Six Mile Walk

The track zigzags 50 metres uphill beside the old penstock to the intake and water storage reservoir. This height provided the necessary head (or fall) for the water to drive the station’s turbine. From here the track initially follows the water race before continuing in the forest on a higher terrace.

The track then leads to a viewing platform above the old weir which diverts some of the Six Mile Creek down the water race. Below the weir in the narrow granite gorge are waterfalls and rapids that produce spectacularly turbulent water.

On the return there is the option of a loop track which descends from the upper terrace to follow along the water race, before rejoining the main track.

The track is 10 km from Murchison, on Matakitaki Road. It starts and finishes at the old Six Mile hydro power station by the Six Mile Creek Bridge.

Wasps can be a nuisance, particularly from December until April. Carry antihistamine if you are allergic to their stings.

Sandflies: The presence of biting sandflies can detract from your experience in Murchison, especially during the summer months. The problem can be easily remedied by coating exposed skin with a good quality insect repellent.

The Six Mile hydro power station and hydro scheme were officially opened on 25 January 1922; the occasion being marked by a public picnic, performances by the town band, speeches and a banquet at the Commercial Hotel.

The hydro scheme provided power to Murchison and the scattered homesteads in the Six Mile valley and Four Rivers Plain. It operated for 54 years before being deemed uneconomic and closed in November 1975.