Temple valley tracks
Located in Ruataniwha Conservation Park in the Canterbury region
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Introduction
These short tramping tracks travel through mountain beech forest.Other activities
- Horse riding
Dog access
Temple Valley Circuit Track
Time: 1 hr
Distance: 2 km
This is a short, interesting track through beech forest and bracken fern. It provides good, elevated views into South Temple valley.
North Temple Track
Time: 2 hr 30 min - 3 hr
Distance: 5 km
Cross North Temple Stream and follow the track up North Temple valley. The track has been washed out in places from high river flow. It generally keeps to the beech-forest margin and ends at an impressive cirque basin. Experienced trampers may choose to cross Gunsight Pass into South Temple valley.
South Temple Track
Time: 3 - 4 hr
Distance: 7.5 km
This track has suffered a little bit from slips and track wash-outs from high river flow. It hasn't deterred from the track but has increased the time required to reach South Temple Hut. You need to cross South Temple Stream to reach the hut; this may be tricky after heavy rainfall.
Horse riding
South Temple Track is suitable for riding horses.
Temple valley is signposted off Lake Ohau Road, 50 km from Twizel. Follow SH 6 from Twizel, then turn into Lake Ohau Road.
The sealed road changes to gravel after passing Lake Ohau Lodge. Drive carefully and watch out for stock grazing beside the road. As a courtesy, drive slowly past Lake Ohau Station buildings to reduce dust.
The Temple valley car park has a shelter and long drop toilet. Sandfly repellent here is very useful.
Map: NZTopo50 BZ14 Mount Barth
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.
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.
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: | info@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
15 Wairepo Road Twizel 7901 |
| Postal Address: |
Private Bag 951 Twizel 7944 |
| Full office details | |