Kahurangi National Park Cobb Valley Extension

This forgotten miners’ track pushes deep into Kahurangi National Park’s marble heart, following old pack routes to the abandoned Cobb Valley goldfields. The route starts beyond the sealed Cobb Reservoir road and climbs through ancient beech forest on deteriorating surfaces that haven’t seen maintenance since the 1960s. Creek crossings become increasingly technical as you push toward the old Fenella Hut site, with washouts and fallen trees creating natural obstacles.

Rated difficult for good reason — this track demands experienced drivers with proper recovery gear and chainsaw skills. Wet weather turns clay sections into impassable bogs. Best attempted December through March when creek levels drop. No permits required but inform DOC of your plans. Fuel up in Takaka and carry spare parts. What you earn is solitude in some of New Zealand’s most pristine wilderness, plus access to world-class trout fishing in waters that see maybe a dozen anglers per year.