Peel Forest is one of the most significant lowland native forests remaining in Canterbury — a 4,077-hectare DOC-managed reserve on the western bank of the Rangitata River, tucked against the Southern Alps foothills southwest of Geraldine. It survived the large-scale forest clearances of 800 to 1,000 years ago that removed most lowland bush from the Canterbury plains, and the result is a forest with ancient trees — totara, matai, and kahikatea — that are around 1,000 years old. Walking through Peel Forest is a genuinely different experience from most Canterbury reserves.
Practical Information
| Location | Peel Forest, South Canterbury — approx 65 km from Timaru via Geraldine and SH72 |
|---|---|
| Access | Drive north on SH1 to Geraldine, then take SH72 west. Follow signs to Peel Forest. Allow about 1 hour from Timaru. |
| Management | Department of Conservation (DOC) |
| Walks available | Multiple — from 5-minute flat walks to full-day mountain tracks |
| Camping | DOC camping near the river between Cain Flat and Clarke Flat |
| Entry | Free to enter and walk; campsite fees apply for overnight stays |
| Dogs | Not permitted in the Scenic Reserve |
About Peel Forest
At 4,077 hectares, Peel Forest is the largest reserve in the Geraldine area and one of the few places in Canterbury where you can walk among genuinely ancient lowland forest — podocarp trees that predate European settlement by centuries. The forest was named after Sir Robert Peel, British Prime Minister, by early European settlers. The DOC campsite and visitor facilities are centred around Te Wanahu Flat and Clarke Flat, which also serves as the base for Rangitata Rafts.
Walks in Peel Forest
Walking tracks range from short flat loops to a full-day mountain tramp:
- Big Tree Walk — a short walk through the reserve’s largest trees, accessible from the car park
- Kahikatea Walk — flat and suitable for all ages, accessible from Clarke Flat or Te Wanahu Flat roadside
- Fern Walk — 3.3 km through native fern and bush
- Emily Falls Track — leads to a waterfall within the forest
- Allans Track — 90 minutes each way, connecting Te Wanahu Flat to Blandwood Road
- Little Mt Peel / Huatekerekere — a full-day tramp climbing from 800 m to 1,311 m via Allans and Deer Spur tracks. For experienced walkers with appropriate gear.
Camping at Peel Forest
DOC manages camping near the river at Cain Flat and Clarke Flat — a natural riverside setting popular in summer. Book via the DOC website. Basic facilities are available; bring your own drinking water and supplies as there’s no shop at the forest.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve — track maps, campsite information, and booking for all DOC facilities in the reserve.
Rangitata Rafts — Grade 4–5 rafting on the adjacent Rangitata Gorge from October to May, based at Te Wanahu Flat.
AllTrails — Peel Forest tracks — trail maps, distances, and visitor reviews for walks in the reserve.
FAQ
How far is Peel Forest from Timaru?
Approximately 65 km via Geraldine and SH72 — allow around one hour from central Timaru.
Is Peel Forest suitable for children?
Yes — the Big Tree Walk, Kahikatea Walk, and Fern Walk are flat and family-friendly. The Little Mt Peel tramp is for experienced walkers only.
Are dogs allowed in Peel Forest?
No — dogs are not permitted in the Scenic Reserve, which is a DOC-managed conservation area.
Do I need to book the campsite?
Booking via the DOC website is recommended especially in summer. Walk-in space can be limited during holidays.
What makes Peel Forest special?
It’s one of the only lowland podocarp forests to survive the clearances of 800–1,000 years ago. The ancient totara, matai, and kahikatea trees are around 1,000 years old and very rare in Canterbury.
Can I combine Peel Forest with rafting?
Yes — Rangitata Rafts operates from Te Wanahu Flat within the forest. You can walk in the morning and raft in the afternoon (book in advance).
The Rangitata River borders Peel Forest and offers rafting and fishing. For more to explore in the Timaru district, see Things to Do in Timaru.
