What to expect

This track is suitable for trampers with moderate to high level back country skills and experience. Navigation and survival skills are required. Expect unbridged stream and river crossings.

Parts of the track are unformed and may be rough and steep. The track is clearly marked where necessary with orange triangles attached to trees. Above the bushline, markers are used instead. Hiking books are essential.

Round Hill Stream car park to Pinchgut Hut

The access road to the Round Hill Stream car park passes through Whiterock Downs Station. Leave all gates as you find them. Some gates may appear locked, however they are usually only secured with a chain.

From the parking area, walk along the gravel road for a further 300 m then take a track that drops down to the Okuku River. Cross the river, picking up a marked track leading to a clearing.

Turn right and follow another short section of marked track. Turn right onto a vehicle track, following it for 400 m, then left onto a benched track above Okuku River.

Along this section you pass through an impressive stand of kānuka. Two large land slips are bypassed by walking along the edge of the river. Beyond Whare Stream the track climbs steeply, then sidles along the hillside to Pinchgut Hut.

From Pinchgut Hut, it's 3 hours to Bob's Camp Biv via Cattle Peak Route, and 2 hours 30 minutes to the junction with Bob's Camp Bivouac Route via Whare Ridge Route.

From Loburn, follow the Loburn - Whiterock Road for 13 km. Turn into Taaffes Glen Road and follow this until you reach Round Hill Stream where there is a small parking area.

NZTopo50 map sheet: BW23 (Cust)

Wasp populations reach high numbers from January to March – wear light-coloured clothing and carry antihistamine cream/tablets as a precaution.

Okuku River may not be passable in high flows.

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