Hollyford Track (Trail Head)

Nice track with cool water falls.
Feb 8th, 2023

Nov 20th, 2021

Dec 13th, 2018

Apr 3rd, 2018

The first leg of the Hollyford up to Lake alabaster hut is quite flat and gravel paved, an easy 5-6 hour hike at 21km for fit trekkers. The trail gets more difficult after this as you head north to the Martin's Bay Hut. It remain flat but the trail is very slippery and rocky with unstable footing that makes each kilometre feel like 2. There is predator control in effect as of 2020, which means you will see and hear Kea, Kaka, Tomtits, Fantails, and Kereru. I had a close encounter with a Kaka when it flew down to check me out. BEWARE OF THE SANDFLIES!!!!!!!!!!!!! They are EVERYWHERE (especially the loo) and will gleefully suck your blood. So bring heaps of deet repellent. As mentioned the river crossings are not possible after a heavy rain so pay close attention to the forecast and don't hesitate to postpone your trip if needed. You can hang out in Te Anau which is a great town with lots to do. If you are fit and experienced I highly recommend combining this track with the Pyke Route, which is less travelled, not as well marked, but a fantastic hike with lots of varied terrain and ecosystems. Part of the Pyke Track is permanently under water in Lake Alabaster, and part of it goes through the Black Swamp. Both of these will have you waist deep in water / muck so be prepared for that. You will get your feet wet every day so best to take footwear that drains and dries easily. But the huts are usually well stocked with firewood to dry things out as well. It took me 10 days to do the combined routes with one rest day. Highly recommended!!
Sep 4th, 2019