This 4 hr return daytrip in the southern Tararua Range takes you over the Puffer Saddle and down Smith Creek with its fine stands of red/hard beech forest, to its confluence with the Tauherenikau River at the Smith Creek Shelter.

Note: Traversing a large, old slip on the track may add up to 1.5 hrs to the completion time of the return trip.

You can also walk further up the Tauherenikau Valley to Marchant Creek for views of the river and the young podocarp forest regenerating in the manuka on the flats.

Turn off State Highway 2 onto Marchant Road at the YMCA Camp Kaitoke turnoff. Near the end of Marchant Road, turn right into Kiwi Ranch Road. The carpark is located on the left, approximately 500m along Kiwi Ranch Road.

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.

How to cross rivers safely