10 October 2026
Fine at first then becoming cloudy, with showers developing in the afternoon, possibly heavy and thundery about the ranges. Easterlies turning northerly in the afternoon.
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Hokitika Gorge Scenic Reserve
Hokitika Gorge is one of the West Coast’s most scenic natural attractions. There’s turquoise water, lush rainforest and walking options for everyone.
Distance
1.6 km
Walking time
1 hr 30 min loop
Difficulty
Easiest, Easy
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Friendly
Current status
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Issued 9 Oct 2026, 11:01 pm
10 October 2026
Fine at first then becoming cloudy, with showers developing in the afternoon, possibly heavy and thundery about the ranges. Easterlies turning northerly in the afternoon.
11 October 2026
Occasional rain clearing in the afternoon, then partly cloudy. Northeasterlies, dying out in the afternoon.
12 October 2026
Fine. Light winds.
13 October 2026
A few showers turning to rain in the morning. Light winds.
14 October 2026
Rain with heavy falls easing. Light winds.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
An easy, well-formed and very well maintained gravel loop track for all ages and fitness levels. It undulates through mature podocarp forest, along the river, over swing bridges and curved boardwalks. There are plenty of photo opportunities from the many viewing platforms. Take time to enjoy this magnificent water carved gorge. Learn about the geology of the gorge, flora and fauna by reading the infographics present along the track. There is access to the water’s edge from a small beach.
If accessing the beach, pay attention to the warning signs. The Hokitika river is dangerous. Swimming is not recommended. Due to high amounts of sandflies, the use of insect repellent is recommended. No dogs are allowed
From Hokitika, follow Hampden St to Kaniere Rd. Turn left onto Kaniere Rd. Continue on Kaniere Kowhitirangi Rd. Drive to Whitcombe Valley Rd in Kokatahi Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
No dogs.
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.