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Waihopai Valley
8.7 km
3 hours
350 metres
If you are looking for a slice of the Marlborough high country that feels worlds away from the bustling vineyards of the Wairau Plain, the Tummil Track is calling your name. Tucked deep within the serene Waihopai Valley, this trail is one of the region's best-kept secrets. While most visitors to Marlborough head straight for the coastal charms of the Queen Charlotte Track, the Tummil Track offers a completely different experience—one of rugged hills, golden tussocks, and the deep silence that only the inland valleys can provide.
At 8.7 kilometres return, this "out and back" track is the perfect mission for a morning or afternoon. It’s an inviting challenge for locals wanting to escape the routine and for tourists looking to see the "authentic" New Zealand backcountry without needing a heavy pack or a week of supplies.
The Tummil Track experience is defined by its steady, rewarding climb. From the moment you set off, you’ll feel the transition from the valley floor into the more elevated, rugged terrain of the Marlborough interior. The trail begins by winding through sections of regenerating native bush. This part of the walk is intimate and lush; the air is often cooler here, scented with the earthy fragrance of damp moss and manuka.
As you gain elevation—roughly 350 metres in total—the canopy begins to thin, and the landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation. You’ll emerge from the forest into the iconic high-country environment that New Zealand is famous for: wide-open swathes of golden tussock and hardy matagouri scrub. This is where the "moderate" difficulty rating comes into play. The path is well-defined, but the incline is persistent enough to get your heart rate up and remind you that you’re in the mountains.
The highlight of the walk is the approach to 'The Tummil' itself. As you crest the higher points of the trail, the world seems to open up. To one side, the Waihopai Valley stretches out in a patchwork of green and brown, and on a clear day, you can look back toward the expansive Wairau Valley. The true stars of the show, however, are the Richmond Ranges. These jagged, majestic peaks frame the horizon, providing a stunning backdrop that makes every drop of sweat worth it. It’s a place where you can sit on a rock, listen to the wind whistling through the tussock, and feel like the only person left in the world.
Informal roadside parking at the track start is likely, as no dedicated car park information is available.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
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
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
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Out and back
The Tummil Track might be understated, but it packs a punch when it comes to scenery. Here are a few things to keep your eyes peeled for:
The journey to the Tummil Track is an adventure in itself. You’ll need to drive into the Waihopai Valley, which is located southwest of Blenheim. Follow the Waihopai Valley Road as it winds deeper into the hills. This is a predominantly rural and conservation-focused area, so expect to see plenty of sheep and cattle stations along the way.
The trailhead is relatively understated. There isn't a massive, signposted car park like you’d find at a Great Walk. Instead, you’ll find informal roadside parking near the start of the track. Because this isn't a high-traffic trail, you usually won't have trouble finding a spot to pull over safely. Just ensure you park well off the road to allow farm vehicles and locals to pass by easily.
For bird lovers, the Tummil Track is a delight. The mix of native forest and open high country attracts a diverse range of species.
In the lower forested sections, keep an ear out for the melodic korimako (bellbird) and the distinctive "woof-woof" of the kererū (New Zealand pigeon) as it flies between trees. The cheeky pīwakawaka (fantail) will likely follow you for a portion of the walk, darting around to catch the insects you stir up from the path. You'll also frequently see and hear the tūī, especially when the native trees are in bloom.
Once you hit the open tussock, keep your eyes on the sky. This is prime territory for the kārearea (New Zealand falcon). Unlike the common harrier hawk, the kārearea is smaller, faster, and much rarer. If you’re lucky, you might see one diving at incredible speeds or hear its piercing "kek-kek-kek" call. If you happen to be walking in the twilight or early morning, you might even hear the haunting call of the ruru (morepork) echoing from the bush.
The Tummil Track is a fantastic year-round destination, but each season brings its own flavour:
The Waihopai Valley holds a special place in the Marlborough landscape. Historically, this area was an important route for Māori moving between the Wairau and the inland regions. The valley's name itself, Waihopai, carries centuries of history.
In more recent times, the valley has been defined by its rugged high-country stations. Farming here is a tough business, requiring resilience against the elements—a trait you’ll appreciate as you look at the hardy vegetation along the track. Interestingly, the valley is also known for the Waihopai Station, a satellite communication facility (often referred to as the "Spy Base") which you might spot the white domes of further down the valley.
The Tummil Track itself represents a commitment to preserving the natural heritage of the region, allowing the native bush to regenerate and providing a sanctuary for species like the kārearea. It’s a reminder that Marlborough’s beauty isn't just in its wine, but in its wild, untamed corners.
A quick note on accessibility: This track is not dog-friendly and is generally not recommended for young children due to the steady incline and the "moderate" nature of the terrain. It’s best suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness who enjoy a bit of a climb.
After three hours on the trail, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite. Since the Tummil Track is somewhat remote, you won't find a cafe at the trailhead, but the drive back toward Blenheim takes you through Renwick, the heart of the Marlborough wine region.
The Tummil Track is a reminder that some of the best experiences in New Zealand are the ones you have to seek out. It’s quiet, it’s beautiful, and it offers a genuine connection to the rugged soul of Marlborough. Happy hiking!
Ninox novaeseelandiae
Native owl also known as Ruru. Named for its distinctive two-note call heard at night.
Best time: Year-round
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
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
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
Falco novaeseelandiae
New Zealand's only endemic falcon, the Kārearea is a powerful and incredibly fast predator, often seen soaring above forested areas and tussock lands.
Best time: Year-round