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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: -44.71061, 169.26931. 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
- 12 km one way
- Walking time
- 2-3 hr
- Track grade
- Easy
- Location
- Wānaka area
- Dog access
- Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times. 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
Suitable for biking and walking this track follows the true left of the Clutha River from Hāwea River swing bridge to Kane Road.
This DOC directory entry covers Newcastle Track in Otago, within Wānaka 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: 12 km one way
- Walking time: 2-3 hr
- DOC grade: Easy
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
Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Description
This track enhances public access to the Clutha River where walkers, cyclists and runners are able to enjoy views of the river and panoramic shots of the surrounding peaks.
A loop option is possible when combined with the Upper Clutha River Track, located on the true right of the river.
This cycle track weaves its way around the true left of the Clutha River through typical Otago grasslands, Matagori and Kanuka landscapes. The undulating terrain provides variety for mountain bikers seeking more of a challenge than the trails on the true right of the river.
It was designed by the Upper Clutha Tracks Trust and formed by DOC.
Getting there
The Newcastle Track is found on the true left of the Clutha River and can be accessed from either the Hāwea River swing bridge; Albert Town or the Kane Road car park.
Know before you go
There is damage on secions of the track - take extra care crossing these. After wet weather, cyclists may need to dismount and carry their cycles over damaged sections.
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.
