About this hunting block

The Pyke Forest Conservation Area is contiguous with the northern boundary of Fiordland National Park and includes the area surrounding Big Bay and the northern half of the Skippers Range. Mount Aspiring National Park adjoins the area to the east and the Arawhata Conservation Area to the north.

This spectacular area contains areas of podocarp and beech forest as well as extensive wetland areas, river flats and rugged alpine grasslands.

Mountain radios/locator beacons

There is little to no mobile phone coverage within Fiordland National Park, to ensure your safety it is best to take a Mountain Radio or PLB (Personal Locator Beacon).

Outdoor gear supplies and hire in Fiordland

Access

Access is by helicopter usually from Milford Sound or on foot via the Hollyford Valley (Hollyford Track and Pyke – Big Bay Route).

Maps

NZTopo50 maps required for this area area – CA09 Alabaster Pass, BZ09 Awarua Point. NZTopo50 maps are available from a DOC Visitor Centre near you.

For further mapping and access information refer to Outdoor access maps (WAMS) or DOC maps. 

Animals present

Red deer – moderate numbers
Chamois – moderate numbers

Dogs

No dogs are permitted in the Pyke Forest Conservation Area at any time.

Huts

Big Bay Hut – 9 bunks
Martins Bay Hut – 24 bunks
Olivine Hut – 6 bunks

Additional information

If possuming, a permit must be obtained by visiting the DOC Fiordland District Office in Te Anau.