Carew Falls Track

Out and back

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undeniable star of the show is, of course, Carew Falls. After about 25 to 30 minutes of walking, the forest suddenly peels back to reveal a majestic sight. The waters of Carew Creek cascade dramatically over immense, water-smoothed granite boulders, tumbling from a height of over 100 metres. Unlike some falls that drop in a single thin ribbon, Carew Falls fans out over the rock face, creating a powerful and photogenic spectacle.

One of the best things about this spot is the accessibility of the base. The massive granite boulders at the foot of the falls serve as perfect natural perching spots. On a warm day, you can sit here and enjoy the refreshing "waterfall air"—that cool, negative-ion-charged mist that feels like nature’s own air conditioning. It is a fantastic spot for a picnic or a bit of "forest bathing."

Aside from the waterfall itself, keep your eyes peeled for the remnants of old iron pipes alongside the track. These are fascinating relics of a bygone era. In the early 20th century, a small hydro-electric scheme used the power of Carew Creek to provide electricity for the former Mitchells Hotel (now the historic Lake Brunner Lodge). Seeing these rusting pipes slowly being reclaimed by the moss and ferns adds a wonderful layer of local industrial history to your walk.

Don't forget to turn around occasionally as you reach the higher sections of the track. Through the gaps in the Totara and Rimu branches, you'll catch glimpses of the western end of Lake Brunner (Moana), its deep blue waters contrasting beautifully with the surrounding dark green hills.

Getting There

Finding the Carew Falls Track is part of the West Coast charm—it’s just far enough off the main highway to feel like a discovery. The trailhead is located at Mitchells, on the southern side of Lake Brunner.

If you are coming from Kumara, follow the Kumara-Inchbonnie Road. The carpark is small but clearly marked, situated approximately 300 metres east of the iconic Lake Brunner Lodge. If you reach the lodge, you’ve gone just a tiny bit too far!

A quick word of advice for the drive: parts of the Kumara-Inchbonnie Road can be unsealed gravel. While the road is generally well-maintained and suitable for standard cars, it pays to take it slow, especially around corners, and keep an eye out for local wildlife or stock on the road.

Wildlife Spotting

The Carew Falls Track is a haven for native birdlife. The dense Podocarp forest provides a rich larder for many of New Zealand’s most beloved species. As you walk, you are almost guaranteed to be serenaded by the rich, melodic chorus of the Tūī and the liquid, bell-like notes of the Bellbird (Korimako).

Look up into the higher branches of the Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon). These large, iridescent green and white birds are often seen (and heard) clumsily landing on supplejack vines or feeding on berries. On the forest floor or flitting between the lower shrubs, the friendly New Zealand Fantail (Pīwakawaka) will likely follow you for a portion of the walk, hoping your footsteps disturb some tasty insects.

If you are quiet and lucky, you might spot the South Island Robin (Toutouwai), a small, dark grey bird with a big personality. They are famously curious and may hop quite close to your boots to see what you're up to. You might also encounter the Weka, a flightless and notoriously cheeky bird known for its inquisitive nature. A pro-tip for hikers: keep a close eye on your shiny belongings or snacks if a Weka is nearby—they’ve been known to "borrow" things from unsuspecting tourists!

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Carew Falls Track is truly a year-round destination, but each season brings its own particular flavour:

• Spring: This is when the waterfall is often at its most thunderous, fed by spring rains and the last of the high-country snowmelt. The forest is a riot of new growth and the birdsong is at its peak.
• Summer: The perfect time for a cooling escape. The deep shade of the forest and the mist from the falls provide a welcome respite from the New Zealand sun.
• Autumn: The light on the West Coast in autumn is golden and soft, making for incredible photography at the falls.
• Winter: While the air is crisp, the West Coast often experiences clear, blue-bird days in winter. The falls feel even more powerful against the stark, damp beauty of the winter bush.

• Footwear: While it's an easy track, sturdy sneakers or light hiking boots are recommended as the granite rocks near the falls and some track sections can be very slippery.
• Rain Gear: This is the West Coast! Even if the sun is shining when you leave the car, always pack a lightweight rain jacket.
• Insect Repellent: The local sandflies (te namu) are small but mighty. A bit of repellent will make your time spent sitting at the falls much more comfortable.
• Camera: You’ll definitely want to capture the 100m drop of the falls.

Local & Regional Context

Lake Brunner, known to Māori as Moana, has long been a place of significance. For Ngāi Tahu, the lake was a vital source of food (mahinga kai), particularly for eels (tuna) and birds. The area served as an important link in the trails used to transport pounamu (greenstone) from the coast across the Southern Alps.

The Mitchells area itself is steeped in colonial history. The Lake Brunner Lodge, just down the road, was originally built in the 1930s and has served as a sanctuary for anglers and nature lovers for decades. The hydro scheme you see remnants of on the track is a testament to the ingenuity of the early settlers who had to find ways to generate power in this rugged, isolated landscape.

Geologically, the area is fascinating. The massive granite boulders you see at the falls are part of the ancient basement rock of the South Island, sculpted over millennia by the relentless force of water—a process that continues every time it rains.

After the Walk

Once you’ve made your way back down the track (which usually only takes about 15 minutes as it's all downhill), you’ll likely have worked up a bit of an appetite.

You don't have to go far for a reward. The Kingfisher Restaurant and Bar, located within the Lake Brunner Lodge just 300 metres away, is the perfect post-hike stop. It offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that strikes a great balance between "lodge elegance" and "West Coast casual."

Hikers can grab a seat and enjoy a cold drink or a hearty meal while looking out over the lake. Their menu often features local produce and pub classics that are perfect for refuelling. If you’re there in the morning, their breakfast is legendary, but it’s the evening atmosphere—watching the mist roll over Lake Brunner with a local craft beer in hand—that truly caps off the Carew Falls experience.

The Carew Falls Track is more than just a walk; it’s a brief but deep dive into the soul of the West Coast. It’s accessible, beautiful, and steeped in the quiet magic of the New Zealand bush. Don't miss it!