Lake Emily to Glenrock Stream - Rakaia Valley

Point to point

The final leg of the adventure follows the Glenrock Stream down towards the Rakaia River. As the valley opens up, the scale of the Rakaia River plain becomes apparent. The trail eventually deposits you at Double Hill Run Road, tired but undoubtedly buzzing from the sheer scale of what you’ve just accomplished.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The absolute standout of this hike is the Clent Hills Saddle. At 1,480 metres, it provides a panoramic vantage point that makes you feel very small in a very large world. The contrast between the vibrant blue of the remote lakes (Manuka and Seagull) and the tawny browns of the tussock is a quintessential Canterbury sight.

Another highlight is the backcountry hut culture. Passing through Manuka, Comyns, and the A Frame Hut gives you a real sense of the tramping history in this region. These huts aren't just shelters; they are sanctuaries for weary walkers and offer a chance to swap stories with Te Araroa "thru-hikers" who might be passing through from the other direction.

For those who love geology, the rugged erosion patterns and the braided river systems visible from the heights offer a fascinating look at how the New Zealand landscape is constantly being reshaped by water and ice.

Getting There

To reach the starting point, you’ll head towards the small settlement of Mount Somers. From there, drive approximately 31 kilometres west on Ashburton Gorge Road. You’ll then turn right onto Hakatere Heron Road and continue for another 23 kilometres.

Just before you cross the Jacobs Stream Bridge at Castleridge Station, turn right. If you’re in a standard 2WD vehicle, it’s best to park on the verge of the farm track here. Just make sure you leave plenty of room for farm machinery and other users—it’s a working station, after other all! If you have a 4WD, you can push on another 1.4 kilometres to a dedicated carpark on public conservation land.

Since this is a point-to-point track ending at Double Hill Run Road, you’ll need to arrange a vehicle ferry or have someone pick you up at the Rakaia end.

Wildlife Spotting

The high country is the realm of the New Zealand Falcon (Kārearea). Keep an eye on the rocky outcrops above the saddles; these masters of the sky are often seen performing incredible aerial displays as they hunt. Unlike the more common harrier hawk, the falcon is smaller, faster, and much rarer.

You might also hear the distinct, rowdy call of the Kea. While more common further into the main divide, these cheeky alpine parrots do occasionally visit the Clent Hills. In the lower valleys and around the lakes, you’ll find Paradise Shelducks (Pūtangitangi) with their white heads and loud honks, as well as Fantails (Pīwakawaka) and Silvereyes flitting through the scrub.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Spring offers crisp air and lingering snow on the high peaks, but stream levels can be higher due to snowmelt.
• Summer provides the most stable weather, though the heat in the exposed tussock can be intense.
• Autumn is arguably the best, with stable temperatures and the tussock turning a deep, burnt orange.

Weather Considerations: This is a high-altitude route. Even in mid-summer, temperatures can plummet, and snow is possible at any time of year on the saddles. The Canterbury "Nor'wester" wind can be brutal here, buffeting you as you cross exposed ridges. Always check the alpine weather forecast before leaving.

• Navigation: A topographical map and compass (or a reliable GPS) are essential.
• Safety: A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is a must, as cell reception is non-existent once you drop into the valleys.
• Sun & Wind Protection: The New Zealand sun is fierce, and there is almost no shade on this 43km stretch. Pack high-SPF sunscreen and a good windbreaker.
• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof tramping boots are required for the rough terrain and numerous stream crossings.

Personal Note: This track is dog-friendly, which is a rarity for such a major alpine route! Your fit, adventurous pup will love the wide-open spaces, but ensure they are under control around any potential wildlife or livestock on the station boundaries.

Local & Regional Context

The Hakatere area is steeped in high country farming history. The tracks you follow often mirror the routes used by early pastoralists and musterers who moved sheep through these formidable hills.

For Māori, this region was part of the inland ara tawhito (traditional travel routes) used for gathering resources like weka or stone. The landscape itself is a result of massive glacial activity, which carved out the broad U-shaped valleys and left behind the moraine dams that formed Lake Emily and its neighbours. Today, the area is a focal point for conservation, protecting the unique braided river habitats and the rare plants that thrive in the scree.

After the Walk

After 43 kilometres in the wilderness, you’ll likely be dreaming of a cold drink and a hot meal.

• The Staveley Store Cafe: A local legend about 35km from the trailhead. Their home-baked goods and coffee are the perfect "first stop" back in civilisation.
• Stronechrubie Restaurant & Accommodation: If you want to celebrate your achievement with a high-quality sit-down meal, this Mount Somers bistro offers incredible modern Kiwi cuisine.
• The Dubliner or The Blue Pub in Methven: If your journey takes you back through Methven (about an hour away), these two iconic pubs are the spiritual home of the post-hike debrief. Expect hearty pub grub, a warm atmosphere, and plenty of local character.

Whether you're tackling this as a grueling one-day challenge or a scenic multi-day expedition, the Lake Emily to Glenrock Stream track is a profound way to experience the raw, unyielding beauty of the Canterbury high country.

The Staveley Store Cafe

35km away

Located near Mount Somers, this charming cafe provides delicious home-baked goods, lunches, great coffee, and even wood-fired pizzas, with a relaxed vibe and beautiful views of Mount Somers.