Big River – Golden Lead Battery

Leave Big River Hut, head north and cross Big River at the Battery site. Follow the old mine road for 1 km until you reach Big River Engine House. From there, a low-gradient road takes you to a historic sawmill site where the track continues along an old coal tramway.

At the end of the tramway, the track turns into a backcountry trail and descends steeply until you reach Deep Creek and the Golden Lead Battery. Return to Big River Hut via the same track.

Four wheel driving

The drive on the 4WD road into Big River is a challenging and classic trip.

Horse riding

The 4WD road into Big River from Soldiers Rd is a long and challenging horse ride for experienced riders.

Walking access to the Golden Lead Battery is via the Big River – Inangahua Track starting from near the historic Big River Engine House.

The route between Golden Lead Battery and Progress Water Race following Deep Creek is no longer maintained and the swing bridge has been removed.

Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly on the tops. Rain can quickly make even small streams treacherous to cross. Before starting out it is best to check with Reefton Visitor Centre for the latest weather and track information.

Wasps can be common from December to April, carry antihistamine if you are allergic to their stings.