Last updated June 2026
The Pekapeka Gully Track is a 3.8-kilometre one-way bush walk in Geraldine that climbs over a ridge through pine plantation and native bush before descending with views across the plains and mountains. The track starts at the end of Hislop Street and finishes at the end of Barker Street, taking around 60 minutes for fit walkers. It is also suitable for mountain biking and is named after the native long-tailed bat, or pekapeka, that lives in the area. Dogs are permitted on lead and entry is free.
Practical Information
| Start | End of Hislop Street, Geraldine |
| End point | End of Barker Street, Geraldine (transport required or retrace steps) |
| Distance | 3.8 km one way |
| Time | 60 minutes one way |
| Difficulty | Medium — steep sections; suitable for fit walkers and mountain bikers |
| Uses | Walking, mountain biking |
| Dogs | Permitted on lead |
| Entry | Free |
About Pekapeka Gully Track
The Pekapeka Gully Track follows a steep grade up and over the ridge, with good views from the top before the descent toward Barker Street. A pine plantation on the south side protects native re-vegetation along Riddells Reserve and a retention dam. In heavy rain, water backs up behind the dam, so walkers should proceed with caution in wet conditions. Large trees provide shade on the downward slope.
The track comes out at the end of Barker Street. It can be extended by continuing onto the Talbot Forest walkway for a longer outing through podocarp forest. The route offers a pleasant contrast between plantation and regenerating native bush close to town.
Birdlife and Wildlife
The native bush corridor supports a range of birdlife. Fantails (pīwakawaka), bellbirds (korimako), rifleman (tītipounamu) and New Zealand pigeons (kererū) are all present along the track. Evening visits increase the chance of spotting the pekapeka, the rare native long-tailed bat after which the track is named. The tiny bats emerge to feed and are occasionally seen at dusk.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers appreciate the steady climb rewarded by views over the Geraldine plains and toward the mountains, noting the track feels peaceful despite its proximity to town.
Many enjoy the mix of pine and native bush, the chance to see birds and possibly bats in the evening, and the option to link with the Talbot Forest walkway for a longer outing.
Where to Learn More
Timaru District Council — Pekapeka Gully Track: official page with trail features, access details and route description.
Department of Conservation — Pekapeka (Long-Tailed Bat): information on the native bat species after which the track is named.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Pekapeka Gully Track start?
At the end of Hislop Street, Geraldine. It finishes at the end of Barker Street — arrange transport at the far end or retrace your steps.
How long does the track take?
About 60 minutes one way. The track is 3.8 km with a significant climb over the ridge.
Why is it called Pekapeka Gully?
It is named after the pekapeka — the rare native long-tailed bat — which inhabits the area and can occasionally be spotted in the evenings.
Can I mountain bike the Pekapeka Gully Track?
Yes — the track is suitable for fit mountain bikers as well as walkers.
Can I extend the walk?
Yes — the track connects to the Talbot Forest walkway at the Barker Street end for a longer outing through the podocarp forest.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are permitted on lead.
Is the track free to use?
Yes, entry is free.
What birds might I see?
Fantails (pīwakawaka), bellbirds (korimako), rifleman (tītipounamu) and kererū are commonly seen along the track.
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