Whisky Creek Track (Dolamore Park)

Loop

The loop is well-marked, but it does require a bit of sure-footedness on the steeper sections. For families, it’s a fantastic adventure; kids will love the "secret" feeling of the dense bush and the various bridges. Just remember to keep an eye on them during the ridge sections and the occasional slippery descent.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The Whisky Creek Track is punchy—it packs a lot of "wow" moments into its two-and-a-half-hour duration.

First and foremost is the optional side trip to Poppelwell’s Lookout. If you have the energy, do not skip this. It adds about 30 to 45 minutes to your total time, but the reward is the best seat in the house. From the lookout, the canopy opens up to reveal a breathtaking panorama of the Southland Plains. On a clear Southern day, the visibility is staggering; you can trace the horizon all the way to Bluff Hill and, if the sky is truly behaving, the jagged silhouette of Stewart Island (Rakiura).

Back on the main loop, you’ll encounter Whisky Creek Falls. While they may not be the tallest falls in the country, they possess a quiet, tranquil beauty that invites you to stop and linger. The water tumbles over dark rocks into a pool that feels hidden from the rest of the world.

Speaking of rocks, keep your eyes peeled for a geological oddity: pinky-red coloured rocks scattered in certain sections of the track. This isn't a natural mineral tint; it’s the result of a subterranean coalmine fire that burned deep underground for several years. The intense heat literally "baked" the earth and rocks above, changing their chemistry and colour forever.

Finally, there is the lore of the creek itself. The name "Whisky Creek" isn't just a marketing gimmick. During the prohibition era in the Gore District, the secluded gullies of the Hokonui Hills became the headquarters for illicit whisky stills. The creek provided the pure water needed for the legendary "Hokonui Moonshine," and the dense bush provided the perfect cover from the "revenue men" (police). Walking here feels like walking through a page of New Zealand’s rebellious past.

Getting There

Getting to the trailhead is a breeze. From the centre of Gore, follow Reaby Road for about 12 kilometres (roughly a 15-minute drive) until you reach the entrance to Dolamore Park.

The park is a fantastic facility in its own right. There is ample parking at the main carpark, which serves as the trailhead for several walks, including the Whisky Creek Track. You’ll find clean toilets, picnic areas, and a playground near the entrance, making it a great spot to reorganise your gear before heading into the trees or to relax once you’ve finished the loop.

Wildlife Spotting

The Hokonui Hills are a haven for native birdlife, and the Whisky Creek Track offers a front-row seat to their daily antics. Because the forest is so lush and relatively undisturbed, the bird song here can be quite deafening (in the best way possible) during the morning and evening choruses.

• Fantail (Pīwakawaka): These friendly little birds will likely follow you for a portion of the walk, flitting around to catch the insects you stir up from the leaf litter.
• Tūī: Listen for their distinctive metallic clicks and melodic whistles. You’ll often see them high in the canopy, especially when the native trees are in flower.
• Bellbird (Korimako): Often confused with the Tūī, the Bellbird has a clearer, more bell-like song. Look for their olive-green feathers camouflaged against the leaves.
• Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon): You’ll usually hear these before you see them; their wings make a heavy "whoosh-whoosh" sound as they fly. They are often spotted perched precariously on thin branches, gorging themselves on berries.
• Grey Warbler (Riroriro): A tiny bird with a big voice. Their long, trilling song is a constant soundtrack to the Southland bush.

Pro tip: Bring a pair of binoculars if you’re a keen birder, and try to stay quiet near the stream sections—this is where you’re most likely to see birds coming down for a drink.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Spring: The forest is at its most vibrant. The birdlife is incredibly active, and the smell of new growth is everywhere.
• Summer: The deep shade of the podocarp forest provides a cool escape from the Southland sun. It’s the best time for a clear view from the lookout.
• Autumn: The air is crisp and the light is golden, making the panoramic views even more dramatic.
• Winter: Southland winters can be cold and frosty. The track can get quite muddy and slippery, but the sight of frost on the ferns is magical.

• Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are highly recommended. The track can be greasy after rain, and the roots can be trip hazards.
• Layers: This is the deep south—the weather can change in minutes. Even on a warm day, carry a light rain jacket and a warm layer.
• Water and Snacks: While it's only a 2.5-hour walk, the climb is thirsty work. The lookout is the perfect place for a muesli bar break.
• Sun Protection: Even under the canopy, the NZ sun is fierce. Apply sunscreen before you start, especially for the exposed sections on the ridge and at the lookout.

Local & Regional Context

The Hokonui Hills (or Nga-Hokonui) hold a special place in the cultural landscape of Southland. For local Māori, these hills provided a source of food and transit. Later, they became synonymous with the "Hokonui Moonshine" era. Gore was a "dry" district for many years, leading to a thriving underground economy. The whisky produced here gained a reputation for being remarkably high quality—and remarkably strong!

The area is also geologically significant. The Hokonui Hills are part of a massive fold in the earth's crust, and the presence of coal seams led to the industrial history mentioned earlier. Today, Dolamore Park and the surrounding tracks are managed with a focus on conservation, allowing the regenerating bush to reclaim the land where logging once dominated. It is a testament to the resilience of the New Zealand environment.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished the loop and worked up an appetite, head back into Gore to refuel. The town has a surprisingly sophisticated cafe and dining scene.

For a relaxed vibe, Cafe Ambience (11.5km away) is a local favourite. They serve fantastic Emporio coffee and have a wide range of healthy, in-house made food. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for vegan or gluten-free options after your hike.

If you want a taste of local history and heart, try Capri Cafe (11.6km away). This family-run institution has been around for over twenty years. They are famous for their oyster soup—a true Southland delicacy—and their all-day breakfasts are legendary among hungry hikers.

For something a bit more upscale, The Thomas Green (11.5km away) is the place to go. It’s a beautiful restaurant and bar that offers a "wine-and-dine" experience. It’s the perfect place to sit back, perhaps with a glass of local Pinot Noir, and toast to a successful day on the trails.

The Whisky Creek Track is more than just a walk; it’s a journey through the heart of Southland’s nature and history. Whether you’re there for the birds, the views, or the "moonshine" lore, it’s a trail that will leave you with a genuine appreciation for this rugged corner of the world.

11.5km away

An opulent restaurant and bar in Gore, offering a fine dining experience with delicious and diverse food, known as the 'wine-and-dine' hub of the region.