Fenian Caves Track
Located in Kahurangi National Park and Karamea area in the West Coast region
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Introduction
Explore the three Fenian Caves, with the option to visit the Fenian Workings.8.6 km return via same track
Dog access
The three Fenian Caves are found on a side-track off the main Fenian Track.
From the carpark, a gentle 40 min walk along Fenian Track (an old bridle track) brings you to the start of the Fenian Caves Loop Track. It takes approximately 1 hour to complete the loop track.
At this point the track changes from ‘walking track’ standard to ‘tramping track’ standard, so sturdy footwear and a reasonable level of fitness is required.
There are three open-access caves. Miners Cave and Cavern Creek Cave are beside the track. Tunnel Cave is an 80 m tunnel that the track passes through.
You’ll need a torch or headlamp for exploring the caves and to complete the loop via Tunnel Cave.
Fenian Workings Track
There is the option to also explore the historic Fenian mine workings.
45 min from the car park along the Fenian Track, a signpost indicates the way to the Fenian Workings. It takes approximately 30 min to get to the workings from here, and you will have to return via the same track.
At this point the track standard changes from a ‘walking track’ to a ‘tramping track’ and you will require sturdy footwear and a reasonable level of fitness and experience.
Stop at last track marker/triangle and look carefully to see evidence of the workings, including the impressive hand stacking of rock in the creek bed.
Leave Karamea on Oparara Road and follow this for 6 km to the lime works. Turn into Fenian Road and follow this to the car park at the end.
Rock fall hazards exist on the lower Fenian Track, from the Fenian car park for 200 m along the track.
You'll will need a torch or headlamp to explore the Fenian Caves and to complete the loop track. The track passes through the 80 m long Tunnel Cave.
Contacts
Paparoa National Park Visitor Centre | |
Phone: | +64 3 731 1895 |
Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
Email: | paparoavc@doc.govt.nz |
Address: |
4294 Coast Road Punakaiki RD 1 Runanga 7873 |
Postal Address: |
4294 Coast Road Punakaiki RD 1 Runanga 7873 |
Full office details |