Breast Hill Track

Times and distances: 

• Dingle Burn Rd entrance to Pakituhi Hut: 3-4 hr (4 km)
• Pakituhi Hut to Stodys Hut via Breast Hill: 4-5 hr(12.5 km)
• Pakituhi Hut to Stodys Hut via 4WD track: 3-4 hr (13 km)
• Stodys Hut to Timaru River junction: 1 -1.5 hr (1.5 km)
• Stodys Hut  to Top Timaru Hut: 6-7.5 hr (13.5 km)
• Stodys Hut to Timaru River carpark: 5-6.5 hr(12.5 km)

Note: Times indicated are in the direction of track from Dingle Burn Road to Timaru River Junction. Time allowances may need to be adjusted for those going in the opposite direction and those not confident in this type of terrain.

From the Dingle Burn Road to Pakituhi Hut the track is a steady climb rising 400 m on a formed zig-zag track to a small saddle. The next section of track follows a prominent ridge to the highest point (1300 m) before a short descent to the hut. On clear days, trampers will be rewarded with stunning views over Lake Hāwea and the surrounding landscape including Mt Aspiring/Tititea.

From Pakituhi Hut an alternate route, bypassing Breast Hill, is available following a 4WD track to Stodys Hut. This undulating track affords spectacular mountainous views including Corner Peak and the St Bathans range.

From Stodys Hut the track descends steeply to the Timaru River via a marked tree lined ridge. Trampers at this point have the option to proceed towards Top Timaru Hut and the Ahuriri Valley or back towards the Timaru River carpark making it into a loop track. A slip on a section of the track 50m down stream from the Timaru River/Breast Hill track junction requires care to cross.

Dingle Burn Road entrance is signposted 1 km from Johns Creek township or approximately 6 km from Lake Hāwea township.

Breast Hill Track is particularly demanding due to its exposed nature and physically demanding terrain. 

• It is only suitable for experienced trampers.
• Sections of the track have limited marking and in low cloud trampers will need navigational skills.
• The climate is typically Central Otago, and very hot, dry conditions are common in summer.
• Carry plenty of water, as water sources are limited.
• Wintry conditions can occur at any time of the year, with the higher country subject to snow, especially during winter.
• Be prepared by having warm, windproof clothing and the appropriate footwear.

Unbridged rivers: There are river and stream crossings that become hazardous in heavy rain or snowmelt. Be prepared to turn back.

Be avalanche alert: This area has terrain that can produce avalanches that cross the track, usually from May into November. View avalanche information.

Private property: This track crosses private land. Respect the landowner's livestock and property: stay on the marked track until you reach the conservation land, leave gates as you find them and use stiles where provided. Livestock can be unpredictable – keep your distance at all times/go around if necessary. 

No camping until the conservation area boundary.