Image: Lyn Trewella | ©
View along a river not far from Spence Hut, Takitimu Conservation Area.
Upper Aparima/Spence Burn Route

Located in Takitimu Conservation Area in the Southland region

This track connects Aparima Folks Hut and Spence Hut, following the Aparima River and Spence Burn.

Spence Burn junction to Aparima Forks Hut

Time: 1 hr 15 min

Distance: 4 km

From the track junction follow the forest edge to the head of the peat wetland. After approximately half an hour the track stops on the true left bank of the main stream, downstream of the forks. Cross the main stream to some small clearings. Aparima Forks Hut is found on a terrace a short distance above, on the true right bank.

Spence Burn junction to Spence Hut

Time: 2 hr 30 min - 3 hr

Distance: 7 km

Enter the forest at the track junction, drop down to the Aparima River below the forks and ford the river. The marked route climbs sharply and traverses the true right side of the valley well above the river. It crosses to the other side after about 1 hr 30 min, then generally follows the true left bank. Spence Hut is situated on an open site on the true right bank of the river.

The track is accessed from the end of Aparima Huts/Spence Burn Junction Route.