Department of Conservation | Te Papa Atawhai
https://www.doc.govt.nz/
https://www.doc.govt.nz/
Located in Kahurangi National Park in the Nelson/Tasman region
Introduction
This challenging mountain bike track provides spectacular views from the ridge tops of the Lockett Range and features historic huts and shelters.Riding options
The track can be ridden in a day or you can overnight at either Riordans Hut or Waingaro Forks Hut.
Camp Creek (off Uruwhenua Road, Upper Takaka) to Skeet Creek
Distance: 13.3 km
This part of the track is on a former stock route (unformed legal road outside the national park). It is mostly of benched construction with a rock base. Climbing up to the Lockett Range the track is mostly in good condition with minor areas of erosion.
Skeet Creek to Waingaro Forks Hut
Distance: 5.4 km
On the Lockett Range the track is characterised by rough rocky sections mixed with short lengths of smooth packed dirt. The track is generally well drained and follows a mixture of moderate to steep gradient along the ridge top. It's a technically challenging ride for an experienced mountain biker with a high level of fitness.
Riordans Hut
Category: Basic/bivvies
Facilities: 3 bunk beds, heating, mattresses, toilets - non-flush, water from stream
Bookings not required - first come, first served
Waingaro Forks Hut
Category: Basic/bivvies
Facilities: 4 bunk beds, heating, mattresses, toilets - non-flush, water from stream
Bookings not required - first come, first servedTurn off SH 60 onto Uruwhenua Road about 17 km south of Tākaka and follow this to a parking area.
What to expect
The track is technically challenging, on rough, remote terrain. You may need to walk or carry your bike at various points.
Rules
You aren't allowed to:
- ride in a group of more than 6 riders
- ride an e-bike.
You aren't allowed to take a mountain bike:
- in or out of the national park by helicopter
- into any huts or shelters
- beyond the Waingaro Forks Hut
- off the formed and designated route.
Signs and other markers clearly identify where mountain bikes can be ridden and where they are not allowed. At the Uruwhenua Road end there are several side roads and tracks coming off the legal road across private land. Stay on the marked track and respect private land.
Park at the designated parking area off Uruwhenua Road.
This is a shared-use track. Follow the mountain bikers code: respect others, respect the rules, respect the track.