Central Otago Trails - the best?

[paulj]

I have lived in Central Otago now for about seven years, and prior to that spent holidays etc in the district. My family(s) have roots going back to the gold rush era and sadly I buried my daughter here in Cromwell in 2005.

Post DR650 purchase in 2006, I looked around for trails and in particular, pictures of the various areas – Duffers, Obelisk, Old Dunstan Road etc etc .. not much on the web, but there are lots of 4x4 experts about, so I gleaned what knowledge I could from them – also some trail bikers (those guys are a bit extreme for me!). Still not a lot of pictures to whet my appetite – so, wait for the riding season and go do something about it.

Now that me and Barney Purple, have dug dirt together over a lot of tracks and trails – and I confess, not a lot elsewhere in the country – I am going to lay down the challenge, that Central Otago has the best adventure trail riding in New Zealand.

Why?

High altitude tracks
Varied terrain – mud, rivers, gravel, rock
Great climate – get well up on the tops and you can see forever
Paucity of locked gates, Keep Out, Private Property etc etc
Motorbike friendly landowners, farmers, cockys …
Huts, bivoucs, pubs, campsites …
Far enough away from the seal for a real sense of adventure.
Lots of ‘through trails’ – no going back the way you came.
I live in the middle of it, about 20 minutes from the Nevis tops – enough said.

I have put up a few pics here http://www.thespians.org.nz/cotrails to give you some idea and perhaps persuade you to ride this way sometime – not an appropriate domain name, that’s another ‘life’ of mine.

They are a mixed bag, some crap ex cell phone camera, some quite good and many missed altogether – once I get my leg over, it is bloody hard to stop and take a goddam picture – I’m getting over that as the pics I have bring back good memories.

I have captioned a few, annotated and scrawled some directions on others. Some are big buggers - hope you enjoy them

PaulJ

PS – DR 650’s are bloody good bikes …
PPS – Waikaia is spelt Waikaia!

[deanohit]

I did enjoy the Nevis Crossing last time I was down there even if I was in my truck!

Truly a beaut place down there, but Marlbrough is the area for me, I found so many trails in my truck down there, gotta go back on the bike and do them all again some time now.

[Transalper]

I have lived in Central Otago now for about seven years........
Now that me and Barney Purple, have dug dirt together over a lot of tracks and trails – and I confess, not a lot elsewhere in the country – I am going to lay down the challenge, that Central Otago has the best adventure trail riding in New Zealand. ....
Oh goodie, a new guide, you set it up, we will ride it with you.
Average weekend adventures could be we ride to you Friday after work, you show us an Adventure, we ride home Sunday in time for work Monday again.
Longer weekends are harder to do and would be few and far between (for me anyway). Oh yeah, am a bit stuffed till late January now.
Cheers
TA.

[merv]

Loved Nevis Road when we did it last year with my Bro'.

I already posted the pic of Mrs merv on her XT going through one of the many fords here http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=35389&d=1151233333

Here's my XR on the Nevis Road too http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=35242&d=1151025593.

This shot was at the top of Carrick range at over 1,300 metres above seal level http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=33967&d=1149317060

Wish I could stay down there longer and explore many more of the tracks.

[paulj]

Oh goodie, a new guide, you set it up, we will ride it with you.
Average weekend adventures could be we ride to you Friday after work, you show us an Adventure, we ride home Sunday in time for work Monday again.
Longer weekends are harder to do and would be few and far between (for me anyway). Oh yeah, am a bit stuffed till late January now.
Cheers
TA.

Sheesh - takes me a week to get over one of these - no - not really. At last I'll get a few pics of me in the bogs or on my side!

In the process of setting up a road/rally navigate by the stars type thing Dunners/Monowai mid Feb. The club reckoned 85k of gravel was too much so I cut that bit out but I can easily resurrect it. Xcountry, Cromwell <> Monowai - now I'm thinking ...:drool:

[Transalper]

....At last I'll get a few pics of me in the bogs or on my side!
You might just get video if I'm there.

....The club reckoned 85k of gravel was too much so I cut that bit out...
Which club are we talking there? What did they want instead of gravel?? Please don't say tarseal.

I'm planing to do the Capital Coast Adventure ANZAC weekend so thats April 25 to 27 out too.

[cooneyr]

Stop it - your torturing us. I'm with TA, keen as mustard to do a weekend trip around the place. Been through many of the tracks down in the area by 4x4 twice (two separate summer road trips).

Anzac weekend out for me as well. Really keen to do self supported i.e. carry tents, cookers etc over nighter :D

Have you got any ideas for a rough route?

Cheers R

[Delphinus]

Also keen to join you. Dunedinite here. :)

[clint640]

I am going to lay down the challenge, that Central Otago has the best adventure trail riding in New Zealand.


No argument from me on that one. Should be down again next year for another dose, might inspect some more of North Otago this time.

Cheers
Clint

[GaZBur]

Hi Guys.
Had a heap of fun with my DR already but no Adventure rides yet. I will be up central sometime mid Jan and would love to tag along with someone who knows what its about and how not to get lost, so long as they don't kick up too much dust of course :2thumbsup
Nice pics guys - you got me keen.

[paulj]

Have you got any ideas for a rough route?

Cheers R

The Duffers <> Piano Flat is fairly rough - at least the way I ended up doing it! Rock shelves, waist deep bogs, muddy uphill sections, and a drop off so steep I was sledging ol Barney downhill for a while. It was a foolhardy thing to ride alone, although there were a few MX lads up there too if I really did it bad, otherwise it would be a farmer with a crawler to recover me.

