Sunset on Mount Cargill.
Grahams Bush Walkway

Located in Dunedin area in the Otago region

Climb through native bush with views of Otago Harbour and Otago Peninsula.

This walkway provides foot access between Sawyers Bay and Mount Cargill Road. The track can be started at either end. If you prefer to do the hard work and walk-up hill first, start the walk in Sawyers Bay. The track is a steady climb the whole way and gains 366 m in elevation.

To access the walkway from Sawyers Bay, park on the sealed road end on Hall Road. Walk up the gravel road until you reach a gate with a stile. From here the track officially starts and after 350 m you will enter Grahams Bush Scenic Reserve and start weaving your way uphill through native bush. The track has stiles, stairs, a creek crossing, and is steep and slippery in some sections.

For those with time and a good level of fitness, the track connects with the Organ Pipes Track and the summit of Mount Cargill.

The track starts/finishes from car parks at either end.

To walk uphill first start in Sawyers Bay. Park on the street at the sealed road end on Hall Road, off the Dunedin-Port Chalmers Road at Sawyers Bay. There is no parking or turning on the gravel road past this point.

To walk downhill first, there is a small car park on Mount Cargill Road, accessed via North Road. This car park also services the Organ Pipes Track.

Park only on the sealed road end of Hall Road. There is no parking or turning on the gravel road. Do not drive up the gravel road.

Take care and expect resident’s vehicles when walking up the gravel road.

There is a creek crossing on the track. Flash flooding can occur during periods of high rain fall. Avoid the area during or immediately after periods of heavy rain.

The track crosses private land at both ends. Respect the landowners and stay on the track.

The track passes through a working farm, please expect stock and be aware that there may be farm vehicles and other hazards.

In wet conditions, rocky sections of the track can be slippery.

Stay safe when crossing rivers

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely