Last updated November 2026
The Martin’s Hut/Merrivale Tramping Track is a rugged tramp through the history of the Longwood Forest Conservation Area, and part of Te Araroa. It starts from the end of Merrivale Road in Western Southland, about 46 km from Invercargill. The Department of Conservation (DOC) grades it as an advanced tramping track, 19.8 km and 9 hours one way.
The track climbs in and out of the forest past gold mining relics, including Martin’s Hut, built in 1905 to house racemen. DOC notes a washout about 6 km up Merrivale Road stops 2WD vehicles, and the track crosses private land that may be restricted at certain times of year.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Martin's Hut/Merrivale Tramping Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- End of Merrivale Road (2WD vehicles stop at a washout about 6 km up; roadside parking)
- Distance from the city
- About 46 km from Invercargill
- Walking time
- 9 hr one way
- Track length
- 19.8 km one way
- Grade
- Advanced tramping track
- Dogs
- DOC’s page lists “Dogs on a leash only” but also says “Dogs are not permitted on this track”; check with DOC
- Huts
- Martin’s Hut (DOC, historic)
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
- Track markers
- On marked bush tracks, DOC and most councils use orange triangles for the walking route. Triangles or tape in other colours, usually pink or blue, mark pest-control lines and traps. They can lead off the track, so don’t follow them.
About Martin’s Hut/Merrivale Tramping Track
DOC describes a challenging track that climbs in and out of the forest in the Longwood Range. It is a long day, so start early and plan for the full 9 hours.
Throughout the tramp you pass relics of the gold mining era. The best known is Martin’s Hut, built in 1905 to house the racemen who looked after the water races feeding the goldfields.
The Longwood Range was a major gold mining centre from the mid-1860s to the 1950s. The mines were short of water, so races such as Turnbull’s Race, Martin’s Race and Port’s Race were built to supply them. At Round Hill, the township of Canton was home to 500 Chinese miners by 1882.
The track suits experienced trampers and Te Araroa walkers. From Martin’s Hut, Te Araroa continues on the Turnbulls Tramping Track towards Round Hill.
Getting There
DOC’s directions: walk 7.5 km up Merrivale Road into the forest, all the way to the road end. A washout about 6 km up the road stops 2WD vehicles, but there is roadside parking.
Track Conditions and Safety
During March and April, the roar (deer hunting season), DOC advises wearing hi-viz clothing and pack covers. The track goes through private land and may be restricted at certain times of year.
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC had alerts for the Longwood Forest Conservation Area: Bald Hill Road “is closed due to a large slip”, and public access is restricted within Kiwi Forest because of forestry operations. Neither alert names this track, but check DOC before you go, use Plan My Walk, and tell someone your plans.
From locals
Does the Martin's Hut/Merrivale track go through private land?
Are there any toilets at the road end where you start, or is it all bush?
No answers yet. If you know, a local would love to hear it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Martin’s Hut/Merrivale Tramping Track?
DOC gives 19.8 km and 9 hours one way.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it as an advanced tramping track and calls it rugged and challenging.
Can I drive to the start?
A washout about 6 km up Merrivale Road stops 2WD vehicles; there is roadside parking.
What is Martin’s Hut?
A historic hut built in 1905 to house racemen during the gold mining era.
Can I take my dog?
DOC’s page is inconsistent: it lists “Dogs on a leash only” but also says dogs are not permitted on this track. Check with DOC before taking a dog.
Is it part of Te Araroa?
Yes. DOC says this track is part of Te Araroa.
What should I wear in March and April?
DOC advises hi-viz clothing and pack covers during the roar.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Related links 3
- Department of Conservation: Martin’s Hut/Merrivale Tramping Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
- Te Araroa Trail: trail notes for the Longwood section of Te Araroa.
- Plan My Walk (NZ Mountain Safety Council): plan your trip, check gear and share your intentions.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.