Access is via the Parsons Creek entrance on Lake Ohau Road (approximately 54 km from Twizel). The walk starts with a moderate climb through the Parsons Creek beech forest margin before heading out into open grass and shrublands. Avantage point in the forest is reached after 10 minutes.

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.