Oxford Forest
Alerts
Boundaries are approximate and not suitable for accurate boundary definition. Check current DOC permit conditions before hunting. Data retrieved 31 July 2026 and may now be out of date.
Chamois, Deer - Red, Pigs
A permit is required to hunt on public conservation land.
This hunting area is covered by an 'open area permit' – get it online.
Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times.
About this hunting block
Oxford Forest is 60 km north west of Christchurch between Oxford, Lees Valley and the Waimakariri River. Red deer, pigs and chamois are present.
General information
Oxford Forest is 60 km north west of Christchurch between Oxford, Lees Valley and the Waimakariri River.
The terrain is moderate to steep. The vegetation is mostly beech forest, with some scrub and tussock on the tops.
Red deer, pigs and chamois are present in low to moderate numbers.
Oxford Forest is a popular recreational area so take precautions and identify your target.
Access
Access to the hunting area is via:
- Ashley Gorge/Lees Valley Road to the locked gate at Lees Valley Station. There is walking access into the Townshend, Shifton, and Black Hill areas. Access is through private land and unformed legal road, permission from Lees Valley Station is required for access.
- Mountain Road to Coopers Creek car park
- Woodstock/Ingrams/Perhams Roads to the Wharfedale Track car park
- Woodstock/Trig Road to the Eyre River car park
- Woodstock Road to the Waimakariri River for jet boat access
- A system of walking tracks provides good access throughout the area
Landholders
The Lees Valley Townshend Route requires landholder permission for access to the Townshend/Wharfedale area. Email Lees Valley Station with at least one week's notice: themuster@grasslands-llc.com
The Townshend Track is closed between 1 August and 30 September, and the entire month of April.
The road may be closed during the lambing season.
Permission from the landowner is required if taking dogs through Lees Valley Station. Proof of current dog dosing is required, and dogs must be kept on a lead while crossing farmland
Maps
NZTopo50 maps BW21, BW22
Dogs
Dogs are permitted in the Oxford Forest hunting area only as far as the Blackhill Hut. Dogs must be kept under control and not used for hunting until well within the DOC hunting area.
If taking dogs through Lees Valley station, proof of current dog dosing is required.
Possum trapping is taking place here
Possum trapping using leg-hold traps is taking place in this area. This activity is allowed by permit only. Leg-hold possum traps must be a minimum of 50 m from the track.
Weather
Forecast near the middle of the block