Matatiaho Conservation Area tracks

Track category

Tramping track
Mountain bike - Expert

Description

Lake Hawea from Matatiaho Conservation Area. Photo: T Zimmerman.
Lake Hawea from Matatiaho
Conservation Area

Times

Isthmus Peak: 3 - 4hr (8km)
Matatiaho 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).

Getting there

Stewart Creek carpark is just off the Lake Hawea section of SH6, some 30 minutes drive from Wanaka Township.

Activities

Mountain biking Mountain biking

You can mountain bike these tracks but on many sections you will have to push your bike.

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.

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 May roar.
  • These tracks are annually closed for fawning between 20 November and 20 December.
  • Firearms and dogs are not permitted on these tracks.

Weather

NZ weather

Maps

New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres

Learn more

Track category definitions

Plan and prepare for your trip

Great Walks

Stop the spread of didymo
Check, Clean, Dry
all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.

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

Safety alerts for Otago tracks

Contacts

Makarora Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 3 443 8365
Address: Haast Pass Highway
State Hwy 6
Email: makaroravc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details
Mt Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 3 443 7660
Address: Ardmore Street
Wanaka 9305
Email: mtaspiringvc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

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Conservation for prosperity. Tiakina te taiao, kia puawai