10 October 2026
Cloud, low about the foothills, breaking up in the morning. Scattered showers developing this afternoon, possibly heavy and thundery with hail, mainly about the foothills.
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1 / 9Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve
Peel Forest - Big Tree Walk
Walk among large mataī, kahikatea and tōtara trees and see remains of a bush tramway route.
Distance
1 km
Walking time
15 min
Difficulty
Easiest
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Water treatment upgrade at Peel Forest Campground
Weather outlook
Canterbury High Country forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 7:33 am
11 October 2026
Fine, apart from showers before dawn.
12 October 2026
Fine.
13 October 2026
Showers developing.
14 October 2026
Rain turning to showers. Snow lowering to 1900 metres.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Peel Forest - Big Tree Walk on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Peel Forest - Big Tree Walk
This track starts at Te Wanahu Flat. There are large mataī, kahikatea and lowland tōtara along the track, some of which are thought to be 1000 years old. The largest tree, a huge lowland tōtara, is almost three metres across. Look out for the remains of a bush tramway route running alongside this wheelchair and buggy-friendly track. These tramways had wooden rails and were used for hauling out logs. At the top of the embankment, you can see the original width of the tramway, marked by wooden edging.
Essential information for Peel Forest - Big Tree Walk
Cellphone coverage in the Peel Forest area is poor. Consider bringing an emergency communications device.
Huts and campsites
Peel Forest Campground has campsites and cabins. Bookings are required . The campground is closed from May to mid-October each year, however. During this period Clarke Flat is opened as a standard campsite.
Getting there for Peel Forest - Big Tree Walk
Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve is 22 km north of Geraldine. Follow Main North Road (Scenic Highway 72) for 8 km. Turn left just after the Orari Bridge onto Geraldine Arundel Road. After 3 km, take the second left onto Peel Forest Road and follow this road for 13 km to Te Wanahu Flat. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . Level up in your outdoor knowledge with these interactive online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
Dog access for Peel Forest - Big Tree Walk
No dogs.
Before you walk Peel Forest - Big Tree Walk
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.