09 October 2026
Mainly fine but the chance of an inland afternoon or evening shower. Areas of low cloud or fog possible at night. Light winds but easterlies about the coast for a time this afternoon.
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1 / 9Central Southland area
Whisky Creek Track
Follow the track through forest up to a ridge. You can also turn off to Poppelwell's Lookout to see commanding views of the Southland Plains.
Distance
5 km
Walking time
2 hr plus 30-45 min side track
Difficulty
Easy
Dogs
Not allowed
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
Southland forecast
Issued 9 Oct 2026, 4:49 pm
10 October 2026
Areas of low cloud or fog in the morning and again at night, otherwise partly cloudy with isolated afternoon and evening showers. Easterlies about the coast for a time in the afternoon.
11 October 2026
Fine, but becoming mostly cloudy with isolated showers in the evening. Northerlies, turning westerly in the afternoon.
12 October 2026
Fine. Northwesterlies developing in the morning.
13 October 2026
Showers developing in the morning. Northwesterlies, dying out in the evening.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Whisky Creek Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
Essential preparation for Whisky Creek Track
From the Dolamore Park car park, cross Waimumu Stream and turn right along the wheelchair-accessible boardwalk. Turn right again, cross the bridge, and climb steadily to a ridge. This section of track passes through podocarp–hardwood forest before crossing a hillside on an easy grade. Side trip: Poppelwells Lookout. Take care on the steady climb to the lookout, where you’ll be rewarded with commanding views of the Southland Plains. On a fine day, the seats at the lookout make it an ideal lunch spot. Returning from Poppelwells Lookout, follow the track to Whisky Creek and continue to the car park just off Domain Road. From here, return to the Dolamore Park picnic area via a well-formed grass track. Allow approximately 2 hours for the loop trip, with an additional 30–45 minutes for the Poppelwells Lookout side trip. Croydon Bush Scenic Reserve is located approximately 10 km to the north west of Gore.
Dog access for Whisky Creek Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Whisky Creek 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.