Gladstone to Wanaka
Gladstone Track - 6.8km / 1.5-2hr
The Upper Clutha Tracks Trust opened this lakeside track in 2011 and, in doing so, finished Te Araroa through the Upper Clutha region. The track links reserves at Gladstone and Lake Hawea Village and is mainly on the terrace above the lakeshore.
From the Gladstone Reserve, the track starts on compacted gravel and heads west around the lakeshore. The track soon crosses Johns Creek (usually dry) and then rises towards Denniston Rd. It runs alongside the road briefly and then continues straight ahead onto the terrace above the lake.
After half an hour the track veers inland and descends gently to cross a creek bed. It and then returns to the terrace along the lake fringe. A second creek bed is crossed with a similarly benign descent and climb about 1.5km further along.
The track continues along the terrace and crosses a cattle stop at the town boundary. The track enters the Lake Hawea Reserve here where it remains for the final half hour or so.The formed track ends on Capell Rd about 100m from the Domain Rd intersection, which is adjacent to the Hawea River control gates.
Hawea River Track - 12km / 2.5-3.5hr
The Hawea River Track was another Upper Clutha Tracks Trust project.
It is a high spec track that’s suitable for both walking and biking. Bikes and prams can cross the swingbridge but need to be carried down the steps at the southern end.
The initial 800m, from Lake Hawea to a carpark, is road margin but from there it is easy and pleasant walking along the Hawea River through to the Albert Town Recreation Reserve, a short distance from Albert Town.
The Albert Town Reserve campground is located immediately over Hawea River Bridge ($7.00 per night – toilet, water and parking only).
The track beyond the bridge to Albert Town is unmarked. The way, however, is straightforward and initially on vehicle tracks to SH6 Lake Hawea-Albert Town Rd. Turn left onto the road shoulder. The footpath on the right-hand side crosses the Clutha River Bridge. Te Araroa's Hawea River Track ends here. (The Albert Town shops are straight ahead and a short distance away.)
Outlet Track - 12km / 3-4hr
This track comprises 3 popular local tracks: the Outlet; Beacon Point and Bremner Bay Tracks. It takes walkers from Albert Town through to the Wanaka CBD lake frontage.
From the Albert Town (true right) side of the Clutha River Bridge, Te Araroa heads upstream on the riverside trail. There is a toilet and interpretation panels a little over a kilometre further along. Continue riverside towards the Lake Wanaka's outlet.
The track ends at the Visitors' Centre on the lakeshore.