When ever family visited from overseas, we always took them to Peel Forest and Mesopotamia for a day drive. I dont know how many times we clamberd up Little Mt Peel, With a moderate level of fitness it was well worth the walk up through the forest, to the tarn for picnic lunch and the view at the top.
 
There is a "Wow Corner' to discover, which got its name for obvious reasons. 
 
The Big Tree
From Geraldine, take the Inland Scenic Route (72) and cross the Orari Bridge with views towards Mt Peel. Turn off to Peel Forest, taking in the green well tended farming country, complete with deer and sheep. Drive on just 5 minutes to Te Wanahu Flat and take the short walk to the big tree - over 1000 years old and a great picture spot. It isn't suitable for a pram, but you could carry a little one in on your hip. Our 3 year old did it in her gumboots.
 
Take in the views from your car windows to Mesopotamia vista
The countryside changes along the way from farmed paddocks to sub-alpine ruggedness. Mesopotamia was first farmed and name by British novelist Samuel Butler, famous for his novels 'Erewon' (written while living at Mesopotamia and the 'The Way of all Flesh'. The name Mesopotamia originates from the Middle East and means ‘the land between two rivers’ - the original rivers were the Tigris and the Euphrates. Mesopotamia Station lies between the Rangitata and Forest Creek river.
*Explore Dr Sinclair's grave, see old fashioned farming equipment and bask in the vast emptiness of the landscape while you picnic among the hardy alpine tussocks with an unimpeded view towards the Southern Alps.
 
Two Thumb Track
Drive on to see the beginning of the Two Thumb Track, part of the Te Araroa - New Zealand's Trail at Bush Stream
 
Church of the Holy Innocents
It's on the edge of the Mt Peel Station estate, resting place of famous crime novelist Dame Ngio Marsh and famous artist Austin Deans. The Acland family has a really intresting history here including the be the first bee keepers in the District. The Church suffered damage after a large 7.1 Canterbury earthquake and is now back to it's former glory. The stained glass windows are a real treat. We have been lucky to visit when their famous lillies have been in bloom.