Discover the Thrills of Roberts Point Track
Located in the Glacier Country of Westland, the Roberts Point Track is a captivating and challenging adventure for hikers. Starting from the Douglas Bridge, this track provides an exhilarating five-hour, 11 km, return journey, with a vertical climb of 300 metres. You will be rewarded with stunning views of the Waihi Valley and Franz Josef Glacier / Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere.
Hike Through Diverse Landscapes
To begin your hike, start from the Alex Knob Track car park and follow the Douglas Walk for a few minutes to reach the Douglas Bridge. Alternatively, you can start from the main car park at the end of the access road and follow the Douglas Walk past Peters Pool to the bridge, which adds an extra 20 minutes to your journey.
The track begins at the historic 140-metre-long swing bridge over the Waiho River, then follows the river through dense forest for about one kilometre. As you progress, you'll encounter a second, shorter swing bridge, followed by a steep 100-metre ascent to Arch Creek. Here, you'll cross one of New Zealand's most impressive swing bridges. Beyond this point, the trail becomes rougher, featuring rocky slabs ground out by glacial ice. However, the climb becomes more gradual as you approach the historic Hende's Hut. This area offers expansive views across the valley.
Continuing through open scrubland, the track includes a distinctive set of hanging stairs that traverse a cliff face. Although it may sound daunting, it's manageable. You'll then cross a fourth suspension bridge over Rope Creek before tackling a final steep scramble over rocks and roots. The path flattens out as you reach Roberts Point, situated 300 metres above the valley floor. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the glacier, rock cliffs, waterfalls, and mountain peaks.
How to Get There
From Framz Josef village, drive south on State Highway 6, cross the road bridge over the Waiho River and turn immediately onto the access road. Continue south and park at the Alex Knob Track car park, or continue to the car park at the end of the road.
Other activities in Glacier Country include Fox Glacier, Sentinel Rock, Lake Matheson, Lake Mapourika and Okarito.
