Glencoe Walking Track

Out and back

Highlights & Must-See Features

Despite its size, the Glencoe Walking Track has several features that make it a "must-do" if you are in the North Otago region:

• The North Branch Waianakarua River: The ultimate destination of the walk. The river is incredibly tranquil here, offering shallow spots perfect for kids to skip stones or for you to dip your toes in on a hot summer afternoon.
• Ancient Podocarps: Look up! The forest here is dominated by some impressive specimens of rimu, kahikatea, and totara. These trees are the elders of the New Zealand forest, and standing amongst them provides a sense of the landscape as it was hundreds of years ago.
• The Memorial Rimu Trees: If you want a slightly different perspective, check out the alternative entry point marked by memorial rimu trees on the camp’s access road. These trees serve as a living tribute and lead you down to the same beautiful riverside destination, offering a poignant connection between the local community and the land.
• The Conservation Campsite: The walk itself is located within one of the region's loveliest "back-to-basics" campsites. Even if you aren't staying overnight, the open grassy areas and surrounding forest make it a fantastic spot for a traditional Kiwi picnic.

Getting There

Finding this little slice of paradise is part of the fun. It’s located about 2 kilometres west of the small township of Herbert.

1. If you are driving on State Highway 1, look for the turn-off at Herbert.
2. Turn into Ord Street, follow it for a short distance, and then take a left onto Monk Street.
3. From Monk Street, turn right onto Glencoe Road.
4. Follow Glencoe Road for approximately 2 kilometres. Note that this is a gravel road, so take it slow, especially if you are in a campervan or a smaller car.
5. The road leads you directly to the Glencoe Conservation Campsite, where you’ll find plenty of parking. The trailhead is clearly marked from within the campsite area.

Wildlife Spotting

The Glencoe Walking Track is a fantastic place for birdwatching, precisely because the forest is so dense and the area is relatively quiet. Because the walk is so short, you can afford to stand still for five minutes—which is the best way to see our native feathered friends.

• Fantail (Piwakawaka): These are almost guaranteed. These friendly, fluttering birds will often follow you down the track, hoping your footsteps disturb some insects for them to snack on.
• Bellbird (Korimako): Listen for their clear, liquid song which sounds like chiming bells. They are common year-round and love the flowering native trees in the area.
• Kererū (NZ Wood Pigeon): Keep an eye out for a flash of iridescent green and white. You’ll often hear the heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings before you see them.
• Morepork (Ruru): If you happen to be at the campsite at dusk or stay overnight, the haunting "more-pork" call of our native owl is a frequent sound in this forest.
• Paradise Shelduck (Pūtangitangi): Often seen in pairs near the river or in the open areas of the campsite, these vocal ducks are a staple of the New Zealand rural landscape.

Tip: For the best birdlife experience, try to visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the "dawn chorus" or "dusk chorus" is at its peak.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The beauty of a forest walk like Glencoe is that it is truly a track for all seasons.

• Spring: This is when the forest is at its most vibrant. The new growth on the ferns is a brilliant lime green, and the birdlife is particularly active and vocal.
• Summer: The track is almost entirely shaded, making it the perfect escape from the North Otago heat. The river is also at its most inviting for a quick splash.
• Autumn: The air is crisp, and the forest floor is often covered in interesting fungi. It’s a very photogenic time to visit.
• Winter: Because the forest is evergreen, it never looks "dead." Winter brings a misty, moody atmosphere to the Waianakarua River that is incredibly beautiful.

• Footwear: While it’s an easy track, the riverside can be slippery. Sturdy sneakers or walking shoes are recommended.
• Insect Repellent: Being near a river in a New Zealand forest often means sandflies (namu). A bit of repellent on your ankles will go a long way!
• Water & Snacks: There are no shops nearby, so bring a bottle of water and perhaps a thermos of tea to enjoy by the river.
• Camera: You’ll definitely want to capture the light filtering through the trees.

Local & Regional Context

The area surrounding Glencoe and the Waianakarua River holds significant meaning. For Māori, the rivers of Otago were vital "highways" for travelling between the coast and the inland pounamu (greenstone) trails. The name Waianakarua is often associated with the "water of the two spirits," reflecting the spiritual connection the people have with the landscape.

In colonial times, the Herbert area was a hub for the timber industry, and much of the original forest was cleared for farming and building. Places like the Glencoe Conservation Area are vital remnants of that original landscape, protected so that we can see what the region looked like before European settlement.

The name "Glencoe" itself reflects the Scottish heritage of many of Otago’s early settlers. While this Glencoe is much greener and more "bushy" than its namesake in the Scottish Highlands, it shares that same sense of being a place apart from the rest of the world.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your stroll and soaked up the forest vibes, you’re ideally placed to explore the rest of the North Otago coast.

• Moeraki Boulders Café: Just a 15-minute drive away, this is the classic stop. Grab a coffee and a scone while looking out over the famous spherical boulders on Koekohe Beach.
• Fleurs Place (Moeraki): If you’ve worked up a real appetite, head into Moeraki village to Fleurs Place. It’s world-famous for its fresh seafood, served right on the jetty. It’s a bit more "upmarket," but the atmosphere is pure Kiwi coastal charm.
• Herbert Heritage Coffee Shop: Located right in the township of Herbert, this is a great local spot for a quick refuel and a bit of small-town hospitality.

The Glencoe Walking Track might be short, but it’s a powerful reminder that you don't need to hike for hours to find true peace. It’s a little slice of Otago magic that’s waiting for you to discover it.