09 October 2026
Partly cloudy, with the chance of a shower about the ranges. Light winds, but easterlies about Golden Bay.
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1 / 17Abel Tasman National Park
Harwoods Hole Track
DOC no longer provides a track to Harwoods Hole or promotes Harwoods Hole as a managed visitor site.
Distance
5.5 km
Walking time
2 hours
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Nelson forecast
Issued 9 Oct 2026, 4:49 pm
10 October 2026
Cloud increasing with showers developing in the morning, then becoming rain overnight. Easterlies easing in the morning, then northerlies in the evening.
11 October 2026
Showers becoming isolated with longer fine breaks in the afternoon. Northeasterlies, turning westerly in the afternoon.
12 October 2026
Mainly fine, but isolated showers in the afternoon. Light winds.
13 October 2026
Partly cloudy. Light winds.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Harwoods Hole Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Harwoods Hole Track
From Canaan Carpark, this walking track winds through a beech forest surrounded by striking limestone rock formations. At the track junction, take the left-hand path. This route leads to the edge of New Zealand's deepest vertical shaft, a 176-meter sinkhole plunging to an underground river that re-emerges below and flows into Gorge Creek, eventually reaching the Takaka River. It is very dangerous to approach the edge of the hole . There are no barriers. It is not possible to see down the shaft. Children need to be supervised; the hole is a very dangerous place, extreme care required. For a scenic detour, follow the right-hand branch at the junction to reach Gorge Creek Lookout. Here, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views over the Tākaka Valley and Gorge Creek. Allow an extra 20 minutes to walk to and from the lookout. Take care when approaching the lookout, as the path crosses rugged limestone formations.
Essential preparation for Harwoods Hole Track
Rock and fall hazards The area around Harwoods Hole has unstable rock and significant fall hazards where slipping could be fatal. It is not possible to look down into Harwoods Hole from the top of the hole (due to its shape), or anywhere from the former track. The public can access the area at their own risk, taking responsibility for their own safety. DOC does not provide any access tracks or manage any of the hazards there. Specialist and experienced climbers, cavers, and rescue personnel can navigate to the site. Anyone considering caving at Harwoods Hole should read the Harwoods Hole and Starlight Cave guidelines . Open areas nearby Caanan Downs Campsite and the nearby mountain biking tracks remain open and are unaffected by this closure. You can also enjoy the Takaka Hill limestone on the spectacular Hawkes Lookout Walk .
Dog access for Harwoods Hole Track
Not Applicable
Before you walk Harwoods Hole Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.