Snowy Gorge Creek - Maitland Stream
Located in Ahuriri Conservation Park and Ruataniwha Conservation Park in the Canterbury region
Introduction
This unmarked route is for experienced trampers and travels through diverse country.30 km one way
Other activities
- Horse riding
Dog access
Trampers can follow Snowy Gorge Creek and descend into Maitland valley near Lake Ohau. Exiting out of the lower Maitland valley requires prior permission from the landholder Lake Ohau Station, phone: +64 3 438 9663
Birchwood Road to Snowy Gorge Hut
Track category: Route
Time: 5 hr
Distance: 11 km
Cross Ahuriri River at a suitable crossing point within Ahuriri Conservation Park (not marked). Snowy Gorge Creek flows through an open tussock clad valley. Snowy Gorge Hut is not easily visible because it is hidden behind a moraine wall.
Snowy Gorge Hut to Maitland Hut
Track category: Route
Time: 4 hr
Distance: 9 km
It is a steady climb to the pass between Snowy Gorge Creek and Maitland Stream at 1352 m. Scattered wetlands feature near the pass and then it is a straightforward descent into Maitland valley in the Ruataniwha Conservation Park. Watch out for aciphylla/spaniard plants along the way.
Maitland Hut to Lake Ohau
Track category: Tramping track
Time: 4 hr
Distance: 10 km
The track travels through beech forest with several crossings of Maitland Stream. There is a steep climb at the end of the track before descending to Lake Ohau Road through private farmland. You will require prior permission from the landholder, Lake Ohau Station, to exit this way.
Horse riding
You will need to cross the Ahuriri River to access Snowy Gorge Creek.
Turn off SH8 onto Birchwood Road, 17 km south of Omarama. The turnoff has a signpost for Ahuriri Conservation Park.
Map: NZTopo50 BZ14 Mount Barth
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 - which often takes a few hours after rain.
Dog access: 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.
If you are doing the through trip to Lake Ohau you will need permission from the landholder to take your dog through private farmland above Lake Ohau. Contact Lake Ohau Station, phone: +64 3 438 9663.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Take the right gear for your trip: Walking and tramping gear lists.
- Tell a trusted person your plans and when to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned. Send them the information directly, or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk.
- Follow the five essential steps of the Land Safety Code.
Contacts
| Te Manahuna / Twizel Office | |
| Phone: | +64 3 435 0802 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | esienquiries@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
15 Wairepo Road Twizel 7901 |
| Postal Address: |
Private Bag Twizel 7944 |
| Full office details | |