I have GPS waypoints for this section - the section Duffers <> Obelisk is very indistinct and has numerous cross trails to confuse further (BTW Duffers is the Nevis Saddle with Bannockburn). IMHO the section from Duffers to Obelisk is dry dry weather only - deep water filled ruts, slippery as hell with bog tussock and boulders.

I am working over a Friday <> Sunday trip of a bit more "gentleness" for starters - Friday after work to Lawrence Motor Camp (Dunners folks could come out through Mahinerangi), Saturday early, up to Lammermoor <> Lammerlaw, on through Aisla Craig into the ODR, up Serpentine and out via Long Valley and Poolburn or Onslow.



Which club are we talking there? What did they want instead of gravel?? Please don't say tarseal.


Tarseal! - Sorry - but I do understand their predicament. For large 1400cc+ road bikes (some starting with "H..." - all nice and shiny) and others with she who must be obeyed two up on $25k+, riding on gravel would be tricky, and as you will see from my flyer, we're old farts! (dammit).

There are clubs about catering for MX riding etc - however my preferred approach is more xcountry adventure trailing with a reasonable degree of technical riding thrown in - a thermos of coffee and a sandwich or two in the pack and all day ahead of me. No racing for moi.

Attached here is a flyer for the trip mentioned above - if it's to your taste, then this style of riding can be adapted to the back country too, in fact that was where I started before getting hobbled to the seal.

[Transalper]

The Duffers <> Piano Flat is fairly rough - at least the way I ended up doing it! Rock shelves, waist deep bogs, muddy uphill sections, and a drop off so steep I was sledging ol Barney downhill for a while. .....
Right, mental note, when going to ride with this man remember to wear ya knobyst tyres and take the smallest front sprocket/biggest rear combo.:laugh:

[cooneyr]

The Duffers <> Piano Flat is fairly rough........

I'm not surprised - that is the Whitecoomb Road which from memory is rated as a 5 heavy 4x4 track in Ken Siblys books. Again from memory that is the hardest 4x4 track in the south of the South Island!!!!! Was wondering how bad it really is but I think for a weekend trip it sounds like a bit much.


.....I have GPS waypoints for this section - the section Duffers <> Obelisk is very indistinct and has numerous cross trails to confuse further (BTW Duffers is the Nevis Saddle with Bannockburn). IMHO the section from Duffers to Obelisk is dry dry weather only - deep water filled ruts, slippery as hell with bog tussock and boulders.

I am working over a Friday <> Sunday trip of a bit more "gentleness" for starters - Friday after work to Lawrence Motor Camp (Dunners folks could come out through Mahinerangi), Saturday early, up to Lammermoor <> Lammerlaw, on through Aisla Craig into the ODR, up Serpentine and out via Long Valley and Poolburn or Onslow......

This route from Lawrence north then west sounds good. How long do you think this would take? I think we could spare the some of Sunday morning to do a little bit more - do you recon there is anyway we can work in a bit of the tops between say the Mt Benger Road and the Obelisk with possibly a side trip to the Potters Huts. I know the views from up there are awesome and last time I was through it was a little challenging but wouldn't be too bad (bogs/wet rutts were not to difficult for an old landy :D). Maybe we northerners could do that (south to north) on our way to Alex from which we could do the Lindis or cut back to Danseys to head north.

I think maybe Duffers saddle is a bit out of the way compared to the rest of the tracks you mention? Pitty we don't have a another day so we could do the Nevis!

Cheers Ryan

[bvaut]

Yep truely excellent,

Beautiful country down that way and certainly magic place to ride. I will be heading that way for a few weeks in March/April 08 to do a few more trails down this way so i will be definately be in contact to find some of these majic places and trails. Till then i can only dream of this area.

[PLUG]

just passed through there on me way to & from the BURT ... down over the Danseys - Clyde/Hawkburn Rd/pylon track & the Nevis ... back the Nevis - Thompsons track/Rise & Shine Rd & Danseys ...

the golden O's got it all for me ...

[paulj]

Wow - this thread is turning into a trip planner for some trailing down this way – great – given that, then maybe we should look at the options based on who will come along and from what direction you will approach. I live in Bannockburn (Plug would have nearly tripped over me when he passed and has missed out on a beer or two)!



This route from Lawrence north then west sounds good. How long do you think this would take? I think we could spare the some of Sunday morning to do a little bit more - do you recon there is anyway we can work in a bit of the tops between say the Mt Benger Road and the Obelisk with possibly a side trip to the Potters Huts.
Cheers Ryan

Lawrence/Poolburn – one day with one or two side excursions – clearly it depends on how long and hard you wish to ride. Personally I like to trundle along, and knock off about 3pm or so – depending on where I am. A nice pub or eating shop will use up a fair amount of time and I’m not averse to a granddad nap in the tussocks. There’s a truck load of side trips and Poolburn etc is not too far from the flesh pots of Alexandra.

The Serpentine is no pussy trip either – even though it shows as a ‘road’. There is some gold working machinery there that this time I WILL get to see – I’m advised that the track down to it is one way – once down you won’t get back up – this means out via Manorburn or walk :argh:.

If we bailed out via Onslow, or better still, end up in Alex with better ale houses, accommodation ... then Fruitlands/Obelisk on the Sunday is a go - steep gravel and fairly easily negotiated – we could ride down to the gnarly bits and suss it out for another day - on a good day this is a great trip as you say. Potters - saw the turn off but haven't been there - will talk with my work colleague again - he seems to know all the stones etc by name! .

Bengar – dunno – not been there – will investigate.


