Long Hilly (Round Hill) Walking Track

Loop

* Canton – The Chinese Settlement: Perhaps the most poignant part of the walk is learning about Canton. During the gold rush, this area was home to a substantial settlement of Chinese miners. At its peak, hundreds of men lived and worked here, often in harsh conditions, facing both physical toil and social isolation. The interpretive panels do a wonderful job of bringing their stories to life, helping you imagine the bustling village that once stood where the ferns now grow. * The Logging Tramline: Long before trucks ruled the roads, timber was moved out of these forests via tramlines. You’ll encounter remnants of an historic logging tramline along the track. These iron and wooden skeletons are fascinating to see, slowly being reclaimed by the forest. * Hydraulic Engineering Marvels: Keep an eye out for the hand-dug waterways (water races) and earth dams. These were engineering triumphs of their time. Miners used these to divert water for hydraulic sluicing—essentially using high-pressure water to wash away the hillsides in search of gold. Seeing the scale of these hand-dug features really puts the "hard graft" of the pioneers into perspective. * Botanical Diversity: For the plant lovers, this track is a treasure trove. Over 100 species of native plants have been recorded here. Look out for the varying stages of regenerating forest—from the pioneer shrubs and mosses to the taller canopy trees that are slowly asserting their dominance over the old mining scars.

Getting There Finding the trailhead is straightforward. From Orepuki, head inland on Round Hill Road. The drive takes only a few minutes and leads you to a large, well-marked car park at the trailhead.

The facilities here are simple but practical. There is a toilet located about 10 metres along the track from the car park—handy for families before you set off on the two-hour journey. The car park is spacious enough to accommodate several vehicles, which is great because this spot is a popular entry point for locals and Te Araroa walkers alike.

Wildlife Spotting The Longwood Forest is a haven for native New Zealand birdlife. Because the track is relatively quiet, the birds are often quite bold.

* Tūī and Korimako (Bellbird): You will almost certainly hear these two before you see them. Their melodic, bell-like calls are the soundtrack to the walk. They are common year-round and love the nectar-producing plants in the regenerating bush. * Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly little birds are likely to follow you for a portion of the walk. They flit around the path, catching the insects stirred up by your footsteps. Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon): If you hear a heavy whoosh-whoosh* of wings, look up. The Kererū is an occasional but spectacular sight, often perched heavily on a branch while feasting on berries. * Riroriro (Grey Warbler): Listen for their long, trilling song. They are small and well-camouflaged, but their song is unmistakable and adds to the forest's tranquil atmosphere.

Tip: The best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon when the forest is at its most vocal. Bring a pair of binoculars if you have them, but often just standing still for a moment is enough to bring the wildlife to you.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips The Long Hilly Track is a fantastic year-round destination, but each season offers a different "vibe."

* Spring & Summer: The forest is vibrant and lush. This is the best time for spotting the full variety of native plants in bloom and enjoying a picnic at one of the clearings. * Autumn & Winter: Southland winters can be crisp, but the forest provides excellent shelter from the wind. The mosses and lichens look particularly vivid in the damp winter light, and the historical relics take on a moody, atmospheric quality. * What to Bring: Even though it’s an "easy" walk, this is Southland. The weather can change in a heartbeat. Always carry a lightweight rain jacket and wear sturdy walking shoes or sneakers with good grip. The track can get a bit muddy in patches after heavy rain. * Water & Snacks: There are no water taps on the trail, so bring a bottle with you. A few snacks will keep the kids motivated as they hunt for gold-mining relics! * Sun Protection: Even under the canopy, the NZ sun is fierce. Apply sunscreen before you head in.

Local & Regional Context The Longwood Range (Te Kāhui Kaupeka) holds deep significance. For Māori, the area was a source of seasonal resources. Following European arrival, the focus shifted heavily toward the extraction of gold and timber.

The name "Round Hill" became synonymous with the "Chinese goldfield." While many goldfields in New Zealand were dominated by European miners, Round Hill was unique for its high concentration of Chinese migrants, who brought their own cultural practices and social structures to this remote corner of the world. By walking this track, you are acknowledging a vital part of Southland’s multicultural heritage.

Additionally, this track forms a small but cherished part of Te Araroa, New Zealand’s 3,000km trail. When you walk here, you are sharing the path with "thru-hikers" who have walked all the way from Cape Reinga. It gives the track a sense of being part of something much larger—a connection to the entire length of Aotearoa.

After the Walk Once you’ve finished the loop and worked up a bit of an appetite, you don’t have to go far for a reward. The local area has two standout spots that are perfect for hikers.

* Orepuki Beach Cafe (5.5km away): Located in a beautifully restored historic homestead, this cafe is a must-visit. They pride themselves on a garden-to-table philosophy. Whether you want a hearty brunch, a slice of house-baked cake, or a great coffee, this is the place. It’s pet-friendly, so your dog can join you in the outdoor seating area while you look out over Te Waewae Bay. * Orepuki Tavern (5.6km away): If you’re after a more traditional Southland experience, head to the tavern. It’s a cozy spot to grab a local beer and a plate of blue cod (a regional specialty). The hospitality is warm, and it’s a great place to chat with locals and hear more stories about the area.

The Long Hilly (Round Hill) Walking Track is more than just a walk; it’s a beautifully curated experience that balances nature, history, and accessibility. It’s a reminder that even in the quietest corners of the South Island, there are incredible stories waiting to be discovered under the ferns.

5.6km away

Experience local culture and cuisine in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The tavern is known for its warm hospitality and is a great spot to enjoy local beers and hearty meals, with seafood dishes highly recommended.