Loading...
Arrowtown
8 km
2 hours 30 minutes
380 metres
If you are looking for a hike that perfectly captures the rugged, golden spirit of Central Otago, look no further than the Sawpit Gully Track. Tucked away just behind the historic township of Arrowtown, this 8-kilometre loop is a local favourite for very good reason. It’s the kind of walk that packs a massive punch in a relatively short amount of time, offering everything from serene riverside strolls and dense beech forests to sweeping alpine vistas and fascinating gold mining relics.
Whether you are a seasoned tramper or a visitor looking to stretch your legs after a morning exploring the boutiques of Buckingham Street, the Sawpit Gully Track offers a rewarding, moderate challenge. It’s a bit of a workout—with an elevation gain of 380 metres—but the views from the top are more than enough to distract you from the burn in your quads.
The journey begins near the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement, a poignant reminder of the thousands of Chinese miners who sought their fortunes here in the 1860s. From here, the track follows the crystal-clear waters of the Arrow River. This initial section is a gentle, shaded meander that allows you to find your rhythm while listening to the rush of the river and the chatter of native birds.
As you peel away from the river and head into Sawpit Gully itself, the character of the trail shifts. This is where the "moderate" rating comes into play. The track begins a steady, sometimes steep ascent. You’ll find yourself climbing through pockets of native mountain beech forest, where the air is cool and smells of damp earth and moss. The trail then opens up into the classic Central Otago high country—vast, rolling slopes covered in golden tussock, interspersed with the prickly spikes of matagouri and speargrass.
If you take the recommended anti-clockwise route, the climb is more gradual, though it still requires a decent level of fitness. As you gain height, the views behind you begin to expand, revealing the scale of the Arrow Valley. Eventually, you’ll reach the saddle between German Hill and Brow Peak. This is the "hero" moment of the hike. Reaching this point feels like stepping onto a viewing platform for the entire Wakatipu Basin. To your left, the Remarkables stand tall with their jagged, iconic peaks; straight ahead, Lake Hayes glimmers like a blue jewel; and to your right, the Crown Mountain Range frames the horizon.
Free parking is available at the large Arrowtown car park on Ramshaw Lane, conveniently located near the Chinese Settlement, which is the starting point for the track. Public toilets are also available at the car park. During weekends and holidays, the car park can get busy, so arriving early is advisable.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Anthornis melanura
Endemic songbird with bell-like calls. Males are olive-green with a purple head sheen; females are browner with a narrow white-yellow stripe across the cheek.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
1km away
A charming cafe set in a restored 150-year-old miner's cottage, famous for its 'obscenely good' sticky buns and delicious seasonal fare made with local ingredients. It's a perfect spot for breakfast, brunch, or a late lunch in a lovely garden setting. Dog and child-friendly.
Be the first to share a photo of this trail
Recent reports from hikers
No condition reports yet.
Be the first to report the current conditions!
See what other hikers are saying
--
No reviews yet
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
Loop
The descent is just as engaging as the climb. You’ll wind your way back down towards Arrowtown, navigating several small creek crossings. Depending on recent rainfall, these can be a little wet, so having sturdy footwear is a must. The final leg of the loop joins the Arrow Gorge Track, following the historic Arrowtown pipeline back to the village. The transition from the rugged high country back into the lush, manicured edges of the town is a wonderful way to finish the loop.
The Sawpit Gully Track is steeped in history. One of the most evocative sights along the trail is the remains of an old stone miner’s cottage. It’s a humble, crumbling structure that serves as a powerful reminder of the hardy souls who lived and worked in these harsh conditions during the gold rush era. Nearby, you’ll see piles of stone tailings and old water races—massive engineering feats achieved with nothing but picks, shovels, and determination.
For the photographers, the view from the saddle is the ultimate prize. On a clear day, the contrast between the golden tussock and the deep blue of the Otago sky is breathtaking. If you have a little extra puff left in your lungs, there is a short, steep detour up to the summit of German Hill. It adds about 15–20 minutes to your trip but provides a true 360-degree panorama that makes you feel like you’re on top of the world.
