The Waitohi Bush reserve near Pleasant Point has two short walking tracks through native bush — the Kowhai Track (40 minutes return) and the shorter Cabbage Tree Track (20 minutes return). Both start from the same entrance off Galbraith Road and pass through regenerating native vegetation in a small but rich bush remnant in the Waitohi Valley.
Practical Information
| Access | Galbraith Road, Waitohi Valley (off SH8, ~19km from Timaru) |
|---|---|
| Kowhai Track | ~40 minutes return |
| Cabbage Tree Track | ~20 minutes return |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate — well-formed tracks, some uneven ground |
| Camping | Small campground on site |
| Entry | Free |
About the Bush
Waitohi Bush is a remnant native forest in the Waitohi Valley, a tributary valley running south of Pleasant Point toward the Hunters Hills. The reserve protects a patch of regenerating native bush — uncommon in the largely farmed South Canterbury lowlands — and is managed by the Timaru District Council.
The vegetation includes kōwhai, cabbage trees (tī kōuka), mataī, tōtara, māhoe and various native ferns. The Kowhai Track is named for the kōwhai trees along the route, which are spectacular in spring (August–October) when they flower in bright yellow. The Cabbage Tree Track passes through a stand of native tī kōuka.
The Tracks
Both tracks start from the same entrance off Galbraith Road. The Kowhai Track is the longer of the two, taking about 40 minutes return through the deeper section of the bush. The Cabbage Tree Track is a shorter 20-minute return loop, suitable as a quick introduction to the reserve. A small campground at the entrance makes Waitohi Bush a possible overnight stop for those exploring the South Canterbury back roads.
Where to Learn More
Timaru District Council — Waitohi Stream — official page with access information and track details for the Waitohi Bush reserve.
Free Walks NZ — Waitohi Bush Walk — walk description with track notes and what to expect at the reserve.
FAQ
Where is the Waitohi Bush Walk?
Off Galbraith Road in the Waitohi Valley, about 19km from Timaru via SH8 through Pleasant Point. Follow Galbraith Road from the SH8 junction.
How long are the tracks?
The Kowhai Track takes about 40 minutes return. The Cabbage Tree Track is shorter at about 20 minutes return. Both start from the same entrance.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring (August–October) for the kōwhai in flower — the yellow blooms are one of the highlights of the Kowhai Track.
Is there camping at Waitohi Bush?
Yes — there is a small campground at the reserve entrance.
What native trees can I see?
Kōwhai, cabbage trees (tī kōuka), mataī, tōtara, māhoe and native ferns.
The Waitohi Bush Walk is listed in the Timaru Walking Tracks guide. The nearby Pleasant Point Stream and Domain Walk is the town walk in Pleasant Point itself. The Hook Bush Track is another Hunters Hills bush walk in the district.