Hi Guys.
Had a heap of fun with my DR already but no Adventure rides yet. I will be up central sometime mid Jan and would love to tag along with someone who knows what its about and how not to get lost, so long as they don't kick up too much dust of course :2thumbsup
Nice pics guys - you got me keen.

PM me when you know what you're up to - always available (nearly) - I have the enviable situation, that I simply look out the window at the local weather, trawl the web for the next few day’s weather and, if it all looks good, pack up and go, week or weekend – no I’m not retired.



I think maybe Duffers saddle is a bit out of the way compared to the rest of the tracks you mention? Pity we don't have a another day so we could do the Nevis!
Cheers Ryan

Agreed - if you zoom in on the "Ultimate" pic I posted, you'll get some idea of the ruts - you can see where others have tried to avoid them, but those areas were deep spongy bogs even in the dry weather - there's no way I'm going there till it dries out.

The main complication is the return trip on the Sunday – you’re either at your backdoor – as I would be – or you’ve got some serious road riding to do which isn’t nice or proper. Dunners riders could go home via ODR/Clarks Junction/Outram which isn't too bad.

My thoughts are not to make this a regimented route ride – if one wants to blat away elsewhere, go do it – otherwise we get back to structures, timetables etc, which contradicts my Codes of Practice …. meet up in Lawrence and go ride - be great to have some companionship.

Post your thoughts here – the days are fine and I for one won’t be hanging about thinking it over! And I've still got to fit my Molesworth Top O the Island trip in.

[cooneyr]

The Serpentine is no pussy trip either – even though it shows as a ‘road’. There is some gold working machinery there that this time I WILL get to see – I’m advised that the track down to it is one way – once down you won’t get back up – this means out via Manorburn or walk :argh:.

The Serpentine Road (southern end between Lake Onslow Road and the Serpentine Church) is pretty rough with some big ruts and has a fairly deep creek crossing (over the bonnet of a Landy when we went through in January so would drown a bike) near the lake Onslow road end.

There is a stamper and wheel (essentially complete) down from Long valley road just north of the serpentine road. We drove the landy about 1/2 way down but didnt want to risk the rest of it given we were on our own. It is the only stamper and wheel together I've seen (outside a museum) so is defiantly worth a look. I'd suggest we just ride as far as we think we can manage then walk but I suspect we could justabout ride the whole lot.


The main complication is the return trip on the Sunday – you’re either at your backdoor – as I would be – or you’ve got some serious road riding to do which isn’t nice or proper. Dunners riders could go home via ODR/Clarks Junction/Outram which isn't too bad.

Most of the Chch riders do the Danseys, Mackenzie etc when going to and from the brass. We really dont have time to do much more than hit the seal for most of the ride to and from Central. To and from anywhere around Lawrence to Cromwell doesnt make much diff to us me thinks.

I think I'd better :shutup: now. This is your playground :D If you ever want to have a look through the Molesworth, Rainbow etc etc then I'm sure there would be somebody keen to show the way.

Cheers R

[paulj]

Thanks for the background on Serpentine Cooneyr - at last I'll see the damned thing - pity about the deep creek into Onslow - maybe we need to look for an alternative ...

Yeah - the Top O The Island trip is a go'er - R80 with the shock set on 'hard', panniers etc etc ... got a bunch of waypoints from Scott to mull over and now it's lie-low and let the bank balance swell a bit.

Bring on Santa ... if anyone wants to blast up out of Lawrence, drop me a note.

[paulj]

Went Roxburgh > Onslow > Paerau yesterday on the R80 - up to the cylinders (that's not a difficult task!).

Great cruisy trip.
:done:

[necrolyte]

Hey i'm always keen to hit a bit of dirt! If someone is planning a ride around this here area (Central O) i'll be keen. Just need to get a trailer to get to and from with the dirt beast.
Have you been up Coal Pit Road to the top of the Remarkables? Awsome ride, but hard on the old body & bike.

[GaZBur]

...
PM me when you know what you're up to - always available (nearly) - I have the enviable situation, that I simply look out the window at the local weather, trawl the web for the next few day’s weather and, if it all looks good, pack up and go, week or weekend – no I’m not retired....
Wow thanks - I certainly will. Hope to meet you sometime in Jan then. I just looked up the distance between Bannockburn and where I'm staying in Albert Town and its 60.8km and 47 minutes between the two. But I bet you know the un-short cut dontcha!!!

[paulj]

Have you been up Coal Pit Road to the top of the Remarkables? Awsome ride, but hard on the old body & bike.

Sheesh no - tell me more - doesn't look like it would work according to the map - have you been thru into the Nevis from Coal Pit?

[necrolyte]

Sheesh no - tell me more - doesn't look like it would work according to the map - have you been thru into the Nevis from Coal Pit?

Its one hell of a road, mostly old farm tracks that are either worn out or non-existant. Its got altitude, to the point where the DR won't go without the throttle wide open! The snow is a bitch too, broke the clutch lever off last time in that. All there is up there is a good view of the Remarks and little else, just a nice technical ride really.

Never been to the Nevis at all to be honest, would like to do the road thru to Garston (i think) and back, sounds like a good ride.

[greerADV]

This would be my first post (woohoo, popped the cherry!), but I've just been reading through the thread and figured it'd be a great place to ask who is around Wanaka, Q-town, Alex, etc. to ride with. I bought a Honda Dominator a couple months back and have just started to explore Central Otago a bit. Just did Nevis Crossing from Bannockburn to Garston yesterday and rode Thompsons Gorge last weekend (be ready to stop for a LOT of gates if going that way!)

I'm still new to off-road riding, but I think I'm picking it up pretty quick. But sure wouldn't hurt to get out there with someone who really knows what they're doing! I managed Nevis without a much trouble (not to say I didn't nearly fly head-first into some of those hidden fords .. watch out!)

