The Paparoa Track is a 55 km Great Walk in New Zealand’s South Island, designed for both hikers and mountain bikers, offering 2–3 days of hiking or 1–2 days of biking through alpine tops, limestone karst, and lush rainforest.
The Paparoa Track crosses the Paparoa Range on the West Coast of the South Island, starting near Blackball and ending at Punakaiki, home of the Pancake Rocks. It is New Zealand’s 10th Great Walk and the first specifically designed for shared use by walkers and mountain bikers. The track showcases diverse landscapes, including alpine tops, limestone karst formations, subtropical and podocarp rainforests, and dramatic river gorges.
The Paparoa Track carpark is called Smoke – ho because it begins on the existing Croesus Track which had its origins in the 19th century as access to the Croesus mine. Smoke was often associated with mining processes used at the time.
The carpark is named in honor of Ces Clark, a Blackball resident and Forest Service ranger who played a significant role in reopening the Croesus Track for recreational use. The name reflects the area's connection to the past and its significance in the region's history.
If you're planning to walk or bike the track you will need to book (and pay for) bunks before your visit.
The shelter is a fairly recent addition and was a very welcome sight today as it meant last minute tweaks to packs and clothing could be made out of the rain.
Use the hint to find the cache especially if you are in a rush or there are lots of muggles about. And if you're on your way to Punakaiki, have a great time!