Profile
Peel Forest Outdoor Centre is a non-profit outdoor education provider nestled beside Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve and the Rangitata River in South Canterbury, at the foothills of the Southern Alps. Their goal is to educate, challenge, and inspire young people through safe, high-quality outdoor programmes.
They offer fully customisable school and group programmes, ranging from single-day activities to multi-day journey camps and adventurous expeditions tailored to your group’s learning outcomes, schedule, and budget. Typical activities include rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, high ropes, abseiling, tramping, bush survival, and environmental learning adventures. Their instructors hold NZRA and NZOIA qualifications and are skilled at engaging students in immersive outdoor experiences.
Accommodation options are eco-friendly and off-grid, designed with environmental sustainability in mind. Facilities include:
Eco Lodge: A residential-style lodge built from recycled and locally milled materials, powered by solar energy, heated with a wet-back wood fire, and featuring composting toilets, greywater reed beds, a pizza oven, and accessible design. It sleeps up to 23 people.
Huatekerekere and Tarahaoa Cabins: Simple, self-contained cabins nestled in native bush, each with solar hot water and heating, basic cooking facilities, composting toilets, and capacity for up to 10 people each.
Camping areas: Lawn space adjacent to the Eco Lodge and cabins for groups wanting to tent camp, with access to facilities, though large groups may need separate DOC campground bookings.
Many schools praise the centre’s welcoming environment and professional delivery, from cozy stays in the Eco Lodge to expertly led custom programmes. One EOTC coordinator noted that “All activities are well organised … the Eco Lodge is a great facility,” while another group lauded the staff’s engagement, safety focus, and seamless planning.
Whether you’re planning a skills-buildin
