This is a well-formed track that starts on the edge of Lake Pukaki just off SH 8 immediately before the Lake Pukaki dam (approximately 10 km north of Twizel).

The track heads past an old concrete water reservoir which was used by the Lake Pukaki Village before the lake levels were raised and the village disappeared. The track leads through pine trees and is a great stroll on a hot day.

Getting there

The Mackenzie Basin is situated in the centre of New Zealand's South Island. It features mountains, lakes, rivers, beech forest remnants and rolling tussock country.

All of the walking tracks described here are easy to access from main roads and offer fantastic views of the Mackenzie high country, with the exception of Marker Bay which ends in a nestled cove beside Lake Pukaki.

Some of these walks include easements through private farmland. Please respect the landowners’ rights by keeping to the marked easements. These are well-signposted and marked by orange poles. Please ensure all public access gates for walkers are closed behind you.