Leslie-Karamea Track

Point to point

Highlights & Must-See Features

One of the most hauntingly beautiful features of this track is Moonstone Lake. Formed during the devastating 1929 Murchison earthquake, a massive landslide blocked the valley, drowning a stand of native forest. Today, the silver skeletons of those ancient trees still poke through the water’s surface, creating an eerie, prehistoric atmosphere that is a dream for photographers.

Another standout is the trek over Biggs Tops. If the weather plays ball, the panoramic views across the rugged interior of Kahurangi National Park are nothing short of breathtaking. You’ll see layers upon layers of mountains stretching toward the horizon, a reminder of just how vast this wilderness truly is.

Geology buffs will love the visible scars of the 1929 earthquake throughout the valley—giant slips and massive boulders that serve as a reminder of the seismic forces that shaped this land. And of course, the rivers themselves are highlights. The clear, emerald waters of the Leslie and Karamea are world-renowned among trout fishers, though just watching the water swirl through deep limestone pools is enough for most trampers.

Getting There

This is a point-to-point track, so logistics require some thinking. Most people start at the Flora Car Park (the eastern end) and finish at Little Wanganui (the western end).

To reach Flora Car Park, you’ll head about 36 km from Motueka via Graham Valley Road. A word of warning: this road is steep, narrow, and the last 5.8 km are unsealed. While some brave souls take two-wheel drives up there, a 4WD vehicle is highly recommended year-round. In winter, snow and ice make chains essential. The car park has room for about 20 cars, but it fills up fast. A crucial tip for locals and tourists alike: do not leave valuables in your vehicle, and ideally, arrange for a shuttle or a key swap, as overnight parking is not recommended due to security concerns.

The western trailhead is the Little Wanganui car park, located about 10 km from Te Namu, just south of Karamea. This end is accessed via an unsealed road, and most trampers arrange a pre-booked shuttle to take them back to their starting point or to the nearest town.

Wildlife Spotting

Kahurangi National Park is a stronghold for some of New Zealand’s rarest species. Because this track is so remote, the birdlife is spectacular.

Keep your eyes on the river for the Whio (Blue Duck). These rare, slate-grey ducks love fast-flowing alpine rivers. You’ll often hear their distinctive whistling call over the sound of the water before you see them. On the forest floor, you are almost certain to encounter the Weka—a flightless, cheeky bird known for its curiosity (and for stealing any shiny gear you leave outside your tent!).

If you are lucky, you might hear the shrill call of the Kea at the higher elevations or around the huts. At night, keep your ears open for the rhythmic "mopoke" of the Ruru (Morepork) or the rare, piercing whistle of the Great Spotted Kiwi (Roa). Seeing a kiwi in the wild is rare, but the Leslie-Karamea is one of the best places to listen for them.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Best Seasons: The track is open year-round, but Summer and Autumn are the prime times. The river levels are generally lower, and the weather is more stable. Spring can be beautiful but is often very wet, leading to flooded rivers. Winter is strictly for those with alpine experience, as snow can blanket the Tablelands and the Little Wanganui Saddle, making navigation difficult.
• Timing: Aim to be on the trail by 8:00 AM each day. With the rough terrain and potential for "bushbashing" around treefall, the days can be longer than they look on the map.
• What to pack: This is a true backcountry mission. You need sturdy, broken-in boots and high-quality gaiters for the mud. Bring a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)—there is zero cell service out here. You’ll also need a reliable stove, plenty of food (pack an extra day's rations in case of flooding), and a high-quality rain jacket.
• Water: The river water is generally pristine, but it is always safest to boil or treat your water, especially near huts.
• Sandflies: They are legendary in the Karamea valley. Bring a strong repellent and keep your tent zipped tight!

Local & Regional Context

Kahurangi translates to "Treasured Possession" in Māori, and it’s easy to see why. This area has long been significant to Ngāti Rārua and Ngāti Tama. Historically, Māori travelled through the mountain passes of this region to reach the West Coast in search of Pounamu (Greenstone).

The region is also famous for its "karst" limestone landscapes, featuring some of the deepest and longest cave systems in the Southern Hemisphere. While you’ll be staying above ground on this track, the limestone bluffs and unique rock formations you see are all part of this incredible geological story. The Leslie-Karamea is a journey through a landscape that feels "unfinished"—it is still being actively shaped by the elements.

After the Walk

After 9 days in the bush, you are going to be dreaming of a hot meal and a cold drink.

If you finish at the Little Wanganui end, head straight into Karamea. The Last Resort is a fantastic spot for a celebratory meal and a comfortable bed. Their food is hearty, and the atmosphere is exactly what a tired tramper needs.

If you’ve looped back or are heading back through Motueka, make a stop at The Moutere Inn. It is the oldest pub in New Zealand and serves incredible local craft beers and pub classics in a historic setting. For a quick caffeine fix and a world-class pie, the Motueka Sunday Market (if you time it right) or any of the local bakeries in town will hit the spot.