Homestead Track
Alerts
Check the DOC website for current alerts and conditions before you go. This site gets current alert info from DOC, but is not an official source of information.
This short track that follows an old water race.
Elevation
Cover mapped summer 2023/24.
Description
The track starts at Homestead Campsite. It follows an old water race and ends at West Manuherikia 4WD Track.
There are unbridged streams on the track. Assess these carefully before crossing and if in doubt, stay out.
Dogs are allowed on this track, but not on West Manuherikia 4WD Track.
Getting there
The track starts at Homestead Campsite. From State Highway 85, turn into the Ranfurly end of Loop Road (St Bathans) and follow for 6.5 km. Turn into Hawkdun Runs Road and follow for 15 km to the campsite. It is a gravel road, with one unbridged ford. Check fords before entry.
Know before you go
Pack the right gear
Oteake has flooding, snowfall and extreme weather.
Be careful of rivers
If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.
Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.
Be aware of weather conditions in the catchment headwaters. Check fords before entry.
No fires
Fires are not allowed anywhere in Oteake Conservation Park.
Check the weather forecast
Shared use tracks
Many of the tracks in Oteake Conservation Park are shared use. You may encounter walkers, mountain bikers and people riding horses. Take care and respect other track users.
Avalanches
Oteake Conservation Park has avalanche terrain.
Nearby
Weather
Forecast at the start of the track