Those travelers wishing to get off the beaten path will want to check out Oteake Conservation Park on the South Island of New Zealand. Located in Central Otago, this area is blessed with warmer and sunnier weather than the surrounding areas. Long, flat valleys in between mountain ranges fill the landscape, making it a perfect place to spend at least two nights on your road trip from the east to the west coast.
On your first night, consider camping in the Department of Conservation (DOC) Homestead campsite (free) at the trailhead. The road to this campsite is unpaved for about 10km, and at one point crosses a stream bed. Use caution at this crossing, depending on the recent rains and your vehicle. Homestead campsite has basic facilities (a water tap and toilet).
From Homestead campsite, travel up the valley on an assortment of trails. First take the Homestead Track (1.5km) to the West Manuherikia Track. This track passes by two huts you could stay overnight in, depending on how far you want to hike. The first hut is approximately 5 additional kilometers along this track. Boundary Creek Hut is a standard hut, requiring a hut ticket purchased at a DOC visitor center. The cost for this hut is approximately $5.10 per person per night. Those who wish for a longer hike, could continue to Top Hut, which also requires a hut ticket. From Boundary Creek Hut, the Mutton Creek Track (6km) goes up and over some mountains, before descending to the East Manuheikia Track. Those who continue to Top hut, can cross at Saddle Ridge Track, which joins the East Manuheikia Track further up the valley. Following the East Manuheikia Track for about 8.5km from Mutton Creek Track, will lead you back to the Homestead Track, back to the Homestead campsite and back to your car. Be sure to bring along a good map of the area. As always when hiking or backpacking, be sure to bring plenty of food and water. Bring clothes for any weather, as the weather can change unexpectedly. Also be aware that there are many stream/river crossings along these trails. Do not attempt crossings when the rivers/streams are swollen or flooded.
On your way out of Oteake Conservation Park, make a detour through the small town of St. Bathans. Originally a booming gold mining town in the 1800s with a population of 2,000, there are now only a handful of residents, and a few historic buildings. There is a lovely loop walk around Blue Lake in town which takes about an hour and has informative signs providing history on the area.
After a few days of enjoying this beautiful, historic, and infrequently visited area of Central Otago, you'll feel refreshed and ready for more Kiwi adventures.
Comments