Holdsworth to Kaitoke Track

Start from the park entrance at the end of Mount Holdsworth Road. Cross the bridge over Atiwhakatu Stream and climb Gentle Annie Track towards Mountain House Shelter.

Continue along the ridge then head down towards Totara Creek. Follow the left-hand side of the creek to the swing bridge crossing, then continue downstream on the right. At the Waiohine River, cross the bridge and follow the Totara Flats Hut signs.

Totara Flats Hut is a serviced hut that sleeps up to 26 people, and must be booked in advance.

From Totara Flats Hut, the track continues down the Waiohine river across the flats. The track veers away from the river before reaching a high bluff. It then steeply climbs up onto a high riverbank and then continues downstream.

You'll reach a large slip. The only way past is to walk downstream along the riverbank to Makaka Creek (only possible when the river is low). If unsure, take the all-weather track.

Cross the Makaka Creek bridge and climb up the bank to the marked junction. Turn right onto the Cone Saddle track and climb steadily up a spur to the ridge. From here the track sidles into Clem Creek and climbs to Cone Saddle.

Descend to Cone Hut in the Tauwharenīkau Valley. Cone Hut is a basic hut that sleeps up to 6 people on a first-come, first-served basis (no bookings required). 

To reach Tutuwai Hut, continue down the river, across muddy terraces, grassy flats, and small side stream crossings.  Tutuwai Hut sleeps 20 people, also on a first-come, first-served basis (no bookings required).

From Tutuwai Hut, follow the Tauwharenīkau River on the left side down stream. You'll cross grassy flats, bush terraces, and low wide slips. This section is steep, narrow and slippery due to slips and washouts. It can be difficult, so take extra care when crossing.

Cross Tauwharenīkau River on a swing bridge and then follow the track downstream. Cross side streams with caution, especially if water levels are high or it’s raining.

Eventually you'll reach Smith Creek Shelter (not suitable for overnight stays). Continue upstream to the base of Puffer Track. Climb to the saddle, then descend to the Kaitoke car park on Kiwi Ranch Road. Expect small slips, stream crossings, muddy sections, and windfalls on this section.