I'm living in Wanaka until around mid-Jan, so if anyone is out there and wants to do some riding, I'd love to tag along or meet up. I'm off every Sunday and Monday, but I can get Saturdays off if need be. If you want to ride or just have some suggestions of some good trails, I'm all ears!

Cheers

[paulj]

Just did Nevis Crossing from Bannockburn to Garston yesterday and rode Thompsons Gorge last weekend (be ready to stop for a LOT of gates if going that way!)
Cheers

Bugger - and it was FINE weather too ... all I could do was drive around in m'cage being throughly pissed off ... :crybaby:

Went up onto Duffers on Sunday with the intention of going into Old Woman Hut, but lost two carefully replaced exhaust bracket bolts and then was punted in the ass by my pannier rack heading upwards as I headed downwards - whaaaa

Welcome to Kiwi Biker greerADV

[necrolyte]

Just did Nevis Crossing from Bannockburn to Garston yesterday

Cheers

Well, thats a trip i would love to do sometime. Just need to come back again on the same road as my dirt bike is purely for dirt only but things can be arranged. Going to macetown on sunday arvo if anyone is interested?
Unless i remember whatever it is i've forgotten, happens everytime i want to hit the dirt!

Edit: Oh yeah, welcome!

[Xaria]

Attached here is a flyer for the trip mentioned above - if it's to your taste, then this style of riding can be adapted to the back country too, in fact that was where I started before getting hobbled to the seal.

Just wondering when the dates are for this run as
I couldn't see them on the PDF. Sounds fun

[paulj]

Just wondering when the dates are for this run as
I couldn't see them on the PDF. Sounds fun

It's the Club's call on how it finally shapes up, but the proposed dates are a weekend in late February. Too far out for me - many trips to do meantime!

I would like to do a XCountry version based on a similar style - but with less clues and more navigation etc ... but that's me.

[greerADV]

Well, thats a trip i would love to do sometime. Just need to come back again on the same road as my dirt bike is purely for dirt only but things can be arranged. Going to macetown on sunday arvo if anyone is interested?
Unless i remember whatever it is i've forgotten, happens everytime i want to hit the dirt!

Edit: Oh yeah, welcome!

Thanks necrolyte and paulj!

I put together a little slideshow/video last night that might motivate you to get out there in the Nevis Valley, and help prove paulj's point about CO.
Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqRng3dyp80

Macetown is something I'd be interested in, that is, if the Arrow River has gone down a bit. A couple weeks ago I nearly drown the Domi at the first major crossing. Took me over an hour to dry everything out and get running again. Afterward, I realized it was a dumb thing I did, but I still couldn't find a place that I think I could have crossed easily. Is there a better spot I didn't see .. one without waist-deep water?

[deanohit]

Mate, thats an awesome vid! love the bit where you ride through the creek, thats a great angle.

[paulj]

Thanks necrolyte and paulj!

I put together a little slideshow/video last night that might motivate you to get out there in the Nevis Valley, and help prove paulj's point about CO.
Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqRng3dyp80

Macetown is something I'd be interested in, that is, if the Arrow River has gone down a bit.

GREAT VID - almost as good as being there ... has inspired me to vid some of my escapades - thanks... :clap:

Not sure about Macetown - council has become a bit precious about motorbikers - been one or two 'silly' things happening.

[clint640]

Thanks necrolyte and paulj!

I put together a little slideshow/video last night that might motivate you to get out there in the Nevis Valley, and help prove paulj's point about CO.
Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqRng3dyp80

Macetown is something I'd be interested in, that is, if the Arrow River has gone down a bit.

Nice! been through the Nevis a coupla times now, last time we met the head shepherd of Nevis Stn & his bro about 1/2 way though, just parked up, leaning on the 'ol landy, takin in the evenin' air & sippin a Speights, they offered us a coldy too so we shot the shit for while, they told a few good stories.

You do have to watch out for those hidden fords though! One in particular I reckon someone should hide a motion triggered camera in the tussock for the summer, you'd get some great footage!

I think it's a public road into Macetown so access shouldn't be a problem. We did see some dumbass riding up there though, Tryin to blast through that track at race pace is just asking for natural selection to come around the corner in the form of a large bullbar.

Cheers
Clint

[cooneyr]

..................I think it's a public road into Macetown so access shouldn't be a problem. We did see some dumbass riding up there though, Tryin to blast through that track at race pace is just asking for natural selection to come around the corner in the form of a large bullbar.

Cheers
Clint

Last time I was in there (about 04) the 4x4's had done quite alot of damage around Macetown itself. Seems that going in and having a look it not enough they have to try and climb all the hills and tailings in the area as well. There is bound to be a few bike riders who try similar stunts.

It might be a public road but that doesn't mean that they cant stop access. Of course they have to "consult" with the public first.

Cheers R

[deanohit]

Last time I was in there (about 04) the 4x4's had done quite alot of damage around Macetown itself. Seems that going in and having a look it not enough they have to try and climb all the hills and tailings in the area as well. There is bound to be a few bike riders who try similar stunts.
Cheers R

See thats stupid, I went through in my truck and did it easy doing minimal if any damage, and that was in a loaded Isuzu Tooper lifted and on mudders. It was wet at the time, so it was muddy, but it was still reasonably easy to do.

[cooneyr]

See thats stupid, I went through in my truck and did it easy doing minimal if any damage, and that was in a loaded Isuzu Tooper lifted and on mudders. It was wet at the time, so it was muddy, but it was still reasonably easy to do.

