Grandview Mountain Track

Out and back

Highlights & Must-See Features

The absolute standout of this hike is the unrivalled 360-degree panorama from the summit. To the west, the deep, glacial blue of Lake Hāwea stretches out beneath you, framed by the jagged peaks of the Hunter Valley. Looking south, you can trace the pastoral flats all the way to Lake Wānaka. On a clear day, the crowning jewel is the sight of Mount Aspiring/Tititea, its distinctive white pyramid peak piercing the skyline to the west.

Another highlight is the sheer serenity of the trail. Because it is slightly off the beaten path, you won't find the queues of hikers common on other Wānaka trails. It’s a shared track, so you might spot a mountain biker or two tackling the descent, but generally, it’s just you, the wind in the tussock, and the mountains.

For the photographers, the "golden hour" on the Grandview Range is legendary. The way the late afternoon light hits the dry, tawny hills creates a glow that is quintessentially Central Otago.

Getting There

To reach the trailhead, drive toward the Lake Hāwea township from Wānaka. Pass through the township and continue east for about 6 kilometres until you reach Nook Road. Follow this to the very end, where you’ll find the Nook Road car park.

The car park is spacious and safe, and there is a public toilet available at the start of the track—make sure to use it, as there are no facilities once you begin the climb!

Important Access Note: Because this track crosses working farm land, the Nook Road gate is locked annually for the lambing season, typically from mid-September to mid-November. Always check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website before you head out during the spring months to ensure access is open.

Wildlife Spotting

Keep your eyes on the sky and the scrub as you walk. The Grandview Range is a fantastic place to spot some of New Zealand’s hardiest birds.

• New Zealand Falcon (Kārearea): If you’re lucky, you might see or hear the piercing cry of the kārearea. These are New Zealand's only falcons and are much rarer than the common harrier. They are incredibly fast and often nest in the rocky outcrops of the range.
• New Zealand Pipit (Pihoihoi): You’ll likely see these small, streaky brown birds darting along the track ahead of you. They love the open, rocky alpine environments.
• Australasian Harrier (Kāhu): These large birds of prey are a common sight, effortlessly catching the thermals as they hunt over the pastoral slopes.
• Fantails (Pīwakawaka): In the lower kānuka sections, these friendly little birds will often follow you, flitting about to catch the insects you disturb as you walk.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Grandview Mountain Track is best tackled in Spring, Summer, and Autumn.

• Summer: It can get incredibly hot. There is very little shade once you leave the kānuka forest, and the Otago sun is fierce. We recommend an early start (around 7:00 am or 8:00 am) to complete the bulk of the climbing before the midday heat hits.
• Autumn: This is perhaps the most beautiful time to visit. The air is crisp, the visibility is often at its best, and the light is softer.
• Winter: While beautiful, the track can be covered in deep snow and ice, requiring alpine equipment and experience.

• Water: Take at least 2–3 litres per person. There are no reliable water sources once you leave the creek in the first few kilometres.
• Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are non-negotiable.
• Layers: Even on a warm day, the summit of the Grandview Range is exposed to the elements. The wind can be biting, so bring a windproof/waterproof jacket and a warm mid-layer.
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots are recommended due to the steepness and occasional rough sections.

Please note that this track is not dog friendly and, due to the 18km distance and nearly 1000m of climbing, it is generally not kid friendly unless your children are very experienced hikers.

Local & Regional Context

The land you are walking on is part of the vast Central Otago high country, a landscape shaped by both ancient geological forces and a rich human history. For centuries, Māori used the trails through the Hāwea and Wānaka regions as part of the ara tawhito (traditional travel routes) to access pounamu (greenstone) on the West Coast and to gather food.

Later, the area became the heart of New Zealand’s fine wool industry. As you walk the 4WD tracks, you’re following in the footsteps of generations of high-country musterers. The "Grandview" name itself is a nod to the colonial surveyors and farmers who were struck by the immense scale of the vista from the range. Today, the track represents a successful balance between working agriculture and public conservation land, allowing us to enjoy the majestic "backyard" of the Hāwea basin.

After the Walk

After five hours on the trail, your legs will likely be feeling the 958-metre ascent. Luckily, Lake Hāwea has some fantastic spots to refuel.

• Hawea Store & Kitchen (6.7km away): This is the local "everything" shop and a must-visit. They are famous for their world-class pies—the perfect reward for a long hike. Grab a coffee and a snack to enjoy by the lake, or sit in for a full meal.
• Hawea Hotel Lakeside Eatery & Bar (6.8km away): For something more substantial, head here for a classic Kiwi pub meal. They have a great range of craft beers and a seasonal menu. Sitting on their deck with a cold drink, looking back up at the mountains you just climbed, is the perfect way to end the day.

The Grandview Mountain Track isn't just a walk; it’s a challenge that pays off in spades. If you have the fitness and the preparation, it will likely become one of your favourite New Zealand hiking memories.

6.8km away

A traditional Kiwi pub and restaurant offering a seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients, craft beers, and stunning lake views, perfect for a post-hike meal or drink.