Emily Falls and Rata Falls Tracks

Emily Falls

Time: 45 min one way
Distance: 1.6 km one way

After a steeper section the track forks left down to Rata Stream. Follow the stream down for 100 m then exit right back onto the track. This track crosses another small stream before descending steeply to Emily Stream at the base of the falls.

The stream and falls are named after Emily Acland, wife of J B Acland and daughter of Bishop Harper, the first bishop of Christchurch, and a keen mountaineer.

Rata Falls

Time: 1 hr one way
Distance: 1.5 km one way

Start on the Emily Falls Track but turn right at the fork. Continue along this track until you reach Rata Stream. Expect to get wet feet as it's a short 10 minute or 500 metre walk upstream to reach the falls.

An alternative return to Blandswood is to walk down Rata Stream. This route involves travelling down the stony riverbed, including a short section of gorge.

Getting there

9.5 km north of Geraldine, turn off SH72 (Inland Scenic Route) onto Peel Forest Road and follow this for 13 km. Turn into Blandswood Road and follow this for 2 km to the junction with Lookout Road. Park in the car park at the junction.

Walk a short distance up Lookout Road to the start. Note, Lookout Road isn't suitable for parking.

Know before you go

• When travelling along streams be aware of water levels and slippery rocks and wear appropriate footwear.
• Cellphone coverage in the Peel Forest area is poor.

Source: Department of Conservation