Sawcut Gorge/Isolated Hill Route
Located in Isolated Hill Scenic Reserve in the Marlborough region
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Introduction
The track to Sawcut Gorge is closed. Access to Isolated Hill Reserve is possible by experienced trampers by walking up the hydro parcels,Dog access
The track to Sawcut Gorge is closed.
Access to Isolated Hill Reserve is possible by walking up the hydro parcels, as identified on Walking Access New Zealand’s map. However this access should only be attempted by those with a high level of backcountry experience and skill. Otherwise helicopter access is advised.
Dogs
Dogs are allowed in the reserve with a dog permit from the South Marlborough Area Office.
Dogs must be kept under control and not used for hunting until well within the DOC hunting area.
Follow these simple guidelines:
- Keep your dog under control, preferably with a leash, at all times
- A dog out of sight is a dog out of control
- Carry a leash and use it
- Ensure that your dog does not disrupt other people's enjoyment of the park
- Clean up after your dog
- Dog droppings may contain harmful bacteria or diseases that can easily spread to farm animals, so be sure to remove your dog’s waste.
Hunters should check where pesticides have been used on conservation land and ask relevant landowners about pesticide use before taking dogs into hunting areas.
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.
This is a geologically and botanically interesting area that invites exploration by experienced walkers and hunters.
The vegetation varies from beech forest to tussock grasslands, while some of Marlborough's unique and/or threatened plants cling tenaciously to the steep rock walls. Intensive goat, possum and weed control programmes are undertaken in this reserve to protect these plants.
Much of the rock here is stark white limestone, interspersed with grey wedges of argillite, sandstone and mudstone. Several pools along Isolated Creek smell distinctly of sulphur.
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
| Whakatū / Nelson Visitor Centre | |
| Phone: | +64 3 546 9339 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | nelsonvc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
Millers Acre/Taha o te Awa 79 Trafalgar Street Nelson 7010 |
| Postal Address: |
Private Bag 5 Nelson 7042 |
| Full office details | |