Walk Blue Duck Station
BLUE DUCK STATION ADVENTURE – WALK
Our lodge-to-lodge, self-guided walk provides an authentic way to discover the very diverse landscape, history, wildlife and people that make up Blue Duck Station. Over three glorious days, hikers will cover 30km of farmland, ridge tops, valleys, rivers, historic buildings, stunning waterfalls, a magnificent stand of Redwoods, beautiful native New Zealand subtropical rainforest, and part of the Te Araroa Trail, all while taking in the most spectacular views of the mountains of Tongariro National Park and surrounding Whanganui National Park.
All meals are lovingly prepared by our back country Café and delivered to each night’s accommodation with just a small amount of finishing required by you. Where possible, as much produce is grown right here on the farm. Your luggage is transferred from lodge to lodge, each unique, warm and cosy with a touch of rustic charm. Extensive decks with rural, river or native bush views offer alfresco dining on a summer’s evening. All you have to do is get a group together (a minimum of 4, maximum of 6), bring a few drinks, and simply follow the map!
A good level of fitness is required as the terrain can be uneven in some places and slippery when wet. There are steep sections each day, climbing to 500m above sea level.
In addition to experiencing Blue Duck Station on foot, it is possible to add on a jet boat journey and visit the Bridge to Nowhere by river. This iconic New Zealand landmark was built in the mid-1930s to provide road access to farms known as the Mangapurua Valley WW1 returned soldiers settlement. By the time it was completed these areas of the Mangapurua Valley were deserted, the bridge rarely used and the construction of the road to the Whanganui River abandoned.
Or for an even more decadent experience, add on a 10-course degustation dinner and accommodation at The Chef’s Table. This 3-4 hour long tasting menu consists of produce mainly farmed, foraged or grown here at Blue Duck Station. Only accessible by helicopter, horse back or on foot, hikers will enjoy the same trail as the standard itinerary but with an additional night staying and dining at The Chef’s Table. A wonderful 3 hour loop trail that takes in the historic Stan’s Whare building along with magnificent views of Mt Taranaki can be added on.
