South Canterbury NZ | Peel Forest... Your outdoor playground, camping and picnic spot

Out Look From Hut on Mt Peel - Vicky O'Connor

Horse Trekking - Peel Forest Horse Trekking

Peel Forest Highlights

White water rafting and kayaking
4x4 tours to historic sites, high country farms and Lord of the Rings sites
Forest walking and mountain biking trails
Guided adventure packages tailored for all levels
Horse-riding through native forest and stunning riverways
Hunting and fishing
Secluded luxury lodge

Tranquil Beauty

Just a 20 minute drive from Geraldine, tranquil Peel Forest is a popular South Canterbury NZ outdoor playground, camping and picnic stop for all ages. The canopy of towering podocarps hosts a rich variety of native bush and bird-life underneath. Numerous walking tracks (from short child friendly walks to hikes of several hours) meander through the rich native forest and there are several pretty waterfalls to delight younger walkers. For the more adventurous there is an energetic climb to the top of Mount Peel (Tarahaoa) or Little Mount Peel (Huatekerekere). Climb to the top and you will be rewarded with amazing views over the Canterbury plains.

Acitivities for Everyone

Horseriding through forest tracks and alongside the mighty Rangitata River are popular activities, as are 4-wheel drive tours in and around the Peel Forest and Rangitata valley areas (including Lord of the Rings sites and historic high country stations). A drive or scenic tour into the upper Rangitata River valley provides some of the most spectacular sub-alpine and high country scenery in New Zealand. It’s not difficult to see why Lord of the Rings producer Peter Jackson chose this superb valley as an important location for several key scenes in the trilogy. The Rangitata River is also renowned for its world-class salmon fishing. Thrill seekers looking for a bigger adrenalin fix can spend a day white water rafting or opt for a more gentle kayaking experience on the lower river.

Browse Peel Forest business listings for more information on Peel Forest attractions and activities.

South Canterbury NZ - Peel Forest

Tranquil Beauty

Acitivities for Everyone