Pinchgut Track is a 5km walk near Rangiora leading to Pinchgut Hut. It’s a short, easy track which is popular with families. After tramping this one I realised I barely took any photos.

The track starts with a river crossing right near the carpark. We did the walk in autumn and the crossing was trivial. As usual, though, check forecasts—especially if walking with young ones.

It’s also worth noting that the hut gets busy! I’d highly recommend our route—leave early, drop bags at the hut, then do the 12km loop in the hills with daypacks. It makes the excursion nicely challenging and means you can claim a bunk early.