Yup. I had an ex military 109 v8 landy (petrol slurper from hell) on a set of 31 inch BFG mudders and have done many of the tracks around Central up to 3 heavy 4x4 (Ken sibly's shiny's ratings) by myself. Never got stuck, never had to leave the main track and never went ripping up areas for the hell of it. Others obviously havent got the idea though - along the tops of the Old man range is another place. 4x4's and trail bikes have done a pretty good job of cutting it up.

Does anybody ever do the Carrick town route to get to or from Duffers Saddle? There is a complete water wheel (Yong Australian Mine) along the track and at other locations workings, mine shaft and remains of stone huts. Much more interesting than going up the gravel road.

Cheers R

[warewolf]

This would be my first post (woohoo, popped the cherry!), ... I bought a Honda Dominator a couple months back Welcome! Good choice, I had a 1995 model a few years ago, loved it on gravel roads.

[necrolyte]

Thanks necrolyte and paulj!

I put together a little slideshow/video last night that might motivate you to get out there in the Nevis Valley, and help prove paulj's point about CO.
Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqRng3dyp80

Macetown is something I'd be interested in, that is, if the Arrow River has gone down a bit. A couple weeks ago I nearly drown the Domi at the first major crossing. Took me over an hour to dry everything out and get running again. Afterward, I realized it was a dumb thing I did, but I still couldn't find a place that I think I could have crossed easily. Is there a better spot I didn't see .. one without waist-deep water?

Well up to the start of winter i was doing macetown every couple of weeks, still not bored of it though. First major crossing would be the first crossing in general, that is usually the worst. when i first got my bike i went up there pretty much at the start of spring... good way to learn how to do river crossings, do them as deep as fu*k the first time then its a breeze after!

Give me a jingle and i'll get you on the jangle if you want to go, i have decided i'm going no matter what, i haven't hit the dirt in about 4 months and i'm starting to get an itch! :crazy:

Edit: Sorry forgot to say that is one cool vid, i REALLY want to go there now!

[necrolyte]

Just uploaded a very short video of a small, deep crossing that can be found on the way to and from macetown.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Mi3IMdpxxQ

[paulj]

Does anybody ever do the Carrick town route to get to or from Duffers Saddle? There is a complete water wheel (Yong Australian Mine) along the track and at other locations workings, mine shaft and remains of stone huts. Much more interesting than going up the gravel road.


Yes - I agree with ya cooneyr - especially these days as it has a fair degree of scouring which really livens up the riding ... best route into Duffers as it starts from THE PUB!!

[PLUG]

starts from THE PUB!!

... i'm keen :apint:

[greerADV]

Just uploaded a very short video of a small, deep crossing that can be found on the way to and from macetown.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Mi3IMdpxxQ

You make that look pretty easy! That one looks nearly as deep as the one that got the best of the Domi. Looks like I'll be heading to Queenstown saturday for a night out with some mates. If you're planning on Macetown for sunday, I'm definitely interested. What time do you think you'll be setting off?

Thanks for all the comments on the video! I'll try to document more of my rides that way to share with everyone.

[RedKLR650]

This would be my first post (woohoo, popped the cherry!), but I've just been reading through the thread and figured it'd be a great place to ask who is around Wanaka, Q-town, Alex, etc. to ride with. I bought a Honda Dominator a couple months back and have just started to explore Central Otago a bit. I'm living in Wanaka until around mid-Jan, so if anyone is out there and wants to do some riding, I'd love to tag along or meet up. I'm off every Sunday and Monday, but I can get Saturdays off if need be. If you want to ride or just have some suggestions of some good trails, I'm all ears!
Cheers

Greetings GreerADV,

welcome to the madhouse ( actually some of the others are actually sane :bleh:

I work a lot of weekends, but would be good most Mondays, so keep in touch

I may be Timvegas based but it's not a problem to scoot down for a good ride

Great video too :woohoo:

Cheers, Stu

[Winston001]

Haven't read the full thread yet but I've explored the Queenstown area offroad for the past 15 years. I tend to putt along on my XR200, helmet off, enjoying the experience. Not at all hardcore. Took my 12 year old son into the back of Ben Nevis last year - about 6000 feet when we stopped. He wants to go back this summer.

Anyway it would be great to join some others or at least swop suggestions of where to go.

[necrolyte]

You make that look pretty easy! That one looks nearly as deep as the one that got the best of the Domi. Looks like I'll be heading to Queenstown saturday for a night out with some mates. If you're planning on Macetown for sunday, I'm definitely interested. What time do you think you'll be setting off?

Thanks for all the comments on the video! I'll try to document more of my rides that way to share with everyone.

Yeah mate, thats fun that one. I should be heading off about 1-2 ish. Gotta take the little ones to a christmas thing at the fire station, its supposed to finish at 2 but i get the feeling it'll be over before that and besides their mum can take care of them so i can go for a ride!

Send me a txt or call me on 03 4098501 or 0274635631

[Winston001]

Just uploaded a very short video of a small, deep crossing that can be found on the way to and from macetown.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Mi3IMdpxxQ

Yeah I know where that is - it catches a lot of people unawares. 4WDs die in it from time to time. There is a shallower place to cross upstream but as long as you are ready for it, no problem.

In fact the second-last crossing at Arrowtown can be the worst.

[greerADV]

Yeah mate, thats fun that one. I should be heading off about 1-2 ish. Gotta take the little ones to a christmas thing at the fire station, its supposed to finish at 2 but i get the feeling it'll be over before that and besides their mum can take care of them so i can go for a ride!

