Richmond Fire Lookout Track

Loop

But don’t get too comfortable just yet—the final push to the Richmond Fire Lookout is the steepest part of the journey. This section of the climb is a bit of a pulse-raiser, but the track is well-maintained. As you emerge onto the summit area within the Silvan Forest, the effort pays off instantly. The panoramic vistas across Tasman Bay and the surrounding ranges are nothing short of spectacular. On a clear day, the contrast between the blue of the bay and the deep greens of the forest is breathtaking.

For the return journey, rather than retracing your steps, we highly recommend completing the loop via Wills Gully. This descent offers a different perspective of the hillside, passing through beautiful stands of native bush and past historic dams. You’ll also encounter the "Fossil Steps" and Hart Creek, adding a bit of quirky geological interest to your final kilometres before the track deposits you back onto Hill Street.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The obvious hero of this hike is the Richmond Fire Lookout itself. The lookout serves as a commanding vantage point, offering a 360-degree sense of the region's geography. From here, you can trace the coastline from Nelson city all the way toward Abel Tasman National Park.

• The Bird Hide: Located in the early stages of the Jimmy Lee Creek section, this beautifully maintained hide is a must-stop for families. It’s a quiet, camouflaged spot where you can sit and wait for the local feathered residents to show themselves.
• The Fossil Steps: On the Wills Gully return leg, keep an eye out for these unique features. It’s a great talking point for kids and a reminder of the ancient geological history of the Richmond Hills.
• Grassy Saddle: If you aren’t in a rush, this is the premier picnic spot on the trail. It offers plenty of space to lounge on the grass while soaking in the views of the plains.
• Historic Dams: The remnants of old water infrastructure along the creek sections offer a glimpse into Richmond’s colonial past and how the early settlers managed their water resources.

Getting There

The Richmond Fire Lookout Track is incredibly accessible, which is part of its charm.

The primary trailhead is located on Hill Street in Richmond. There is some roadside parking available near the entrance to the Jimmy Lee Creek Walkway. If the Hill Street parking is full—which can happen on busy weekend mornings—a great alternative is to park at the Washbourn Gardens carpark on Oxford Street. From there, it is a very short, pleasant walk through the gardens and onto Hill Street to find the start of the track.

Wildlife Spotting

Thanks to years of dedicated volunteer conservation work and predator control, the birdlife in the Richmond foothills is thriving. As you walk, the soundtrack is dominated by the melodic call of the Korimako (Bellbird) and the boisterous "tui-whit-whit" of the Tūī.

• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly little birds are almost guaranteed to follow you along the creek, flitting about to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps.
• Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon): Look up into the canopy of the larger native trees; you might see these heavy-set birds perched precariously on branches or hear the distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings as they fly overhead.
• Weka: While slightly more elusive, the inquisitive Weka is occasionally spotted poking around the undergrowth near the edges of the forest.
• Tauhou (Silvereye): You’ll often see these tiny, green-hued birds moving in busy flocks through the regenerating scrub.

Tip: The best time for bird watching is early morning or late afternoon when the forest is at its most vocal.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Spring: The forest is vibrant and lush, and the birdlife is at its most active and vocal. The temperatures are perfect for climbing without overheating.
• Summer: The heavy shade of the Jimmy Lee Creek section provides a cool escape. However, the upper sections are quite exposed, so a morning start is essential to beat the midday sun.
• Autumn: Expect crisp, clear air and stable weather, often providing the best visibility for those panoramic views over Tasman Bay.
• Winter: Nelson’s famous winter sunshine makes this a great "bluebird day" hike. Just be mindful that the creek sections can stay damp and slightly slippery, so wear shoes with good tread.

• Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended, especially for the steeper descent via Wills Gully.
• Water: There are no potable water taps on the trail, so carry at least 1.5 litres per person.
• Sun Protection: Even in winter, the NZ sun is fierce. Pack a hat and sunscreen for the exposed sections at the top.
• A Jacket: The lookout is elevated and can be catch the wind, so a light windbreaker is a good idea even if it’s warm at the bottom.

Note for families and pet owners: This trail is very kid-friendly, especially the lower creek sections and the bird hide. However, please note that dogs are not permitted on this specific track to protect the native wildlife and the integrity of the conservation area.

Local & Regional Context

The Richmond Hills are more than just a place to exercise; they are a vital part of the region's ecological and cultural fabric. The area you walk through is a mix of the Kingsland and Silvan forests. While parts are used for sustainable forestry, there has been a massive shift toward conservation and recreation.

The lush growth you see today is largely thanks to local volunteer groups who have spent thousands of hours planting native trees and managing pests. This effort has transformed what was once scarred hillside into a thriving ecosystem.

Historically, the Waimea Plains (Waimea translates to "hidden waters" in Māori) were a significant area for food gathering and cultivation for iwi. Looking down from the lookout, you can appreciate why this fertile land has been so highly valued for centuries, from early Māori gardening to the sprawling vineyards and orchards you see today.

After the Walk

One of the best things about a hike that starts and ends in town is the proximity to post-walk refreshments. Richmond has a fantastic cafe culture, and you’ll find several gems within a kilometre of the trailhead:

• Joes Garage Richmond: Just a stone’s throw away, Joe's is perfect if you’ve worked up a big appetite. It has a relaxed, industrial-cool vibe and serves excellent "solid" Kiwi fare and great coffee.
• Lydias Cafe: A local favourite for those who want a friendly, traditional cafe experience. Their homemade treats are the perfect reward for tackling that final climb.
• Ambrosia Cafe: Located in the heart of Richmond, this is a great spot if you want to sit outside and enjoy the sun. They offer plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options.
• Sprig and Fern Queen Street: If your hike finishes in the late afternoon, head here for a craft beer. The Sprig is a Nelson institution, known for its proper pub atmosphere and award-winning local brews.
• The Stables Restaurant & Tavern: For a more substantial meal in a beautiful historic building, The Stables offers a great family-friendly menu using fresh local produce.

The Richmond Fire Lookout Track offers the perfect balance of nature, challenge, and convenience. It’s a hike that reminds you why the Tasman region is such a special place to live and visit.

600m away

Known for excellent coffee and friendly service, a local favourite for a daily fix.