Exploring Motatapu Gorge Near Wānaka
When you're in the Wānaka area, a visit to the Motatapu Gorge in the Matukituki Valley is an easy, lesser-known side trip. This spot provides a scenic view of the gorge. You can also access the southern end of the Motatapu River Track.
Discovering the Gorge
The gorge is located at the end of the public section of Motatapu Road. There, you'll find a small bridge offering a view of the gorge. Although the area has become somewhat overgrown, the view remains impressive. Just before the bridge, there's a larger car park at the southern end of the Motatapu River Track. From here, you can descend the stairs to the river for another perspective of the gorge. The rocks at the gorge's head are particularly striking with their vibrant colours.
If you walk the Motatapu River Track, it takes about an hour or so to reach Mt Aspiring Road, 600 metres from the access road for Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain.
Exploring the Motatapu Track
Along Motatapu Road, you'll also find the start of the Motatapu Track, which is part of Te Araroa. This track leads to Arrowtown and takes several days to complete. For a shorter adventure, consider a half-day walk along the track to Fern Burn and back for a similar experience to the Motatapu River Track. Beyond Fern Burn, the track becomes a challenging multi-day hike.
Getting to Motatapu Gorge
To visit Motatapu Gorge, drive from Wānaka to Glendhu Bay on Mt Aspiring Road and turn onto Motatapu Road opposite the Motor Camp. Continue along the public road to the bridge and car park. The drive takes 30 minutes and is 19 km.
Other nearby walks include the Glendhu Bay Track, Mt Roy Track and West Wānaka.
