Discover New Adventures at Circle Track: Top Destinations to Visit!
In the heart of New Zealand's Fiordland National Park lies the picturesque Lake Manapouri, the second deepest lake in the country. This serene body of water has a rich history, with its most famous environmental battle unfolding in the 1970s when plans to raise the lake levels for hydroelectric power were met with public outcry.
The Circle Track, a half-day walk near Te Anau or Manapouri, offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the lake's natural beauty. Starting at the jetty on the other side of the Waiau River, accessible via boat transport, the track begins with a flat 15-minute walk along the riverside to a loop junction.
From here, the real adventure begins. The track ascends a steep climb through a mix of beech and podocarp forest, leading to a sign for the main viewpoint. Caution is advised due to potential instability, but the effort is rewarded with panoramic views of the Hunter Mountains, including Mount Titiroa, which stands at 1,715m above sea level and appears white year-round due to granite remains of an ancient magma chamber.
The Circle Track is an advanced tramping track, marked with orange markers for navigation. For those seeking a longer adventure, the track can be combined with the Hope Arm or Back Valley Hut tracks for an overnight expedition. The track descends the ridgeline to the junction with the Hope Arm Track, where hikers can choose to turn right and follow the track for another hour to return to the jetty.
Lake Manapouri is home to Rona Island, a sanctuary for Haast tokoeka kiwi. These birds are protected from introduced predators by a local trapping programme. The lake also has a unique connection with nearby Te Anau, as the original proposal to raise the lake levels would have drowned many of the lake's islands and towns, including Manapouri and Te Anau.
The Fiordland National Park offers a variety of shorter and longer walking options for visitors, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, the Circle Track of Lake Manapouri promises an unforgettable experience. It is recommended to go left (clockwise) and tackle the steepest part of the track first. So, grab your hiking boots and prepare for an adventure!
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