What makes it 58% Baby-Friendly: Short pram-friendly fairy path and picnic zone allow a brief outing, but most surfaces are sandy, toilets have no change table, and there is no nursing room, so stays with a baby need extra planning.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for a short forest stroll, picnic, and rest breaks with a baby without over-tiring parents.
Visitor Centre rest stop:
Indoor shelter with maps, brochures and water tap.
Tip: Use this spot for feeding or napping; toilets are nearby.
Picnic by main car park:
Flat concrete area with tables near parking and toilets.
Tip: Bring your own snacks and a blanket for a comfortable break.
Short Green Track with baby carrier:
Part of the family-friendly 3 km loop suitable for slings.
Tip: Carry your baby in a sling; avoid this path with a stroller.

Kaylee Schipani
Went for a long run today and at first I was really impressed by the blue trail markers, but then they just stop being present and then you have to guess how to get to the southern pegasus bay track. Thankfully made it back right before pitch black but a little more signage would've been helpful. Not sure if I'll be back for a long run here.
Helen Anderson
It was awesome here. Unfortunately the working forest has been felled so much over the past 18 months its taken huge amounts of great woodland away. Keep getting told its only 15 years until this recovers.....
Donald Sacca
I mean, you can’t really get lost, but the trails could be marked better. The map was not necessarily helpful — even at trail intersections. I ended up just walking on the roads after a while out of frustration. I’m sure the regulars have no issues, but this was my first time here. I will have to come back and learn my way around.
Cristina Renedo Williams
Great place for walking the dog, cycling, or for horse riding. Note that these paths do cross each other at some points. Variety of tracks to do of different lengths. It's a good idea to take a picture of the map at the entrance as it can get a bit confusing at some parts. They've re-done the parking and it's much more organised now. I do wish there would be more bins around the forest, as there i...
Joseph Lum
First time visit. Was a pleasant surprising find. Walking the hiking trails and hearing the soothing sound of wind whistling through the tall trees was really therapeutic. I totally enjoyed the relaxing walk with my family :)
In summer, wear a sunhat and apply insect repellent. In winter and spring, choose dry days and wear waterproof footwear as tracks can get muddy.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Park entry and parking | NZD 0 |
| Public toilets | NZD 0 |
| Visitor centre resources | NZD 0 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 0 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: Waitikiri Drive, Bottle Lake, Christchurch 8083, New Zealand
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