10 October 2026
Mostly cloudy with showers, mainly about the ranges where some may be heavy. Northeasterlies, becoming strong in exposed places this afternoon.
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1 / 1Westland
Payn's Track
This short track follows a stream meandering through regenerating native bush. There's a great view over penstocks, Kumara Power Station and Taramakau River.
Distance
0.6 km
Walking time
20 minutes
Difficulty
Easy
Dogs
Allowed — check local rules
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
Westland forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 4:55 pm
11 October 2026
Showers, possibly heavy, retreating to the ranges in the afternoon, clearing in the evening. Northeasterlies, dying out in the afternoon.
12 October 2026
Fine. Northerlies developing for a time in the afternoon.
13 October 2026
Rain becoming persistent in the morning. Light winds.
14 October 2026
Rain with heavy falls easing to a few showers in the afternoon. Light winds.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Payn's Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Payn's Track
You can return via the same track, or take an alternative branch back via an old main road to meet SH73. Loop via SH73, 1350m total.
Getting there for Payn's Track
Signposted 200m east of Chinese Garden site, on SH73.
Essential information for Payn's Track
Uneven terrain and muddy in places after rain.
Helpful resources
This track is part of the Herenga ā Nuku Aotearoa track database. Herenga ā Nuku has maps and advice about public access to the outdoors . 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 .
Before you walk Payn's 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.