Oxford Forest hunting

General information

Oxford Forest is 60 km north west of Christchurch between Oxford, Lees Valley and the Waimakariri River.

The terrain is moderate to steep. The vegetation is mostly beech forest, with some scrub and tussock on the tops.

Red deer, pigs and chamois are present in low to moderate numbers.

Oxford Forest is a popular recreational area so take precautions and identify your target.

Access

Access to the hunting area is via:

• Ashley Gorge/Lees Valley Road to the locked gate at Lees Valley station in Lees Valley. There is walking or 4WD access into the Townsend, Shifton and Black Hill areas. Permission from Lees Valley Station and a key for the gate is required if using 4WD
• Mountain Road to Coopers Creek car park
• Woodstock/Ingrams/Perhams Roads to the Wharfedale Track car park
• Woodstock/Trig Road to the Eyre River car park
• Woodstock Road to the Waimakariri River for jet boat access
• A system of walking tracks provides good access throughout the area

Landholders

The Lees Valley Townsend Route requires landholder permission for 4WD access to the Townshend/Wharfedale area. 

Email Lees Valley station with at least one week's notice: admin@grasslands-llc.com

• There is a charge to use the road to help cover maintenance costs.
• The road may be closed during the lambing season.
• Dogs must be kept on a lead while crossing farmland – no exceptions.

Maps

NZTopo50 maps BW21, BW22

Dogs

Dogs are permitted in the Oxford Forest hunting area only as far as the Blackhill Hut. Dogs must be kept under control and not used for hunting until well within the DOC hunting area.

If taking dogs through Lees Valley station, proof of current dog dosing is required.

Huts

• Wharfedale Hut
• Black Hill Hut
• Lower Salmon Creek

Additional information

Hunters are advised to check for current pesticide operations that may be in progress where they intend to hunt.