Lake Emily to Glenrock Stream (Rakaia Valley) Track

Lake Emily to Rakaia River via Manuka Hut – Te Araroa Section, Hakatere Conservation Park

This remote and rewarding tramping route follows a section of the Te Araroa Trail, linking Lake Emily to the Rakaia River across some of Canterbury’s most expansive backcountry terrain. The track passes a series of rustic huts and traverses alpine saddles, offering an immersive experience in the high country landscapes of Hakatere Conservation Park. With multiple access points and basic accommodation, this route suits experienced trampers or adventurous families looking for a multi-day journey.

Access and Getting There

Lake Emily is reached via Hakatere Heron Road, approximately 31 km west of Mount Somers. From Ashburton Gorge Road, turn right onto Hakatere Heron Road and continue until just before Jacobs Stream Bridge near Castleridge Station. At this point, a gravel farm road leads toward the conservation land.

Two-wheel-drive vehicles can park on the roadside verge—please ensure access to paddocks and farm buildings remains unobstructed. Four-wheel drives can continue another 1.4 km to a car park on public conservation land. Note that the access road is unsealed and not suitable for use during winter months.

Route Overview

The walk begins from the car park near Lake Emily and follows a clearly defined route toward Manuka Hut, a basic six-bunk shelter approximately 4.5 km away. This is a relatively easy section of the trail, taking about 1 hour and 30 minutes on foot. The area near the hut includes a small stream, which is a fun and safe place for families with children to explore. New Zealand falcons/kārearea are known to nest in the region, so visitors are encouraged to observe respectfully.

Continuing beyond Manuka Hut, the track passes Manuka and Seagull Lakes before reaching a junction with the Double Hut Track (approx. 10 km from the trailhead). Double Hut, located just 800 m from this point, is another rustic shelter with six bunks.

From the Double Hut junction, the trail begins its ascent to Clent Hills Saddle, about 8 km away, followed by a further 9 km descent to Comyns Hut. Comyns is a basic hut with eight bunks, situated in a remote alpine basin.

The route then climbs gradually along Turtons Stream, passing the compact A Frame Hut (three bunks), before reaching Turtons Saddle. From the saddle, the trail descends via Glenrock Stream to meet the Rakaia River plains and eventually connects with Double Hill Run Road. The final leg from Comyns Hut to the road is approximately 16 km.

This entire stretch forms part of the Te Araroa Trail and requires good fitness, navigation skills, and preparation for rapidly changing weather conditions.

Huts Along the Route

• Manuka Hut – 6 bunks, basic facilities, stream water, no booking required

• Double Hut – 6 bunks, heating, stream water, no booking required

• Comyns Hut – 8 bunks, heating, stream water, no booking required

• A Frame Hut – 3 bunks, compact and basic, no booking required

All huts are first-come, first-served and equipped with non-flush toilets, mattresses, and heating. Water is sourced from nearby streams.

Track Stats & Key Information

• Trail type: One-way (can be sectioned into hut-to-hut journeys)

• Accessibility: Seasonal (not suitable for 2WD access in winter)

• Activities: Tramping, birdwatching, backcountry camping

• Dog Access: Allowed – must be under control at all times

• Bookings: Not required for huts (first-come, first-served)

Additional Notes

• The track is part of the national Te Araroa Trail, which spans the length of New Zealand.

• Be prepared for exposed alpine terrain and rapidly changing conditions.

• Refer to the Department of Conservation website for up-to-date information on track conditions and hut availability.