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Location & access
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route. Check the official route directions before travel.
Official location informationLocation source
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route.
Reference point: -42.31532, 173.60173. WGS84 coordinates retained at the official service's returned precision; decimal resolution is not survey accuracy. Source positional accuracy is not specified.
DOC Maps walking and tramping reference point (WGS84), exact official-page GUID / Department of Conservation. Checked 2026-10-12.
Key facts
- Distance
- 14 km return via same track
- Walking time
- 8 hr
- Track grade
- Advanced
- Location
- Ka Whata Tu o Rakihouia Clarence / Kaikōura area
- Dog access
- Dogs with a DOC permit only. Contact closest DOC office to get a permit. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Checked against official sources on 8 October 2026. Rules and conditions are set by Department of Conservation — confirm with them before you go.
Route overview
There are superb views from Mt Fyffe. You can climb or mountain bike the steep track to the summit or go as far as Mt Fyffe Hut.
This DOC directory entry covers Mt Fyffe Hut/Kowhai Saddle Route in Marlborough, within Ka Whata Tu o Rakihouia Clarence / Kaikōura area. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.
Distance, time and grade
- Distance: 14 km return via same track
- Walking time: 8 hr
- DOC grade: Advanced
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.
- Training operation between Hinau Carpark and Mt Fyffe Hut; First published on 2 October 2026.
Dog access
Dogs with a DOC permit only. Contact closest DOC office to get a permit. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Description
Superb views over the Kaikōura plains and peninsula reward those who climb on Mt Fyffe (1602 m). On a clear day the view at higher levels includes Banks Peninsula and the North Island.
From Mt Fyffe carpark follow the road up the mountain’s long south-west ridge. Note that vehicles are not permitted to drive beyond the car park. Access to the track is on foot and mountain bikes only.
Those wanting a shorter journey could go as far as Mt Fyffe Hut (5 hours return) or the lookout point near a firepond, which is just an hour above the carpark.
The Spaniard Spur Route offers a steeper alternative route to the upper mountain via the Kowhai River.
Mountain biking
Mountain bikes are permitted on the Mt Fyffe Track. It is very steep; both the ascent and descent will challenge those who try it. Stay in control of your bike and give way to walkers.
This is a shared-use track. Follow the mountain bikers code: respect others, respect the rules, respect the track.
Getting there
Kaikōura is on State Highway 1 along the South Island east coast. It is 154 km south of Picton and 183 km north of Christchurch. Regular bus and train services pass through the town.
Mt Fyffe carpark is about 15 km from town via Ludstone, Swamp and Postman's Roads. To get to Fyffe-Palmer Scenic Reserve, drive out of town on Ludstone Road; turn right onto Mt Fyffe Road and follow it to its end. The Hapuku road end is 3 km along Parson's Road which leaves State Highway 1, 10 km north of town. Taxi and shuttle services based in Kaikōura can be booked as transport options to these destinations (note: minimum charges may apply).
Know before you go
The Seaward Kaikōuras and Mt Fyffe should not be taken lightly. Even for a short walk to the lookout on Mt Fyffe on a fine day, a windbreaker is necessary.
All backcountry visitors should seek detailed advice and leave their intentions with someone reliable. Always carry warm, waterproof clothing and plenty of food. Remember your safety is your responsibility.
Check Mt Tapuae-o-Uenuku weather - NIWA website
Dog access
Dogs with a DOC permit only. Contact Nelson Visitor Centre to get a permit (details below).
Stay safe when crossing rivers and streams
If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.
Do not cross if the river or stream 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.
How to cross rivers safely
NIWA river flow forecasts: View a video of national followed by regional river flows
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.
