Mount Thomas Forest Conservation Area
About the Business
Welcome to Mount Thomas Forest Conservation Area, a breathtaking natural wonder located in Glentui, New Zealand. This establishment is not just a park or a point of interest, but a true tourist attraction that will leave you in awe.
Spanning over a vast area of 10,800 hectares, Mount Thomas Forest Conservation Area is a haven of native tawhai/beech and scattered podocarp forests. As you step foot into this enchanting wilderness, you will be greeted by the mesmerizing sights and sounds of nature. The air is filled with the sweet scent of the forest, and the gentle rustling of leaves will serenade you throughout your visit.
One of the highlights of this conservation area is the Wooded Gully Picnic Area, which serves as the starting point for a range of walks suitable for all fitness levels. Whether you're looking for a leisurely one-hour family stroll or a full-day adventure exploring every nook and cranny of this spectacular area, Mount Thomas Forest Conservation Area has something for everyone.
To reach this hidden gem, follow Ashley Gorge Road from Oxford for 13 kilometers until you arrive at Glentui. From there, turn into Glentui Bush Road and continue for another 6 kilometers until you reach the end. Alternatively, if you're coming from Oxford, you can take Birch Hill Road for 6 kilometers, then turn into Hayland Road and follow it for 4 kilometers until the end. Birch Hill Road is also accessible from Rangiora via Loburn, offering multiple routes to this incredible destination.
It's important to note that Mount Thomas is surrounded by privately owned commercial forests. While two of the tracks pass through sections of these forests, it is crucial to stay on the designated tracks and refrain from starting any fires in these areas. Signs will be posted to inform visitors of any closures due to forestry operations or extreme fire danger, ensuring your safety during your visit.
So, what are you waiting for? Discover the wonders of Mount Thomas Forest Conservation Area and immerse yourself in the beauty of New Zealand's natural landscapes. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a hiking lover, or simply seeking tranquility in the heart of the forest, this conservation area will leave an everlasting impression on your soul. Plan your visit today and experience the magic of Mount Thomas Forest Conservation Area.
Photos
Location & Phone number
392 Glentui Bush Road, Glentui, Canterbury 7495, New Zealand
Reviews
"Great place, very peaceful and amazing scenery! Always remember bug spray or cover up well. Good place to bring youngster and dog. Only downside was the road up and parking. There are deep pits in the road and gouges so unless you have a 4wd or high under carriage on your car be prepared to have issues. Some of the potholes are very deep."
"Nice track up to the top, did in a bit of snow. Good day tramp."
"Wooded gully track is good challenging trail. There are points where trail is washed out so be careful while crossing. All in all a fun track."
"Most of the hiking trails start from the Wooded Gully camping and picnic area. The forest can be reached by approaching from Rangiora and Loburn, or Oxford and Ashley Gorge and is about a 1 hour drive from Christchurch. The last 4km is on a flat unsealed gravel road to the forest. Travel along Hayland Road, where a DOC sign points to the Mt Thomas conservation area. The most direct route to the summit is via the Summit Track. The summit track goes up a steep ridge to the summit of Mt Thomas, and takes approximately 2.5 hours, while slightly longer the Wooded Gully Track traverses the mountain and takes 3 hours. Hence my reason to walk clockwise and travel via Wooded Gully Track and then walk down Summit Track. All up 5.5 to 6 hours. In an interview, Jean Renoir spoke of his father the famous impressionist painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir. His father showed him a painting and asked his reaction and what "he liked about it." Jean told him that he liked the painting. His father asked why? Jean answered that he could not tell him exactly because he didn’t know the history of the painting. Pierre-Auguste became furious and told him that it’s not about context and meaning but how art is expressed and if it evokes emotion. That is the reason why you climb to the summit, for the sublime beauty and grandeur of nature. Fom the summit, you are rewarded with magnificent views of Canterbury Plains, Banks Peninsula and the Southern Alps."
"I went for the 1 hour loop walk, this was enough to enjoy the outdoors without having to be more prepared - easy enough to drive to from christchurch. Do pack insect repellent, toilet paper and hand sanitizer."
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