Four wheel driving in Ahuriri Conservation Park
There are several places you can take your 4WD vehicle on public conservation land around Twizel township. In Ahuriri Conservation Park, 4WD access ends at the road-end car park.
Ahuriri River valley
SH8 to road end
Distance: 34km
Ahuriri Base Hut
The upper Ahuriri Valley is all public conservation land. In dry conditions, there is two wheel drive vehicle access available up to the Ahuriri Conservation Park boundary. However, a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary to drive from the boundary to a car park at the road end. DOC is maintaining the four-wheel drive access and will close this road to vehicle use if conditions could create road-base damage. This could occur under very wet conditions or during freeze/thaw cycles in late winter and early spring.
The four-wheel-drive road passes Ahuriri Base Hut (standard, six bunks.)
Camping and toilet facilities are located at the road-end. Beyond this point, there is foot, mountain bike and horse access. There are more camping opportunities in Canyon Creek and the upper valley as well as three more huts to visit.
River care code
- River birds nest on the ground. Their eggs and chicks are almost impossible to spot from a vehicle. Please refrain from driving in riverbeds from August to December.
- Birds swooping, circling or calling loudly probably have nests nearby. Move away so they can return to them, or their eggs and chicks could die.
- A dog running loose can wreak havoc. Leave your dog at home or keep it under strict control.
- Jet boats disturb birds and can wash away nests near the water's edge. The speed limit for boats is 5 knots within 200 m of the bank.
Safety
Follow the Outdoor Safety Code:
1. Plan your trip
2. Tell someone
3. Be aware of the weather
4. Know your limits
5. Take sufficient supplies
Contacts