Peel Forest Campground

Peel Forest Campground is nestled inside one of New Zealand’s most impressive lowland podocarp forests, about 22 kilometres from Geraldine in inland Canterbury. The ancient tōtara, mātai, and kahikatea trees here are hundreds of years old, and walking beneath them feels like stepping into prehistoric New Zealand.

The DOC-managed campground has around 20 sites suitable for tents, campervans, and caravans. Facilities include hot showers, flush toilets, and gas BBQs. Pets are allowed on a leash. It is a straightforward, well-maintained bush camp without the crowds you get at more popular South Island destinations.

Several excellent walking tracks leave from or near the campground, ranging from short loop walks through the forest to longer day hikes into the foothills of the Southern Alps. Birdlife is excellent, with native bush birds common throughout the forest. At $10 to $20 per night, Peel Forest is outstanding value and makes a good stopover between Christchurch and the Mackenzie Country.