New Chum Gully Track

Overview

A local favorite in Arrowtown, this 7–8 km loop (about 4.5 miles total) links the Arrow River corridor with ridgelines across Glencoe Station. Expect roughly 300–340 m of climb, most of it in one punchy section, and plan on 1.5–2.5 hours for most walkers. The draw is simple: airy views over the Arrow Gorge and the Wakatipu Basin, plus golden autumn color from the surrounding deciduous trees and shrubs.

Direction matters

Clockwise is the safer, more enjoyable choice for many: start near the Norman Smith Bridge on the Macetown side so you climb the steep, narrow sidlings rather than tiptoe down them. Anti‑clockwise works too—heading up Tobins Track first—just know the descent back toward the gorge includes slippery, exposed benches that feel spicier in the wet or winter.

Route at a glance

• From Arrowtown’s riverside path, follow the Arrow River/Arrow Gorge Track to the Norman Smith Bridge and pick up the New Chum Gully Track opposite Macetown Road; climb steeply to the ridge, traverse into New Chum Gully, cross a small stream, then continue to meet Tobins Track and descend to town.
• Or reverse it: ascend Tobins Track (watch for the orange‑marked gate turn‑off), gain the ridge, keep left at the unsigned split to stay on the main New Chum line, then drop to the bridge and amble the river trail back.

Terrain and highlights

This loop mixes singletrack with short 4WD sections. The initial gorge wall is steep, narrow, and worn with some real drop‑offs; once on top, the gradients ease and the views open—Brow Peak, German Hill, and Coronet Peak line the skyline on clear days. A brief stream crossing and a narrow bench on the south side of the gully add variety. In summer, wildflowers draw plenty of bees; in autumn, the color show is the headline.

Best time to hike

Year‑round in fair weather, but it shines in autumn for photography. Avoid after rain or in snow/ice—the exposed sidlings get slick. Wind can bite along the ridges; early or late light flatters the basin views, and shoulder‑season weekdays feel the most relaxed.

Logistics and tips

Park in Arrowtown’s riverside car parks by the Arrow River/Arrow Gorge Track. The route is poled/orange‑marked and generally obvious, but a phone topo helps at the ridge split near Tobins—keep left to avoid adding a much longer variation. The track crosses private farmland (Glencoe Station): respect stock, leave gates as you find them, and keep dogs leashed. Sturdy footwear is recommended.