Tobin's Track

Out and back

Highlights & Must-See Features

One of the most charming aspects of Tobin's Track is its connection to the past. Just about 300 metres into the walk, keep your eyes peeled for the remnants of Thomas Tobin’s old cottage. Tobin was the man who originally carved this path in the 1870s as a bridle way to Wanaka. Standing by these stone ruins, it’s easy to imagine the rugged life of a 19th-century pioneer overlooking the bustling gold-fevered town below.

The ultimate goal, of course, is the summit. Once you reach the top, you’ll find a trig station and several well-placed benches. This is the spot to sit down, grab your water bottle, and simply soak it all in. The panoramic views from here are nothing short of spectacular, especially when the light hits the schist rock of the surrounding mountains, turning them shades of purple and gold.

• Mount Beetham: From the top of Tobin's, a smaller, steeper, and often muddy track leads up to the summit of Mount Beetham. It’s a grassy scramble, but it grants you a full 360-degree view that includes the back valleys and even more of the Southern Alps.
• Tobin's Drop: For the more adventurous (and those with very sturdy knees), you can take the "Tobin's Drop" descent. It’s a much steeper, narrower path that creates a loop back to the river. Be warned: it’s significantly more demanding on the joints and requires shoes with excellent grip!

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is straightforward. If you are driving, head to the bottom of Ford Street in Arrowtown. There is a free parking reserve right near the Arrow River bridge. If that’s full—which can happen on sunny weekends or during the busy autumn season—you can find plenty of additional parking in central Arrowtown. From the main street, it’s only a 5-to-10-minute stroll through the historic village to reach the start of the track.

Wildlife Spotting

While the views are the main event, the local birdlife provides a wonderful soundtrack to your hike. As you move through the lower wooded sections, you are almost guaranteed to be greeted by the Fantail (Pīwakawaka). These cheeky little birds love to follow hikers, flitting around your feet to catch the insects you disturb as you walk.

Listen out for the melodic, bell-like chime of the Tūī and the Bellbird (Korimako), both of which are common in the area year-round. If you are lucky, you might see a Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon) perched heavily on a branch; they are easy to spot thanks to their iridescent green feathers and white "singlets."

Keep an eye on the sky as well. The New Zealand Falcon (Kārearea) is a rare but occasional visitor to these heights. Unlike the common harrier hawk, the Falcon is smaller, faster, and incredibly agile—a true treat for any birdwatcher.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Autumn: This is arguably the most famous time to visit. Arrowtown transforms into a riot of gold, orange, and red. Seeing the town "on fire" with autumn colours from the vantage point of Tobin’s is a bucket-list experience.
• Winter: The air is crisp and clear, providing incredible visibility. The track can get a bit frosty or even have a dusting of snow, so wear shoes with good tread. The sight of the snow-capped Remarkables against a blue sky is unbeatable.
• Spring & Summer: The days are long and the hills are green. It can get quite hot on the exposed upper sections of the track, as there is very little shade once you pass the initial tree line.

• Best Time to Start: In summer, head up early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the midday heat. An evening walk is particularly magical as you can watch the sunset shadows stretch across the Wakatipu Basin.
• Gear: Standard trainers are fine for the main gravel track, but if you plan on doing the Mount Beetham extension or Tobin's Drop, hiking boots are recommended.
• Sun Protection: The Central Otago sun is famously fierce. Even on a cool day, the UV levels are high. Wear a hat and apply plenty of sunscreen.
• Water: There are no water taps on the trail, so ensure you bring enough for you and your dog.

Local & Regional Context

The land you are walking on is steeped in both Māori and colonial history. Long before the gold rush, the Arrow River (known to Māori as Haehaeata) was part of a network of trails used by southern iwi (tribes) as they travelled inland to gather pounamu (greenstone) and hunt moa.

In the 1860s, the area was transformed by the discovery of gold. Thomas Tobin, for whom the track is named, was a key figure in the early development of the region. By building this bridle path, he helped connect the isolated mining camps of Arrowtown with the farming communities toward Wanaka. Today, the track serves as a reminder of that transition from a rugged frontier to one of New Zealand's most beloved tourism and lifestyle destinations.

After the Walk

One of the best things about hiking in Arrowtown is that the trailhead is just minutes away from some of the best food and coffee in the country.

• Provisions of Arrowtown: Located just 500m from the track in a historic miner’s cottage, this is the perfect spot for a post-hike treat. Their garden is beautiful, and their "sticky buns" are legendary among locals.
• The Fork and Tap: If you’ve finished your walk in the late afternoon, head here for a pint of local craft beer. It’s a 150-year-old pub with a massive, dog-friendly garden—ideal for relaxing and stretching out those legs.
• Kahwah Café: A newer addition to the scene, this vibrant spot is great for a hearty breakfast or brunch. Their shakshuka is a fantastic way to refuel after the 278m climb.
• Aosta: If you want to celebrate your hike with something a bit more refined, Aosta offers incredible Northern Italian cuisine using local Central Otago ingredients.

Whether you're looking for a quick workout, a bit of history, or just a place to take some incredible photos, Tobin's Track delivers every time. It’s a simple, beautiful walk that perfectly captures the spirit of Arrowtown.

600m away

A beloved gastropub in a 150-year-old historic building, known for fresh, uncomplicated food, 19 local craft beers on tap, and a spacious, dog-friendly outdoor garden. Great for a hearty meal and a pint after a walk.