Place · 2.1 mi away
What to expect
This is a remote, rough coastal link between Big Bay (Te Hokiāuau) and Martins Bay at the northern edge of Fiordland. Expect long, empty beaches, podocarp–beech forest, dune systems, and estuaries shaped by big weather. Driftwood stacked high above normal water lines is a reminder that storms and floods regularly rearrange the coast. Wildlife is a real draw here: New Zealand fur seals and Fiordland crested penguins are seen around reefs and sandspits in season, and birdlife is lively in the forests and lagoons.
The route is minimally marked and often unformed. You’ll walk sands, river flats, rough bush, and the odd headland, with multiple river and stream mouths to manage. One key help: the Awarua River at Big Bay is bridged. Other crossings are unbridged and can become uncrossable after rain. Self‑reliance is essential—carry a tent, map, and know how to use them. Solitude is the norm; it’s common to see no one for days on this stretch.
Distance and time
Plan for approximately 17 miles (about 27.5 km) one way. Strong, experienced parties often take 8–10 hours in good conditions; many break it up or build in buffer days due to weather and rivers.
Best time to hike
Summer to early autumn (December–April) brings longer daylight and the most settled windows, but Fiordland rain is common year‑round and even a single day of heavy rain can shut the route down. Wildlife viewing for penguins and seal colonies peaks roughly May–November. Whichever season you pick, watch forecasts closely and be ready to wait out high rivers.
Access and logistics
There’s no straightforward roadhead at either bay. Most trampers weave this section into a longer circuit with the Hollyford Track, using shuttles to the Hollyford Road end and flights or boats to/from Martins Bay. Build conservative plans: flooding can strand you for days. A personal locator beacon (PLB), full wet‑weather gear, and dry bags are not optional here.
Bottom line
If you’re an experienced tramper who loves true wilderness, solitude, and raw coastal scenery, this route is fantastic in a stable weather window. If you’re chasing a tidy, reliably passable track on a fixed schedule, this isn’t it.
Pros
- Genuine solitude—many parties see no one for days
- Regular chance to spot Fiordland crested penguins and fur seals
- Awarua River bridge at Big Bay eases one major crossing
Cons
- Multiple unbridged river mouths become impassable after rain
- Route is minimally marked with rough bush and estuary navigation
- Flooding can strand you for days—requires buffer time
Parking
No standard trailhead parking. Most access via shuttle to the Hollyford Road end and flights or boat transfers to/from Martins Bay; Big Bay access is typically by air or multi‑day tramping.
Caution
Frequent heavy rain makes unbridged rivers and creek mouths uncrossable; expect flooding, storm surge debris, strong coastal weather, and total isolation. Carry a PLB, full wet‑weather kit, and build in buffer days.
