Oparara Valley Dreamtime

Oparara Arch: the biggest limestone arch in the Southern hemisphere.
Moria Arch: arguably the most beautiful arch in the Southern hemisphere.
Mirror Tarn: picturesque spot: ancient native trees.
Oparara Valley Track: unusual whiskey-coloured streams: powelliphanta, whio; kaka, kea, kakariki
Box Canyon and Crazy Paving Caves: housing rare spelungulae.
Fenian Track and Adams Flat: mine workings.
Fenian Caves.

If you know of any public toilets near the trail start or on the route, please login and then let us know so we can update this section.

Transport and parking:

There is adequate parking, a toilet block, shelter and large interpretation panels in the Oparara carpark. Further parking is available a few hundred metres up the road at the entrance to Mirror Tarn Loop Track and approximately 1km further on at Box Canyon.

Distance from Westport:

120 km

Driving time from Westport:

118 minutes

Dog friendly:

Unknown

Landowner permission required:

No

Navigation Rating:

Easy.

Navigation Tips:

The short Fenian Caves loop is not well marked: some caves are out-and-back while some are go-through. Take your time and look for markers. If the caves are flooded, return to the main track.

Cellphone Coverage:

Very patchy.

Suggested Gear List:

Lightweight fleece top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map, Headtorch and spare batteries

Availability of Water:

Carry own water.

Seasonality Issues:

Do not attempt to enter Fenian Caves during or after periods of heavy rainfall.

Hazards:

Roots.

The Last Resort
71 Waverley Street, Karamea
http://www.lastresortkaramea.co.nz
Casual visitors (i.e. those not staying at the Last Resort) are very welcome and can make use of the hot showers as well as the bar, restaurant and cafe.