Wanganui valley tracks

West Coast region

The lower Wanganui valley from near the top of Blue Lookout Route. Photo: Ian Singleton.

The lower Wanganui valley from near the top of Blue Lookout Route

West Coast region.

The Wanganui River valley lies just to the north of Harihari on the South Island's West Coast and provides rugged backcountry opportunities for those with suitable skills and experience.

From the flats on the lower Wanganui River, the tramping track winds up the valley providing access to the two standard huts and upper valley opportunities, while two routes access the open tops and the Adams Wilderness Area beyond. The valley also surprises with natural hot pools, near Smyth Hut, for the adventurous and experienced, and others near the road end for those less able.

Be prepared however: these tracks and routes are difficult, and the weather and conditions can change rapidly. With over five metres of rain annually you need to be prepared to sit and wait it out if necessary.

Tramping trackTramping track

RouteRoute

Time:

3 days +

Find out more

Publications

Wanganui valley tramping track and route guide (PDF, 320K)

West Coast tracks and walks brochures

Glacier region walks brochure (PDF, 2780K)

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 West Coast tracks

Contacts

Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 3 752 0796
Address: 13 State Highway 6
Franz Josef Glacier 7856
Email: westlandnpvc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

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Conservation for prosperity. Tiakina te taiao, kia puawai