During the late spring and early summer, the lower sections of the track near the Arrow River are often flanked by vibrant lupins. While they are an exotic species, their pinks, purples, and yellows against the grey schist rock make for an undeniably beautiful scene.
Getting to the trailhead is incredibly straightforward. Drive into Arrowtown and head for the large, free car park on Ramshaw Lane. It’s conveniently located right next to the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement.
The car park has public toilets and plenty of space, but a word of warning: Arrowtown is a popular spot, especially on weekends and during the autumn festival. If you’re planning to hike on a Saturday or Sunday, try to arrive before 10:00 am to secure a park and beat the midday heat. From the car park, simply follow the signs toward the Arrow River and the Chinese Settlement to find the start of the loop.
As you walk, you’ll likely be joined by some of New Zealand’s most curious avian residents. The Pīwakawaka (Fantail) is a constant companion; these tiny birds love to follow hikers, flitting about to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps.
Listen out for the melodic, bell-like song of the Korimako (Bellbird) and the occasional boisterous call of the Tūī. In the open tussock sections, keep your eyes on the sky for the Kahu (Australasian Harrier), which can often be seen soaring on thermal updrafts in search of prey.
If you’re lucky and quiet through the beech forest sections, you might spot a Ngirungiru (Tomtit), a small black-and-white bird that is a treat to see. Down by the river, look for Pūtangitangi (Paradise Shelducks)—the males have black heads and the females have distinctive white heads. They are often seen in pairs and are known for their loud, honking calls.
The Sawpit Gully Track is a true four-season trail, with each time of year offering a different experience:
Arrowtown, or Te Hakapūpu in Māori, has long been a place of significance. For Māori, the Arrow River was a seasonal route for gathering pounamu (greenstone) and hunting moa and weka.
In the 1860s, the discovery of gold changed the landscape forever. The Sawpit Gully itself is named after the pits where logs were once sawn into timber for the mines and the budding township. Today, the area is part of a massive conservation effort. Local groups work tirelessly to control wilding pines—an invasive species that threatens to choke out the native tussock landscape. By hiking here, you’re witnessing a landscape that is slowly being restored to its natural high-country glory.
One of the best things about hiking in Arrowtown is that you finish right in the heart of one of New Zealand's best "foodie" towns. After 2.5 hours on the trail, you’ve earned a treat.
The Sawpit Gully Track isn't just a hike; it’s a journey through time and a masterclass in Central Otago’s natural beauty. Whether you’re here for the history, the exercise, or the views, it’s a walk that will stay with you long after you’ve cleaned the dust off your boots.
Best time: Year-round
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
Tadorna variegata
Large, colourful duck endemic to New Zealand. Males have dark plumage; females have white heads and chestnut bodies.
Best time: Year-round
Circus approximans
This is New Zealand's largest native bird of prey, commonly seen soaring over open tussock lands.
Best time: Year-round
Zosterops lateralis
Small bird with distinctive white eye-ring. Commonly seen in flocks, feeding on insects, fruit, and nectar.
Best time: Year-round
1km away
A beloved gastropub housed in a 150-year-old historic building, offering a wide selection of local craft beers and Central Otago wines. Known for its fresh, uncomplicated food, including pizzas and burgers, it's a great spot to unwind after a hike with a cosy interior, fireplace, and a spacious beer garden. Dog and child-friendly.
1km away
A gastropub on Arrowtown's iconic main street, offering wholesome comfort food with locally sourced produce. Caters to various dietary requirements and boasts a bespoke list of Central Otago craft beers, wines, and cocktails. Features a garden bar with prime views of the historic street.
1km away
A modern brunch-meet-bistro dining experience situated next to the Arrow River Reserve. Known for excellent coffee and a menu that highlights fresh Central Otago produce. Offers a sunny courtyard with charming mountain views, ideal for a relaxed meal.