Project Peel — Restoring Peel Forest
Project Peel is a registered New Zealand charitable trust (Charities Register CC57283) dedicated to the ecological restoration and protection of Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve in Canterbury, New Zealand. We work to reverse the ecological decline of the reserve and surrounding natural areas through predator and pest control, native planting, advocacy and community education.
About Peel Forest
Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve is a ~770-hectare remnant of ancient podocarp forest in South Canterbury, established in 1909. It protects towering kahikatea, tōtara and mataī — some lowland tōtara around 1,000 years old — and is home to about 68 fern species and native birds including the bellbird (korimako), kererū, fantail (pīwakawaka) and rifleman (tītitipounamu). More than 15 tracks span over 30 km, from the Big Tree and Fern Walk to the summit of Little Mt Peel (1,311 m).
Our mission
To connect communities with their environment through hands-on ecological restoration and education, and to create a future where thriving native ecosystems are supported by knowledgeable and passionate communities.
Get involved
Support Project Peel by donating, sponsoring predator traps, bait or fencing, or by volunteering. Email projectpeel@gmail.com or visit facebook.com/projectpeel. Location: Peel Forest, Rangitata Gorge Road, Canterbury, New Zealand.