Grey River Nature Trail
Walk through mixed tawhai/podocarp forest on this short, easy walk - with a picnic area nearby this is a good option for children.
Duration of walk: 1 hour
Description of walk:
Beginning at the northern end of Grey River Picnic Area, this loop-trail is ideal for families. A fine example of the diversity of the native bush on the Canterbury Plains, the walk passes through mixed tawhai/podocarp forest, including black beech/tawhai, rimu, kahikatea and matai.
Of particular interest are the oyster shells embedded in a bank 700 metres above sea level, thought to be 10-20 million years old, indicating where the coastline was at that time. Please leave for all to enjoy.
Close by is a cave which was created by water erosion.
Getting there:
The track starts at the Grey River picnic area.
From Amberley, follow Douglas Road, then Cramptons Bush Road until the road reaches the Lake Janet picnic area (17 km from Amberley). Turn left into Mount Grey Road, then right into Okuku Road to reach the Grey River picnic area (3.5 km from the the Lake Janet picnic area).
As you are passing through commercial forest it may be closed at times. For the latest road conditions, phone Rayonier NZ Ltd, +64 3 310 7612.
Information correct as at: 09 September 2023
