Goldsborough (Shamrock) Track

Point to point

As you climb higher, the "bush" opens up into a majestic canopy. You are moving through some of the finest remaining examples of hill-country rimu and miro forest in the region. The atmosphere here is thick and lush; the ferns are oversized, the moss is vibrant green, and the air is heavy with the scent of damp earth and leaf litter. It feels like stepping back into a prehistoric version of New Zealand.

While dogs are welcome on this track (provided they are under control), the "hard" difficulty rating means it is not recommended for children. The length, the mud, and the potential for steep drops or tricky scrambles make it a better fit for fit adults and experienced four-legged companions.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The standout feature of the Goldsborough (Shamrock) Track is undoubtedly its gold mining heritage. You aren't just looking at a forest; you are looking at a transformed industrial landscape. Keep a sharp eye out for:

• Mining Tunnels: You will pass several tunnels hand-hewn into the rock. Some are short and easily visible from the track, offering a haunting glimpse into the dark, cramped conditions the miners endured.
• Intricate Water Races: Following these perfectly graded channels allows you to appreciate the incredible engineering feats achieved by the early pioneers without modern machinery.
• Tailings and Sluice Faces: Large mounds of stacked stones (tailings) and sheer gravel walls (sluice faces) tell the story of how the hills were literally washed away in the search for "West Coast yellow."
• Italians Hill Forest: The high point of the track offers no expansive mountain views, but the "view" inside the forest is spectacular. The giant rimu trees here are ancient giants, draped in epiphytes and surrounded by a dense understory of beech, rata, and fern-trees. It is a photographer's dream for capturing the "moody" West Coast aesthetic.

Getting There

The track is located in the Goldsborough area, approximately 10 kilometres north of Hokitika. To get there, take State Highway 6 and turn onto Stafford Loop Road.

The main trailhead and parking area are at the Goldsborough camping area. This is a great spot to leave a vehicle if you are doing the point-to-point walk. If you are starting from the Callaghans end, you will need to navigate the local backroads to the Callaghan road end. Because the signage can be a little subtle in the backcountry, having a topographical map or a reliable GPS app is highly recommended.

Wildlife Spotting

The West Coast is a stronghold for native birdlife, and the Goldsborough area is no exception. Because the forest here is so thick and old, it provides a perfect habitat for many of our "locals."

• Tūī and Bellbird (Korimako): You will hear them before you see them. Their melodic, bell-like calls echo through the canopy year-round. Look for the white tuft under the Tūī’s throat high in the branches.
• Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon): These heavy-set birds are common here. Listen for the distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings as they fly between trees.
• Fantail (Pīwakawaka): These friendly little birds will often follow you along the track, flitting around to catch the insects you stir up with your boots.
• Weka: You might spot an occasional Weka foraging in the undergrowth. They are famously cheeky and curious, so keep an eye on your lunch if you stop for a break!
• Morepork (Ruru): If you happen to be finishing your walk as dusk falls, keep an ear out for the iconic "more-pork" call of our native owl.

Tip: Bring a pair of compact binoculars. The rimu trees are very tall, and much of the bird activity happens in the high canopy.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Goldsborough (Shamrock) Track is a true four-season trail, but each season brings a different flavour:

• Spring: The forest is at its most vibrant, and the birdlife is incredibly active and vocal. Expect higher water levels in the creeks.
• Summer: The best time for drier tracks, though "dry" is a relative term on the West Coast! The shade of the deep bush provides a welcome escape from the summer sun.
• Autumn: Generally offers more stable weather patterns and crisp, clear air, which makes the green of the moss pop even more.
• Winter: While cold, the forest remains evergreen. The track is well-sheltered from the wind, making it a great option when the coastal tracks are too exposed.

• Start Early: Aim to be on the trail by 9:00 am. This gives you plenty of daylight to navigate the trickier sections and allows for a long, relaxed lunch.
• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof tramping boots are essential. Sneakers will not survive the mud of Shamrock Creek.
• Clothing: Pack for four seasons in one day. Even in summer, a waterproof rain jacket and a warm wool or fleece layer are non-negotiable.
• Safety: Always tell someone your plans. The West Coast bush is dense, and it is easy to become disoriented if you wander off-track. Follow the Land Safety Code.

Local & Regional Context

Goldsborough was once a thriving township, home to thousands of miners during the peak of the 1860s gold rush. Today, nature has reclaimed the land, but the scars and structures remain. For Māori, the West Coast (Te Tai Poutini) was, and is, the land of Pounamu (greenstone). While this specific track is famous for gold, the wider area was part of the traditional travel routes used by Ngāi Tahu to transport precious stone across the Alps.

The conservation efforts here are vital. The remnant podocarp forest you walk through is a rare survivor; much of the lowland forest in New Zealand was cleared for farming or timber. Walking this track is a way to appreciate the resilience of the New Zealand wilderness and the layers of history—both indigenous and colonial—that make the West Coast so unique.

After the Walk

After four hours of navigating mud, roots, and history, you’ll likely be ready for some "civilisation." Head back into Hokitika (just 10km away) to refuel at one of these local favourites:

• Thatcher & Small: This is the spot if you’re looking for a bit of "modern sophistication." They serve excellent Allpress Espresso and have a fantastic menu that blends historical charm with great food. It’s perfect for a post-hike brunch or a sophisticated dinner.
• Stumpers Bar and Cafe: A classic Hokitika institution. It’s warm, welcoming, and has plenty of outdoor seating if the sun is out. Their homemade food is hearty—exactly what you need after a hard tramp.
• Woodstock Hotel and Brewing Co: Located just south of town overlooking the Hokitika River, this is the place for beer lovers. They brew their own range of craft beers and ciders. It’s a great local "pub" vibe with excellent value meals and a view that’s hard to beat.

The Goldsborough (Shamrock) Track is a reminder that the best adventures aren't always about reaching a summit; sometimes, they are about deep-diving into the heart of the forest and the stories of those who walked it before us. Pack your boots, grab your dog, and go explore!

10km away

A popular Hokitika dining spot with an onsite bar and cafe, serving homemade food options all day, with options for sun-drenched outdoor seating or fireside warmth.