Walking options

• For a 1 night trip, walk to Pororari Hut
• For a 2 night trip, walk to Pororari Hut and stay two nights. This gives you time to do the side trip to the northern end of the escarpment.

Track description

From the Pororari River car park, the track passes through lush rainforest with glades of nikau palms. It then climbs through beech forest interspersed with northern rata and sidles through a spectacular gorge. From the upper Pororari River valley, it climbs to Pororari Hut where there are stunning 360 degree views.

Follow the same track back to car park.

Side trip: Pororari Hut to northern end of escarpment

Time: 6 hr return

From Pororari Hut the track continues to the emergency shelter on the northern end of the escarpment. This track includes good views before it transitions into alpine bush and the emergency shelter.

Follow the same track back to Pororari Hut.

Fees are charged per person, per night to stay in Pororari Hut. There are no fees to complete a day walk on the track or for entry into Paparoa National Park.

Waikori Road car park to Pororari Hut 

Time: 2 hr 30 min – 3 hr 30 min one way
Distance: 17.1 km

Pororari Hut to northern end of escarpment

Time: 3–4 hr one way
Distance: 8 km

The track starts from the Pororari River carpark on SH6, 1.2 km north of Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki.

Your safety is your responsibility

Know the Outdoor Safety Code - 5 simple rules to help you #makeithome.

Be prepared for all conditions

Weather in Paparoa National Park is changeable with annual rainfall averaging around 6,000 mm (235 inches). Heavy rain, snow, ice, fog and strong winds are possible at all times of the year, especially on the exposed sections of the track.

You must be well equipped and prepared for all weather conditions and carry warm and waterproof clothing. If the weather becomes severe, stay put in the hut or turn back until conditions improve.

If you are hiking the track in winter, check for snow and ice conditions before you leave and allow extra time. If in doubt, consider changing your trip to another day.

Check Paparoa National Park weather forecast

Flooding

Some sections of track in the Pororari Valley may become impassable during times of very heavy rainfall. There is also a risk of landslides. There is danger of treefall in extreme wind events. Do not attempt to travel if these conditions occur.

Watch out for Ongaonga (tree nettle)

New Zealand’s native tree nettle, Ongaonga, may be seen in the Pororari Valley. It's sting is painful - don't touch its leaves.