Birchwood Road to Ahuriri River

Time: 20 min
Distance: 1 km

This public access easement through private farmland provides access to the Ahuriri River. Follow marker poles beside the fenceline for 1 km to reach the river. If the river isn't safe to cross, walk downstream and cross at Ireland Bridge.

Ahuriri River to East Ahuriri Hut

Distance: 10 km

This tramping track is only lightly marked so is for experienced trampers. Travel up the Ahuriri River East Branch to an old musterer's hut which remains from the 1890s. This hut is now derelict but may offer some shelter if required.

East Ahuriri Hut to Lake Ohau Road

Distance: 16 km

As you travel upstream the valley becomes more vegetated with native matagouri. This track is lightly marked. Climb up out of the valley to swampy ground before heading down to Freehold Creek basin. A well formed track takes you out to Lake Ōhau.

Turn off SH8 onto Birchwood Road, 17 km south of Omarama. The turnoff is signposted for Ahuriri Conservation Park. It is 11 km down Birchwood Road to the start of the track at Avon Burn carpark.

Map: NZTopo50 CA14 Lindis Pass, BZ14 Mount Barth

Private property and permissions

This track crosses private land. There is no camping until the conservation area boundary.

Respect the landowner's livestock and property: 

• stay on the marked track until you reach the conservation land
• leave gates as you find them
• use stiles where provided
• keep your distance from livestock

Check the flow of the Ahuriri River if you intend to cross before you go. It is safe to cross when the river flow is 18 cubic metres per second (cumecs) or less.

Stay safe when crossing rivers

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely