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Manapouri Circle Track – Half Day Walk – Te Anau

History of Manapouri

Around 20,000 years ago during the last Ice Age, glaciers from central Fiordland spread across both Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri, depositing long ridges of rock and gravel as they went. Of course, when the ice melted it left the lakes you see today plus all the ridges and cliffs.

In fact, most people don’t know that Manapouri is the second deepest lake in the whole of New Zealand. Early Māori inhabitants called it ‘Roto Ua’ (the rainy lake) and ‘Moturau’ (many islands).

Mt Titiroa (1710 m) (which you will get to see on the hike) lies south of Lake Manapouri and is distinguished by its whitish peak which many people mistake for snow, but it is in fact weathered limestone and granite that has been gradually exposed over time.

How do I get to Manapouri from Te Anau?

You would need to either have your own car which you can park at Pearl Harbour or you would need some form of track transport where you can get dropped off.

How to get to Manapouri Circle Track

You will need to get a short water taxi ride from Manapouri township (Pearl Harbour). Mike from Adventure Manapouri is your man for the job! He’s very
friendly and the short ride over the Waiau River costs $30 for an adult and $20 for children. Just let him know when you would like collection and he’ll be there to pick you up too.

How long is the Circle Track hike?

6.9 km return. Approximately 3 – 4 hours walking time.

Degree of Difficulty?

Medium to advanced as the track is quite steep to begin with and can get slippery in places. Make sure you have good hiking shoes on for this one!

Track Description

It’s best to walk in a clockwise direction. Once you’ve disembarked from your water taxi, you will walk for around 10 – 15 minutes before you start your ascent. Also please keep your eye on the orange trackers to make sure you stay on the designated path.

After around 90 minutes (approximately the 300 metre mark) you will be greeted by a stunning view (on a clear day) of Lake Manapouri with all the islands and you may get to see Mt Titiroa and over to the Back Valley where red deer commonly reside.

When you start heading down and are at the base of the hill you’ll find a lovely beach where you can swim – if the wind isn’t up! It’s not long then to get back to your starting point where Mike can collect you.

What Flora and Fauna am I likely to see on The Manapouri Circle Track.

As you ascend the Manapouri Circle Track you tend to encounter mountain beech as this native tree has adapted to thrive in more challenging weather conditions in our NZ mountainous regions. The are characterised by its small, dark green leaves and rough, fissured bark and forms quite a dense canopy.

You are also likely to see Podocarps like Rimu – typically known for its reddish-brown bark and Matai – known for is blackish bark.
You may also see the New Zealand Kōwhai famous for its tubular yellow flowers and Wineberry which has serrated, glossy green leaves and dark red or black berries which the birds just love to eat!

What birdlife can we see?

You may see bellbirds, Tui, fantails, tomtits and even some New Zealand wood pigeons which are huge!

Best time to walk the track?

December through to May.

Can I swim when on the Walk?

Yes, you can however it can get pretty windy, just be aware.

Can you camp on the Circle Track?

No, however, you can combine it with the Hope Arm or Back Valley Hut tracks for a longer hike or if you wish to stay overnight.

Cost?

Free.

Anything else I need to know?

Dogs are not allowed on this walk.
Bring snacks/a good, packed lunch with plenty of water.
Swimming gear – if it’s not too windy you may be able to swim.
Pack for all weather – it’s Fiordland and it’s known for raining but do bring sun block and sand fly spray too.

Need somewhere to stay?

Why not stay at luxury High Leys Lodge which is based just outside of Te Anau and is a short drive to Manapouri? Your helpful hosts Sarah and John will gladly assist you with any of your Circle Track queries when staying with them.

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