10 October 2026
Scattered showers, possibly heavy and thundery with hail, easing this evening.
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1 / 7Ruataniwha Conservation Park
South Temple Track
Follow this track to get to South Temple Hut.
Distance
15 km
Walking time
6 - 8 hr
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
On-lead only
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Outdoor alert
Outdoor alert
Weather outlook
Canterbury High Country forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 9:23 pm
11 October 2026
Showers about the Divide, clearing in the evening, otherwise fine.
12 October 2026
Fine.
13 October 2026
Partly cloudy with isolated showers.
14 October 2026
Rain, with heavy falls.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
South Temple Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About South Temple Track
This track has suffered a little bit from slips and track wash-outs from high river flow. It hasn't deterred from the track but has increased the time required to reach South Temple Hut. You need to cross South Temple Stream to reach the hut; this may be tricky after heavy rainfall. It takes 3-4 hours to reach the hut.
Essential information for South Temple Track
There is an ongoing trapping and poison operation for possums in this area. Monitor your dog and use a muzzle to avoid any potential scavenging of possum carcasses. Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out. The Temple valley car park has a shelter and long drop toilet. Sandfly repellent here is very useful.
Huts and campsites
South Temple Hut Temple Campsite
Getting there for South Temple Track
Temple valley is signposted off Lake Ohau Road, 50 km from Twizel. Follow SH 6 from Twizel, then turn into Lake Ohau Road. The sealed road changes to gravel after passing Lake Ohau Lodge. Drive carefully and watch out for stock grazing beside the road. As a courtesy, drive slowly past Lake Ohau Station buildings to reduce dust. 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 . 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
Dog access for South Temple Track
Dogs on a leash only.
Before you walk South Temple 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.