A long, steady climb that rewards walkers with spectacular, panoramic views of Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea as well as the mountains of the Southern Alps.
Weather today
9°C
broken clouds

Access to this track is from Stewart Creek carpark only on SH6. Follow the poled route along the creek until it joins a farm track. From here it’s a steep, winding, rocky climb to a skyline ridge, with sections where bikers will need to dismount and push. A sign on the ridge points right to the track to 1,385-metre Isthmus Peak, and left, along the exposed ridge to the Matatiaho Conservation Area. Mountain biking permitted.

Please note this track crosses private land so please adhere to the regulation below when visiting:

  • stay on the marked track
  • do not interact with the livestock
  • no dogs/drones/poaching/camping/paragliding/fires/graffiti/weapons permitted
  • Take any rubbish with you
  • Closed for fawning from 20th November to 20th December, check with Department of Conservation for track status.
  • Not recommended in winter due to snow and ice.
  • No water available on the track, so carry plenty of water with you.
  • There are two eco-toilets on the track (bring your own toilet paper)
  • We discourage parking on the SH6.

Starting Point: Isthmus Peak car park on SH6

Isthmus Peak
Time: 5 – 6 hours return
– Distance: 16 km

Grade: A well-marked and maintained track but steep in places.

Matatiaho Conservation Area
Time: 5-7 hours
– Distance: 15 km
Grade: Steep in places

Download the Wānaka Tracks App to help you choose the best track for you. Available on Apple and Android

 

Address
Ardmore Street, Wanaka, New Zealand Get Directions
Website
Getting Here