Smith Creek - Tauherenikau River
Located in Tararua Forest Park in the Wairarapa region
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Introduction
This is a daytrip in the southern Tararua Range and the exit/entry to the Kaitoke-Holdsworth Tramp.13 km return via same track
Dog access
This 4 hr return daytrip in the southern Tararua Range takes you over the Puffer Saddle and down Smith Creek with its fine stands of red/hard beech forest, to its confluence with the Tauherenikau River at the Smith Creek Shelter.
Note: Traversing a large, old slip on the track may add up to 1.5 hrs to the completion time of the return trip.
You can also walk further up the Tauherenikau Valley to Marchant Creek for views of the river and the young podocarp forest regenerating in the manuka on the flats.
Turn off State Highway 2 onto Marchant Road at the YMCA Camp Kaitoke turnoff. Near the end of Marchant Road, turn right into Kiwi Ranch Road. The carpark is located on the left, approximately 500m along Kiwi Ranch Road.
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.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| Wellington/Kapiti information | |
| Phone: | +64 3 546 9339 |
| Email: | nelsonvc@doc.govt.nz |
| About: | Whakatū/Nelson Visitor Centre provides visitor information for this area |