Mount Te Kinga Track/Ara O Te Kinga
Located in Lake Brunner area in the West Coast region
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Introduction
Climb to a lookout for spectacular views, or continue to the summit of Mount Te Kinga.5.4 km | 12.4 km return via same track
Dog access
To lookouts
Time: 3 hr return
Distance: 5.4 km
The track initially climbs 300 m to two lookouts. The forest contains fine specimens of kahikatea, rimu and matai, and is well populated by a variety of native birds. From the lookouts, there are views out across the lake to Iveagh Bay, the outlet of Crooked River and Moana township.
To Mt Te Kinga
Time: 8 hr return
Distance: 12.4 km
From the second lookout, the track becomes a route and is a more serious prospect. The forest is as impressive as before, species changing with altitude to kaikawaka, neinei and massive southern rata, succeeded by pink pine as forest thins and gives way to alpine plants. The open tops are reached at about 1000 m, but some climbing is still required to reach the first peak at 1196 m.
From the summit on clear days there are views out to the Paparoa Range and Tasman Sea in one direction, and to Mt Alexander and the main divide in another. Immediately west is the Hohonu Range, while to the north east are Kangaroo and Lady Lakes. Lake Brunner’s only islands, Takataka or Refuge Islands, are prominent to the north with Pah Point immediately beyond them.
For people who want to explore further, there are moderate climbs and descents for nearly a kilometre eastward along the summit ridge to the second peak at 1204 m.
Return is via the same route.
The track starts east of Lake Brunner, inland from Greymouth, between SH 73 and SH 7.
Turn off SH 7 near Stillwater onto Arnold Valley Road, and follow this to the township of Moana (22 km). From Moana, continue on Lake Brunner Road to Te Kinga (5 km), then turn into Cashmere Road and follow this to the end (2 km).
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
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 | |
| Reefton Visitor & Service Centre | |
| Phone: | +64 3 732 8821 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | BDC_CustomerServices_Reefton@bdc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
67–69 Broadway Reefton 7830 |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 100 Reefton 7851 |
| Full office details | |