Follow a short public access easement through private farmland to reach Ahuriri River and Ahuriri Conservation Park. Head towards an old derelict duckshooters hut on the river flats. Uphill from the hut you should be able to pick up an unmarked track that eventually reaches a small tarn. From the tarn it's a short distance to Hideaway Hut, tucked away under bluffs.

Tarn on Hideaway Hut Route in Ahuriri Conservation Park

Turn off SH8 onto Birchwood Road, 17 km south of Omarama. The turnoff is signposted for Ahuriri Conservation Park. 200 m past the Birch Creek Bridge is an access sign to Ahuriri River.

4WD vehicles can be driven on this short public access easement through private farmland and parked beside the river.

Map: NZTopo50 BZ14 Mount Barth

Dog access: Dogs on a lead can be taken to Hideaway Hut. But they must be confined to a vehicle while crossing private farmland to get to Ahuriri River.

There is an ongoing trapping and poison operation for possums in this area. Monitor your dog and use a muzzle to avoid any potential scavenging of possum carcasses.

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