Description

This is another loop option taking in some of the lovely tracks around Punakaiki. It's a run of two halves - the first half is flowing single track, the second all 4WD road, but the views throughout are stunning.

Start up the Pororari River track. This has just been upgraded, and is easy single track, heading through a cave, and with great views of the river. At the first main track junction turn left towards the Inland Pack Track. From here the track gets rougher, and is often quite wet. There are areas of cyclone damage where the trees have all been knocked down - quite eerie 4-5 years later. There are plenty of little ups and downs, and nice views from the swing bridge.

Eventually you come to another junction, with a right turn towards Cave Creek marked. Turn left instead, then left again when you get to the gravel road. This is signposted to Bullock Creek road. From here the running is easier, but the views keep opening up, as you are mainly out of the bush. There are impressive limestone cliffs visible for most of the rest of the run. The gravel road is generally really quiet. It comes out onto the main highway about 1km from where you parked - turn left again here, cross over the road and follow the path by its side until you get back to the car.

Features of interest

Stunning limestone cliffs, caves and formations

Make Up of Run

Technical Single Track: 40%

Easy Single Track: 15%

Farm Road / 4WD Track: 40%

Sealed Road: 5%

Route Data