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Hanmer Springs
2.3 km
1 hour
142 metres
If you’re planning a trip to the alpine village of Hanmer Springs, there is one tradition that sits right alongside a soak in the hot pools: the walk up Conical Hill. It is the quintessential Hanmer experience, a rite of passage for every visitor and a daily ritual for many locals.
The Conical Hill Reserve Walkway offers that perfect balance of effort and reward. It is short enough to fit into a busy afternoon, gentle enough for the kids, yet elevated enough to give you a truly spectacular perspective of North Canterbury’s rugged beauty. At just 2.32km return, it’s a "must-do" that punches well above its weight class.
The adventure begins at the northern end of Conical Hill Road. As you leave the charming village streets behind, you are immediately greeted by the cool, sheltered embrace of the Hanmer Heritage Forest. The trail itself is a masterclass in path-making; it’s a well-maintained, gently graded zigzag that winds its way up the hillside.
While the 142-metre elevation gain might sound a bit daunting if you’ve spent the morning lounging in the thermal pools, the steady incline is designed to be manageable. The track surface is a pleasant mix of compacted dirt and a soft carpet of fallen pine needles, occasionally giving way to gravelled sections. Because the gradient is so consistent, it’s a popular choice for families with young tamariki (children). If you have a buggy with "fat" off-road wheels, you’ll find the path surprisingly accommodating, making this one of the most inclusive scenic walks in the region.
As you climb, the air changes. The scent of pine and damp earth becomes more pronounced, and the sounds of the village below begin to fade, replaced by the wind sighing through the massive exotic trees. There is a real sense of peace here. Even on a busy weekend, the forest seems to swallow up the noise, leaving you with just the crunch of your boots and the occasional greeting from a passing walker.
The "zigzag" nature of the track means the view is constantly shifting. One moment you are looking deep into the dark green heart of the forest, and the next, you catch a fleeting glimpse through the canopy of the valley floor stretching out below. It’s a teasing climb that builds anticipation for the summit.
Parking for the Conical Hill Reserve Walkway is available on the side of Conical Hill Road, at the top end of the road in Hanmer Springs village. From the village centre, travel north up Conical Hill Road for about half a kilometre. Look for a small set of wooden stairs and a sign marking the trailhead, often near the Greenacres billboard. Additional parking options include Larch Reserve Car Park (approximately 587 metres away) or other designated parking within the village.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Anthornis melanura
Endemic songbird with bell-like calls. Males are olive-green with a purple head sheen; females are browner with a narrow white-yellow stripe across the cheek.
Best time: Year-round
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
500m away
Housed in a historic hydroelectric power station, this cafe offers gourmet breakfast and lunch with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. It's a great spot to unwind with stunning mountain views.
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The undisputed crown jewel of this walk is the 550-metre summit. Emerging from the treeline onto the open peak, you are greeted by a panoramic 360-degree view that is nothing short of breathtaking. From this vantage point—roughly 200 metres above the village—the entire Hanmer Basin unfolds like a living map.
You’ll see the braided silver ribbons of the Waiau River snaking through the plains and the formidable peaks of the Hanmer Range standing guard in the distance. To help you make sense of the horizon, there is a sturdy metal mountain pointer at the top. It’s a great bit of fun for kids and adults alike to line up the sights and identify the surrounding peaks by name and height.
At the summit, you’ll also find a charming wooden shelter. It’s the perfect spot to duck out of the wind, enjoy a well-earned picnic, or simply sit and soak in the atmosphere. For the photographers, the "Hanmer Frame" moments are endless—whether it's the symmetry of the village streets below or the way the light hits the distant tussock-covered hills.
Another highlight is the forest itself. This isn't just any patch of bush; it’s a living museum of exotic forestry. Keep an eye out for the towering Western Hemlock, Lawson's Cypress, and the massive Giant Fir. The Laburnum trees are a particular treat if you catch them in bloom, adding a splash of vibrant yellow to the green-and-brown palette of the hillside.
Finding the trailhead is a breeze. From the centre of Hanmer Springs village, simply head north up Conical Hill Road. It’s about a half-kilometre walk or drive from the main shopping strip.
As you reach the top end of the road, look for a small set of wooden stairs and a clear sign marking the start of the walkway—it’s often situated near the Greenacres billboard.
The Conical Hill Reserve is a haven for birdlife, and the "bird song" here is often the soundtrack to your hike. Because the forest is a mix of exotic and native species, it attracts a variety of feathered locals.
Tip: For the best wildlife experience, try to start your walk just after sunrise. The forest is much quieter then, and the morning chorus is at its peak.
The Conical Hill Reserve Walkway is truly a track for all seasons, with each time of year offering a different flavour:
This hill carries deep significance for the local area. Long before the exotic trees arrived, the hill was known to Māori as Te Tihi o Rauhea, which translates to "the plain of shining tussock." Back then, the hillside was covered in kānuka and native grasses, reflecting the golden hues of the Hanmer Basin.
The landscape you see today is a result of a massive public works project that took place between 1903 and 1913. Interestingly, much of the initial planting of the Hanmer Heritage Forest was carried out by prison labourers. They transformed the "shining tussock" into a productive exotic forest, planting species from all over the world. This history makes the Conical Hill lookout more than just a scenic spot; it is a heritage site that tells the story of New Zealand’s early colonial forestry efforts.
If you’re feeling energetic, remember that Conical Hill is the gateway to a much larger network. You can connect to the Majuba Track or the Woodland Walk, allowing you to turn your one-hour stroll into a half-day exploration of the Hanmer Heritage Forest.
One of the best things about Conical Hill is that it finishes right back at the edge of the village, perfectly positioned for some post-hike refueling.
Whether you are a seasoned tramper looking for a quick leg-stretch or a family looking for an accessible outdoor adventure, the Conical Hill Reserve Walkway is the perfect way to connect with the natural spirit of Hanmer Springs.
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
Best time: Year-round
Best time: Year-round
Zosterops lateralis
Small bird with distinctive white eye-ring. Commonly seen in flocks, feeding on insects, fruit, and nectar.
Best time: Year-round
Ninox novaeseelandiae
Native owl also known as Ruru. Named for its distinctive two-note call heard at night.
Best time: Year-round
600m away
This family-friendly establishment offers comfortable indoor and alfresco dining, with a playground for the kids. Known for signature seafood platters and 'Farm on a Plate' dishes.
700m away
A popular spot for hearty Kiwi cuisine and a selection of beers and ciders brewed on the West Coast. Enjoy a lively, casual atmosphere, often with live music, perfect for post-hike refreshments.
800m away
Experience an authentic Irish pub vibe with traditional meals, a good selection of drinks, pool, darts, and what some call Hanmer's best pizza. It's a cozy spot for a relaxed evening.