Discover the Round Hill Walking Track
Located in the Longwood Forest at the base of the Longwood Range in Southland, the Round Hill Walking Track, also known as the Long Hilly Walking Track, is a glimpse into New Zealand's goldmining history. This short, easy rainforest loop walk takes you along paths once used for gold mining, now slowly reclaimed by native shrubs and trees.
Walking the Track
At the start of the track, you'll find a toilet and an informative panel detailing the area's history. The walk is a short, easy loop of approximately 2.3 km and takes around 45 minutes at a leisurely pace. The track is mostly gravelled and well-formed, with gentle undulations and a total elevation gain of about 80 metres. It winds through regrowth native forest and is suitable for most people.
Historical Significance and Features
Gold was first discovered in the 1860s on the beach near Monkey Island, Orepuki, in Te Waewae Bay. This discovery led to mining activities in the Longwood Ranges from the 1870s until the 1950s. During this period, a significant Chinese mining settlement called Canton was established near the track, though nothing remains of this town today.
As you walk, you'll encounter remnants of this era, including a historic logging tramline, hand-dug waterways, and earth dams. One particularly interesting section of the track follows a deep channel through the forest, where ferns and trees are gradually reclaiming the channel’s high banks.
Extend Your Hike
The Round Hill Walking Track is part of Te Araroa. You can extend your hike by continuing on Te Araroa to visit the historic Turnbull and Martins Huts, or ascend to the high point of the ranges at 764 metres.
Alternatively, explore the Ports Water Race Track, which traces a water race along the east side of the range.
How to Get There
To reach the Round Hill Walking Track, take the Southern Scenic Route (State Highway 99) west from Colac Bay / Ōraka or east or Orepuki. Turn onto the gravelled Round Hill Road and follow it for 1 km. Look for a large, obvious car park on the right; it may not be signposted. From Invercargill, the drive is 47 minutes and 54 km along the highway.
Other places to visit along the southern coast include Bluecliffs Beach, Tuatapere, Gemstone Beach, Cosy Nook and Riverton / Aparima.
