Breast Hill Track
Located in Hāwea Conservation Park in the Otago region
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Introduction
This tramping track, taking 2-3 days to complete, forms part of the Te Araroa - The Long Pathway and connects to the Timaru River Track.Dog access
Times and distances:
- Dingle Burn Rd entrance to Pakituhi Hut: 3-4 hr (4 km)
- Pakituhi Hut to Stodys Hut via Breast Hill: 4-5 hr(12.5 km)
- Pakituhi Hut to Stodys Hut via 4WD track: 3-4 hr (13 km)
- Stodys Hut to Tīmaru River junction: 1 -1.5 hr (1.5 km)
- Stodys Hut to Top Timaru Hut: 6-7.5 hr (13.5 km)
- Stodys Hut to Tīmaru River carpark: 5-6.5 hr(12.5 km)
Note: Times indicated are in the direction of track from Dingle Burn Road to Tīmaru River Junction. Time allowances may need to be adjusted for those going in the opposite direction and those not confident in this type of terrain.
From the Dingle Burn Road to Pakituhi Hut the track is a steady climb rising 400 m on a formed zig-zag track to a small saddle. The next section of track follows a prominent ridge to the highest point (1300 m) before a short descent to the hut. On clear days, trampers will be rewarded with stunning views over Lake Hāwea and the surrounding landscape including Mt Aspiring/Tititea.
From Pakituhi Hut an alternate route, bypassing Breast Hill, is available following a 4WD track to Stodys Hut. This undulating track affords spectacular mountainous views including Corner Peak and the St Bathans range.
From Stodys Hut the track descends steeply to the Tīmaru River via a marked tree-lined ridge. Trampers at this point have the option to proceed towards Top Timaru Hut and the Ahuriri Valley or back towards the Tīmaru River carpark making it into a loop track. A slip on a section of the track 50m down stream from the Timaru River/Breast Hill track junction requires care to cross.
Dingle Burn Road entrance is signposted 1 km from Johns Creek township or approximately 6 km from Lake Hāwea township.
Breast Hill Track is particularly demanding due to its exposed nature and physically demanding terrain.
- It is only suitable for experienced trampers.
- Sections of the track have limited marking and in low cloud trampers will need navigational skills.
- The climate is typically Central Otago, and very hot, dry conditions are common in summer.
- Carry plenty of water, as water sources are limited.
- Wintry conditions can occur at any time of the year, with the higher country subject to snow, especially during winter.
- Be prepared by having warm, windproof clothing and the appropriate footwear.
This track goes through a working farm. Lambs may be present late September – mid November. Please move quietly and give ewes and lambs space, go around them if necessary. Never pick up lambs. Consider using alternative access from the Lower Timaru River Track during lambing season.
Avalanche risk
This area has terrain that can produce avalanches that cross the track, usually from May into November. View avalanche information.
Stay safe when crossing rivers
If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.
Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.
Private property and permissions
This track crosses private land. There is no camping until the conservation area boundary.
Respect the landowner's livestock and property:
- stay on the marked track until you reach the conservation land
- leave gates as you find them
- use stiles where provided
- keep your distance from livestock
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| Tititea/Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre | |
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| Phone | +64 3 443 7660 |
| wanakavc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | 1 Ballantyne Road Wanaka 9305 |
| Hours | See visitor centre hours |