Exploring the Hāwea River Track
Located in the stunning Southern Lakes region of New Zealand, the Hāwea River Track is a section of Te Araroa, shared with cyclists. This track is a scenic walk or ride along the Hāwea River, from Lake Hāwea Dam in Hāwea to Albert Town in Wānaka. It provides an opportunity to experience the area’s quiet rural hinterland, with river views.
Highlights of the Track
From Hāwea, the track starts at the short dam on the southwest corner of the lake. Head down towards the dam outlet to the river, then follow the river to Albert Town, where it connects with the Lake Outlet Track on the south side of the one-lane bridge over the Clutha River. Along its length, aside from the initial drop from the dam, there is very little undulation, making for an easy trip.
Along the way, you will spot the Wave, near the Camp Hill Road freedom campsite. This consists of two purpose-built waves in the river: the first upstream is easy, and the second is more powerful. Teh waves are for river surfing and kayaking, and are free to access. The lower wave is expert-rated, so don’t get carried away!
As you approach the swing bridge over the river near Albert Town. There is a restored wetland, the Butterfileds Wetland Reserve, to explore. This section of the river is also notable, featuring a series of horseshoe bends and mild rapids.
There is also a large campground before the Clutha River Bridge on the west side of State Highway 6.
How to Get There
To access the Hāwea River Track, you can start at the east end of the dam or at various other points along the route or from the north side of the Clutha River Bridge near Albert Town.
In Hāwea, you can also explore the Lake Hāwea Track. From the Albert Town end of the track, you can continue west along the Clutha River on the Outlet Track to Beacon Point, then south along the edge of Lake Wānaka on the Beacon Point Walk to the town centre and Roys Bay.
