Kirtle Burn Track
Located in Pisa Conservation Area in the Otago region
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Introduction
Kirtle Burn Track starts at the Western side of the Pisa Conservation Area, accessing Kirtle Burn Hut, and giving access to Mt Pisa.12.38 km loop
Seasonal restrictions
In winter (May - October) this track is often covered by snow. The route may also be completed by snowshoe or touring skis for people with the appropriate skills, equipment, and experience.
See “Know before you go” for information on adverse weather and avalanche conditions.
The Kirtle Burn Track starts at the Western end of the Pisa Conservation Area. Access from Paddys Ridge Road/Waiorau Nordic Road is through Snow Farm or Southern Hemisphere Proving Grounds (see “Getting there.”)
The upper loop of the track starts with a steep zig-zag track, gaining a ridge line that can be followed most of the way to Mt Pisa. A turn-off from the track drops down to Kirtle Burn Hut. From the hut, the lower trail following the Roaring Meg/Kirtle Burn can be used to finish the loop, returning to the Pisa Conservation Area boundary. The lower part of the loop along the river crosses the stream twice – take care if coming downhill by mountain bike, or in snow conditions which may conceal the streams.
This track can also be used to link with the Pisa Range Ridge Track and to access Mt Pisa.
Mountain biking
The Kirtle Burn Track is accessible by mountain bike in summer. For a larger biking mission, it can also be connected to the Pisa Range Ridge Track. Some parts of the trail can be very rocky and some cyclists may choose to walk some sections. Take care going down hill via the lower Kirtle Burn Track, where two stream crossings are required.
Fees
Fees for road use, parking, and/or Snow Farm trail passes may apply. See “Getting there.”
Access to the Kirtle Burn Hut is from the Paddys Ridge Road/Waiorau Nordic Road, 1500 m above sea level along 13 km on gravel road. Chains may be required in winter. The Paddys Ridge Road/Waiorau Nordic Road is 22 km from Wanaka off the Cardrona Valley Road.
There are options to access the Pisa Conservation Area either through Snow Farm or the Southern Hemisphere Proving Grounds. Note that the access in from Snow Farm is about double the distance of that through the Southern Hemisphere Proving Grounds.
Parking at Snow Farm and accessing the Pisa Conservation Area via Snow Farm trails
Winter (June-September)
- $10 per person per day if buying a backcountry trail pass at the Snow Farm ticketing office or online
- Buy a season pass from Snow Farm that allows access all winter from $165 (early bird rate)
Parking at Snow Farm and accessing the Pisa Conservation Area via Snow Farm trails Summer (October-May)
- $20 to park, paid at the honesty box in the carparking area
- A $10 koha donation is requested from Snow Farm for the use of their trails in summer, bookable on their website
Parking at Southern Hemisphere Proving Grounds and accessing Pisa Conservation area via legal easement
- $20 per vehicle, pay at office after being directed from security gate, then be escorted to the carpark
- For more information, contact: admin@shpg.co.nz or call +64 3 443 0344
Adverse weather
The weather can change rapidly in New Zealand. Hypothermia is a real risk even in summer.
Whiteout conditions caused by snow or low cloud may be present.
The Pisa Range is also prone to severe winds.
Be prepared by having warm, waterproof, windproof clothing and the appropriate footwear.
In summer, very hot and dry conditions are common. Carrying an adequate supply of both drinking water and sun protection is essential.
Check the Roys Peak weather forecast – NIWA website.
Avalanche risk
This area has terrain that can produce avalanches that cross the track, usually from May into November.
Private property and permissions
Access to the Western side of the Pisa Conservation area is gained either through Snow Farm or Southern Hemisphere Proving Ground. See “Getting there.”
The Southern Hemisphere Proving Ground operates year-round, so be aware of moving machinery and vehicles in the Snow Farm Lodge carpark at all times. Access roads adjacent to the estate area are used for vehicle testing, extreme care is required. Photographs or recording devices are not permitted, this includes the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems/drones.
This track crosses private land.
Respect the landowner's livestock and property:
- stay on the marked track until you reach the conservation land
- leave gates as you find them
- use stiles where provided
- keep your distance from livestock
Firearms
Entry to Pisa Conservation Area with a firearm is only allowed via Rock Peak Track.
Dog access
Dogs are allowed in the Pisa Conservation Area, but entry/exit is restricted to the Crown Saddle Carpark access.
All other entry points are via easements through private property and require landowner permission to enter with a dog including transporting them in vehicles.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| Wānaka Tititea/Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +64 3 443 7660 |
| wanakavc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | 1 Ballantyne Road Wānaka 9305 |
| Hours | Visitor centre hours and services |