Description

Start at the info board on Matakitaki Road. Go through gate and across paddock heading uphill to start of track (there is another gate here). The track zigzags 50 metres uphill beside the old penstock to the intake and water storage reservoir. From here it follows the water race before continuing in the forest on a higher terrace. There is a side track track (about 1.5km up) that leads to a viewing platform above the old weir which diverts some of the Six Mile Creek down the water race. Below the weir ire waterfalls and rapids, worth a look at.

The track then continues, becoming more overgrown, and climbing gradually. You are alongside/above a river and eventually reach a clearing beside the river where it would be possible to swim and stop for a rest before returning. It may aso be possible to continue further but the track is not well marked beyond this point. On the return there is the option of a loop track which descends from the upper terrace to follow along the water race, before rejoining the main track.

Features of interest

Remains of the Six Mile hydro power station which provided power to Murchison and the area until 1975. Beech forest, river, waterfall, birdlife.

Make Up of Run

Technical Single Track: 20%

Moderate Single Track: 30%

Easy Single Track: 50%

Route Data