Last updated June 2026
Waitohi Bush Reserve is a scenic native bush campsite in South Canterbury offering panoramic views, easy walking tracks and abundant birdlife. Located on the inland roads near Pleasant Point, it provides a peaceful free camping spot managed by Timaru District Council within a remnant forest reserve. The site features a small campground with picnic facilities, toilets and drinking water. Access is via a gravel road that requires care in wet conditions. Visitors enjoy the native forest setting and opportunities for short walks right from the campsite.
Practical Information
| Cost | Free |
| Maximum stay | 3 nights |
| Facilities | Toilets, picnic area, BBQ, drinking water |
| Water | Available on site |
| Access road | Gravel (can be rough after rain) |
| Location | Corner of Gully Bush Road and Galbraith Road, Waitohi |
| Nearest town | Pleasant Point (approximately 10 km) |
| Managed by | Timaru District Council |
| Dogs | Permitted on lead |
About Waitohi Bush Reserve
Waitohi Bush Reserve protects a remnant of the native forest that once covered much of South Canterbury’s lowland gullies. The bush includes mahoe, lemonwood, myrtle, black matipo, red matipo, marble leaf, narrow-leaved lacebark, cabbage trees, kowhai, kanuka, five finger, broadleaf, lancewood, wineberry and fuchsia. Some kahikatea, matai and totara trees are also present, along with the rare native climbing daisy and abundant creepers.
The campsite sits at the reserve entrance and offers stunning panoramic views over the Timaru District and South Canterbury plains. A picnic area with running water and BBQ is available, and a new toilet was installed in November 2018. The reserve is surrounded by pine plantation but the protected bush provides a rich natural environment.
Access follows Main Waitohi Road, turning right onto Galbraith Road and continuing up the hill to the corner with Gully Bush Road. The gravel road can become rough after rain, so drivers of larger vehicles should check conditions. A total fire ban applies at the site.
Walking Tracks
Two main walking tracks loop through the reserve. The Kowhai Track takes approximately 40 minutes and is moderate grade, winding through denser bush with views over the plains. The Cabbage Tree Track is an easy 20-minute loop through the lower bush and wetland edge. Both tracks are suitable for most fitness levels and offer excellent opportunities to experience the native vegetation and birdlife. Dogs are permitted on lead.
Birdlife
Bellbirds (korimako) call throughout the reserve, particularly in the morning. Fantails (piwakawaka) are common along the tracks. Grey warblers, silvereyes, tomtits and the shining cuckoo are also recorded here. The shining cuckoo is migratory and typically present from October to March. Predator control operations may occur from time to time, so visitors should exercise care with children and dogs.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the peaceful setting with panoramic views and the chance to wake up surrounded by native bush. Many enjoy the short, easy walks and the variety of birds visible right from the campsite.
Campers note the clean facilities, including the newer toilet, and appreciate the quiet, scenic location away from busier spots. The gravel access is manageable for most vehicles in dry weather.
Where to Learn More
Timaru District Council — Waitohi Bush: Official details on camping rules, facilities and access.
Timaru District Council — Waitohi Bush Walks: Track descriptions, times, difficulty and birdlife information.
Timaru District Council — Camping: Current information on all council-managed camping areas in the district.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Waitohi Bush Reserve camping free?
Yes, camping is free.
What is the maximum stay?
Up to 3 nights.
Is there water at the campsite?
Yes, drinking water is available on site.
What are the walking tracks like?
The Kowhai Track takes about 40 minutes (moderate) and the Cabbage Tree Track takes 20 minutes (easy).
What birds can I see?
Bellbirds, fantails, grey warblers, silvereyes, tomtits and shining cuckoo.
Is the access road suitable for large vehicles?
The gravel road can be rough after rain. Check conditions before arriving.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are permitted on lead.
Is there a fire ban?
Yes, a total fire ban applies at the site.
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