Stockyard Cove Track
Walking track
Time:
45 min - 1 hr return
Getting there
Lake Manapōuri is located in Fiordland National Park. The town of Manapōuri is situated on its shores and is 2 hours drive to Queenstown and 15 minutes to Te Anau.
Stockyard Cove is at the entrance to Hope Arm and boat access is required. Nearby Hope Arm hut is on the Garnock Burn track.
About the area
Manapōuri is the fifth largest and second deepest lake in New Zealand. It is also one of the most beautiful. Several tracks start on the eastern shores of Lake Manapōuri.
Fiordland National Park is a vast, remote wilderness and heart of Te Wāhipounamu - South West New Zealand World Heritage Area.
Several tracks start on the eastern shores of Lake Manapōuri. These are suited to day trips and easy two or three day tramps. Tracks in the Garnock Burn catchment, to the south of the lake, can be walked as a loop and have several side trips. All are at low altitude.
The Lower Waiau River does not have a bridge crossing. Access to the track on the opposite side is by hired dinghy across the river, or by boat across the lake.
There is good trout fishing in Lake Manapōuri and its tributary streams and Lake Rakatu. Anglers need a current fishing licence.
Description
Travel by boat to Stockyard Cove at the entrance to Hope Arm, landing on the beach at the head of the cove.
Two tracks lead from this point; one heading west to West Beach, with rewarding views of Lake Manapōuri. The other track follows through a prime example of ancient podocarp forest, climbing briefly until reaching the high bluff falls and then descending through mountain beech forest to the lake edge. It is advisable to return to Stockyard Cove following the same track as walking around the foreshore is not recommended.
Places to stay
This is a standard 12-bunk hut in the Te Anau area
This is a basic four-bunk hut in the Te Anau area.
Plan and prepare
- Make sure your group has a capable and experienced leader who knows bushcraft and survival skills.
- Take adequate food and clothing on your trip and allow for weather changes and possible delays.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Sign an intention form at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre and use the hut books.
- Take care with river crossings, especially after rain. If in doubt, sit it out.
- Know the symptoms of exposure. React quickly by finding shelter and providing warmth.
- Keep to the tracks. If you become lost - stop, find shelter, stay calm and wait for searchers to find you. Don't leave the area unless you are absolutely sure where you are heading.
What to expect on a walking track:
- Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day
- Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy
- Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities
- Clearly sign posted. Stream and river crossings are bridged
- Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required
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