Matatiaho Conservation Area tracks
Tramping track
Getting there
Stewart Creek carpark is just off the Lake Hawea section of SH6, some 30 minutes drive from Wanaka Township.
About the area
Matatiaho Conservation Area was created in 2008 after the tenure review of Glen Dene Station was completed. It's set in a spectacular landscape overlooking Lakes Wanaka and Hawea with views to the numerous mountain ranges beyond.
Description
Lake Hawea from Matatiaho
Conservation Area
Times
Isthmus Peak: 3 - 4hr (8km)
Matataiho Conservation Area: 5 - 7hr (15km)
From the carpark follow the poled route on the true right of Stewart Creek until it reaches a 4WD track. From here a steep and rocky climb winds up to a skyline ridge.
On the ridge, follow the signs to either 1385-metre Isthmus Peak (to the right) or Matahiaho Conservation Area (to the left)..
Activities
Mountain biking
You can mountain bike these tracks but on many sections you will have to push your bike.
Plan and prepare
- There is no public access beyond the conservation area. Please return to the Stewart Creek carpark by the same route.
- There is a safari hunting operation on this station, Please give way to game animals, especially during the March to April roar.
- These tracks are annually closed for fawning between 20 November and 20 December.
- Firearms and dogs are not permitted on these tracks
What to expect on a tramping track:
- Challenging day or multi-day tramping/hiking
- Track is mostly unformed with steep, rough or muddy sections
- Suitable for people with good fitness. Moderate to high level backcountry skills and experience, including navigation and survival skills required
- Track has markers, poles or rock cairns. Expect unbridged stream and river crossings
- Tramping/hiking boots required