Southern Paparoa Range routes

Track category

Route

Description

Croesus Moonlight Route

Time: 4 hrs
Distance: 7.8 km

The route is marked by occasional steel fence posts with yellow plastic markers on top. It is an enjoyable walk of about 3 to 4 hours with ever changing views but the going can be rough in places.

Once the Croesus Track is reached there are two options. Going left it is a 30 minutes walk to the Ces Clark Hut just above the bushline, with a further 3 hours to the foot of the track at Smoke Ho carpark, 8 km from Blackball. Going right it is about 30 minutes over the rough crest of the range to the bushline then a further 2.5 to 3 hours down to Barrytown.

Before you set out check that you have everything that is required. If not, do not attempt the trip - particularly if the weather prospects look poor.

Getting there

This route is accessible from the top of either the Croesus or Moonlight tracks. The route connects the two tracks along the top of the Paparoa Range.

Plan and prepare

The Paparoa Range is a place of sudden climatic changes with snow possible at any time of the year. Even on fine days, mist can rise to cloud the tops making navigation difficult.

Carry a K31 topgraphical map and a compass and appropriate clothing, snacks, water and appropriate equipment for a full day tramp.

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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

Greymouth - Mawheranui Area Office
Phone: +64 3 768 0427
Email: greymouth@doc.govt.nz
Full office details
Reefton Visitor Centre i-SITE Information Centre
Phone: +64 3 732 8391
Address: 67-69 Broadway
Reefton
Email: reefton@i-site.org
Full office details

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