You can access the St James Conservation Area either from the west side on SH 7 or on the eastern boundary along Tophouse Road.
West - SH 7 and St James Walkway
The western side provides access to the St James Walkway which starts and finishes on SH 7. Entry points are either at the top of the Lewis Pass just off the car park and picnic area, or at the Boyle Village from SH 7, Lewis Pass Road. There is no further vehicle access from SH 7, and please note that mountain bikes and horses are not permitted on the St James Walkway.
Do not trespass onto Glenhope Station.
Glenhope Station’s boundary surrounds Boyle River on the section of St James Walkway from Boyle Village to Magdalen Hut. Stay on the track and note that hunting is not permitted on Glenhope Station – offenders can be prosecuted for trespassing and poaching.
East - Hanmer Springs and Tophouse Road
The east side of the St James Conservation Area can be reached via Hanmer Springs.
From Hanmer Springs township, take Clarence Valley Road over Jacks Pass to connect with Tophouse Road (approximately 13 km from Hanmer Springs). This road follows the eastern boundary of the conservation area as far as Lake Tennyson. This road follows the eastern boundary of St James Conservation Area to Lake Tennyson. All tracks along this road are open to cyclists, horse riders and walkers.
Off-road parking is available at St James Homestead and at the entrances to Maling Pass and Fowlers Pass tracks. Do not leave valuables in your vehicle.
Public transport
There is no regular public transport along this route although there are numerous options for chartering transport from Hanmer. The latest information is available at the Hanmer Springs isite (+64 3 3150020), 10 am - 5 pm, 7 days a week, except for Christmas Day.
Distance from main centres
- Christchurch 190 km
- Nelson 224 km
- Picton 296 km
- Greymouth 145 km