Mackenzie Stream Route: Walking Guide, Time & Access

Route overview

This route runs from Hurunui Hut to Mackenzie Hut.

This DOC directory entry covers Mackenzie Stream Route in Canterbury, within Lake Sumner Forest Park. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.

Distance, time and grade

• Distance: 8 km one way
• Walking time: 5 hr
• DOC grade: Expert

Access and alerts

Source checked 2026-10-08. This page is a dated snapshot, not a live track-status report. Check current DOC route information immediately before travelling. An absence of listed alerts does not establish that a route is open.

Dog access

No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.

Description

Mackenzie Stream Route leaves the Harper Pass Track about 1 hour from Hurunui Hut.

The turn-off is signposted approximately opposite the junction with Mackenzie Stream and Hurunui River. You will need to make your own crossing over the Hurunui River so this may not be possible when the river is high.

Cross the river flats to Mackenzie Stream and follow it up on the true right. This section is not marked until you enter the forest. Along the route there is a hot spring where a pool big enough for two has been constructed.

Getting there

Lake Sumner Forest Park lies 100 km northwest of Christchurch between Lewis Pass and Arthur’s Pass National Park.

To reach the park via Lake Sumner Road: take State Highway 7 at Waikari to Hawarden, then follow Lake Sumner Road to Lake Taylor. The road beyond Lake Taylor is suitable for 4WD vehicles only to Loch Katrine (camping area).

The 4WD track from Loch Katrine to the Hurunui swingbridge at the boundary of Lake Sumner Forest Park crosses Lakes Station land. There is a locked gate on road by Loch Katrine. There is no restriction for foot or mountain-bike access through this gate, but vehicle access must be gained from Lakes Station. DOC is unable to provide contact details.

It is around 9 km (2–3 hours walk) from Loch Katrine to the Hurunui swingbridge.

Know before you go

Safety is your responsibility:

• Have the correct and the most up-to-date information

• Take a topographic map if going into more challenging country, i.e. something more than a tramping track.

• Always be prepared for sudden weather changes. Check the latest forecast, especially if any river crossings are required.

• Equip yourself well and prepare for the worst. Take enough food and water and the right clothing.

• Ensure someone else knows where you are going and when you plan to return.

• If staying in huts, fill in the intentions book. This may save your life.

• Dial 111 immediately for any fire emergency.

Sources and reuse

Route descriptions and practical information reproduced from the Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, under CC BY 4.0, subject to DOC's copyright policy. Formatting has been adapted, including flattening page sections; follow the original DOC page for maps, section-specific layout, current notices and linked documents. Outdoor Next is independent and is not endorsed by DOC.

The accompanying photograph is a licensed general hiking illustration, not a photograph of this route.