to the 960 m trig point on the Hunters Hills range for longer outings.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
