Little Mt Peel/Huatekerekere tracks
Located in Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve in the Canterbury region
Introduction
Climb one of the most popular peaks in Canterbury for magnificent views to Mt Somers, Mt Hutt and across the plains to the coast.Dog access
Image gallery
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View from Little Mt Peel/Huatekerekere tracks Image: David Miller ©
![View from Little Mt Peel/Huatekerekere tracks.]( "View from Little Mt Peel/Huatekerekere tracks.")
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Tristram Harper Memorial Shelter Image: David Miller ©
![Tristram Harper Memorial Shelter.]( "Tristram Harper Memorial Shelter.")
Little Mt Peel/Huatekerekere via Deer Spur
Time: 2–3 hr one way
Distance: 4.6 km one way
From the car park at Blandswood, walk up the steep Blandswood Lookout Road to the top. Follow Fern Walk for about 350 m before turning left onto Deer Spur Track. The track follows a ridge up to the summit (1311 m).
There are magnificent views to Mt Somers, Mt Hutt and across the plains to the coast. Tristam Harper Memorial Shelter is just below the summit.
Boardwalk on the track may have snow and ice in winter – wear appropriate footwear and consider taking walking poles.
Little Mt Peel/Huatekerekere via South Ridge Track
Time: 3 hr 30 min one way
Distance: 3.5 km one way
An alternative to climbing or descending Little MtPeel/Huatekerekere from Deer Spur is to use the South Ridge Track. The South Ridge is steep and involves a couple of rocky scrambles.
South Ridge Track connects with Deer Spur at the top of the mountain and Emily Falls Track near the bottom.
When descending from Little Mt Peel/Huatekerekere it is important to keep to the ridge until the track sign shows the route down a tussock-covered spur to the bushline and Emily Stream.
9.5 km north of Geraldine, turn off SH72 (Inland Scenic Route) onto Peel Forest Road and follow this for 13 km. Turn into Blandswood Road and follow this for 2 km to the junction with Lookout Road. Park in the car park at the junction.
Walk a short distance up Lookout Road to the start. Note, Lookout Road isn't suitable for parking.
- These are alpine summits and the weather can be very different from at road level – ensure you take appropriate clothing and equipment.
- Cellphone coverage in Peel Forest area is poor.
Your safety is your responsibility
Take the right gear to keep yourself safe on your tramp.
Tell someone your plans using the Outdoors Intentions form including when to raise the alarm if you haven't returned.
Contacts
| Ōtautahi / Christchurch Visitor Centre | |
| Phone: | +64 3 379 4082 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | christchurchvc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
28 Worcester Boulevard Christchurch 8013 |
| Postal Address: |
Private Bag 11089 Christchurch 8013 |
| Full office details | |