6 October 2026
Cloudy periods with isolated showers about the Divide. Fine elsewhere, with high cloud.
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1 / 6Puketeraki Forest Conservation Area
Tarn Hut tracks
These tracks can be combined to form a circuit walk to Tarn Hut.
Distance
31.4 km
Walking time
2 days
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Fallen trees on Youngman Stream Track
Fallen trees on Youngman Stream Track
Weather outlook
Canterbury High Country forecast
Issued 6 Oct 2026, 7:39 am
7 October 2026
Rain about the Divide, possibly heavy, clearing in the evening. Fine with high cloud elsewhere, then scattered rain developing in the afternoon. Snow flurries above 2300 metres from afternoon.
8 October 2026
A few showers.
9 October 2026
Mostly cloudy.
10 October 2026
A few showers developing.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Tarn Hut tracks on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Tarn Hut tracks
Lees Valley Road to Youngman Stream Hut Time: 4–5 hr Distance: 14.1 km Follow the Youngman Stream Track to Youngman Stream Hut. Youngman Stream Hut to Tarn Hut Time: 2 hr 30 min Distance: 3.6 km From Youngman Stream Hut, cross the Ashley River and follow the track as it climbs the ridge to the summit of Lillburn Hill. From the top, enjoy spectacular 360-degree views across foothill forests to Christchurch and the Port Hills beyond. Tarn Hut is about 20 minutes further along the spur, southwest of Lillburn Hill. It sits beside a small, picturesque tarn in open alpine grassland. Either return to where you starting by retracing your steps, or by following the Lillburn Route - described below from the roadend to Tarn Hut. Lees Valley Road to Tarn Hut via Lillburn Route Time: 4 hr 30 min Distance: 13.8 km The Lillburn Route offers an alternative way to reach Lillburn Hill summit and Tarn Hut. The turn-off is signposted from the Youngman Stream Hut Track, approximately 2 hours 30 minutes from the locked gate at the track start. From the junction, the route climbs steeply up a ridge for about 1 hour 30 minutes to the summit of Lillburn Hill. Tarn Hut is another 20 minutes beyond the summit. This is a demanding route—be prepared for a tough climb.
Essential information for Tarn Hut tracks
This track is closed between 1 August and 30 September and the entire month of April. No dogs. Access to the Youngman Stream Track from Lees Valley Road is through a working cattle station. By accessing this track you are acknowledging that you are entering a working station at your own risk. There will be general hazards related to farming and dangerous cattle may be present. Do not disturb stock and proceed with caution.
Huts and campsites
Youngman Stream Hut Tarn Hut
Getting there for Tarn Hut tracks
From Oxford, follow Ashely Gorge Road for 6 km. Turn into Lees Valley Road and follow this for 29 km to a sign and locked gate that indicates the track. It is foot access only from this point. Follow this marked track for 3.5 km to a locked gate, keep to the marked track as this is private farmland. Use this location on Google Maps to help 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 Tarn Hut tracks
No dogs.
Before you walk Tarn Hut tracks
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.