Location: Ahuriri Valley. From Omarama, head towards Lindis Pass (SH 8) until Birchwood Rd. Follow this road for about 30km to locked gate. The first 20km are suitable for 2WD in theory but lots of potholes. After this it’s very much advisable to have a 4WD. 2WD have made it, but I wouldn’t want to be the one getting stuck. Many vehicles can’t make it the last 500m to the gate after a wash out in late 2020.
The Tramp: 5.5km on easy 4WD time terrain. You have to get wet feet crossing Canyon Creek so bear that in mind when looking at weather (recent and forecast). The valley is often mountain biked which gives an indication of terrain. Took us 1.5hrs with 6 and 8 year old.
The Hut: 2 bunker! We took mattresses and kids slept on them on bunks and we had hut mattresses on floor (plenty of room for this). Old school open fire place but still produces enough heat as hut is pretty good nic. Has fire guard 🙂 Wee stream close to hut for water and playing.
Good to know: The sandflies can be hideous in this valley! We’ve been lucky to visit either in winter or straight after a cold weather system has been through so they haven’t been a problem. But you have been warned. This valley is also popular with hunters so you may want to be prepared with a tent.
Visited by: Clark whānau, April 2021
trampingforlittlepeople 