10 October 2026
Mostly cloudy. A few showers about the Sounds and inland ranges, possibly heavy from afternoon. Northeasterlies, strong at times about the Kaikoura Coast from afternoon.
Loading outdoor place details…
KiwiTools
Search KiwiToolsFind tools, guides and categories in one place.
Loading photo
1 / 32Ka Whata Tu o Rakihouia Clarence
Mt Fyffe Hut/Kowhai Saddle Route
There are superb views from Mt Fyffe. You can climb or mountain bike the steep track to the summit or go as far as Mt Fyffe Hut. Create an overnight loop by continuing to Kowhai Saddle and return down Kowhai Valley.
Distance
25 km
Walking time
2 to 3 days
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Allowed — check local rules
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Training operation between Hinau Carpark and Mt Fyffe Hut
Training operation between Hinau Carpark and Mt Fyffe Hut
Weather outlook
Marlborough forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 4:55 pm
11 October 2026
Cloudy with showers, mainly about the Sounds and inland ranges, clearing and becoming mainly fine late afternoon. Northwesterlies but northeasterlies about Kaikoura Coast, strong at times, easing everywhere in the evening.
12 October 2026
Fine. Northerlies developing in the morning.
13 October 2026
Mostly cloudy with isolated showers, clearing to fine in the afternoon. Northwesterlies developing in the morning.
14 October 2026
Mostly cloudy with isolated showers, turning to rain in the afternoon. Northwesterlies, dying out in the evening.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Mt Fyffe Hut/Kowhai Saddle Route on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Mt Fyffe Hut/Kowhai Saddle Route
Carpark to Mt Fyffe Hut and then Mt Fyffe Summit From the car park make your way up the 4wd road to the hut - this part of the track is wide and easy to walk on. The path from the hut to the summit becomes somewhat narrower and steeper. Summit to Kowhai Hut From here follow the occasional markers along the undulating tops towards Gable where a short steep scree/broken rock descent leads to a narrow pass with scree runs on both sides. Traverse this to where the descent to Kowhai Saddle starts. The track is rugged with a lot of boulder hopping and stream crossing. Follow the markers to Kowhai Hut. Kowhai Hut to carpark The track takes you down the Kowhai River and on tracks sidling the river. It is unmarked in parts.
Essential information for Mt Fyffe Hut/Kowhai Saddle Route
The track to Mt Fyffe Hut is much easier than the rest of the loop. You will need advanced skills to complete the route - navigation challenges, riverbed walking and river crossings, and scree slope traversing awaits. Do not attempt after rain. Mountain bikes are permitted on the Mt Fyffe Track. It is very steep; both the ascent and descent will challenge those who try it. Stay in control of your bike and give way to walkers. Dogs with a DOC permit only.
Huts and campsites
Mt Fyffe Hut Kowhai Hut
Getting there for Mt Fyffe Hut/Kowhai Saddle Route
Kaikōura is on State Highway 1 along the South Island coast. It is 154 km south of Picton and 183 km north of Christchurch. Mt Fyffe carpark is about 15 km from town via Ludstone Rd, Red Swamp Rd, and finally Postmans Rd. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
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 . Level up in your outdoor knowledge with these interactive 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 .
Dog access for Mt Fyffe Hut/Kowhai Saddle Route
Dogs with a DOC permit only. Contact closest DOC office to get a permit.
Before you walk Mt Fyffe Hut/Kowhai Saddle Route
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.