Send me a txt or call me on 03 4098501 or 0274635631


My tyres are definitely road-biased at the moment, do you think that will be much of a problem on the Macetown run? I ask because I am still new to the off-road scene and the Domi is my only mode of transporation - need to be just a little bit cautious!

[greerADV]

Greetings GreerADV,
welcome to the madhouse ( actually some of the others are actually sane :bleh:
I work a lot of weekends, but would be good most Mondays, so keep in touch
I may be Timvegas based but it's not a problem to scoot down for a good ride
Great video too :woohoo:

Cheers, Stu

Thanks Stu! I'm definitely up for some rides out your way as well. I'll also be starting a road-trip on the bike around mid-Jan. No plans and no destination as of yet, so if we don't get to ride before then, maybe you can show me around your back yard as I pass through.

Cheers,
Andrew

PS - where was the picture in your signature taken? it's incredible.

[necrolyte]

My tyres are definitely road-biased at the moment, do you think that will be much of a problem on the Macetown run? I ask because I am still new to the off-road scene and the Domi is my only mode of transporation - need to be just a little bit cautious!

Macetown track isn't too too bad, but the river crossings might be a bit slippery? But then again you did do some river crossings in the Nevis...

[Winston001]

My tyres are definitely road-biased at the moment, do you think that will be much of a problem on the Macetown run? I ask because I am still new to the off-road scene and the Domi is my only mode of transporation - need to be just a little bit cautious!

It is a road not a track so no problem. Just take it easy through the fords - they are much wider than the Nevis River but generally shallow. Worst thing that could happen is you walk the bike across just to be sure - keep on the upstream side of the bike. Personally I'd go for it.

The biggest danger on the Macetown road is hoons on trail-bikes and idiot 4WD drivers.

[necrolyte]

Now now, not all the guys on trail bikes that go up there are hoons... Just most of them, i have a little respect.

[greerADV]

Macetown track isn't too too bad, but the river crossings might be a bit slippery? But then again you did do some river crossings in the Nevis...

That sounds good to me. I did make it through the Nevis without much truoble, so I'm sure if you can show me where NOT to cross the river, I'll be alright.

I'll be in Queenstown tonight and I'll send you a text tomorrow around 12 to see what time you'll be setting off.

Cheers,
Andrew

[necrolyte]

Sweet as man, i'll be here

[Winston001]

Now now, not all the guys on trail bikes that go up there are hoons... Just most of them, i have a little respect.

Agreed. I understand what it is like to ride a trailbike and have fun, particularly with a group of friends. The trouble is that some guys are just too enthusiastic riding fast on a rough road where there are walkers, mountain-bikers, and 4WDs around each corner in the summer.

They also do a lot of damage riding off the road and you must have seen the scars on the hill-sides. What worries me is the road will be closed - this was proposed a couple of years ago - and we won't be able to get in at all.

[necrolyte]

Agreed. I understand what it is like to ride a trailbike and have fun, particularly with a group of friends. The trouble is that some guys are just too enthusiastic riding fast on a rough road where there are walkers, mountain-bikers, and 4WDs around each corner in the summer.

They also do a lot of damage riding off the road and you must have seen the scars on the hill-sides. What worries me is the road will be closed - this was proposed a couple of years ago - and we won't be able to get in at all.

Yeah thats what worries me too, its a great place to go for a quiet ride with mates. I know a few of the guys that tear the place up and they have been told by heaps of people that they will end up ruining it for everyone but they just don't give a shit.

[paulj]

Here's the word folks -

http://www.stuff.co.nz/southlandtimes/4321688a6570.html

Interesting - being whacked-off by a DOC official could be OK!

[cooneyr]

For all you southerners - is it possible to travel from Coal Pit Saddle to the head of the Nevis via the tracks (looks possible on Topomaps)? Is it private land and does the owner/s allow access?

Cheers R

[Winston001]

For all you southerners - is it possible to travel from Coal Pit Saddle to the head of the Nevis via the tracks (looks possible on Topomaps)? Is it private land and does the owner/s allow access?

Cheers R

I'm not quite sure what you mean. There is a paper road which is also a sheep station track from Gibston, over Coalpit Saddle through to the Nevis Crossing. The Crossing is the bridge on the Nevis Road at the north (ie Cromwell) end of the Nevis Valley.

In the middle of the track there is a locked gate but sometimes it is open.

This is a great trip even if you only go halfway but please respect the stock and stay on the track.

The "head" of the Nevis River is in the Garvie Mountains to the south, near Garston. It might be possible to get there offroad but it would involve a lot of private land and the Remarkables Conservation Area. Really all tracks run off the Nevis Road into the mountains rather than along the mountains.

However I'm sure you don't mean that so yes, you can get to Nevis Crossing - sometimes. :Punk:

[Winston001]

Cooneyr has reminded me that one of my adventures (one day....) is to travel offroad (or at least gravel) from Gibston to Dunedin. I went from Arrowtown to the Bannockburn Pub via Coalpit Saddle 15 years ago, and back. That's when the idea arose.

The problem is there are unavoidable bits of seal around Clyde and Alexander but otherwise its nearly possible. It would be fun in a small group. Might have to allow 5% bitumen. :scooter:

[cooneyr]

I'm not quite sure what you mean. There is a paper road which is also a sheep station track from Gibston, over Coalpit Saddle through to the Nevis Crossing. The Crossing is the bridge on the Nevis Road at the north (ie Cromwell) end of the Nevis Valley.

In the middle of the track there is a locked gate but sometimes it is open......

Opps my bad - I meant Coalpit Saddle to Nevis Crossing. Thanks for the info. Is the track through private farm land i.e. should we talk to farmers first? Nothing major planned at this stage so dont need specifics. Just thinking about a Central based Dusty Butt for 09.

