Nardoo Creek Route

Nardoo Creek Route is an expert, 19 km one-way hike from the Matakitaki car park to Nardoo Hut in the Emily Peaks basin. Allow 7–8 hours to reach the hut. This is a remote backcountry route with repeated river crossings and rough creekbed travel, so it demands route-finding as well as fitness. Walking back out the same way makes the trip about 38 km; most trampers should plan around an overnight at the hut and be comfortable navigating marked routes through rugged terrain.

From the car park, head toward the hops-farm buildings; the marked track begins about 3 km in and follows the Matakitaki River's right bank when facing downstream. At the Watson Creek junction, cross the Matakitaki to continue on the opposite bank. The route follows the foot of a steep hill to a small saddle on a benched track, then drops into Nardoo Creek. It dips in and out of the creekbed before following the creek itself.

Expect multiple unbridged crossings. One stretch of the riverbed is impassable, so follow the marked higher bypass near the bend where the creek turns southwest rather than south. Beyond it, the route climbs in and out of the creek for another 2.5 km to the bushline, then gains about 100 m through tussock. Look south for the hut on the bush edge. Do not cross if the water is high, you cannot identify safe entry and exit points, or you are unsure; severe weather is possible in any season.

Nardoo Hut is a basic two-bunk shelter at about 1,405 m beside a tarn, with the Emily Peaks rising around the basin. It dates to 1965. The hut is free and unbookable, with first-come, first-served bunks; water is from a stream. Bring your food and be prepared for a basic remote stay. From the final tussock rise, look south and frame the hut against the bush edge and surrounding basin.

The access crosses Mt Ella Station leasehold land: stay on the marked public route and replace the electric-tape gates. From SH6 at Longford, follow Mangles Valley Road, Tutaki Road South and then Mole Road. At a sharp right bend, take the farm road on the left and continue 700 m to the car park opposite the cowshed. There is no regular public transport nearby. Dogs are not allowed.