Martins Bay Hut

Hokuri Hut to Martins Bay Hut

Time: 4–5 hr

km Walk for 30 min from Hokuri Hut to reach Hokuri Creek. In low river conditions, you can cross near the creek mouth, but otherwise should use the three-wire crossing 20 min upstream. After crossing the creek, follow the lake shore past the bay where the settlement of Jamestown once stood. After a further 1.5–2 hr walk, the track leaves the lake and continues for another hour to the Hollyford Airstrip and Martins Bay Lodge, managed by Hollyford Track Guided Walks. Martins Bay Hut, situated at the mouth of the Hollyford River/Whakatipu Kā Tuka, is a further 1.5–2 hr from Martins Bay Lodge turn off. Take care when crossing Jerusalem Creek as it is prone to flooding after rain. The track continues on to Long Reef through wind-shorn forest and provides views of the river mouth and sand spit. From July to November, seals and tawaki / Fiordland crested penguins can be seen around the coast close by The track continues on to Long Reef through wind-shorn forest and provides views of the river mouth and sand spit. From July to November, seals and Fiordland crested penguins/tawaki can be seen around the coast close by. Beyond Long Reef, the track becomes the Pyke - Big Bay Route . This route is not as well defined and suitable only for well-equipped and experienced trampers.

Big Bay Hut to Martins Bay Hut

4 - 5 hr, 16 km This section initially follows the sandy beach from Big Bay to McKenzie Creek, located at the southern end of the bay. After crossing the creek (take care as McKenzie Creek can often be impassable and extremely dangerous after rain), a short track leads to the coast. Follow the coastline to Long Reef, before joining the track to Martins Bay Hut (24 bunks) and the Hollyford Track. The route between Martins Bay Hut and Big Bay Hut near Long Reef is overgrown and has a small slip on it making it difficult to navigate. It's recommended that trampers walk around the coast, but this can only be done 2 hours either side of low tide and with calm sea conditions. Be aware there may be seals in this area. The Hollyford Track then follows the true right of the Hollyford River/Whakatipu Kä Tuka, and after about an hour’s walk, reaches private dwellings and two airstrips.

Martins Bay Hut to Hollyford Road End (via Hollyford Track)

4 days, 56 km For details see Hollyford Track .