I grew up on a farm so ya preaching to the converted re staying on the track and not annoying stock :D

Cheers R

[Winston001]

So far as I can tell, this is a paper road and I've met 4WDs and bikes on it from time to time. In other words it is public access. I don't know who owns it these days but at one time the landowner wasn't too happy about travelers. Nevertheless the Coalpit Saddle gate has never been locked in my experience. Its rare to see anybody in there.

FYI, there are a couple of tracks leading off which go up into the back of the Remarkables reaching around 1800m. Very enjoyable but these are on private land.......:nono: I keep a low profile. :innocent:

There is also one from Coalpit Saddle to the left which goes up over the top of Mount Rosa and comes out down beside the new Queenstown rubbish dump. The one I really like but cannot do is to the right of the Saddle which goes most of the way to the Remarkables ski field. It was proposed as the route before the existing road was made. Unfortunately the gate is solidly locked. :confused:

Apart from that, in Cardrona there is a track to the left (south-east) up to Tuohys Saddle and which leads down eventually to the Roaring Meg. You can't ride that far but what you can do is turn right at the Saddle and go up over Queensberry Hill, eventually coming out above the Crown Range viewing area - and a locked gate. I've walked this and ridden part of it.

Of course you can turn left from the Saddle instead and go up onto the Cardrona ski area roads. I'd love to explore the top of the Pisa Range - there is a lake up there, but need to ask John Lee, the owner of the ski area.

Check out what I've said on Google Earth, you can see the tracks - and a few which simply don't exist. :D

[reverend]

So where in CO are you. I will be in Naesby on Dec 27, and alex the 28th. also heading back down the next week. Maybe we can go for a ride together.

cheers
paul

[Winston001]

So where in CO are you. I will be in Naesby on Dec 27, and alex the 28th. also heading back down the next week. Maybe we can go for a ride together.

cheers
paul

I'm at Arrowtown - send me a pm if you are about. I'll be a bit tied up with my children but a ride would be fun.

[RedKLR650]

where was the picture in your signature taken? it's incredible.

That was the Pylon Road between Black Forest Station at the north end to Benmore Dam at the south end

On the run the Chch Adv boys did on the way to the Brass back in June :-)

Cheers, Stu :scooter:

[RedKLR650]

You make that look pretty easy! That one looks nearly as deep as the one that got the best of the Domi.
Thanks for all the comments on the video! I'll try to document more of my rides that way to share with everyone.

There was a short story on the Macetown trip from a 4WD drivers perspective on the TV3 news last night

See link below for Video of story, shows river levels etc and what to expect at the end :crazy:

http://www.tv3.co.nz/News/JourneytodesertedMacetownanepicone/tabid/209/articleID/42754/Default.aspx?ArticleID=42754

Hope it's useful :weep:

Cheers, Stu :scooter:

[Zukin]

There was a short story on the Macetown trip from a 4WD drivers perspective on the TV3 news last night

See link below for Video of story, shows river levels etc and what to expect at the end :crazy:

http://www.tv3.co.nz/News/JourneytodesertedMacetownanepicone/tabid/209/articleID/42754/Default.aspx?ArticleID=42754

Hope it's useful :weep:

Cheers, Stu :scooter:

I have done that trip and it isn't too bad :)
The worst part I recall was crossing the river right at Arrowtown, most of it was shallow and hardly wet the tyres.

A nice trip

[Winston001]

I have done that trip and it isn't too bad :)
The worst part I recall was crossing the river right at Arrowtown, most of it was shallow and hardly wet the tyres.

A nice trip

Yep, haven't been up to Macetown these holidays but the river is low alright and it should be easy. As you say the first two crossings are the deepest normally.

[necrolyte]

Went up again yesterday, river is average level. Shitloads of people about up there and heaps of pushbikes going in and out of macetown, too much like hard work!

[paulj]

Poked my nose up onto Duffers/Carrick/Old Woman this morning – dry and very nice.

Anyone interested in a one day trip this week/next weekend? … say Bannockburn > Carrick>Duffers>Old Woman>Obelisk>Potters>Return (there are a number of 'bail-out' or 'join-up' tracks to the main road along this route).

If so I’ll get my GPS tracking notes out and sort out distances for fuel range. Should be OK with Cromwell/Alexandra petrol.

If there is significant rain before then, I’m staying home – otherwise a reasonable degree of technical riding and some fantastic country. Side trips into the Fraser, Fruitlands or if you’re a complete nutter, Waikaia Bush road.

So – squirt some Loctite onto your nuts, torque them up tight and come ride.

[greerADV]

Anyone interested in a one day trip this week/next weekend? … say Bannockburn > Carrick>Duffers>Old Woman>Obelisk>Potters>Return (there are a number of 'bail-out' or 'join-up' tracks to the main road along this route).

I'm definitely interested. I have tomorrow and Monday off, and the same for next weekend. But I could probably swing a day off in the week if that works better for anyone else.

How technical is the riding on that route? I'm still a bit of a n00b. I've riden the Nevis and Macetown (managed to only try swimming with the bike once .. ask Necrolyte about that one :D,) so that'd be my guage for how technical a ride is.

Cheers
Andrew

[paulj]

How technical is the riding on that route? I'm still a bit of a n00b. I've riden the Nevis and Macetown (managed to only try swimming with the bike once .. ask Necrolyte about that one :D,) so that'd be my guage for how technical a ride is.

