Shuttle transport for hikers, trekkers and trampers in Nelson Lakes National Park and the Top of the South, New Zealand
Nelson Lakes Shuttles
Ph: +64 (3) 547 6896
Mobile 027 222 1872
Tramps : Bushline Hut
Updated 1st February 2011
By Peter Kemp
Introduction
The Bushline Hut Track would have to be the best one-day walk in The Nelson Lakes National Park. Allow 4-5 hours to complete the round trip via Pinchgut Track and Paddy’s Track. You are advised not to leave your car at the car park. Have a friend drop you off or use Nelson Lakes Shuttles (PH 5211900). Prepare for all weather conditions and carry plenty of water. Please keep to the track to prevent erosion.
Pinchgut Track
From the top Mt Robert car park the benched track zigzags up the face of Mt Robert. On every corner you are rewarded with views of the lake. About two thirds of the way up you will find a well placed seat to rest your aching legs and over worked lungs. The track continues zigzagging through the beech forest until you reach the Bush Edge Shelter. This well positioned shelter is about 1-1.5hrs from the car park and is situated right on the bush line.
Bush Edge Shelter (Pinch Gut Track)
Rock (Nelson Lakes National Park)
From this point you will be able to decide if the weather conditions will allow you to continue onto the tops. About 20 metres up the track and slightly to your left there’s a rocky out crop that will give you fantastic views of the Lake and St Arnaud Village.
Lake Rotoiti (Pinch Gut Track) Nelson Lakes National Park
The climbing part of the trip is now behind you and it’s an easy stroll along the tops. On a clear day you are rewarded with views out to the West to Kahurangi National Park, Mt Murchison and the beautiful Speargrass Valley.
It’s another easy five minute stroll to Kea Hut and just pass this the turn off to Bushline Hut which is sign posted. If you have the time it’s worth a quick trip
Relax Shelter (Angelus Track)
From the intersection it’s an easy 20-minute amble to Bushline Hut. Again you are rewarded with fantastic views of the lake and village at a low saddle along this ridge. Good views of the Travers Valley soon appear on your right and the rugged St Arnaud range in front of you.
Bushline Hut is ideally positioned just on the tree line and is a great place to stop for a cuppa or stay the night. Even the toilet has great views and it’s worth leaving the door open.
Paddy’s starts in front of the hut and zigzags down the face until crossing a well-positioned stream complete with cool refreshing water and a large beech tree offering shelter from the sun. The track continues on down for another 30 minutes to another track intersection. The left hand track takes you back to the lower Mt Robert car park (30 minutes). The second track gives you a more direct route back to the Village.
Kea Hut
The trip summary is dedicated to the Late Rod Schofield 22/7/1928 - 28/11/ 2003
A true gentleman tramper who loved the tramp to Bushline Hut and often used to tackle The Travers / Sabine from West to East by himself. Thank you Rod for the stories and laughs. Fondly remembered by the staff of The Yellow House, the tramping community and the people of St Arnaud.
Rod Schofield
Rod Schofield
