The Pekapeka Gully Track is a 3.8-kilometre bush walk in Geraldine that crosses over a ridge through a pine plantation and native bush, starting at the end of Hislop Street and finishing at the end of Barker Street. The walk takes about an hour and rewards the effort with views over the Geraldine plains and to the mountains.
Practical Information
| Start | End of Hislop Street, Geraldine |
|---|---|
| End point | End of Barker Street, Geraldine (transport required, or retrace) |
| 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 the Track
The Pekapeka Gully Track is named after the pekapeka — the rare native long-tailed bat — which inhabits this area. The tiny, thumb-sized bats are occasionally spotted in the evenings as they emerge to feed. The track starts at the end of Hislop Street and follows a route up and over the ridge — a steep grade, but rewarded by good views from the top before the descent.
On the south side, a pine plantation protects the native re-vegetation along Riddells Reserve and a retention dam. In times of heavy rain, water backs up behind the dam — take care in wet conditions. Large trees provide shade on the downward slope toward Barker Street. The track can be extended by continuing onto the Talbot Forest walkway after the Barker Street end.
Birdlife
The native bush corridor supports a good range of birdlife despite being close to town. Fantails (pīwakawaka), bellbirds (korimako), rifleman (tītipounamu) and NZ pigeons (kererū) are all present in the bush along the track. Evening visits increase the chance of spotting the bats for which the track is named.
Where to Learn More
Timaru District Council — Pekapeka Gully Track — official walk page with trail features, access details and route description.
DOC — Pekapeka (Long-Tailed Bat) — background on the pekapeka, one of New Zealand’s two native bat species and after which this track is named.
FAQ
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 3.8km 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.
The Pekapeka Gully Track is listed in the Timaru Walking Tracks guide. The nearby Ribbonwood Track is another Geraldine walk with views over the plains. The Waihi River Walkway is a flat 1km loop through central Geraldine for a contrast.
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