Kirwans Track
Located in Victoria Forest Park in the West Coast region
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Introduction
The walk up to Kirwans Hut via Montgomerie Hut is a stunning overnight tramp. There are incredible historic relics to be seen in this area.20.7 km one way return via same track
Mountain biking
Advanced: Grade 4Expert: Grade 5
Other activities
- Four wheel driving
- Horse riding
Dog access
The walk up to Kirwans Hut via Montgomerie Hut is a stunning overnight tramp. Leaving from the Waitahu/ Gannons Road car park, the 11.5 km track winds its way up the Waitahu River to the 6 bunk Montgomerie Hut.
Either spend the night here or carry on up the remaining 9.2 km track from Montgomerie Hut to Kirwans Hut. You will pass the Lord Brassey Historic Stamper, and then climb your way up to the beautiful Kirwans Hut.
You will need to return the same way. Due to severe storm damage and a dangerous rock fall, the loop via Capleston car park is closed until further notice.
Gannons Road car park – Montgomerie Hut
Time: 4 hr or 11.5 km
Leaving from the Waitahu/ Gannons Road car park, the 11.5 km track winds its way up the Waitahu River to the 6 bunk Montgomerie Hut.
Montgomerie Hut – Kirwans Hut
Time: 3.5 hr or 9.2 km
From Montgomerie Hut, the track winds its way up to the Lord Brassey stamper battery. The battery is an impressive structure holding fifteen 500kg+ stamper rods, that were originally lifted by a water powered pelton wheel, then dropped down to crush gold bearing quartz. From here it’s a steep but steady climb up to Kirwans Hut.
Kirwans Hut is built on a stunning site in an alpine clearing just above the bushline. On a clear day you can see all the way down to Aoraki/Mount Cook.
Mountain biking
The ride up to Kirwans Hut and back by the Waitahu/ Gannons Road track is a stunning, wilderness grade 4 mountain bike ride.
It is a challenging ride up gaining 1000 m elevation. You are rewarded with spectacular views and a steep downhill ride back to the Lord Brassey Stamper battery, with sections of technical riding and some carrying. Another option is to take a helicopter up to the top and ride down.
Mountain biking can also be done by Murray Creek to the Clematis swing bridge and back down the Waitahu Valley to create a loop ride back to Reefton.
We do not recommend mountain biking up the Waitahu valley further than Station Creek.
These are shared-use tracks. Follow the mountain bikers code: respect others, respect the rules, respect the track.
Horse riding
There is an easy ride up the Waitahu Valley four wheel drive road. After the Clematis Swingbridge the track rapidly becomes rougher.
From Reefton, drive 2.1 km north toward Westport. Look for the Gannons Road sign pointing right off the main road down Gannons Road. Follow Gannons road for 5 km, crossing the Waitahu bridge and reach the track car park.
Wasps can be common from December to April, carry antihistamine if you are allergic to their stings.
The track in the Waitahu Valley before Montgomerie Hut crosses several fords. Take care if it has been raining heavily.
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.
You can visit the Kirwans Reward mine and associated aerial ropeway. The Lord Brassey stamper battery, a gold relic saved from collapse, is a must see.
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
| Paparoa National Park Visitor Centre | |
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| Phone | +64 3 731 1895 |
| paparoavc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | 4294 Coast Road Punakaiki RD 1 Runanga 7873 |
| Hours | Visitor centre hours and services |