Mount Ida Water Race Track

Located in Oteake Conservation Park in the Otago region

This track follows a water race which is still in use. It has great views of the St Bathans basin and Falls Dam valley. The track is overgrown with sections of long grass and washouts.

From the end of Shepherds Hut Creek Track, the track leads along the foot of the Hawkdun Range. It ends at Pierces Gorge. From here, follow a 4WD track for 1km/15 mins to end at Home Hills Runs Road.

The intersecting 4WD tracks provide an opportunity for shorter loops.  

There are unbridged streams on the track. Assess these carefully before crossing and if in doubt, stay out.

The track can be accessed from three 4WD tracks, off Home Hills Runs Road:

  • Shepherds Hut Creek Track
  • Hut Creek
  • Pierces Gorge.

Pack the right gear 

Take clothing for all weather including warm, waterproof clothing and sun protection. 

DOC packing lists

Be careful of 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. 

Be aware of weather conditions in the catchment headwaters. Check fords before entry.

How to cross rivers safely 

No fires 

Fires are not allowed anywhere in Oteake Conservation Park. 

Check the weather forecast 

NIWA Weather: Ida Railway Hut 

Shared use tracks 

Many of the tracks in Oteake Conservation Park are shared use. You may encounter walkers, mountain bikers and people riding horses. Take care and respect other track users.

There may be avalanche danger

Avalanches most frequently occur from May to November in Oteake Conservation Park. There can also be avalanches outside this period if there is still snow coverage.

You should always follow the three components of avalanche safety:

  1. Have the relevant avalanche skills and training.
  2. Check the Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale (ATES) rating and the New Zealand Avalanche Advisory information for the area you’re going in to.
  3. Go with a buddy. Both of you should carry and know how to use an avalanche transceiver, a snow shovel and a probe.

The following page has ATES information for Oteake Conservation Park.

Be avalanche alert in Wakatipu, Wānaka and Central Otago

New Zealand Avalanche Advisory is provided by the Mountain Safety Council.

New Zealand Avalanche Advisory