Hike Sawcut Gorge/Isolated Hill Route, South Marlborough, New Zealand

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Isolated Hill Scenic Reserve is typical South Marlborough: rugged bluffs and steep, dry hills drained by stony rivers. The marked route starts from the riverbed. From here, look out for the orange triangles directing walkers in and out of the riverbed. After 45 minutes to an hour walking and crossing the river several times, you arrive at the reserve boundary. From here the route leaves the riverbed for a short while then meets Isolated Creek. After 30 minutes you reach the spectacular Sawcut Gorge. The stream flows through this chasm, which is 150 metres deep, but in places, is only 2 metres wide. Turn off State Highway 1 on the north side of the Waima River Bridge 55 km south of Blenheim (72 km north of Kaikoura) into the Waima/Ure Valley and follow the narrow gravel road up to Blue Mountain Station, 12 km from State Highway 1. The access to this area is through private property, please respect this by leaving the gates as you find them and parking appropriately. 2WD vehicles must angle park right to the edge of the drive in the carpark at Blue Mountain Station homestead. 4WD vehicles may go down to the lower carpark or onto the riverbed but are not to cross the river. Isolation Route: Beyond the gorge the marked route continues in the riverbed for an hour to Isolation Hut (6 bunks). From here further marked routes give opportunities for exploring the surrounding hills and vegetation, for hunting or a climb up Ben More (1244 m). Trampers staying in Isolation Hut are asked to write their name on the white board at Blue Mountain Station and sign the visitor’s book. This is to allow other trampers to see who is in the area and staying in the hut and whether they need to carry a tent.

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