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Key facts
- Distance
- 4 km one way - return via same track
- Walking time
- 3-5 hr return
- Track grade
- Easy
- Location
- Tararua Forest Park
- 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
Less than 15 minutes' drive from Levin, this track follows river terraces up the Ohau river through beautiful Nikau groves to the Old Ohau Shelter site.
This DOC directory entry covers Ohau Gorge Track in Wellington, within Tararua 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: 4 km one way - return via same track
- Walking time: 3-5 hr return
- 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
After a 15 minute walk across farmland to the forest park boundary, a well-formed track follows the pristine Ohau river up to Blackwater stream and the Old Ohau Shelter site.
There are some small creek crossings and sections of track that are more technical. Visitors should expect steep drop-offs at the side of the track, some narrow and slippery sections and exposed slip crossings with rockfall and landslide hazards.
The track can be used to venture further into the forest park. North Ohau Hut and South Ohau Hut can be accessed via continuing up the Ohau river or climb up to Te Matawai Hut via the Gable End Track.
Getting there
Poads Road-end is 15 minutes' drive from Levin’s town centre.
Head east from Levin to Gladstone Reserve (which can be accessed via Queen Street East or Tararua Road), then follow Gladstone Road for approximately 3 km before turning right onto Poads Road.
Follow the road across the bridge, past the woolshed and up to the carpark near the end of the road, where you will find a kiosk and toilet.
Know before you go
At the carpark, there is a toilet, and a kiosk with an Intentions book for visitors to use.
The first kilometre of the walk crosses through private farmland.
Crossing private land
Leave gates as you find them
Keep dogs on a leash
Do not disturb stock
Remove bolts and ammunition from rifles
Expect a backcountry tramping track
This is a typical backcountry tramping track, with uneven surfaces, tree roots and muddy parts. We recommend sturdy footwear with good grip.
Be aware of rockfall risks and steep drops
There is a risk of rockfalls and landslides on sections of this track. The risk is highest during/after heavy rain, but they can still occur at other times. Rockfalls can cause serious injury or death.
There are some narrow and slippery sections of track and exposed slip-crossings. There are also steep drop-offs on the side of the track in places – keep an eye on children and stand well back.
Pack the right gear
The Tararua Forest Park is well known for wild, fast-changing and unpredictable weather. Always check the weather forecast. Pack warm and waterproof clothing, even if the forecast is good.
Carry navigation aids and emergency equipment including a torch, spare food, a distress beacon and an emergency shelter.
Overnight and multi-day tramp gear list
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.