Cheers
Andrew

Thanks for the reply Andrew - I'm not sure how these things are judged - however, there are some slow speed gnarly bits which require one to be up on the pegs and finely balanced for a few hundred meters or so, some steep boulder sections and sections of bedrock reefs to ride up - if everything is in control then you're OK - it's when things start to go wrong that the brown stuff fills the pants as there is nowhere to go and get balanced up again.

The Nevis would be fairly tame by comparison.

If you wish to try a section out first - PM me and we can meet up at home here and go check it out during the week - I'll even make the sandwiches!

[Winston001]

I'd love to come along too but have to look after the children as my wife is going back to work. I've done the Carricktown - Duffers track plenty of times but never crossed over to the Oblelisk/Old Woman Range side.

Is it fairly simple going? I'm probably a bit long in the tooth for gnarly bits these days. <_< Looks like quite a long way from Duffers to Obelisk, and then on to Potters.

4wded over the Whitcombe (Snowpole, or Waikiaia Bush Road) to Potters and Shingle Creek but never on a bike.

[paulj]

Is it fairly simple going? I'm probably a bit long in the tooth for gnarly bits these days. <_< Looks like quite a long way from Duffers to Obelisk, and then on to Potters.


Hi Winston - pity you can't come along - I am of the 'long in the tooth' types too!

Duffers <> Obelisk is about 40+K one way. Rutted (routed?) track and for me anyway, only a dry dry weather route.

[necrolyte]

I would love to come, but i'm back to work and reality again on monday. I need to get me a road legal dual purpose bike i think so i can come on these kind of trips.

[Delphinus]

I've only been riding my XT600 for a few months, but would like to spend more time on it. Steep boulder sections sound like a wee bit out of my skill range at this stage.
If anyone is keen to do a few easier roads let me know :)

[paulj]

I've only been riding my XT600 for a few months, but would like to spend more time on it. Steep boulder sections sound like a wee bit out of my skill range at this stage.
If anyone is keen to do a few easier roads let me know :)

Sure - Onslow, Old Dunstan Rd are great trips with fairly straightforward gravel roads.

The trip out of Dunedin through Outram>Clarks Junction ... is a great ride to the ODR.

Let me know if you're interested or heading this way.

[paulj]

Here's a link to PDF/GPS track of the trip to Obelisk Potters etc ... set down for this Friday weather permitting.

http://homepages.ihug.co.nz/~paul.johnson/Obelisk.pdf

[GaZBur]

Hi Guys
I will be up in the Wanaka area (based in Albert Town) from tomorrow for about a week. So if you see a blue DR650 with number 78 on it thats me! Wave yell honk or otherwise let me know if you see me. Not sure of family commitments so can't plan too much in advance but will be up for a few tracks in the area.

Gary B

[paulj]

Some pics for y'all - thanks for your company Andrew - great ride.

http://homepages.ihug.co.nz/~paul.johnson/

[greerADV]

Some pics for y'all - thanks for your company Andrew - great ride.

http://homepages.ihug.co.nz/~paul.johnson/

Just thought I'd add some of my pics from our ride. If you are in CO and you want some great riding and great company, get in touch with Paul. He can show you some places very few have gone, and as he puts it, it's just magic. And if you want some practice on ruts, he can show you some ruts!

Thanks again Paul for a great ride :niceone:

[greerADV]

Just a few more...

[GaZBur]

I am back from central - didn't get as much riding as I had hoped. DOC in Wanaka were no help finding tracks but there are heaps of roads and unmarked tracks. There are plenty between Cromwell and Clyde and most easy going in dry conditions. Also found plenty of smaller tracks to practice the skills on around Wanaka. Saw a heap of adventure bikes but most set up for long distance with hard panniers and not covered in dust. Man was there DUST!!
Managed to stay upright when riding but crested a ridge - stopped to admire the view and put my foot in a hole and dropped the bike - wheels upslope on a steep bank. :doh: No way I could pick it up at that angle so had to drag it round before getting it upright again.
Still clear skys - hot hot temperatures - good tracks and great views.

[NordieBoy]

Must feel weird with "proper" tyres on it now :D

[nerdneh]

Hi Gazbur, Need to talk to you personally. Could you pse txt me your home ph # to o272 486 511 .Im the guy that spoke to you @ Wyndham & rode black DR650 @ Teretonga. Would appreciate further info on bike setup for motard,n. Many thanks Nerdneh.

[tri boy]

Really enjoying this thread:corn:. Will be riding some of these roads/tracks in Feb, so its giving me alot of info.
Looks like the new TKC's will be going on the Scrambler.:shifty:
Those low land tussock ranges look a hell of a lot like inland nth west Ozzy. (cept their spinifex grass is deadly to skin and tyres).
Keep the info coming guys.:woohoo:

[greerADV]

I know it's short notice, but I haven't had internet access for almost a week (deeep breath...), but I'll be doing some riding in CO this weekend and wanted to see if anyone was keen.

It's part of my much larger tour from Wanaka-Bluff-Cape Reigna-Wanaka that kicked off Sunday (I'll post a new thread with pics and reports soon.) Tomorrow I plan on riding from Roxburgh through to Ranfurly via Lake Onslow. Sorry, don't know the name of the road or pass. I plan on being in Roxburgh around 1pm. I know it's late to be starting, but I'd like to see some things around Dunedin first.

Sunday I'll be riding Dansey's Pass from Ranfurly over to Kurow and then through to Lake Tekapo or Fairlie (again, don't know the name of the road or pass.) Probably get started around 10am.

Like I said, I know it's short notice, but if anyone is keen I'd love to have the company. I'll be checking back once more tomorrow before 10am on here, but after that just send me a text. 027 711 9379

Cheers
Andrew