Date:  11 February 2021

The track, located in the West Matukituki Valley, had been closed since July 2019 after a significant slip undercut the track, making it unsafe to access.

Prolonged rain events in December 2019 and February 2020 caused further damage.

DOC community ranger Nicole Sutton says it is fantastic to have the track now reopened to the public.

“DOC staff and contractors have been working hard over the last month to reroute about 450 meters of damaged track,” Nicole says.

“The new alignment goes through native bush and importantly, stays outside the identified rockfall and land slide zones.”

The track’s remote location has made the repairs challenging and staff have been ensuring the rest of the track is up to standard in preparation for the reopening, Nicole says.

 “The view of Rob Roy Glacier at the end of the track is simply spectacular and well worth the three-hour return walk to get there. It’s picture-perfect and inspires many people to visit the park.”

With the popular track officially reopened, it is a good time to remind walkers to stay safe and follow the land safety code, on this track and any others in the region, Nicole says.

“We know people have been really keen to get back out on this track but remember – plan ahead, keep an eye on the weather forecast and always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.

“This summer is a great time to explore our backyard and we want everyone to have safe and enjoyable experiences.”

Background information

About 20,000 walk it in a typical year.

Rob Roy Track information including track description and maps

The track starts at the Raspberry Creek car park, 54 km west of Wanaka on the Wanaka-Mount Aspiring Road. About 15 minutes from the car park, cross a swing bridge across the West Matukituki River. The track climbs through a small gorge into beech forest, then into alpine vegetation at the head of the valley, with good views of the Rob Roy Glacier.

The track is 10 km return via the same track. The track takes around 3–4 hr.

The playful and inquisitive kea, with its harsh ‘kee-a’ call, is often seen or heard in the valley. Don’t feed them

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