Active projects

The Trust will generally use the term “track” because it feels more raw and natural, just how we like our outdoor experiences.

Having a track network for all different users, who are satisfied with their experience,
built on the principles of being inclusive and effective use of the available pace.

To cater for different users, our track network has three track categories:

1. Core network – Commuter and easy recreation trails – connecting communities.
Easy-grade and high-use tracks at the urban centres

2. Backdoor excursions – just for fun.
More difficult and playful recreational tracks accessible from home

3. Epic tracks – for the adventurous and a connected region.
Epic outer loop tracks that connect the region

Core network

Lower Cardrona

A simple standard track along the Cardrona River from the end of the existing Cameron Creek Track at Albert Town to connect to the Little Criffel track.
The track would be developed in stages with the section from Monteith Road to Ballantyne Rd, being the 1st section.
Km 4

From Ballantyne Road upstream currently is no through route to the Crown Range road, but this unformed road is already used by the public, mostly by vehicles along the informal 4wd tracks in the riverbed. The current users are often dog walkers.
Km 7
Grade 3

Peninsula Bay Link to Lakeside Trail

This will provide access to Lake Wanaka from Sticky Forest and Scurr Heights, for bikers, walkers, and the residents of Peninsula Bay. This is part of the Reserve Management plan.
Km 1.5
Grade 3

Backdoor excursions

Hawea River True Right

This track will be a grade 3 (suitable for adaptive bikes and off road strollers) following the Hawea River from the Hawea Dam to the Camphill Bridge as a simple styled alternative to the main commuter track on the true left. Will be great to link up as a loop with the current River Track.
Km 5
Grade 3

Charteris Track

A walking track in Makarora will be formed to the DOC short walk standard connecting the Nature Walk to Rata Road. Gary Charteris has previously established a covenant over his land with the QEII National Trust and would now like to enable the public to access this area of Native Forest. The Trust has expressed support of the proposal, subject to clarification of track design and construction standards.
Km 1.3km
Grade: Short walk (adventure mobility)

Rocky West

A poled route around the base of Rocky Hill connecting the Motutapu River Track to the Matukituki River Track. This is part of the bigger plan to develop and upgrade this track network from West Wanaka all the way to Wanaka township.
Km 13

Maintenance

Hawea River Track

Resurface and realign parts of this trail from the Hawea Swing bridge to Camphill Road.

Glendhu Bay Track

Resurface and realign parts of this trail to allow for better cycling gradients and safer width for multiusers.