Gladstone Track

Point to point

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undisputed star of the show is the panoramic lake views. Lake Hawea is famous for its deep, intense blue—a colour that seems to change with every shift of the clouds. Against the backdrop of the rugged, often snow-capped mountains of the Hunter Valley and the Grandview Range, the photographic opportunities are endless.

A unique and quirky highlight of the Gladstone Track is the frisbee golf course located near the township end. If you’re a local or a visitor with a bit of space in your pack, consider bringing a couple of discs. It’s a fantastic way to break up the walk and adds a layer of competitive fun to a family outing.

For those interested in New Zealand’s hiking culture, the track holds a special status as a section of Te Araroa—the 3,000km trail that spans the length of the country. You may well encounter "thru-hikers" with large packs and weathered boots making their way from Cape Reinga to Bluff. Sharing a "g’day" with these adventurers adds a sense of scale and connection to the wider New Zealand wilderness.

Getting There

Accessing the Gladstone Track is straightforward, with convenient parking at both ends.

• The Lake Hawea End: Most people start at the township end near the Hawea Dam. You can find plenty of parking along Capell Avenue or in the designated parking areas near the dam itself. From here, follow the signs toward the lakefront to pick up the start of the gravel path.
• The Johns Creek End: If you prefer to walk toward the township, head to the Johns Creek Reserve. This is a quieter, more secluded spot with ample parking and a lovely beach area that is perfect for a pre-walk picnic.

Wildlife Spotting

The Gladstone Track offers a wonderful introduction to New Zealand’s birdlife, particularly within the kānuka stands of the Esplanade Reserve.

• Fantail (Pīwakawaka): These cheeky little birds are almost guaranteed companions. They often flit around hikers’ feet to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps. Listen for their distinctive "cheep" and look for their iconic fan-shaped tails.
• Grey Warbler (Riroriro): Though they are small and often hard to spot, their long, trilling song is the soundtrack of the New Zealand bush. Look for them high in the kānuka canopy.
• Tūī: While more occasional, you might see these iridescent birds diving between trees or hear their complex melody of whistles and clicks.
• Paradise Shelduck (Pūtangitangi): Often seen in pairs on the lake’s edge or in the adjacent paddocks, these large ducks are known for their loud, honking calls.

Tip: For the best birdwatching, head out in the early morning when the air is still and the birds are most active.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Gladstone Track is a true year-round destination, with each season painting the landscape in a different light.

• Spring: This is a spectacular time to visit as the surrounding peaks are still heavily dusted with snow, providing a sharp contrast against the blue water. The air is crisp, and the kānuka begins to bloom.
• Summer: The most popular time for families. The lake is refreshing for a post-walk swim, and the long twilight hours make for stunning evening strolls.
• Autumn: Central Otago is famous for its autumn colours. While the track itself is mostly evergreen native bush, the surrounding poplars and willows turn brilliant shades of gold.
• Winter: On a calm, blue-bird winter day, the Gladstone Track is magical. The air is incredibly clear, making the distant mountains look close enough to touch.

• Sun Protection: Even on cool days, the Otago sun is fierce. Wear a hat and apply sunscreen, as the track is quite exposed once you leave the reserve.
• Windproof Layer: Lake Hawea is known for its "Nor'west" winds. Even if it feels warm in the town, a breeze off the lake can be chilly, so a light windbreaker is always a good idea.
• Footwear: Because the track is well-graded gravel, sturdy sneakers or light hiking shoes are perfectly adequate.
• Water: There are no water taps along the 6.5km stretch, so carry enough for you and your four-legged friends.

Local & Regional Context

Lake Hawea holds deep significance in the region. To Māori, the lake and its surroundings are part of the traditional trails used for seasonal food gathering (mahinga kai). The name Hāwea itself refers to a local chief and the iwi (tribe) who lived in the area before the migrations of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Geologically, the lake is a glacial masterpiece, carved out by massive sheets of ice during the last ice age. The Gladstone Track sits on the moraine and terraces left behind as the glaciers retreated. In more recent history, the lake level was raised in the 1950s for hydroelectric power generation, which changed the shoreline significantly. Walking this track today, you are traversing a landscape that has seen immense change—from ancient ice to modern energy—yet it retains a profound sense of stillness and ancient beauty.

After the Walk

No New Zealand hike is complete without a "debrief" over a coffee or a cold drink. Fortunately, the Gladstone Track ends (or begins) just a stone's throw from some of the best hospitality in the district.

• Lake Hawea Hotel: Located just 100 metres from the dam end of the track, this is a classic Kiwi pub. It features a massive deck with some of the best views in the country. It’s the perfect spot for a hearty pub lunch or a celebratory drink while looking back at the mountains you’ve just been admiring.
• Hawea Store & Kitchen: This is a local institution. Whether you need a high-quality espresso before you start or a gourmet pie and a scoop of real-fruit ice cream when you finish, this cafe has you covered. It’s a great place to stock up on snacks if you’re planning to walk the full length of the track to Johns Creek.

The Gladstone Track proves that you don't need to climb a mountain to find a world-class view. It is a gentle, rewarding, and undeniably beautiful slice of the Southern Lakes that welcomes everyone to experience the magic of Lake Hawea.

100m away

Conveniently located near the trailhead, this spot offers coffee, snacks, and light meals, ideal for a quick refuel before or after your walk.